SIXTH FORM Prospectus 2019 - Monkton Combe School
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SIXTH FORM
Prospectus 2019
Monkton Senior School
Monkton Combe
Bath
BA2 7HG
Email: mssadmissions@monkton.org.uk
Tel: 01225 721133
www.monktoncombeschool.com
CONTENTS
04 Welcome from the Principal
06 Succeed beyond Monkton
07 Support networks
08 Meet some Monkton Sixth
Formers, past and present
10 Developing wider skills
16 The Sixth Form Curriculum
46 Important dates, contacts
and making choices
2 Prospectus Monkton Sixth Form 3
Welcome from the Principal
Welcome to this introduction to the Sixth Form at Monkton Senior School.
Entering the Sixth Form is an important and exciting
stepping stone to university life. The Monkton Sixth
Form will offer you greater freedoms and, in doing
so, encourage you to develop independent thinking,
balance and judgement. In A Level study you will have
an opportunity to specialise in areas of particular interest
and further your depth of understanding, meaning that
we expect hard work in all areas as they are all of your
own choosing.
I hope that you will find this booklet helpful in guiding
you on the choices that you will make. These are difficult
choices and I hope you will also take advantage of
the advice available here, speak to your teachers and
experience directly through taster sessions what some of
these subjects feel like at A Level to make sure that the
choices suit you and your ambitions.
As you work out how to prioritise for yourself, you
will find that you spend much more time working with
your Tutor, monitoring your progress, setting targets,
and applying to Higher Education. In addition, the Sixth
Form student works even more collaboratively with their
teachers, sharing and comparing opinions, engaging in
debate and leading the discussion. Some pupils also take
the lead at ‘Voluntaries’, helping younger students with
their work in chosen subjects, and sharing both their
enthusiasm and their knowledge. “I hope you will also take advantage
Over a quarter of Monkton’s Sixth Form are new to the
School, and there is a particular focus on helping these of the advice available here, speak
students to make the most of the opportunities which
the Sixth Form affords because the time passes quickly. to your teachers and experience
Judging from the number of senior prefects who have
joined the School at this stage, our new students find it
directly through taster experiences
easy to make an impact. what some of these subjects feel
I would encourage all potential Sixth Formers to give
some thought to all they want to achieve - intellectually, like at A Level to make sure that
athletically, aesthetically - to take advantage of this
exciting period of your education; at this stage you
the choices suit you and your
decide what you do and you will shape, make or break ambitions.”
your own Sixth Form experience! Be ambitious, dare to
fail and discover success.
Chris Wheeler
Principal
4 Prospectus
Support networks
Developing independence, resourcefulness and resilience
to enable our pupils to thrive in the real world.
We don’t want our Sixth Formers to leave Monkton like answers. The amount of freedom each student has
cheese plants. In their natural habit, these plants look around their study periods will be carefully expanded as
healthy and vigorous, but they are climbers whose trunk they progress through the Sixth Form. Subject drop-in
has no inherent strength. Take away the tree when they sessions encourage an attitude of seeking help rather
grow up, and they fall flat on their faces. than passively waiting for help to arrive.
All too often Sixth Formers look like they are confident In addition, we run a comprehensive Year 12 Induction
and flourishing at school, but the support structures at Programme which covers all the aspects of what will
schools hide a worrying truth - that they have very little make their Sixth Form years successful at Monkton.
strength in their own ‘trunk’. When they start to think about life after Monkton, we
We want to balance the support we give with a offer advice and support about the options available,
developing independent resourcefulness in our students. including sessions on CV writing and interview technique.
Rather than avoid failure at all costs, we seek to help The care we take of our students is well known, and it
them to learn from their mistakes within the context of a always features strongly in the feedback we receive from
supportive environment, and so help them develop their our leavers. But what sets Monkton Sixth Formers apart
own resilience. at university and beyond is their resourcefulness and
Their Tutor, with whom they will meet regularly one deep understanding of interdependence rather than just
to one, will ask more questions than they will offer independence.
Succeed Beyond Monkton
Academic rigour at the heart
of a broad Sixth Form experience The Headlines
n 21% A* at A Level, Summer 2018
n 51% A* & A at A Level, Summer 2018
Monkton is well known for its diverse co-curriculum, n 81% A*- B at A Level Summer 2018
its sector-leading pastoral care and its distinctive
Christian ethos. At the heart of this for the Sixth Former n Top university destinations in 2018: Birmingham,
at Monkton is a commitment to a rigorous and wide- Cardiff, Durham, Exeter, Lancaster and Oxford
ranging academic programme which aims to equip our Brookes
young adults not only with the qualifications needed for n 8% of pupils secured places at Central St Martins,
a successful transition to life beyond Monkton, but, vitally, Bournemouth and Loughborough Art Colleges, in
the skills needed to succeed well beyond that. 2018
So we celebrate ambition and achievement alongside n 8% of students secured places to study Music
an attitude which embraces the lessons which can be based courses at universities including Bristol,
learnt from making mistakes. Expecting much from all Cardiff, Royal Holloway, Solent and Surrey
our Sixth Formers within the context of supportive and n An average of 8% of pupils each year go to
specific feedback is, time and again, a major reason for Oxbridge or Veterinary/Medicine courses with
the success and progress of so many of our students.
Our students achieved 51% A*’s and A’s in the
about 50% going to Russell Group universities, but “The care we take of our
we’re just as excited about April running her own
A Level exams in 2018. Across the board our students business, Ben building jet engines with Rolls Royce students is well known, and
demonstrate the sort of qualities that universities are
looking for: a very large proportion were accepted to
or Louie’s tennis scholarship to the USA
n Leadership Award to celebrate the development
it always features strongly
their first choice university following the publication of
A Level results last summer. of soft skills in the feedback we receive
n Extensive Year 12 induction programme
from our leavers.”
n One-to-one tutoring
“We celebrate ambition and n Outstanding pastoral care
achievement alongside an attitude n Growth Mindset embedded across the school
which embraces the lessons which n Diverse range of musical ensembles
n Strong links with Team Bath Sports Development
can be learnt from making mistakes.”
6 Prospectus Monkton Sixth Form 7
Meet some Monkton Sixth
Formers, past and present
Jess Joe
Current Year 13 Current Year 13
I have been at Monkton for many years Monkton is a remarkable school that I
now, but I have still found that sixth form am proud to say I have been a part of. It
life has more to offer. What I love most has, and will continue to, provide students
about Monkton is the community aspect from all walks of life with the strong
Lissy Fadi
of our school lives. No matter what year group, boarding foundations of family, care and friendship, allowing them
house or lessons you are in, everyone integrates together to choose their own individual path on which to progress
which creates a really nice atmosphere. and flourish.
Class of 2014 Class of 2016 Obviously a major difference of these two years are I decided to apply for sixth form as I recognised
the subjects you choose to study. I am taking English that I wanted a change from my previous school but
After 6 years of boarding at Monkton, My time at Monkton was one that I will Literature, Spanish, History and have just completed an also believed that smaller classes would equip me with
school felt like home by the time I started cherish for the rest of my life, especially EPQ. While the workload was a step up from year 11, I correct environment to tackle the daunting task of
Sixth Form. Although I knew early on the two Sixth Form years. I arrived at have loved the more intimate nature of these classes A Levels. I had attended a taster weekend, something
that my aim was to secure a place at the Monkton from Egypt as a 14 year old who, where I’ve really developed a love for my subjects and which I highly recommend, and was impressed with the
University of Exeter to study English, my Sixth Form unsurprisingly, was overwhelmed and frankly scared am now hoping to study both English Literature and level of attention teachers gave to each individual, even
years were so much more than working towards my by the idea of being in a boarding school away from Spanish at university. sacrificing breaks to help a confused student. In addition
A Levels. Thanks to the extra-curricular activities at home. However, the amount of support and care I was Sixth form is the time where friendships are formed to this, the academic help sessions and immensity of
Monkton, some of the most fun I have ever had was shown at Monkton from my teachers and houseparents for life, and being a boarding school everyone, whether both academic and extracurricular activities led me to
during my final two years at school. I was fortunate to be squashed those feelings almost instantly. I had always day or boarding, naturally spends a lot of time together decide that Monkton was the perfect school for my
in the productions of ‘Pirates of Penzance’ and ‘As You been interested in science and the body so choosing and therefore I have been able to make some great schooling needs and so I arrived, apprehensive of what
Like It’, my subjects (which were Chemistry, Biology, Maths and friends. Due to the range of activities going on you may lay ahead, in September.
I sang in two choirs, and had the chance to serve on Arabic) was fairly straightforward with the aid of my can get to know a large range of people from different From my first week, I realised that I had not only
the charity committee. These experiences gave me so incredibly helpful teachers and their advice. Two years groups, whether it’s people from your classes, boarding chosen a school adapted to my academic needs, but
many skills that I wouldn’t have gained solely through on, I’m using every single one of those subjects as I am house or sports team which adds to the community feel also my social and co-curricular ones too. I found myself
academic work, and the fun we had at various rehearsals studying Pharmacy at Monash University in Australia of the school. a member of Rhetoric, a society for students preparing
and meetings cemented friendships for life. I also and doing translation work on the side for newly arriving Monkton is a school that looks beyond the academics for Oxbridge interviews, Clark Society, an exciting
genuinely loved the lessons in Sixth Form. Not only did I refugees from the middle east. and since being in Sixth Form I have found myself debating club, and Chemistry Society. Furthermore, I
receive high quality teaching in subjects I loved (English In my opinion, Sixth From encompasses so much taking part in many extra curricular activities such as was spending time with friends after prep in the evening
Literature, Geography and French), but I couldn’t have more than just the academic side (although that is very Clark Society, which is an opportunity to debate a wide and recently playing football and croquet until 9:30pm,
asked for teachers who were more sincerely invested in important): for me it was a time to grow and mature as variety of topics from eugenics to the gender pay gap. an experience I had never had before being an only child
my welfare and success. The most important aspect of a musician, sportsman, actor and a Christian. I was able I have also enjoyed the pupil-run MUN and Gold DofE brought up in a farming environment.
Sixth Form for me was the deepening of my Christian to participate in many extra-curricular activities such as throughout the year, and more recently I took part in the Boarding was a large concern of mine prior to
faith. CU, Bible studies, and support in my boarding singing in the chapel choir, playing rugby, developing my first ever book club where we discussed “Americanah”. Monkton as I believed that it would take away my
house and from friends were crucial to me leaving School musical abilities, holding a position of leadership in the All of these things have pushed me out of my comfort freedom, but in fact the opposite has been true. It has
with a secure faith in Christ. school and much more. This has definitely shaped my zone and developed my confidence, giving me a wide given a structured format to my daily life which allows
My Sixth Form years at Monkton were a well-rounded personality and contributed to who I am today. I would range of skills I will carry into the future. me to complete my studies and work during prep
experience of work, play, friendships and faith, and I am strongly encourage students who are going into the sixth I am very grateful for all the opportunities Monkton and provide vital time to socialise afterwards. The ‘in-
incredibly grateful for the opportunities I experienced form to explore what Monkton has to offer and to be has to offer but what makes it stand out from other houses’ [evening socials in Houseparents’ homes] that
and enjoyed over the two years. I am now starting the part of it. schools is that these activities are not only there, but you happen every Tuesday have given me the opportunity
Teach First Leadership Development Programme as a I am still pursuing my dream of becoming a doctor are actively encouraged to push yourself and take part in to integrate into the house and now are a fantastic way
secondary school English teacher. and studying medicine is my plan after pharmacy, and things that you wouldn’t ordinarily do. Personally, I took of catching up with other year groups while creating
I hope to serve God even more through that. Finally, I part in our senior production “Anything Goes” where I stronger friendships.
consider myself very lucky to have attended a school had to dance, sing and act… all of which are things that Monkton has been an experience I wouldn’t give up
such as Monkton and my Sixth Form years were are way out of my comfort zone! for the world and I am excited to continue my time here
definitely the highlight of my time there. and see what lies around the corner.
“Sixth From encompasses so much more than just the academic side: “All of these things have pushed me out of my comfort zone and
for me it was a time to grow and mature as a musician, sportsman, actor developed my confidence, giving me a wide range of skills I will
and a Christian.” carry into the future. ”
8 Prospectus Monkton Sixth Form 9
Sport
Monktonians play sport and the opportunities to get
involved are regular and widespread in the Sixth Form.
During the three games sessions a week you may choose to
be part of the competitive programme, participating in the
School’s traditional sports such as cricket, hockey, netball,
rugby, tennis or rowing. Previous experience is great, but
our qualified coaches are there to aid in your development
and enjoyment as you compete against our local, regional
and national competitors in one of our 50+ sports teams.
Games also offers the provision to be coached and
develop your skills in numerous other activities such as
swimming, badminton, golf and squash as well as personal
challenge activities such as running and fitness training.
No matter what your interest, Monkton will provide the
opportunity to develop your physical confidence and
competence.
Elite performers also fill our ranks and gain representative
honours across the full range of our sports, taking
advantage of our partnership with Bath University and their
Sports Training Village, with its world renowned facilities
and coaches as well as our tailored scholars’ training plan.
Gold Duke of
Edinburgh Award
Monkton Sixth Form students can choose to participate in
the Gold Duke of Edinburgh Award. This involves developing
a personal programme of challenging and rewarding
activities, providing unique opportunities to celebrate
achievements and develop key life skills and attitudes. The
personal attributes developed through the Gold Award are
extremely well recognised by employers and universities and
provide a point of interest for UCAS applications, CVs and
personal statements. The expeditions are a real highlight
of the Gold Award, with teamwork, navigation, campcraft
and decision making being put to the test in Dartmoor and
Snowdonia each year. All Gold participants will receive expert
training in expedition skills, so they are ready to complete an
independent journey through the mountains of Snowdonia at
the end of Year 12.
The Gold Award is a demanding and challenging
undertaking, but it is achievable by all who are prepared
to stretch themselves in a variety of ways. You might get
blisters, you might get lost, your tent poles might break,
you might even get emotional when you complete your
final volunteering session or when receiving your certificate
from the Duke of Edinburgh himself, but you will certainly
discover huge amounts of reward, satisfaction and self-belief.
Ultimately, it is designed to celebrate your achievements, of
which you will have many, as a Sixth Former at Monkton.
10 Prospectus Monkton Sixth Form 11
Music and Drama
Music at Monkton is for everyone and even the student
who says that they’re “not a musician” has numerous
opportunities to get involved! We say we are ‘enabling every
pupil to find their own voice.’ Ensembles available to Sixth
Formers include Chapel Choir, Girls’ Choir, Chamber Choir,
Choir Who Can’t Sing (boys), Concert Band, Orchestra, Flute
Group, Sax Quartet, Ukulele Club, Jazz, Brass Group and
Chamber Music. We have amazing studio facilities; pupils can
get involved with Recording Club, or can just come down to
the Music Centre for a “jam session” with their band. Every
pupil performs in the House Music Festival at the beginning
of each Michaelmas Term and we have informal concerts
throughout the year which pupils of all levels of experience
are welcome to play in. The Chapel Choir sings in Bath Abbey
for the Carol Service each December and, every other year,
the Senior School production is a musical. Each term we
take groups to hear live concerts in Bath and Bristol, and we
regularly welcome musicians from outside to come and give
masterclasses and recitals.
Theatre, in all its forms, is a way to explore: explore
character and narrative, explore issues and events, explore
technology and design. All are welcome to become part of
our Drama department in whatever capacity suits you. We
have teacher-directed performances, student-led events,
visiting specialists, technical excellence, links with music,
LAMDA lessons… Whether you are looking for an opportunity
to just perform a monologue, be part of a production with a
cast of over 30, or run the lights on a glitzy musical, we will
have something to offer you. With each production, we hope
to introduce you to new skills, guiding your learning as part
of a team that runs with professionalism.
12 Prospectus Monkton Sixth Form 13
DEVELOPING WIDER SKILLS
Societies and Lectures
There are a wide variety of societies available for pupils to Ann Widdecombe’s masterful lecture on the nature
to join and lead in the Sixth Form at Monkton. These of perseverance, speakers have talked about a variety
include the Marshall Society for budding geographers, of fascinating issues. The School has had visits from
Model United Nations for those who love debating, various Olympians such as Anna Watkins, Lizzy Yarnold
Semmelweis for future medics and the Clark Society and Sharron Davies, and the brilliant journalist George
for academics. If you have a particular interest and the Alagiah lectured on the subject of multi-culturalism,
society doesn’t exist then, with the support of a teacher, while Jonathan Porrit (Founder of the Green Party) gave
you can set one up! a very thought-provoking, urgent talk on climate change.
The Monkton Lecture Series is devised to enlighten, Although the talks are open to the entire School, each
inspire and challenge the minds of the Sixth Form, speaker aims the lecture at this specific age group, and
and over recent years the School has been blessed by many pupils have described these lectures as being
exciting visits from a variety of some truly outstanding ‘genuinely life-changing’. The lectures are a highlight of a
speakers. From Simon Weston’s (Falkland Hero) moving Monktonian’s Sixth Form experience.
and powerful talk about the nature of facing hardship,
Christianity at Monkton
Monkton has a strong Christian ethos that plays through many areas of school
life. The School meets centrally for a short chapel service and ‘Thought for
the Day’ on Mondays and Wednesdays. On Fridays each House has their own
‘House Prayers.’ The School comes together for a longer chapel service on
Saturdays after lessons, and before lunch and afternoon sports begin. Visiting
speakers, a range of topics and multimedia are all used.
In addition to this, there are optional Bible Study groups on Monday
evenings that are run by various members of staff in their houses which are well
attended. The mid-week focus is the Christian Union that meets on Wednesdays
and is attended by 80 or so pupils. The Christian Union is organised and run
by a committee made up of Year 13s with the support of the chaplaincy, and a
A wealth of opportunities number of Sixth Formers also lead various year group or house prayer groups.
During their time here pupils have the opportunity to engage with the
Christian faith, ask questions and see how the Christian framework for life can
On Wednesday afternoons, Year 12 have a broad menu of into our local community and help. We help in all sorts play out practically and help them prepare for life beyond Monkton.
options available to them, including a Sports Leadership of ways - some more fun than others, but all useful
Award, Work Experience, Horseriding, Catering - Skills nonetheless! Some of us go into Bath to volunteer at
for Life, Dance, Model United Nations, Football, Drama charity shops and in the head office of Julian House,
and Fencing. In addition, they can be involved in the others of us talk to elderly residents of a local care home
Combined Cadet Force (CCF), Community Service or the and help organise fun bingo for them, and others lend
Environment Group. a hand at the younger end of the age spectrum in local
The CCF at Monkton is one of the largest in the schools. The placement you’re given is yours for the
South West, made up of Army, Navy, RAF, Signals and whole year, and we really enjoy the time we spend in our
REME sections. Participants in the Sixth Form, with local community helping out. Recent highlights have
prior experience, form the body of NCOs core to the included making a Skype call to a lady who we visit every
CCF. These individuals practise leadership skills on a Wednesday on the occasion of her 92nd birthday - she
weekly basis, leading sections and delivering activities had Skype calls from friends and family from all over the
to the younger cadets. The aim is to develop teamwork UK and abroad, and said it was her best birthday ever!
and leadership skills within the discipline of a military Moments like this make us proud to be offering ourselves
framework, culminating in a week long summer camp. in service to others.”
Cadets in the CCF have participated in the following The Environment Group undertakes practical
activities in recent years: skiing, flying, gliding, a voyage conservation tasks, about half of which take place in
on HMS Bulwark, hovercraft trip with the Marines, sailing, the School grounds. These have included a 6-week
powerboating, climbing, kayaking, overnight exercises, beekeeping course, planting hedges and bulbs, drawing
a cross-channel sail, “mess” dinner, helicopter flights, up a nature trail for trees and looking after the bee and
exercises on Salisbury Plain, live firing and obstacle butterfly garden. Outside School we have worked on the
courses. Several cadets have also won Sixth Form Army Bath Skyline clearing scrub and maintaining pathways
scholarships whilst at Monkton to help fund themselves with the National Trust; chopped down birch trees;
through university. cleared areas for moths in the Somerset Levels, and
A member of Year 12 writes: “Community Service mended dry stone walls in the Monkton churchyard.
is special because it allows us to actually go out there
14 Prospectus Monkton Sixth Form 15
Art
“If I could say it in words there would be no
Exam Board: AQA
reason to paint.” Edward Hopper
What do I need before starting this
The art department is a lively, popular and course?
Art is offered to candidates who
creative hub within Monkton. The study of art demonstrate ability and interest in the
is a journey of exploration and our aim is to subject, a grade 5 or above at GCSE, or a
undertake projects that stretch the appreciation competent portfolio of work.
The Sixth Form
and understanding of the aesthetic, technical and What will I learn?
conceptual aspects of art. Students undertake a Students all work on individual projects,
program that covers many diagnostic processes ‘creating visual meaning through Art by
an expressive response to a personal
as they write and develop their own projects and
Curriculum
context or social issue’. They will explore
interests in the subject. The department is based techniques as diverse as drawing, painting,
printmaking, textiles, sculpture, and mixed
around a studio system rather than classrooms,
media and photography. Sketchbooks
where each student can use any area of the form an integral part of the development
building to suit their needs. of the work and life-drawing classes are
also part of the course.
The standard curriculum is three A Levels, an Extended lesson the specification of which will depend on the Our recently extended and refurbished faculty How is the course assessed?
Project Qualification (EPQ) and a course of wider subjects they are following. At Monkton we are keen to is a spacious, purpose-built art facility which Work is assessed internally throughout
academic enrichment. A few students will choose 4 A develop a balanced view of technology and so look to the year, with weekly or twice weekly
Levels, but we recommend that an EPQ often offers continue to discuss with students about how to use all includes gallery space, textiles, 3D room, assignments. Final work is marked
greater breadth than a fourth A Level. Almost all A Levels our digital resources appropriately. photography dark room, IT facilities for digital internally, then moderated by an external
(apart from Geography) are fully linear – that is, all the In order to progress to Year 13, satisfactory progress photography with the full Adobe Creative Suite, examiner in June of Year 13. There will be a
exam-based assessments are done at the end of Year must be made in each of the three subjects. In termly charge for extra materials with this
13. This means that, for these linear subject, there is no practice, this means that, over the course of the year’s animation, a printmaking workshop, library and course.
external assessment (the so-called ‘AS’) at the end of assessments, a student will be performing at D grade or dedicated studios for Junior, GCSE and Sixth
Year 12, and students will be on a two-year trajectory to better. What degree courses and careers will this
Form teaching. In the Sixth Form each student
the exams at the end of Year 13. There will, however, be For current Monkton pupils, entry to Year 12 is not course be useful for?
internal assessments throughout Year 12 including at the automatic and is normally dependent upon having gets their own space in which to work, adding Students go on to the top courses in the
end of the year, to check on appropriate progress and achieved an average grade of 6.0 in all the GCSE to a sense of ownership and helping their work country – Central St Martins, Kingston,
give feedback. subjects that have been taken. If the average grade is Goldsmiths, CCW, AA, LCF, Falmouth,
The course of wider academic enrichment that every just below this, it may be possible to agree a reduced
develop in exciting ways. Bournemouth and Plymouth. Local art
student in Year 12 follows includes effective study habits, programme. colleges are also well attended. Most
‘after Monkton’ advice (university and careers), soft skills For those applying to join Monkton for the Sixth students will attend Foundation courses,
development, interview techniques, building constructive Form, we use a similar baseline, and base our decisions although some prefer to apply straight to
relationships, sexual health, time management, coping on a reference from the current school, school reports degree level, in fine art, graphics, interior
with workload and stress, healthy eating and exercise, and GCSE (or equivalent) mock results. Some subjects design and fashion.
current affairs, gambling addiction, alcohol and drug require at least a specific GCSE grade in that subject
awareness. Its aim is to complement the subject-based (see the information that follows), and applicants may
curriculum by helping students set their expertise in be asked to sit a subject-specific paper as part of the
subject disciplines within the wider context of important application.
interdisciplinary skills. We also award a number of Sixth Form scholarships to
In the Sixth Form we want to make the best use of those who show potential to be leaders in their chosen
technology to enhance learning wherever possible. As disciplines; details of these can be found on the Monkton
such all students are required to bring a laptop to every Website.
16 Prospectus Monkton Sixth Form 17
ACADEMIC CURRICULUM
Biology Business
Students who study Biology A Level often Business looks at what companies are and
choose a biologically related degree course, Exam Board: AQA what they do. It focuses on the core functions Exam Board: AQA
including the medical sciences or areas such as What do I need before starting this of Marketing, Human Resources, Operations What do I need before starting this
genetics, zoology, botany and ecology. Others course? Management and Finance but also broadens out course?
The minimum entry requirements are A Minimum of Level 5 in GCSE Maths. No
go on to careers in law, computing or teaching. a 7 grade (or high 6) in Biology GCSE
to other factors affecting their success or failure. prior knowledge of this subject is required
Whatever your aspirations, you will find Biology or grades 7-7 in Dual Award Science. It looks at ‘tools’ to assist with strategic decision before studying it at this level. A GCSE in
a very stimulating and challenging subject which It’s important that you are confident in making and it analyses how firms can be best this subject is helpful but not essential. We
Chemistry and Maths; 6 grades in both do, however, hope that students have an
will develop many of the skills necessary for your these subjects at GCSE are required.
managed to meet these goals. interest in current affairs.
future.
What will I learn? What will I learn?
Biology has four core themes that are At A Level you will look at what businesses
all interlinked: How Structure relates to are and what they do. It focuses on
Function, Evolution, Cell Theory and How the core functions of firms which are:
Organisms obtain Energy. As a subject Marketing, Human Resources, Operations
you will, therefore, study it from molecular Management and Finance. It also considers
level and how cells function, right up how strategic objectives are set and how
to the level of the Biosphere (the zone decisions are made, and how to pursue
on earth where life can exist). You’ll be these objectives. During Year 12 we visit
challenged intellectually and learn about the Mini car factory in Oxford. The cost of
the internal regulation of the human body, this visit is around £17.
the importance of photosynthesis to all life
and how our species is manipulating the How is the course assessed?
rest of Life on Earth both beneficially and At A Level, there are three 2-hour papers
detrimentally. which are varied and accessible. Business
Paper 1 includes a short multiple choice
How is the course assessed? section along with shorter answer
Practical competency is assessed through questions and a choice of two essay style
the whole course and there are three two questions. Business Paper 2 is a series
hour exam papers at the end of Year 13. In of data-response questions, whereas
Year 13 you will undertake a Field Trip to Business Paper 3 consists of around 6
Pembrokeshire over the first weekend of questions based around a case study.
the Michaelmas Term half term. While this Examination technique will be vital for
is not absolutely compulsory, it is strongly pupils to perform well.
recommended students attend. They gain
a flavour of university style education What degree courses and careers will this
and cover most of the ecosystems and course be useful for?
statistics as outlined on the syllabus. There Business related subjects: Management,
is a cost to this trip but it is generously Finance, Law, Marketing, Human
subsidised by the School. We also take our Resources, Operations Management etc.
Sixth Form Biologists to Studland Nature
Reserve in Dorset, The Edward Jenner
Museum in Gloucestershire, and to ‘We The
Curious’ in Bristol so they can analyse (in
part!) their own genome.
What degree courses and careers will this
course be useful for?
Courses that usually require A Level
Biology include Agriculture, Biochemistry,
Dentistry, Life Sciences, Medicine,
Physiotherapy, Veterinary Science, and
those which strongly recommend
A Level Biology (or at least 2 Sciences)
include Environmental Science, Geology,
Pharmacology and Physiology.
18 Prospectus Monkton Sixth Form 19ACADEMIC CURRICULUM
Chemistry Classical Civilisation
Chemistry touches almost every aspect of Classical Civilisation focuses on the civilisations of
human life, from such basics as food, fuel and Exam Board: OCR Greece and Rome, and is a wide ranging subject Exam Board: OCR
clothing, through building materials, metallurgy What do I need before starting this involving the study of literature, material culture, What do I need before starting this
and colour, to medicines, forensic science and course? ancient thought and ideas, and the ancient course?There are no qualifications
It is expected that you will have achieved required, merely an interest in the Classical
the sequencing of the human genome. In the a minimum of grade 7 in GCSE/IGCSE
historical context. You don’t need to know any world.
broadest sense it is the study of the composition Chemistry or grades 7-7 in Science languages; all the texts are in translation; all you
of substances and the changes that they Double Award Science with an acceptable need is an interest in the ancient world and its How is the course structured?
performance in the Chemistry paper, There will be two topics for each of Year
undergo, and is rooted in our inquisitiveness although 6 grades do not necessarily
cultures. From women in the ancient world, to 12 and Year 13, with an exam in each topic
about the environment in which we live. preclude entry. the study of religious beliefs and ancient acts at the end of Year 13. These will consist of
of intolerance, Classical Civilisation involves passages, taken from the literature you
What will I learn? have read, for you to comment on and
The qualification integrates theory interesting discussions that are directly relevant use as the basis for further writing. There
and relevant practical work, which are to today’s world. will also be essays on thought-provoking
developed at different levels throughout subjects.
the course. In Physical Chemistry you will
study Equilibria, Kinetics and Energetics What will I learn?
of chemical reactions with a more The course has been recently redeveloped.
quantitative approach in the second It will include a study of both Homer and
year. Inorganic chemistry focuses on Virgil, who are the two greatest epic poets
the properties and reactions of Group of Greek and Roman literature. You will
2, and Group 7 elements. Theory and also have a chance to study how people
understanding of Atomic Structure and in past times thought about the way they
Bonding is used to explain the trends should be governed, and also about love
of these properties; transition metal and relationships; both of these have direct
chemistry is encountered in the second relevance to modern life.
year. Organic chemistry focuses on key
functional groups and their reactions. In What degree courses and careers will this
the second year these are linked together course be useful for?
to study synthetic chemistry. If you are looking to apply to university,
In the first year we attend a synthesis Classical Civilisation can be extremely
and analysis workshop at Bath University useful. You not only acquire specific
and lectures hosted by the RSC. Both Classical knowledge, but also important
activities are free. During the second year transferable skills such as analysing
we will attend a workshop and lecture at sources and developing independent,
Bristol University. The cost of this visit is critical and evaluative approaches.
approximately £40. You learn to formulate and support
an argument and develop a valuable
How is the course assessed? understanding of cultures very different
The A Level is assessed at the end of the to your own. Information from UCAS
second year on the whole course with shows that students who studied Classical
two papers of 135 minutes and one paper Civilisation went on to study in such
of 90 minutes. Practical competency is diverse disciplines as Medicine, Veterinary
demonstrated throughout the course. Science and Chemistry, as well as a range
of Arts subjects.
What degree courses and careers will this
course be useful for?
Whether sights are set on degree level
study in Chemistry, a career in Medicine,
or entry to one of many other courses,
for example Biological Sciences, which
require or prefer A Level Chemistry, the
qualification is widely appreciated by
university admissions tutors and employers
alike.
20 Prospectus Monkton Sixth Form 21ACADEMIC CURRICULUM
Design Technology - Design Technology -
Product Design Three Dimensional Design
The design technology department offers The design technology department offers
students the ability to develop their Exam Board: Edexcel – 9DT0 students the ability to develop their Exam Board: AQA - 7245
innovative and creative proficiency through innovative and creative proficiency through
designing and making high quality products What do I need before starting this course? designing and making high quality products What do I need before starting this course?
This qualification builds on the knowledge, This qualification builds on the knowledge,
in our newly refurbished workshops and understanding and manufacturing skills in our newly refurbished workshops and understanding and manufacturing skills
creative studio. It will give students an inherent in GCSE. It is expected, but not creative studio. This course will introduce inherent in GCSE. It is expected but not
essential, that you will have achieved a essential that you will have studied design
appreciation of the complex relations minimum of grade 5 in GCSE.
students to a variety of experiences that technology or art at GCSE.
between design, materials, manufacture and explore a range of three-dimensional
marketing. Allowing them to learn about and What will I learn? media, processes and techniques. You will What will I learn?
You will be required to apply knowledge and You will explore relevant images, artefacts
engage with a wide range of manufacturing understanding of a wide range of materials
be exposed to both traditional and new and resources relating to a range of design,
techniques while developing their ability used in product design and manufacture. media, and encouraged to explore the use from the past and from recent times, including
to communicate ideas effectively through You will develop an understanding of of drawing for different purposes, using a European and non-European examples.
contemporary industrial and commercial You will develop your ability to respond to
written, graphical, ICT and 3D media. practices applied to designing and variety of methods and media on a variety these examples through practical and critical
manufacturing products, and to appreciate of scales. Students will use sketchbooks and activities that demonstrate their understanding
the risks involved. As well as a working journals to underpin their work over the two of different styles, genres and traditions. In
knowledge of the use of ICT and modern the workshop you will gain an understanding
manufacturing systems, students should be years. of working methods, such as model-making,
aware of the important contribution that key constructing and assembling, alongside an
historical movements and figures have on appreciation for the safe use of a variety of
design thinking. An awareness that design and appropriate tools and equipment.
technological activities can have a profound
impact on the environment and on society and How is the course assessed?
that these, together with sustainability, are key Work is assessed internally throughout the
features of design and manufacturing practice. year, with weekly or twice weekly assignments.
Mathematical and scientific principles are an Final work is marked internally, then
important part of designing and developing moderated by an external examiner in June
products and students will be expected to each year. There will be a termly charge for
apply these principles when considering the extra materials with this course.
designs of others.
Course costs
How is the course assessed? Pupils will need to pay for materials purchased
The course is assessed by a coursework specifically for the completion of their major
portfolio (50% of the qualification) and written projects.
exams (50%)
What degree courses and careers will this
Course costs course be useful for?
Pupils will need to pay for materials purchased The experience gained in this A Level will be
specifically for the completion of their major useful for most Higher Education courses,
projects. however it is directly relevant to: Architecture,
Product Design, Sustainable Design and other
What degree courses and careers will this creative industries including Jewellery Design,
course be useful for? Set Design, Interior Design and Landscape
The experience gained in this A Level will be Design.
useful for most Higher Education courses,
however it is directly relevant to: Mechanical,
Civil, Electrical, Chemical and Manufacturing
Engineering, Architecture and all design based
degrees such as Product Design, Industrial
Design, Sustainable Design and Textiles.
22 Prospectus Monkton Sixth Form 23ACADEMIC CURRICULUM
Drama and Theatre Economics
Plays and performance will take you An increasingly popular subject which looks at
into other worlds, help you empathise Exam Board: OCR current affairs and assesses decisions on scarce Exam Board: AQA
with other lives and inspire you to What do I need before starting this course? resources with unlimited wants. Microeconomics What do I need before starting this
communicate in other ways. Drama and A genuine interest in the subject and a real is about economic behaviour in the individual course?
enthusiasm for, and dedication to, plays, No prior knowledge of this subject is
Theatre Studies is skill and theory based productions and those you will be working with,
markets (consumers, firms, markets and required before studying it. We do,
learning, where each element supports is essential. We will look for a B grade or above in industries). Macroeconomics tries to explain how however, expect that students will have an
and enriches the other. Drama GCSE (or, if you have not taken it, a grade 5 the whole economy works: the aggregate (total) interest in current affairs. A good grade in
in English GCSE). GCSE Maths is an advantage.
levels of output, income, prices, employment and
What will I learn? unemployment, and the trade flows that make up What will I learn?
Through the study of texts and the production the balance of payments. You will finish the course with an
of plays, you will gain many life skills along with understanding of many of the current
theatre-specific techniques. The course uses and issues and problems in the UK and
hones many transferable skills which are attractive throughout the world. You will be able to
to university degrees that might look for students analyse issues such as the NHS, the future
with an ability to work in teams, to time manage, of the financial sector in the UK, the impact
be approachable and personable, read and react to of BREXIT and the role of government in a
an audience, and have the confidence to perform in knowledgeable and informed way. Do we
front of others. We will analyse theory, subtext and want an economy where the government
character to lead us to creative form and design has high spending and high taxes or one
of performance - using our knowledge to reach where the priority is to reduce government
into the lives of others and experiment with ways spending? What about inequality both in
to affect our audience. Throughout the course this country and on a global scale?
you will experience varying professional theatre
companies, analyse their techniques, and use this How is the course assessed?
to influence the work in class. The work covers The A Level consists of three papers:
all facets of a production, both performance and Markets and market failure, National and
technical, which you will learn to perform and write International Economy, and Economic
about analytically. You will work closely with others, principles and issues.
trusting them and knowing they rely on you, but
will have the freedom to follow your individual, What degree courses and careers will this
creative ideas. course be useful for?
Economics (and related courses),
How is the course structured? Management, Finance, Politics and careers
Exploration of texts and their themes as well as such as Journalism.
class analysis of professional productions will
culminate in written exams. The group productions,
both devised and scripted, are assessed as full
performances with each individual being marked
on a skill (Acting or Technical) alongside research
reports and portfolios that justify the theory behind
practical decisions. Theatre Practitioners are also
studied in depth and the skill of Directing. Students
will be charged for theatre trips and one residential
trip per year.
What degree courses and careers will this course
be useful for?
It is ideal for all those intending to study Drama,
English, the arts, Media, Journalism and the
humanities. Musicians may wish to use their
expertise through sound design, artists may wish
to study costume, lighting or set design. Those
wishing to go forward to theatre school will hone
skills of both theory and practice that they would
use in audition.
24 Prospectus Monkton Sixth Form 25ACADEMIC CURRICULUM
English Literature Extended Project
Monkton Senior School is blessed to have a
well provisioned English department, staffed Exam Board: OCR
Qualification (EPQ)
by teachers who are passionate about English What do I need before starting this
Literature. The qualification continues to be course? The Extended Project Qualification
hugely popular, and is undertaken by an array The requirements for this highly popular provides an opportunity for students Exam Board: AQA
course are a minimum of a grade 6 at
of students considering a diverse range of English Literature and English Language at
to develop the rigorous independent What do I need before starting this course?
undergraduate degrees and careers. GCSE...and a love of reading. learning skills that are so vital for All Year 12 students will undertake an EPQ. As you will be
university and beyond, while at given every guidance permitted by the board throughout
What will I learn? the course, the main requirement is an interest in a
One of the few ‘facilitating’ A Level courses, Through the texts you study there will be
the same time encouraging the particular topic area which you would like to pursue
English Literature provides access to almost all questions like: intellectual freedom to select and further. Examples of topics which Monktonians have used
research a topic about which they in the past cover a wide range including English Literature,
undergraduate degrees, and continues to be What is literature? Religion, Biology, Sport, Psychology, Chemistry, Physics,
well regarded by Oxbridge and Russell Group have an existing or developing History, Geography, Gender and many more. Specific
universities. Skills learnt and honed during this Is there such a thing as good and bad passion. It affords the chance to work topics include: Hunting and Sustainable Consumptive use
writing? outside the constraints of subject of Wildlife; Explanations for Warfare; Dr. Faustus; Arab/
course will greatly aid students’ EPQ study. Israeli conflict, War on Cancer; Animal Rights; Criminality,
Why do some writers last whilst others specifications and to individually Economic and Political aspects of the Olympic Games.
This course is challenging, rewarding and well fade? plan and execute their work within
What will I learn?
suited to those who enjoy exploring their Where did the novel come from?
set timeframes. The course attracts Each student, supported by a Tutor, chooses their own
imagination. We not only study a number of UCAS points, is worth half an A Level topic and title (which can be related to chosen A Levels
texts considered the greatest published in the
Who wrote the first plays? and will be completed by all students or completely separate), designs a detailed plan of how
they will develop and realise their objectives and keep a
English language, but we also explore the time Does laying out the notes this way make during Year 12. reflective log on their own progress. You will then typically
in which they were written, published and read. them poetry? research, develop and write a dissertation, usually between
2000 and 8000 words, and finally give a presentation.
The coursework element in Year 13 allows our How is the course assessed? During this course you will be given guidance and
students to discover their own voice and area Drama and Poetry pre-1900 (closed practical experience of independent research, selecting
of interest, and they will be skilfully equipped to text) External Exam 40%: Section 1: and assessing resources for a purpose, citing references,
Shakespeare, Section 2: One pre-1900 planning and monitoring your own progress, adapting the
express themselves in original and creative ways drama text and one pre-1900 poetry text. course of the project as necessary and how to write up
through dialogue, argument, prose and poetry. and present an academic ‘article’.
Comparative and contextual study (closed
text) External Exam 40%: Section 1: Close How is this course structured and assessed?
reading in chosen topic area, Section 2: The course is entirely coursework based (there is
Comparative and contextual study from no exam). It is assessed using four criteria: project
chosen topic area. management; using resources effectively; project
development/realisation; and an evaluation of the success
Literature post-1900 (non-examined of the project. EPQ is timetabled along with other
assessment) 20%. subjects. Introductory sessions for each element of the
course will take place with Tutors organising individual
What degree courses and careers will this sessions with students to monitor progress and advise
course be useful for? on plans. There is also a final short presentation to be
The skills that you will refine - oral and given on the process of the project, this forms part of the
written communication, presentation assessment. To ensure that progress is maintained there
and justification of an argument, critical will be published deadlines throughout the course. Work
analysis and synthesis of data – are highly is internally assessed and moderated by EPQ tutors and
regarded for entry into a wide range of top externally moderated by the examination board.
universities. It is ideal for all those intending
to go forward to degrees in English, the What degree courses and careers will this course be
Arts, Media, Journalism, Drama, Law, useful for?
Business, Management and Finance, Universities have been hugely positive about the EPQ
Medicine and the Human Sciences. English course, with some students receiving lowered offers; and
graduates go on to a wide variety of jobs given the open nature of the project, it will enhance any
and are highly regarded. UCAS application or CV.
26 Prospectus Monkton Sixth Form 27ACADEMIC CURRICULUM
French Geography
The study of French requires students Geography explores the complex relationships
to take an interest in all aspects of Exam Board: AQA between physical and human environments and Exam Board: Cambridge International
A Level (9696)
Francophone culture, from art and What do I need before starting this course? how these change over time.
architecture, through to politics Before starting the course it is essential that you have What do I need before starting this
at least a grade 6 in French at GCSE. We hope that you course?
and social issues, film and literature. will have visited France, and have some ideas about the Grade 6 or above at GCSE in Geography,
Through debate and discussion culture. If you have been on an exchange you will be at English Language and Mathematics as well
you will develop oral fluency and an advantage. We recommend that you spend at least as fulfilling the requirements for entering
part of one holiday with a French family. You also need to Year 12.
conversation skills and you will be have an opinion about everything!
encouraged to read from, watch and What will I learn?
listen to as many authentic sources as What will I learn? A full study of issues affecting people and
In the first year you will study contemporary society, their environment including Hydrology,
you can. looking at diversity and the benefits it brings. You will atmosphere and weather, rocks and
study the rich cultural heritage of French-speaking weathering, population, migration and
countries, including francophone music and cinema. You settlement dynamics. Alongside this, you
will also explore the influence of the past on present-day will have the opportunity to carry out a
French-speaking communities. You will study texts and range of fieldwork activities.
film and have the opportunity to carry out independent
research on an area of your choice. Grammar is an How is this course structured and
important part of the course, but we try and make it as assessed?
pain free as possible. You will learn to express yourselves There are 2 exams at AS and 2 exams at
fluently and accurately in French. You will be encouraged A2 each is 90 minutes long. The Course
to speak French at all times in class. Every other year has a modular structure which means that
there is a cultural and educational four day visit to Paris. the AS exam results can be carried forward
and form 50% of the A2.
How is the course structured and assessed?
Classes are conducted in the target language, but the What degree courses and careers will this
more complex structures will generally be explained in course be useful for?
English. There are seven lessons a week, and usually a Geography gives support to a full range
class will have two teachers, each teaching three or four of degree subjects including international
lessons. There is a great emphasis on class participation, relations, development studies,
research and presentations. There are also conversation oceanography as well as Geography itself.
classes which you will need to attend. The course is linear Geography graduates are well placed
and all examinations take place at the end of the second in the current job market due to the
year. You are assessed in all four skills. In your second transferable skills they learn through their
year, you will conduct an independent research project degree. Geography graduates retain one
and prepare to discuss your findings as part of the of the highest employability rates post
speaking assessment. There are translations into French graduation.
and English and you must be prepared to deal with
literary texts as well as factual articles. The written paper
will require you to answer an essay question on the film
and the novel you have studied.
What degree courses and careers will this course be
useful for?
There are language courses on offer at all universities.
We have had many pupils who have gone on to study
French and other languages as diverse as Thai, Mandarin,
Russian and Italian at university. Languages can be
studied in combination with a whole range of degree
subjects from International Business and Economics, to
Engineering and Law. The study of a language provides
students with many practical and transferable skills
and language graduates are sought after and highly
employable.
28 Prospectus Monkton Sixth Form 29You can also read
