Create Your Future! - GOSFORTH ACADEMY SIXTH FORM: PROSPECTUS 2019
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GOSFORTH ACADEMY SIXTH FORM:
PROSPECTUS 2019
Create Your Future!
WELCOME
Gosforth Academy offers you a comprehensive range We particularly welcome students to our Sixth Form
of choices, specialised support and outstanding from other schools. We hope you like what you see at
opportunities. the Open Evening, and can join us on one of our Open
Mornings to see the school on a typical working day.
As one of the largest school Sixth Forms in the North
East, we are able to offer over 40 different courses Last year was another fantastic, record breaking year
that are suitable for students of all abilities and a wide for the students leaving Gosforth Academy Sixth Form.
range of interests. We are extremely proud to offer the Whether you are new to our school or come from our Year
comprehensive range of subjects and courses that lead 11, you will find a friendly, supportive and challenging
our students into various progression routes. Our Bridging Sixth Form where you will be given every opportunity
Course, held in the summer following your GCSE exams, to ‘create your future’. I look forward to welcoming you
enables you to make an informed choice about which soon.
three courses will be right for you and the help provided
to ensure your success will continue throughout your time
with us.
Our team of specialist non-teaching tutors will guide
you through every step of your Sixth Form experience
providing support for you to achieve your academic
ambitions and take advantage of our extensive extra- Peter Snowdon
curricular offer. Whether you want to pursue an Oxbridge Director of Post 16
or Medical application through UCAS or want to complete
an apprenticeship, we have a targeted programme that
will meet your needs.
The outstanding range of extra-curricular opportunities
aims to develop you beyond the classroom. We offer
students the chance to become involved in the Student
Union, Duke of Edinburgh, or visits overseas as part of
our annual World Challenge and Operation Wallacea
expeditions. Last year saw students visit Belize, Ecuador,
the Galapagos Islands, and this year, Cambodia. We
are extremely proud of the contribution that Sixth Form
students make to an extensive Peer Mentoring Programme
which operates as part of the wider school. This plays
a key role in Gosforth Academy’s Character Education
initiative and proves to offer rewarding experience for
those involved.
Our philosophy is that we want to develop you as a worker,
a learner and a helper – ready to take your next steps
beyond school as a confident and valuable member of
society. Although we pride ourselves on the excellent
academic results our students achieve each year, we
recognise the importance of developing you as a young
adult.
CONTENTS Stance on A level Reform 1 Comprehensive Choices 3 Meet The Team 5 Specialised Support 7 Outstanding Opportunities 9 My View - A Student Perspective 12 Access for A level (A4A) 15 Accounting 19 Mathematics (Further) 56 Art (Art & Design) 22 Media Studies 58 Art (Fine) 23 Music 59 Business (BTEC National QCF) 25 Photography 61 Business 27 Politics 63 Computer Science 28 Psychology 65 CPLD (BTEC National NQF) 29 Religious Studies 66 Design & Technology 30 Science: Biology 68 Drama & Theatre 31 Science: Chemistry 71 Economics 33 Science: Physics 75 English Language 35 Science: Applied Science (L3 Ext Certificate AQA) 77 English Literature 36 Sociology 79 Film Studies 38 Spanish 82 French 39 Sport & PE 83 Geography 41 Sport & Physical Activity (BTEC National QCF) 86 German 43 Textiles 87 Health, Social Care and Early Years 45 Travel & Tourism 89 (BTEC National NQF) History 47 IT (BTEC National QCF) 49 Italian 51 Law 53 Mathematics 55 English Resit 91 Mathematics Resit 92 Year 12 Course Entry Requirements: Summary 94
STANCE ON A LEVEL REFORM
The reform of A Levels and vocational Gosforth Academy stance on examination
qualifications reform and curriculum offer
The recent and on-going curriculum reform has seen We believe that focused study and valuable contact time
A Levels move towards a linear model of assessment with teachers is integral to success in Sixth Form. The vast
rather than the previous modular process. This reform aims majority of students will take three A Level or vocational
to prepare students for linear assessments at university, courses in line with the requirements of most universities,
and provide the challenge in terms of content that the employers and training providers. This is for three main
government see as being required for undergraduate reasons:
study.
• It provides the best chance of meaningful progression
With all subjects offered from September 2019, the AS where academic achievement is maximised.
qualification has been decoupled from the A Level. This
means that the A Level grade will be based entirely on the • Contact time with teachers can be greater with fewer
exams taken at the end of Year 13. The AS is therefore a option choices, and the focus of students clearer.
stand-alone qualification that does not contribute to the
final A Level grade if the subject is continued in Year 13. • University courses are allocated based on three grade
(or equivalent UCAS points) offers.
Changes have also been introduced to our vocational
subjects affecting some qualifications offered in this field. We have also decided that, in the vast majority of cases,
Externally assessed units now form part of these options, students will no longer sit the decoupled AS exams at the
and must be passed to allow the successful completion of end of Year 12. As all options are taken for two years,
the course. These assessments can take place in January these exams had no value for the students towards their
or June and have one resit opportunity. full A Level, and removing this process will allow more
flexibility in the delivery of the courses.
Further details are included in the course descriptions
later in this prospectus. Mock exams will still take place as a measure of progress
and a check on the suitability of candidates to continue
into Year 13 in each subject.
Page 1 Gosforth Academy Sixth Form | Prospectus
Gosforth Academy Sixth Form | Prospectus
COMPREHENSIVE CHOICES
Curriculum Provision: which courses 3. Access for A level (Level 2/3)
should I choose?
This is a unique one year programme offered at Gosforth
This is a very important decision; indeed, it could be the Academy for those students who have had some success
most important you have yet made. Research course at Level 2, but have not gained sufficient grades to access
options carefully and take the opportunities offered by a full Level 3 Programme. Students complete the following
the school to find out more. Your GCSE results and other elements as part of their studies:
Level 2 results will determine which of the following
qualifications you can choose to take. There are three • BTEC Level 3 Certificate (QCF) in Business.
types of qualification offered at Gosforth Academy Sixth
Form. • BTEC Level 2 Certificate in Retail Knowledge. This is
based on two work experience placements (one day per
1. A levels (Level 3) week) completed in a retail environment such as John
• You need at least four GCSE passes at grade 4 - 9 to Lewis, Debenhams or WH Smith.
study at this level.
• Resit English Language and resit Maths where necessary.
• Check individual course entry requirements carefully,
as your GCSE grades will determine the courses you
may select. Extended Project Qualification (EPQ)
• If you are on a Level 3 programme and have not At the end of Year 12, students are offered the opportunity
passed GCSE English and/or GCSE Mathematics to apply to complete the EPQ, a qualification that runs
with at least a grade 4, then you need to re-sit these alongside your A Levels. If you are accepted, select an area
qualifications. They are vital for entry to university of interest (possibly related to one of your A Level choices)
and employment. and carry out independent research to produce a substantial
• Most A Level courses are delivered during 13 lessons project, using all the skills valued by Higher Education
per fortnight. This has recently been increased to Institutions. Acceptance to the EPQ is subject to the quality
allow a greater contact time with teachers. of your research proposal and performance in your other A
Level subjects.
• You will normally study three A Level subjects in Sixth
Form at Gosforth Academy.
• If you have a chosen career, or a degree you wish GCSE Average Points Scores - How are they
to take, please check that your A Level choices are calculated?
appropriate for entry. Students achieving their GCSE results in August 2019 will be
• They can be combined with vocational choices if you the first cohort with all subjects having numbered grades.
have met the entry requirements for these courses.
Your average points score is simply the sum of all of your
2. Vocational Qualifications (Level 3) GCSE grade points divided by the number of GCSE courses
taken. For example a student who achieves two grade - 7s,
• You need at least four GCSE passes at grade 4 - 9 to
four grade - 6s and three grade - 5s would have an average
study at this level.
point score of 7+7+6+6+6+6+5+5+5 = 53 divided by 9 =
• In Business, IT, Sport, and Travel & Tourism you will be
5.89.
studying BTEC National (QCF) Subsidiary Diploma, this
is equivalent to one A Level. Grades achieved from KS4 BTEC or other vocational
• Health & Social Care and CPLD you will be studying courses are not included in the calculation.
the BTEC National (NQF) Extended Certificate, this is
equivalent to one A Level.
• In Applied Science you will be studying the AQA
Extended Certificate.
• They give you UCAS tariff points for many university
courses in the same way as A Levels.
• They can be combined with A Level choices if you have
met the entry requirements for these courses.
Page 3 Gosforth Academy Sixth Form | Prospectus
COMPREHENSIVE CHOICES
ADDITIONAL CURRICULUM OPPORTUNITIES
Critical Thinking learn more about Chinese language and culture, preparing
you to visit the country yourself or as a basis for further
Should we uncritically accept what political campaigners study at university.
tell us? Can we always rely on journalists and bloggers to tell
us the truth? The answer is surely “no”, and therefore one Students often opt to study Chinese for two reasons, either
important educational goal we have in Gosforth Academy because they have an interest in far eastern culture or
Sixth Form is to prepare you to accept one of the greatest because they are a linguist looking to investigate a very
responsibilities you will have as a citizen – exercising your different language. Anyone who has an interest in either of
right to vote at the age of 18. these things is a perfect candidate to learn Chinese. During
the course you will get the opportunity to learn to speak,
It is really important for you to have a sound knowledge read and write Chinese alongside cultural discussions about
of the most significant and controversial issues which the differences between east and west.
are debated today; these will be political, social, cultural
and scientific, or very often cover a combination of two or At the end of the year you will have covered everything you
more. However, in relation to these issues you also need need to sit Level 1 HSK (the Chinese Government’s official
the critical thinking skills which will enable you to analyse exam). The exam is not compulsory and but it will definitely
and evaluate information and arguments. This will help you add weight to your personal statement in UCAS applications,
to reach your own clear, logical and coherent judgements should you choose to do it. Whether you take the final exam
and opinions. This critical thinking and reflective reasoning or not, we hope that you will enjoy the exciting opportunity
involves learning how to ask the right questions and to learn a new language.
developing a set of skills which will stand you in good stead
when establishing what your position is on a certain issue Sixth Form Tutorial Programme
or how to vote.
Within the Sixth Form we are not only committed to
You will have one lesson of critical thinking per week in supporting students in achieving the best grades possible,
Year 12, with a wide range of issues of current importance but supporting you on your transition to adulthood. As
studied to provide context for your skills development over such, all students within the Sixth Form will take part in a
the course of the year. There will necessarily be some tutorial programme; a series of weekly tutorials, delivered
teaching of content in order to establish an understanding of by their tutor, as well as attending half-termly meetings for
key facts, but the emphasis in lessons will be on discussion individual one-to-one sessions.
and debate rather than writing, and on building skills rather
The group tutorials focus on three key areas: Progression,
than making notes. There will be no examinations, and
Academic Skills and Health & Wellbeing. Sessions are a
homework will not be set as in other subjects – instead,
combination of individual work and group tasks, looking to
we will be constantly encouraging you to extend your
help you tackle the challenges of Sixth Form, both within
knowledge and practise your critical thinking skills by
and outside the classroom. One-to-one meetings are an
watching the news and reading about current affairs on a
opportunity for tutors to provide individual support and
regular basis, and then sharing your discoveries and ideas
guidance for students, from help with time-management to
with others in the class.
discussing on-going pastoral issues. Tutors will get to know
Critical thinking skills should benefit you in your other students very well over the two years, eventually providing
chosen subjects, where analysis, evaluation and effective references for university or job applications, and will be the
communication are required. It will also help those students first point of call for any problems in the Sixth Form.
who may have to take entrance tests for certain universities
or courses, in which a critical thinking element is often Assemblies
present. We also hope that you will be able to make use of
The Sixth Form Assembly Programme offers students the
these skills in your future career as well as in your role as a
opportunity to hear from a number of guest speakers. These
well informed and critically aware citizen.
range from sessions on Gap Years to Student Finance, to
representatives from the Teenage Cancer Trust and the
Mandarin Armed Forces. We also have a number of training providers,
China’s influence in the world is growing year by year and most recently hosting a representative from Ernest & Young,
its economic influence is beginning to rival the USA and to talk about both work experience and apprenticeships.
Europe. In Year 12 students are given the opportunity to
Gosforth Academy Sixth Form | Prospectus Page 4
MEET THE TEAM
Rachel Ramsay Lindsay Bradley Matthew Stephenson Gemma Hetherington Sophie Reynolds
Post-16 Tutor Learning Manager Progression Manager Post-16 Tutor Post - 16 Tutor
(Head of Year)
Page 5 Gosforth Academy Sixth Form | Prospectus
Ian Limbrick Amy Bonello Judith Hardington Naomi Coulthard Anne Walton Beth MacGregor
Post-16 Tutor Post-16 Tutor Post-16 Post-16 Tutor Learning Manager Learning Manager
Admin Assistant (Head of Year) (Specialist Support)
Gosforth Academy Sixth Form | Prospectus Page 6
SPECIALISED SUPPORT
A strong system of support and guidance Professional careers advice
Students receive outstanding pastoral and educational advice We work with universities and employers to help you decide on
at Gosforth Academy. You will join a tutor group and your your next step after Gosforth Academy. Our Progression Manager
personal tutor will take a special interest in your progress and provides information, advice and guidance on applying for one of
welfare. Your tutor will be a specialist in Post-16 issues, and the growing number of Higher Level and Degree Apprenticeships
will help you to manage the transition to a whole new way of as well as full time employment. This is a popular service used by
learning. many students and appointments are also available for parents
at conferences.
Your tutor will provide you with the guidance you will need
to decide on your future career, both in taught group tutorial Support for University Admissions
sessions and in regular one-to-one interviews. They will also
write references for you either for employment or for your We aim to widen participation in Higher Education, raising
university application. students’ aspirations, and promoting all the opportunities
available to you. We also continue specialist provision for the
A caring approach to your progress most able students into Post-16 education. Examples of the
opportunities we organise include:
We use regular assessments and target setting effectively to
• Expert one-to-one guidance on issues regarding progression
help you keep track of your progress, and help departments
to Higher Education and alternative career paths.
to identify interventions to improve your performance. The
first of these will be used to ensure that the courses you have • Summer school places at universities throughout the
chosen are suitable for you to succeed and progress at the country, though mainly here in the region.
end of Year 13. These reviews are done through assessment • Masterclasses in many subjects, taught by experts at local
of your work and conferences with you and your parents. universities.
We will set you target minimum grades early in each of your • Support for potential applicants to Oxbridge and to
courses. These are based on your GCSE results and will be the competitive courses such as Medicine, Engineering and Law
minimum grades you should aim to achieve. We hope that you
including interview practice.
will try your best and do much better. We will always offer you
support if you encounter problems at any time throughout the • A Higher Education evening, and trips to conventions and
course. Personal tutors are not teaching staff, but are instead open days.
specialists in guidance and progression. This means they are • Visiting speakers for assemblies.
readily available should you have any problems. • Student shadowing placements at local universities.
Page 7 Gosforth Academy Sixth Form | ProspectusSPECIALISED SUPPORT
Your own Common Room A dedicated Sixth Form Library
This is a place in which to relax and is a lively social base for Becoming an independent learner is essential in Sixth Form,
all Sixth Form students. Lockers are available if you want one, and we will offer you the facilities to enable you to do this. The
and there is an additional study support room, supervised by Learning Resource Centre is the focal point for independent
teaching staff, for students identified as needing extra help with study and offers everything you need to prepare for your
the transition to the more independent approach to learning assessments throughout your time with us and prepare you
that Sixth Form demands. The newly installed IAG area also for future study. You will find subject textbooks and resources,
allows independent progression research to be completed. journals, newspapers, foreign language DVDs and over 50
computers with printing and photocopying facilities. The range
Your own Student Union of LRC Study Guides accessed through the VLE – FROG – will
guide you through essential study skills for university including
This is made up of selected representatives and interested referencing and citation.
students. They meet regularly with the Director of Sixth Form
to plan improvements for Sixth Form student life in school.
Silent Study
Recently their work has included charity events, developing
recycling facilities for the whole school, running a Sixth Form All Post 16 students are expected to arrive at school at 8.45am
Instagram account, improving support for new Year 12 students for registration. If they are free they should be working silently
and working with the school to improve facilities. The committee in the Common Room or one of the Libraries from 8.55am to
is there to represent your interests and is fully involved in the 10.35am. This is part of our ‘start the day right’ ethos.
celebrations at the end of your courses, organising the Sixth
Form prom and hoodies. Sport@Gosforth
Students feel that their views are treated with respect and All Sixth Form students are given free off-peak membership of
frequently acted upon. Find out more from our Head Boy and our state-of-the-art Fitness Suite. Off peak times are Monday
Head Girl on page 12. to Friday 10.30am - 2.30pm. Sixth form students can have
unlimited access to the Fitness Suite for only £10 per month
however this membership will not be valid during study/lesson
time.
Gosforth Academy Sixth Form | Prospectus Page 8OUTSTANDING OPPORTUNITIES
Sixth Form Enrichment Clubs and Societies
We believe that enrichment is key to the success of our Dedicated staff and students work together to run a wide
students. With that in mind, we are committed to offering range of clubs and societies outside of lessons which will
you a host of activities and societies. We hope that the allow you to explore your more creative side, including:
opportunities we offer will help to enable you to broaden creative arts, music, choir/fusion band, film club and
your horizons, take an active part in the local community reading club. For those of you whose interest is rooted in
and develop autonomy and personal responsibility. academia, you may wish to become a part of one of our
outstanding societies, which have included:
Helping you to become a Worker, a Helper and a
Learner • Politics and Debating Society - For those students who
We promote the ethos that Sixth Form students should see wish to develop their thinking and rhetorical skills we
themselves as a Worker, a Helper and a Learner. We provide run a well established and successful debating society.
a range of opportunities that will help you to develop the This is a great opportunity for those of you with a
skills and character that are essential for future success. competitive spirit, as a team of our best debaters is
entered annually into a national competition.
Rugby Academy
• Psychology in Practice – Providing an opportunity
We are proud to be the school chosen by Newcastle Falcons to discuss practical applications of the psychology
to deliver full-time Post-16 education to its academy content covered as part of our A Level programme. A
students, as part of the AASE Scheme. Students come
wide range of current issues have been discussed to
from as far away as Cumbria, the Borders and Teesside.
The Gosforth Academy team reached the Final of the AASE date this year.
League in 2016 and 2017 at Allianz Park. We expect to see
rugby continue to flourish. • Literature and Philosophy Appreciation Society - An
intellectually enriching experience for students who
Duke of Edinburgh Award Scheme have a love of philosophy and literature; a society
which aims to explore and critically discuss a range of
The Duke of Edinburgh Silver Award programme will
literary texts and philosophical ideas.
provide students with a real adventure. If you are lucky
enough to secure yourself a place on the programme, you
will find yourself helping people or the community, getting Work Related Learning
fitter, developing skills, going on an expedition and taking
We ensure that all students are given the opportunity to
part in a residential activity.
develop their understanding of, and experience in the
world of work. Students are encouraged to participate
Personal Development
in activities based around a wide range of professions.
We offer a range of opportunities that will help you to Popular activities include Health Alive for potential nurses,
develop interests and skills which will prove invaluable in life the Reece Scholarship Programme for potential engineers,
beyond school. Our sporting activities include basketball, as well as a number of workshops with various universities,
football, netball, running club, cheerleading and squash. employers and training providers.
Student Union We help students to make important life choices by
There are a number of committees led by Sixth Form opening doors through which they can explore a host of
students, which is something we encourage. It is important industries. We operate a Careers Convention Day, and hold
to us that our students have a voice, and many important regular talks from industry professionals. We also allocate
aspects of our Sixth Form community are led by students. a two week period for work experience, where students
These include our Prom Committee, who play an integral are supported in arranging a placement in an area of their
role in the organisation of our end of Year 13 function, choosing.
our Recycling Committee, who ensure that as a whole
school, we stay green, and most importantly, our Charity
Committee, who coordinate a vast array of fund raisers and
help the wider community.
Page 9 Gosforth Academy Sixth Form | ProspectusGosforth Academy Sixth Form | Prospectus
OUTSTANDING OPPORTUNITIES
World Challenge and Operation Wallacea Helping and Volunteering
Each year we students participate in a World Challenge Here at Gosforth Academy there is a real sense of community
expedition to countries such as Uganda, Northern Thailand, spirit. Students’ efforts in working in the community are
rewarded through our Community Award Scheme. We
Belize, and in 2019, Cambodia. While there, our students
encourage all students to become involved in helping the
complete community projects such as helping to construct
lower school and wider community. We also offer a variety
classrooms in orphanages. We also offer Operation of opportunities for the budding volunteer within school.
Wallacea which is a network of academics from European
and North American universities, who design and
implement biodiversity and conservation management Peer Mentoring
research expeditions. In 2018, the Operation Wallacea
Every year, over 100 Sixth Form students take part in one
locations were Ecuador and the Galapagos Islands.
of the mentoring schemes operating in lower school. The
Madagascar will be the location in 2020. There is an largest element (Peer Mentoring) involves students working
expectation that students raise the money to fund either with GCSE Maths, Science and English students who need
expedition, which helps our students to be responsible assistance in reaching their target grades at GCSE. Other
and resourceful. types of mentoring include groups with a focus on reading,
effort or behaviour. In all cases, full training is provided.
Engineering in Education Scheme (EES)
EES gives students a chance to work on a real life project
with a leading engineering company. This is a unique
opportunity to understand how professional engineers
operate and importantly, challenge students to meet
the standards of success set by a leading engineering
company. This is a highly competitive but very rewarding
and insightful experience for all involved.
Page 11 Gosforth Academy Sixth Form | ProspectusMY VIEW
HEAD GIRL - ZARA OVERTON
I’m Zara Overton and I hold the position of Head Girl at Gosforth Academy. The subjects I take
are History, English Literature and Textiles. Each department has provided outstanding teaching,
with subject specialists willing and able to provide targeted guidance to all students. With this
support, I have received five offers to pursue my goal of studying History at university.
A significant feature of Gosforth Academy is the effort put into the progression of students at
the Sixth Form. No matter what path you decide to take, the non-teaching Personal Tutors and
specialised Progression Manager will provide you with opportunities that assist your learning and
increase your prospects. The school encourages applications to fantastic extra-curricular visits
such as World Challenge, which took students to Belize last year, and the Duke of Edinburgh
award, allowing you to build character outside of a leaning environment. Some of the fantastic
opportunities presented to me have included seeing the Speaker of the House of Commons, and
attending academic seminars which have assisted me in my university application.
Synonymous with a focus on personal academic achievement, the students at Gosforth Academy
have the opportunity to develop the Sixth Form themselves, through the Student Union. My role
as Head Girl allows me to take student led suggestions and work with the other members of the
union to make them a reality. The achievements of the union this year have already exceeded
expectation, with successful charity events raising money for breast cancer awareness and
promoting donations for the Newcastle West End food bank in the weeks leading up to Christmas.
As well as this, we are in the process of publishing the Sixth Form’s first ever online Magazine,
and developing a Charter to assist future members of the Student Union.
The Sixth Form here provides exceptional support for students to achieve, both academically and
personally. It is clear that this school values its students and I am very fortunate to have studied
here. Making the right decision for your future is paramount and I hope that you choose Gosforth
Academy Sixth Form.
Gosforth Academy Sixth Form | Prospectus Page 12STUDENT UNION
Molly Bell Elysia Smith Izzy Mahoney Emily McGrath Zara Overton
Co-chair of the Co-chair of the Sports Leader Union Secretary Head Girl
Charity Committee Charity Committee
Page 13 Gosforth Academy Sixth Form | ProspectusSadie Downing Heather Issitt Molly Lowes Luke Brown
Equalities Officer Joint Social Leader Joint Social Leader Media Co-ordinator
Gosforth Academy Sixth Form | Prospectus Page 14A4A - ACCESS FOR A LEVEL
What interests should I have if I want to • GCSE English and Mathematics or equivalent at grade
4 or above.
follow this course?
Access for A level is a one-year course designed to equip
students with the grades and vocational experience to open In summary the A4A consists of:
options for them in the following year. As such, students Level 3 BTEC Certificate (QCF) in Business
taking this course should be interested in developing their
employability and moving into a job in the near future, on a Business Level 3 BTEC is a course that is designed to
full-time basis. Alternatively, the successful completion will provide students with an experience of a range of business
allow candidates to complete A levels if that is of interest disciplines that could be used in a vocational work-based
to them. setting. An interest in the world of work and possible work
experience would be likely interests of those completing
Access for A level (A4A) is a course for students who have this course, as would a preference for the Coursework
had some success in Year 11 on Level 2 qualifications, but based assessments used.
who do not have the necessary grades to start a full AS/A
level programme of study. For example, when you receive
your Year 11 exam results in August you may have passed
Level 2 Certificate in Retail Knowledge
a BTEC First Diploma (equivalent to grade 4s at GCSE), but
not gained grade 4s in English or Maths and other GCSE This qualification links with a period of work experience
subjects. that you will undertake every week throughout the year.
You will learn about key aspects of working in retail whilst
Success on this programme will mean that you:
on placement and use this knowledge to prepare for a
• gain a further Level 2 qualification at grade 4 equivalent series of on site tests.
• gain a Level 3 qualification
• acquire useful skills for both A level study and for GCSE English and Mathematics Re-sits
employment
These courses are offered to all Post-16 students who
• become a more confident and independent learner need them. A grade 4 in one or both is required for most
ready for A level study Level 3 courses both in our school and elsewhere. Many
• pass other important GCSEs (eg. English or Maths) employers require the same. For full details, please look at
the separate entries for these courses in this prospectus.
to help you access many A level courses
What minimum qualifications will I need How can I find out more information?
to start the programme? If you have any further questions please contact Mr Green
in the Business & Enterprise Department.
Four grade 3s at GCSE or the equivalent
What qualifications will I gain from the
programme?
These are the qualifications you will study towards and
which will help you to access an A level programme:
• Level 3 BTEC Certificate in Business
• Level 2 Certificate in Retail Knowledge
Page 15 Gosforth Academy Sixth Form | AFA - Access for A LevelA4A - ACCESS FOR A LEVEL
QCF LEVEL 3 BTEC NATIONAL, CERTIFICATE IN BUSINESS (PEARSON)
What interests should I have if I want to factors. Your project work will focus on two real but different
businesses that operate in different parts of the world and
take this course?
how the global marketplace impacts on them.
Business Level 3 BTEC is a course that is designed to provide
students with an experience of a range of business disciplines
Unit 2 Business Resources
that could be used in a vocational work-based setting. An
interest in the world of work and possible work experience In this core unit you will learn more about the key resources
would be likely interests of those completing this course, as that make any business a success; the human resources,
would a preference for the Coursework based assessments physical resources, technological resources and financial
used. Students with previous experience of Level 2 Business resources. For Human Resources this will include looking at
related BTECs may see this as a natural progression. recruiting and training staff, job descriptions and contracts
of employment. Physical resources will look at all the issues
This course will give you an excellent understanding of many
relating to buildings, plant and machinery, equipment
of the key areas of a business and how it operates. It will
and insurance. For financial resources the unit focuses on
make you more aware of business in general and could be
internal and external sources of finance and being able to
the start of a successful career in the business world. Who
interpret financial statements such as income statements,
knows, you could be the next Dragon to sit in the Den!
balance sheets and using ratios. As before, all of this will be
put into context of a real business for the production of your
What will I learn about? coursework.
The course gives you the opportunity to learn about the key
aspects of how a business operates. During the first year Unit 4 Business Communication
you will learn about a range of key business functions and
Communication is key for any business and this unit will
areas. These include the business environment, resources
examine how the collection and management of business
within business like the people and the money and the key
information is critical for the future of any organisation. You
area of marketing in business.
will look at the different types of information that are crucial
for business success and then use practical skills to produce
Unit 1 The Business Environment some effective corporate communication material.
In this core unit you will become familiar with the range
You also study the legal and ethical considerations which
of different businesses that exist from local, national and
should be considered when communicating in a business
international, to sole traders, partnerships and PLCs. You
context and also which methods are the most effective in
will learn about how businesses are organised as well as
certain situations.
how they are affected by the wide range of different external
Gosforth Academy Sixth Form | AFA - Access for A Level Page 16A4A - ACCESS FOR A LEVEL
LEVEL 2 CERTIFICATE IN RETAIL KNOWLEDGE (CITY & GUILDS)
Why study this course? Unit 154: Understanding the Retail Process
The Level 2 certificate in Retail Knowledge gives you an 1. Understand its selling process.
opportunity to engage in learning that is relevant to you and 2. Understand how to find out what its customer wants.
which will provide opportunities to develop a range of skills
and techniques, personal skills and attributes essential for 3. Understand how product information can be used to
successful performance in working life. It will also help you to promote sales.
achieve a nationally recognised Level 2 vocationally-related
qualification which may allow you to progress to employment How is the course graded?
or onto a related general or vocational qualification at Level
3. You must achieve a Pass grade in each unit that make up
the qualification.
How will I be assessed?
What can I do when I complete my
The assessment of your work will be through a series of
online tests (multiple choice). qualification?
When you have successfully completed this course you
What will the course be like? may be able to progress onto Level 3 BTEC courses offered
The course will be as practical as possible and will provide at Gosforth Academy if you meet the relevant entry
you with the opportunities to develop the skills in a realistic requirements for each programme.
context. The work studied during lessons will be linked Equally you will have developed a wide range of important
to your time on work placement. You will be expected to skills that will have prepared you more fully for employment
complete work each week following your work experience or work-based training.
placement, and will at times be required to use evidence
from work. This is an example of a typical unit you will study:
Page 17 Gosforth Academy Sixth Form | AFA - Access for A LevelACCOUNTING A LEVEL (AQA)
What interests should I have if I want to The following areas will be covered as part of the course:
take this course? • The role of the Accountant in Business
Accounting is a popular A level with many universities • Types of Business Organisation
offering courses and multi-national companies offering
school leaver programmes in the financial sector. • The Double Entry Model
Therefore an interest in vocational and academic
progression would be suitable for students choosing this • Verification of Accounting Records
course. The focus on the use of financial information to
support businesses and stakeholder interests also has • Accounting Concepts
links to many other business related subjects, ensuring
that this option can be complemented by an interest in • Preparation of Financial Statements of Sole Traders
Business Studies, Economics, Law or Maths.
• Limited Company Accounts
What will I learn about? • Analysis and Evaluation of Financial Information
• Budgeting
The specification emphasises both financial accounting
and the recording of past events, and management
• Marginal Costing
accounting as a means of planning and decision
making. Students will learn to appreciate that these • Standard Costing and Variance Analysis
are not totally distinct areas of study and that there
is an interrelationship between financial accounting • Absorption and Activity Based Costing
and aspects of management accounting. Students will
develop an understanding of the double entry system and • Capital Investment Appraisal
accounting principles and concepts as these form the
foundation of all financial accounting techniques. They • Accounting for Organisations with Incomplete Records
will also need to demonstrate quantitative skills that are
relevant to the subject. • Partnership Accounts
Students will be expected to demonstrate knowledge of • Accounting for Limited Companies
the formulae used for calculations, carry out computations
and use the results to inform judgements, solve problems • Interpretation, Analysis and Communication of
and make decisions. It is also important that students Accounting Information
develop their ability to write effectively so that they
can report to stakeholders, make logical arguments • The Impact of Ethical Considerations
and provide sound judgements based on an analysis of
available evidence. The course is assessed through two three-hour exams at the
end of Year 13. These both include a multiple choice/short
The A-level requires students to develop their accounting response section, structured questions and two extended
skills further in relation to both Financial and Management response questions. They each contribute 50% of the A Level
Accounting. Students are encouraged to keep up to date grade.
with financial news including announcements concerning
the performance of leading UK businesses, and are given
the opportunity to investigate their published accounts.
Page 19 Gosforth Academy Sixth Form | Accounting (A level)ACCOUNTING A LEVEL (AQA)
What minimum qualifications will I need knowledge of accounting is also useful in many careers.
It is a subject that is attractive to prospective employers
to start this course? and universities and will equip you with life-long skills that
GCSE grade 5 in Maths and 4 in English Language, and an will help you manage your personal finance as well as
average GCSE score of 4 & 4 in GCSE Business if taken. understanding and using important financial information
in any field of education or work.
What Teaching and Learning methods will
A number of accounting students have also accessed
be used?
School Leaver Programmes in organisations such as
A variety of teaching methods will be used, including The National Audit Office, Proctor and Gamble, Siemens,
working independently or with others, completing short Deloitte, KPMG and Experion in recent years.
tasks and larger projects. You must be confident with
numbers and able to manipulate them. An ability to
communicate effectively both verbally and in writing is How can I find out more information?
also desirable.
For further information, contact Mr Green or Mr Snowdon
in the Business & Enterprise Department.
What can I do when I complete my
qualifications?
A level Accounting is ideal preparation for many business
related courses such as Finance, Economics, Business
Management and of course, Accounting. A sound
Gosforth Academy Sixth Form | Accounting (A level) Page 20Page 21
A LEVEL ART & DESIGN (EDUQAS)
ART
What interests should I have if I want to The coursework unit is worth 60% of the marks and the
Exam Unit 40%.
take this course?
The Visual Arts Department at Gosforth Academy offers What Teaching and Learning methods
several specialist A levels in Arts subjects. The courses
will be used?
are not just for those who want to be Artists, creativity is
an important problem solving skill and design permeates In year one you will be given set projects that are designed
contemporary society. The Arts encourage analysis of to introduce you to new skills, techniques and ways of
our surrounding environment and community and teach working. The work is mostly practical with some written
valuable life-long skills. The courses are all practical so work. You will have at least two Art Teachers who are
if you take a course in the Art department you should specialists in their area and you will be given lots of
enjoy making, playing and getting stuck in. support, access to materials and to space to work. The
department is open to sixth form students all day and
after school and all staff are regularly on hand to offer
What will I learn about? guidance and advice.
During this A level course you will have the opportunity
to work with a wide range of techniques and materials; What can I do when I complete my
you will learn to paint, use a printing press, design on a qualifications?
computer. This course focuses on design you will learn
about surface pattern, packaging design, typography Every good company realises that creativity and good
alongside the more traditional painting and drawing design are important factors in generating new business.
skills. All objects around us are designed by someone with a
creative qualification. Many of our students go on to study
In year one you will learn lots of new processes and skills an Art subject further, such as Graphic Design, Fashion
as well as learning about how to develop a successful Marketing, Architecture, Photography, Film Production,
project. At the end of the year you will begin your Personal Games Design, Fine Art Painting, Surface Pattern Design,
Project which will form the basis of your Coursework 3d engineering, Interior Design for example.
Portfolio. In the Spring term of year two you will work on
your Exam Project, which is again, practical based work.
How can I find out more information?
How will I be assessed? Any of the Art teachers will be able to provide you with
more information or contact Elinor Eastwood, Leader of
The Assessment Criteria is the same as GCSE Art Subjects Teaching and Learning in Art.
and similar to BTEC Art & Design. You will be expected to
research the work of other Artists and Designers, make
some visual research, develop your ideas and produce a
final outcome. Each of these Assessment Objectives are
equally weighted.
There will be regular deadlines throughout the course so
that your teachers can assess your work and give you in-
depth feedback on how to improve your work.
Gosforth Academy Sixth Form | Art & Design (A level) Page 22ART
A LEVEL FINE ART (EDUQAS)
What interests should I have if I want to What Teaching and Learning methods
take this course? will be used?
The Visual Arts Department at Gosforth Academy offers In year one you will be given set projects that are
several specialist A levels in Arts subjects. The courses designed to introduce you to new skills, techniques and
are not just for those who want to be Artists, creativity is ways of working. The work is mostly practical with some
an important problem solving skill and design permeates written work. You will have at least two Art Teachers who
contemporary society. The Arts encourage analysis of are specialists in their area and you will be given lots of
our surrounding environment and community and teach support, access to materials and to space to work. The
valuable life-long skills. The courses are all practical so if department is open to sixth form students all day and
you take a course in the Art department you should enjoy after school and all staff are regularly on hand to offer
making, playing and getting stuck in. guidance and advice.
What will I learn about? What can I do when I complete my
qualifications?
During this A level course you will have the opportunity
to work with a wide range of techniques and materials; Every good company realises that creativity and good
you will learn to draw in a variety of ways, printmaking, design are important factors in generating new business.
painting, photography and digital design skills. This course All objects around us are designed by someone with a
focuses on encouraging students to explore and express creative qualification. Many of our students go on to study
their ideas through the making of visual imagery. You will an Art subject further, such as Graphic Design, Fashion
study the work of Artists and reflect on the importance Marketing, Architecture, Photography, Film Production,
of Art in evidencing life, emotion and events. In year one Games Design, Fine Art Painting, Surface Pattern Design,
you will learn lots of new processes and skills as well as 3d engineering, Interior Design for example.
learning about how to develop a successful project. At
the end of the year you will begin your Personal Project
which will form the basis of your Coursework Portfolio. In How can I find out more information?
the Spring term of year two you will work on your Exam
Project, which is again, practical based work. Any of the Art teachers will be able to provide you with
more information or contact Elinor Eastwood, Leader of
Teaching and Learning in Art.
How will I be assessed?
The Assessment Criteria is the same as GCSE Art Subjects
and similar to BTEC Art & Design. You will be expected to
research the work of other Artists and Designers, make
some visual research, develop your ideas and produce a
final outcome. Each of these Assessment Objectives are
equally weighted.
There will be regular deadlines throughout the course so
that your teachers can assess your work and give you in-
depth feedback on how to improve your work.
The coursework unit is worth 60% of the marks and the
Exam Unit 40%.
Page 23 Gosforth Academy Sixth Form | Fine Art (A level)BUSINESS
QCF LEVEL 3 BTEC NATIONAL, SUBSIDIARY DIPLOMA (PEARSON)
What interests should I have if I want to recruiting and training staff, job descriptions and contracts
of employment. Physical resources will look at all the issues
take this course?
relating to buildings, plant and machinery, equipment
Business Level 3 BTEC is a course that is designed to provide and insurance. For financial resources the unit focuses on
students with an experience of a range of business disciplines internal and external sources of finance and being able to
that could be used in a vocational work-based setting. An interpret financial statements such as income statements,
interest in the world of work and possible work experience balance sheets and using ratios. As before, all of this will be
would be likely interests of those completing this course, as put into context of a real business for the production of your
would a preference for the Coursework based assessments coursework.
used. Students with previous experience of Level 2 Business
related BTECs may see this as a natural progression. Unit 4 Business Communication
This course will give you an excellent understanding of many (studied in Year 12)
of the key areas of a business and how it operates. It will
make you more aware of business in general and could be Communication is key for any business and this unit will
the start of a successful career in the business world. Who examine how the collection and management of business
knows, you could be the next Dragon to sit in the Den! information is critical for the future of any organisation. You
will look at the different types of information that are crucial
What will I learn about? for business success and then use practical skills to produce
some effective corporate communication material.
The course gives you the opportunity to learn about the key
aspects of how a business operates. During the first year
You also study the legal and ethical considerations which
you will learn about a range of key business functions and
should be considered when communicating in a business
areas. These include the business environment, resources
context and also which methods are the most effective in
within business like the people and the money and the key
certain situations.
area of marketing in business.
Unit 3 Introduction to Marketing
Unit 1 The Business Environment (studied in year 13)
(studied in Year 12) The marketing unit has you investigating the key elements
In this core unit you will become familiar with the range of marketing within a business. This will mean investigating
of different businesses that exist from local, national and the purpose of marketing, the different techniques that
international, to sole traders, partnerships and PLCs. You can be used and some of the key limitations on marketing
will learn about how businesses are organised as well as such as laws and pressure groups. You will then learn how
how they are affected by the wide range of different external to use market research techniques and marketing planning
factors. Your project work will focus on two real but different tools. Finally the unit will focus on understanding how and
businesses that operate in different parts of the world and why to target different customer groups and you will finish
how the global marketplace impacts on them. by creating your own marketing mix for a new product or
service.
Unit 2 Business Resources In year 13 you will learn the skills needed to communicate
effectively in business, conduct meaningful market research
(studied in Year 12)
and get practical experience in preparing you for your career
In this core unit you will learn more about the key resources beyond school.
that make any business a success; the human resources,
physical resources, technological resources and financial
resources. For Human Resources this will include looking at
Page 25 Gosforth Academy Sixth Form | Business (BTEC National)BUSINESS
QCF LEVEL 3 BTEC NATIONAL, SUBSIDIARY DIPLOMA (PEARSON)
Unit 13 Recruitment and Selection in Business • Visiting local businesses or working with visiting
speakers from the local business community
(studied in Year 13)
• Researching businesses through the internet and
In this practical unit you will be required to design and
others sources
implement a full recruitment and selection process for a
business. Once you have identified the recruitment need in • Work experience
the business and designed the recruitment documentation • Producing and delivering presentations
for them to use, you then need to act in two roles; as an
interviewer designing the strategy and conducting the The staff within the Business & Enterprise Department
selection process and as the interviewee practicing your are always supportive and approachable and will always
interview technique to help you in the future. willingly provide help and guidance throughout your course.
Unit 34 Website Design Strategy (studied in Year Where can I go on to study at the end of the
13)
course?
The increasing importance of the internet means that
businesses often seek to employ those with experience of This qualification is extremely useful as a stepping stone
website design and people who can practically demonstrate onto university to study Business, Management or similar
the ability to design and support a businesses online degrees but is equally useful preparation for business-
presence. After looking at the purpose of many company related employment. For both directions not just WHAT you
websites and understanding why they are structured in learn but HOW you learn will prove invaluable in the future.
particular ways you then work to plan how a business would
develop their website strategy. How can I find out more information?
If you have any further questions please contact Mr Green
How will I be assessed?
or Mrs Darrie in the Business & Enterprise Department.
Every unit of work in a BTEC programme is assessed through
a portfolio of evidence that is built up over the course of
the year and is internally assessed by your teachers. This
means that are opportunities for you to update and improve
your work over the course of the year to best achieve your
potential.
What minimum qualifications will I need to start
the course?
Grade 4 in English or a Pass in a Level 2 vocational course
in the subject area.
What teaching and learning will be used?
A variety of teaching and learning approaches will be used
to enable you to be successful in completing the work and
producing your portfolio of evidence. The following are
some of the methods used :
• Working in a team or independently
• Completing short tasks or more extended projects
Gosforth Academy Sixth Form | Business (BTEC National) Page 26BUSINESS A LEVEL (OCR)
What interests should I have if I want to • The UK business environment (02*), 80 marks, 2 hour
written paper. 33.33% of total A level.
take this course?
Students should consider taking this option if they hold an • The global business environment (03*), 80 marks, 2
hour written paper. 33.33% of total A level.
interest in running a business of their own, or in working
in a larger organisation. This course allows students a What minimum qualifications will I need to
broad experience of the key business functions, and will
start the course?
allow students to focus on organisations that operate
Local, National and International levels. The range of topics Grade 4 in English Language and Maths and an average
also allows for students who are unsure of which pathway GCSE points score of 4 and 4 in Business if taken.
to follow into university, an opportunity to sample other
potential choices.
What Teaching and Learning methods will
be used?
What will I learn about? A variety of teaching methods will be used to enable you to
Have you ever wondered how and why Apple created the complete your units. The following are some examples of the
iPhone? How do businesses grow to become as successful methods currently used:
as Nike or Nissan? Why do some people choose to start their
•• Working independently and as part of a team
own businesses? This course will give you an understanding
of all the main areas of business, from how they are set •• Completing short tasks and larger projects
up and organised to how they manage their finances and •• Analysing case study material both independently
motivate their workers. and with others in a group
•• Investigating real examples of local and national
A level Business Topics:
businesses and how they operate
All topic areas on the specification are listed below. Any •• Researching businesses through the internet and
topic could be assessed on any of the three A level Business
other sources
exams.
•• Producing and delivering presentations
• Business objectives and strategic decisions
The staff within the Business & Enterprise Department
• External influences facing businesses
are always supportive and approachable and will willingly
• Marketing and marketing strategies provide help and guidance throughout your course.
• Operational strategy
• Human resources What can I do when I complete my
• Accounting and financial considerations
qualifications?
This is a useful qualification whatever you want to go on to
Importantly, each of the exams focuses on a different context.
The first will focus on small to medium-sized businesses, study. It will give you experience of studying in ways similar to
the second will examine businesses operating on a national what you will experience at university. It is particularly useful
scale and the final exam will examine businesses that for continuing onto any business, finance or management
operate on an international scale. degree. Equally it will provide you with an excellent foundation
if you are looking to go into a business related employment
after school or starting your own enterprise!
How will I be assessed?
How can I find out more information?
There are three compulsory units in A level Business which
will be completed at the end of Year 13. If you have any further questions please contact Mr Green or
Mr Snowdon in the Business & Enterprise Department. You
• Operating in a local business environment (01*), 80
can find full details of the specification at www.ocr.org.uk/
marks, 2 hour written paper. 33.33% of total A level.
qualifications.
Page 27 Gosforth Academy Sixth Form | Business (A level)You can also read
