THE WILLINK SCHOOL

LANGUAGE COLLEGE

THE WILLINK SCHOOL

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I am very pleased that you are considering continuing your education at The Willink School. There are some very good reasons for joining the Sixth Form.

The Willink offers an environment in the Sixth Form in which students are cared for individually. Your progress will be monitored closely and you will be encouraged to seek help whenever you need it. This means you will not be left to sink or swim. Sixth Form tutors, subject teachers and learning mentors will do their best to make your stay in the Sixth Form a success. Every year a number of students successfully join the Sixth Form from other institutions, including from abroad. They are offered specific support and guidance with transition. For existing Willink students, because we know you, we can help you more effectively both in choosing a suitable course and in guiding you through it to success.

The academic record of the school is an excellent one. Students make very good progress from their starting points, leaving with results that are consistently well above national averages. In 2013, for example, 63% of grades achieved were A*-B with 36% of grades achieved either A* or A, twice the national average. The Willink was the top performing non-selective school at A level in the region in 2013. We regularly send many students on to universities, including Oxford and Cambridge and in 2013 we sent our largest contingent yet to the top Russell Group Universities. If you have a real talent and are prepared to work hard you will obtain the highest grades at AS/Advanced Level at The Willink.

If you are a Willink School student you already know the place and many of the staff so there will not be the initial period of anxiety which could interfere with the first important weeks at

college. Students new to Willink will find staff and students alike warm, welcoming and supportive. Students enjoy Sixth Form life and the privileges and responsibilities that come with being student leaders. You will be amongst friends in a lively community. Many extra-curricular activities are organised and you will be encouraged both to participate in these and organise other activities of your own.

I trust you will find the prospectus helpful and informative. If you have any queries or concerns, please do not hesitate to contact me or Mrs Plumb, the Head of Sixth Form, or Mr Sizer, Deputy Headteacher. Peter Fry Headteacher

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As a student at our Sixth Form you will be able to:

Improve your academic qualifications

Develop your personal independence and maturity

Make an informed choice of your next career step The Sixth Form have exclusive use of the Common Room and Study Area with its suite of computers. You also have access to the Library and departmental study rooms. There is also a Home Study programme. There are many opportunities for broadening your experience and knowledge. Recently these have included:

The chance to work with children in Moldova

An expedition to Malawi to meet local people and trek across arid lands

The annual Art trip, which has recently visited New York, Athens and St Petersburg

Charity events

Senior student status

Community work at Brookfields Special School and with the local Alzheimer‟s Group

Helping younger pupils in their normal lessons

Peer tutoring

Mentoring students

Participating in Champions of Enterprise

Our commitment to broadening our students‟ opportunities has led to national recognition of our volunteering programme through the „v‟ award.

Apart from the personal satisfaction and increased confidence these give, you will find that employers and universities look for evidence of such involvement. These opportunities will increase your options for the future. When you join the Sixth Form you take on a commitment to attend, to work to the best of your ability and to be involved in the life of the school as leading members of the community. The leaders of the Sixth Form are the Head Boy and Head Girl, together with a team of Senior Students who carry out specific roles. They also provide leadership to the whole student body through their management of the School Council.

A Level and BTEC Level 3 Course Entry Requirements

It is essential that you have 5A* to C grades.

It is expected that you have 5A* to C grades including English and Maths.

It is expected that you have undertaken the higher tier paper (if applicable) in the subject(s) that you wish to study at A Level but not necessarily for BTEC Level 3.

All applications will be considered on an individual basis bearing in mind the above criteria.

BTEC Level 2 Course Entry Requirements You should have a mixture of Cs, Ds and Es.

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We have a very strong pastoral system which

is different from that of the lower school. It is

designed to allow regular individual interviews

between tutor and student to discuss progress

and to offer help in dealing with any problems.

The Head of Sixth Form and subject staff will

also discuss your work with you and help you

to set targets for the future.

"Students value the good support they

receive from teachers and tutors.

They are well supported in making

career choices and in progression to

higher education. Most choose to go

to university and are successful in

gaining their first choice" ofsted

In each academic year there is a Sixth Form Appraisal

Evening, when you and your parents discuss your

academic progress with subject staff.

We aim to give you as much support as you need in

order for you to make informed decisions about your

future education and career. You will be helped by:

Daily support and advice from your Tutor and the

Head of Sixth Form.

A careers programme planned to match your

needs, including detailed guidance through

university entrance procedures (UCAS).

A briefing from a university admissions tutor on

applications to Higher Education.

Visits to university open days and Higher

Education conferences.

Input from former students at 'Oxbridge' and

advice from admissions tutors for Oxford and

Cambridge.

Head Boy and Head Girl 2013/14

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"Personal development is good, with students making a

significant contribution to the school and local

community, for example, through mentoring younger

students, working with local primary and special

schools, organising arts events in the local area

and fundraising for charity." ofsted

Enrichment You will be able to complement your areas of study with a choice from our Enrichment Programme. The content varies from year to year according to staff availability and student requests, but has in the past included:

Photography

Physical Education

Survival cookery

Work at Brookfields School

E-learning of a modern foreign language Swimming and use of the fitness rooms in the Willink Leisure Centre are available at specific times in the week

General Studies Students follow a programme which can lead to an AS in General Studies. This course is designed to help develop your thinking skills as well as your general knowledge and can count towards your UCAS tariff.

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We offer a variety of courses at different levels:

AS and A2 courses.

BTEC Level 2 and 3 courses.

Functional skills at Level 2.

GCSE in English and Mathematics.

At A Level, each subject is split into AS and an A2. AS is examined during the first year of study, at a level between GCSE and A Level, and will count as half an A Level. You can then study the subject into a second year - the A2 course - and so gain a full A Level. Modular examinations for both AS and A2 will take place in May or June. You are normally expected to take 4 AS subjects and then 3 A2. However, we do respond to individual circumstances and some students will take 5 in the first year. We are also developing our volunteering programme so that some students will be able to achieve a Level 3 qualification in volunteering.

"There has been a clear focus

on improving the quality of

teaching and learning and there

are good systems in place to

monitor students' progress."

ofsted

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BTEC Level 3

Entry Requirements: You will be expected to have met the general entry requirements for the sixth form. In addition you will need 2 Grade C passes in Core Science and Additional GCSE Science or 2 of Biology, Chemistry or Physics GCSEs or a Merit in BTEC First Certificate in Applied Science Level 2 Content This course is an assignment based course so there are no exams. We follow the Edexcel Specification Year 12 (AS) Unit 1 Fundamentals in Science 10 Credits Unit 2 Working in the Science Industry 10 Credits Unit 4 Scientific Practical Techniques 10 Credits 30 Credits – Level 3 Certificate in Applied Science. Year 13 (A2) Optional Units which provide a combined total of 60 units – Level 3 Subsidiary diploma in Applied Science For more information on this program you can log on to www.edexcel.com BTEC level 3 This qualification is equivalent to 1 AS level (one year course) or one A level (two year course).

Where might this lead?

You may go on to University or into employment. Career Opportunities: Science Technician, Forensic Science, Environmental Scientist Industry – Engineering, Microbiology, Electronics, Manufacturing

BTEC Level 2

Entry Requirements:

These are open to negotiation but we normally expect a mixture of Cs Ds and Es. You should be enthusiastic about art and demonstrate commitment through your work and effort. Content: Edexcel exam board syllabus. Students will work on six practical units of work. These will be assessed and marked internally and signed off during the course of the year. The course is almost full time and is supported by Key Skills qualifications.


Students may wish to continue their art education by following an AS art course or taking BTEC at the next level. The qualification is accepted as equivalence to four GCSE grades, so this will open doors to a wide range of courses whose requirements include 4 GCSE grade C grades.

http://www.edexcel.com

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AS and A2 Level

Entry Requirements:

You will be expected to have met the general entry requirements for the sixth form. You will also need at least 2 C grades or above (from the Higher tier paper) in Core and Additional GCSE Science, or grade C passes or above (from the Higher tier paper) from Biology and at least one other science. Since Biology also requires a high level of written communication GCSE English at a grade C or above would be desirable. Content: AS Cells, Exchange and Transport. (Written exam 30% of AS) Molecules, Biodiversity, Food and Health. (Written exam 50% of AS) Practical Skills in Biology 1. (Internal assessment 20% of AS) A2 Communications Homeostasis and Energy (Written exam 30% of A2) Control, Genomes and Environment. (Written exam 50% of A2) Practical Skills in Biology 2. (Internal assessment 20% A2) There is no coursework for this subject. For more details talk to your Biology teacher or log on to www.ocr.org.uk to view the specification.


There are many Biology related courses offered at most Universities. For

example: Molecular Biology, Biochemistry, Physiology, Biomedical

Sciences, Microbiology and Botany to name a few! It can also be combined

with other subjects to meet the entry requirements for other courses at

university.


Students who wish to continue art studies after A2 could follow an Art

and Design foundation course. These courses are offered at local

education centres. The foundation is geared towards preparing for

decisions about an art degree course. Specialist areas cover a wide

range including: Fine Art, Fashion, Photography, Graphics, Ceramics,

Animation, Set Design, Window Dressing, Museum/Gallery Curator, and

Product/Graphic Design.

Some students who already have a career path in mind could apply to

courses at university immediately after A2.

Entry Requirements: You will be expected to have met the general entry requirements for the sixth form. You will also need grade C or above at GCSE Art. You should be enthusiastic about art and demonstrate commitment through your work and effort. Content: AQA exam board syllabus. Students will work on a portfolio of art and design work covering a range of media and developing themes. The portfolio will form a single unit of coursework that will contribute 60% of the overall AS. The exam unit will be similar to that of the GCSE and is of a practical nature, with set questions to respond to and timed preparation and completion. The AS can lead towards an A2 which can be followed after the successful completion of AS. (The same exam board will be followed for both parts.)

AS and A2 Level

http://www.ocr.org.uk/

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BTEC Level 2

First Certificate in Business The First Certificate Course is generally finished by the end of December Year 12. Entry Requirements: These are open to negotiation but we normally expect a mixture of Cs, Ds and Es Content: We follow the Edexcel Specifications The BTEC First Certificate and First Diploma in Business have been developed to include a wide range of business-related areas of understanding and practice, focusing on:

The education and training of staff who are employed in a variety of types of

business activity such as accounting, administration, customer service.

Providing opportunities for potential business employees to achieve a

nationally recognised Level 2 vocationally specific qualification to enter employment in a range of business capacities.

Developing the knowledge, understanding and skills of learners from the

viewpoint of the business decision maker.

Providing opportunities for learners to focus on the development of key skills in

a business context, such as improving own performance, working with others and problem solving.

Providing opportunities for learners to develop a range of skills and

techniques, personal qualities and attitudes essential for successful performance in working life.

First Diploma in Business The First Diploma Course generally runs from January to June of Year 12. Unit 1 Business Purposes

Unit 2 Business Organisations

Unit 3 Financial Forecasting for Business

Unit 4 People in Organisations

Unit 11 Customer Relations in Business

Unit 12 Business Online

Unit 16 Business Enterprise

Unit 21 Promoting and Branding in Retail Business

All coursework is internally assessed.


Business Administration, Finance, Personal Selling, Enterprise and Business Start-up, Customer Service and Retailing.

In conjunction with this course, you may be advised to take an AS in a subject that will fit in with your timetable. You may also decide to retake Maths and

English GCSE to improve upon grades obtained during Key Stage 4. Please discuss these options with the subject teacher or Head of Sixth Form.

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AS and A2 Level AS and A2 Level

Entry Requirements: You will be expected to have met the general entry requirements for the sixth form. You will also need at least a grade C in both Maths and English. You need not have studied Business Studies before. Content: We will follow the AQA specification. AS Business Studies

At AS Level, this specification introduces candidates to the challenges and issues of starting a business, including financial planning. It then focuses on how established businesses might improve their effectiveness by making tactical decisions at a functional level:

Unit 1: Planning and Financing a Business

Unit 2: Managing a Business. A2 Business Studies

At A2, this specification considers strategies for larger businesses and how managers might measure the performance of the business. Finally, it considers the effects that external factors can have on businesses and how a business can plan for and manage change, including leadership style and change in business culture:

Unit 3: Strategies for Success

Unit 4: The Business Environment and Change. There is no coursework.


There are many Business Studies and related degrees offered at a range of universities. Also the subject can be combined with others to meet the entry requirements for other courses at university. The subject also provides an excellent basis for many traineeships and apprenticeships.

Entry Requirements:

You will be expected to have met the general entry requirements for the sixth form. You will also need grade C passes or above (from the Higher tier paper) in Core and Additional GCSE Science, or grade C passes or above (from the Higher tier paper) from Chemistry and at least one other science. Due to the relatively high level of numeracy needed for some aspects of Chemistry you must also have at least a C grade in Maths.

Content:

We follow the OCR specification.

At AS there are three units

Atoms, Bonds and Groups (Written exam. 30% AS) Chains, Energy and Resources (Written exam. 50% AS) Practical Skills in Chemistry 1 (Internal Assessment of Practical

Skills. 20% AS) At A2 there are also three units

Rings, Polymers and Analysis (Written exam 30% A2) Equlibria, Energetics and Elements (Written exam. 50% A2) Practical Skills in Chemistry 2 (Internal Assessment of Practical

Skills. 20% A2) In both years there is a fair amount of practical work.

For more information log on to www.ocr.org.uk and follow the link to the “New

Approved A-levels”.


As with other science A levels, Chemistry is highly valued by universities and employers. It can lead to a variety of careers and University courses, including Medicine, Medical Sciences, Dentistry, Forensics, Scientific Research, etc…


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Entry Requirements: You will be expected to have met the general entry requirements for the sixth form. A grade C or above in GCSE Graphic Products or Resistant Materials is desirable but not essential. Content: AS Level

Unit 1 Portfolio of Creative Skills (Coursework project 60%)

Unit 2 Design and Technology in Practice (1½ hour written paper 40%) A2 Level

Unit 3 Designing for the Future (1½ hour written paper 40%)

Unit 4 Commercial Design (Coursework project 60%). The course will develop the student‟s understanding and experience of a variety of mathematical models, patterns and symmetries. It will encourage an investigative approach, logical analysis and classification of ideas through discussion and comparison. It will make use of Computer Aided Design, Computer Aided Manufacture and Performance Modelling.


Career opportunities include: Engineering Design; Surveying; Cartography; Architecture; Typography; Industrial Design, Advertising; Landscape Gardening; Furniture Design; Fashion; Textiles; Theatre Design and the Fine Arts. Combines well with: Arts; Science, Mathematics and Geography.

Entry Requirements: You will be expected to have met the general entry requirements for the sixth form. You will usually have studied Drama at GCSE level but the Drama department is pleased to accept students new to the course as long as they are committed and motivated. You will need to be able to work in a group. Content: We will follow the Edexcel specification. At AS there are two units which require you to explore two contrasting plays practically. You will also attend a live theatre performance and evaluate it. You will take part in a performance of a play directed by your teacher as well as a monologue or duologue. Alternatively, you may choose a design form. You will also provide a rationale of your interpretation of your role or design. At A2 you will create an original piece of theatre from a given stimulus. You will be required to research, develop and perform your work. This will be done as part of a group. You will provide written evidence of your research. You will also study one play from the point of view of a director. Study will be both practical and academic. You will also study the performance conditions of a play through different historic periods.


There are many universities offering courses in drama and performing arts for those who want to pursue a career in performing. It is also accepted in combination with other subjects towards other qualifications. The performance element of the subject is helpful in gaining confidence in addressing an audience: a skill which applies to many jobs.

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AS and A2 Level

Entry Requirements: You will need at least a C in English Language and C in English Literature gained on the Higher Tier papers at GCSE. Content: We will follow the AQA English Literature B specification. At AS Level: Unit 1 will introduce students to the central position of narrative and the ways in which literary texts work. Four texts need to be studied; a selection of poetry by two poets; W H Auden and Robert Browning and two novels, The Great Gatsby by F. Scott Fitzgerald and The Kite Runner by Khaled Hosseini. Unit 2 at AS introduces students to aspects of the tragic genre; you will write two coursework essays, one on Twelfth Night by William Shakespeare and one on Educating Rita by Willy Russell. The coursework at AS level gives the students the opportunity to complete a re-creative task as well as a more traditional analytical essay. Here the students are expected to write in the style of an author they have studied. A commentary should also be submitted by the student explaining their literary choices. At A2: Unit 3 will develop students‟ knowledge on the significance of genre, with a specific focus on the Gothic genre. You study a range of texts including: The White Devil by John Webster, Wuthering Heights by Emily Bronte and The Bloody Chamber by Angela Carter. In Unit 4, students will study a wide range of texts and critical ideas to complete two coursework essays.


There are many English Literature degrees offered at a range of universities. English

Literature develops students‟ ability to analyse and communicate effectively, two key

areas that are required for many careers.

Please note that some of the texts that we study on this course contain scenes of

violence and sexuality.

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AS and A2 Level

Entry Requirements: You will be expected to have met the general entry requirements for the sixth form. You will also need at least a grade C in English. You need not have studied Food and Nutrition before. Content: In the AS GCE candidates will complete two units G001 and G002: G001 is examined in January of year 12 and G002 in May of year 12. AS Unit G001: Society and Health 50% of the total AS GCE marks 1.5 h written paper 75 marks Areas studied: Demography, Family and Society, Key issues for Society, Environmental Issues, Social Issues AS Unit G002: Resource Management 50% of the total AS GCE marks 1.5 h written paper 75 marks Areas studied: Resource, Food Provision, The Selection and Purchase of Food and Household Goods, Food Preparation and Cooking Equipment, Food Safety and Hygiene There is no coursework for this subject at AS. For more details talk to your Food and Nutrition teacher or log on to www.ocr.org.uk and search H111. A2 Unit G003: Home Economics (Food, Nutrition and Health) Investigative Study 25% of the total Advanced GCE marks Coursework 100 marks Candidates select their own content and develop their own task Unit G004: Nutrition and Food Production 25% of the total Advanced GCE marks 1.5 h written paper 75 marks Areas studied: Introduction to Nutrition, Nutrients and Energy, Groups with Nutritional and Dietary Needs, Properties of Food, Design/Development and Production of Food, Developments in the Food Industry.

Where might this lead? Throughout the course of study candidates are encouraged to develop an understanding of issues relating to Society and Health, Resource Management, Nutrition and Food Production as well as investigating an area of content in the Investigative Study. The specifications, therefore, provide a suitable foundation for the study of academic or vocational courses in higher education, including careers in Food Technology, Nutritional Science, Sports Science and Diet, Consumer Protection, and Food Retail and Manufacture. The specification can be found at: http://www.ocr.org.uk/download/kd/ocr_9636_kd_gce_spec.pdf


http://www.ocr.org.uk/download/kd/ocr_9636_kd_gce_spec.pdf

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AS and A2 Level

Entry Requirements: You will be expected to have met the general entry requirements for the sixth form. You will also need at least a grade C in your French GCSE. Content: We will cover the AQA specification. The knowledge and understanding requirements of this GCE are inextricably linked to the four language skills of speaking, listening, reading and writing in French, in line with the requirements of the subject area. The qualification covers two units at AS and two units at A2. AS Examinations Unit 1 – FREN1 Listening, Reading and Writing 2 hour written examination

Unit 2 – FRE2 Speaking Test 35 minutes speaking test (including 20 minutes preparation)

A2 Examinations Unit 3 – FREN3 Listening, Reading and Writing 2 hours 30 minutes written examination

Unit 4 – FRE4 Speaking Test 35 minutes speaking test (including 20 minutes preparation) The AS course will cover:

Media: TV, Advertising and Communication Technology

Popular Culture: Cinema, Music and Fashion/Trends

Healthy Living/Lifestyle: Sport/Exercise, Health and Well-being and Holidays

Family/Relationships: Relationships within the Family, Friendships and Marriage/Partnerships.

The A2 course will cover:

Environment: pollution, energy and protecting the planet

The multi-cultural society: immigration, integration and racism

Contemporary social issues: wealth and poverty, law and order and the impact of scientific and technological progress

Cultural topic: the study of a target language speaking region/community or the study of a period of 20th century history from a target language-speaking country/community or the study of a novelist/dramatist/poet from a target language-speaking country/community or the study of a director/architect/musician/painter from a target language-speaking country/ community.


Many courses combining modern languages with other subjects are offered as combined or joint degrees which means that between one third and two thirds of your time is spent studying the language. You can study a language with Business subjects, Mathematics, whilst training to be a Teacher, with Sociology, Sciences, Computing, Politics, Law, Media Studies and even Fashion and Textiles.

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AS and A2 Level

Entry requirement:

You will be expected to have met the general entry requirements for the sixth form. You will also need

grade C or above at GCSE Geography. Consideration may be given to pupils who did not take GCSE

Geography but who have good GCSE grades across a range of comparable subjects (at least grade

Cs in Science, English and Maths). For these students a bridging course would be recommended

during the summer between year 11 and year 12.

Content:

The course focuses on many current world issues, particularly man‟s relationship with his

environment. The AS units will cover: Managing Physical Environments and Managing Change in

Human Environments. A2 will go on to study Global Issues and Geographical Skills. The examination

papers use a variety of data response, extended writing and essay questions. Stimulus materials

include maps, graphs, data tables, diagrams, written material, photographs, satellite and other

images, diagrams and statistical information.

There will be a compulsory one week residential field trip to the Gower Peninsular, South Wales in July of Year 12.


Meteorologist, Surveyor, Farm Manager, Accountant, Banker, Planner, Community Worker, Civil Servant, Personnel Manager, Solicitor, Journalist, Librarian, Marketing Manager, Geologist, Estate Manager, Civil Engineer and Teacher.

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AS and A2 Level

Entry Requirements: You will be expected to have met the general entry requirements for the sixth form. You will also need at least a grade C in your German GCSE.

Content: We will cover the AQA specification. The knowledge and understanding requirements of this GCE are inextricably linked to the four language skills of speaking, listening, reading and writing in German, in line with the requirements of the subject area. The qualification covers two units at AS and two units at A2. AS Examinations Unit 1 – GERM1 Listening, Reading and Writing 2 hour written examination

Unit 2 – GER2T/V Speaking Test 35 minutes speaking test (including 20 minutes preparation) A2 Examinations Unit 3 – GERM3 Listening, Reading and Writing 2 hours 30 minutes written examination

Unit 4 – GER4T/V Speaking Test 35 minutes speaking test (including 20 minutes preparation)

The AS course will cover:



Healthy Living/Lifestyle: Sport/Exercise, Health and Well-being and Holidays

Family/Relationships: Relationships within the Family, Friendships and Marriage/Partnerships.

The A2 course will cover:

Environment: pollution, energy and protecting the planet.

The multi-cultural society: immigration, integration and racism.

Contemporary social issues: wealth and poverty, law and order and the impact of scientific and technological progress.

Cultural topic: the study of a target language speaking region/community or the study of a period of 20th century history from a target language-speaking country/community or the study of a novelist/dramatist/poet from a target language-speaking country/community or the study of a director/architect/musician/painter from a target language-speaking country/ community.



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Entry Requirements: You will be expected to have met the general entry requirements for the sixth form. You will also need grade C or above in History (or English at grade C and above if History has not been studied at GCSE level.) Content: History involves: -

The acquisition of factual knowledge and understanding

The study of the nature of historical sources and their differing interpretations.

We will follow the Edexcel specification. It includes:

Year 12 (AS) Unit 1 Russia in Revolution 1881 – 1924 From Autocracy to Dictatorship. Pursuing Life and Liberty Equality in the USA, 1945-68.

Unit 2 Britain 1830-85 Representation and Reform

Year 13 (A2) Unit 3 From Kaiser to Fuhrer Germany 1900 – 45

Unit 4 Historical Enquiry (Coursework) The Middle East and the Arab Israeli Conflict c 1900-2001 2 part assignment.


History may be studied at most British universities. May historians go on to study law or other related subjects for example American Studies and Politics. Career opportunities are extensive as historians are valued for their thinking and communication skills. Examples include Business Management, Journalism, Law and Teaching.

Entry Requirements: You will be expected to have met the general entry requirements for the sixth form. You will also need C or above at GCSE ICT. Content: We follow the AQA specification. AS ICT

At AS, there are 2 complementary units concerned with applying ICT to solve problems and the study of the opportunities for and effects of using ICT in the world today. Students have the opportunity to put into practice a wide range of software and hardware to create solutions to solve problems:

INFO1: Practical Problem Solving in the Digital World

NFO2: Living in the Digital World.

A2 ICT

At A2, students study the concepts associated with the use of ICT in the 21st century. They also have opportunities for acquiring skills needed in the IT profession such as co-operative working and project management.

These practical skills can be developed in areas of ICT that are of interest to them. Students can also use these newly acquired skills as a springboard into other qualifications and working environments:

INFO3: The Use of ICT in the Digital World

INFO4: Coursework: Practical Issues Involved in the Use of ICT in the Digital World.


Computer Operator, Software Engineer, Computer Systems Support, ICT Trainer, Web Site Designer, Webmaster.

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Entry Requirements: You will be expected to have met the general entry requirements for the sixth form. You will also need at least a grade B in Maths at GCSE. Content We follow the MEI specification which can be accessed at: http://www.ocr.org.uk/qualifications/type/gce/maths/maths_mei/index.html Students study units on:

Pure mathematics – calculus, algebra, trigonometry, functions, etc.

Mechanics - mathematical modelling, the language of vectors, motion in one, two or three dimensions, Newton‟s laws of motion and the motion of a projectile.

Statistics - probability, data collection, representation and analysis. At AS there are 3 modules: Core 1 (C1), Core 2(C2) and either Mechanics 1 (M1) or Statistics 1 (S1): Students choose whether to study Mechanics or Statistics. At A2 there are 3 modules: Core 3 (C3), Core 4 (C4) and either Mechanics 2 (M2) or Statistics 2 (S2), depending on the module that was studied in Year 12. C1, C2, C3 and C4 cover the Pure Mathematics topics. C3 includes a piece of coursework.

Entry Requirements: You will be expected to have met the general entry requirements for the sixth form. You will also need at least a grade B in Maths at GCSE. Content We follow the MEI specification which can be accessed at:

http://www.ocr.org.uk/qualifications/as-a-level-gce-mathematics-mei-3895-3898-7895-7898/ Students study units on:

Pure mathematics – calculus, algebra, trigonometry, functions, etc.

Mechanics - mathematical modelling, the language of vectors, motion in one, two or three dimensions, Newton‟s laws of motion and the motion of a projectile.

Statistics - probability, data collection, representation and analysis.

Decision maths - algorithms, networks, critical path analysis, linear programming, simulation.

Numerical methods - approximation, solution of equations, numerical integration, approximating functions, numerical differentiation, rates of convergence in numerical processes.

At AS there are 3 modules: Further Pure Maths (FP1), Decision Maths 1 (D1) and either Mechanics 1 (M1) or Statistics 1 (S1). At A2 there are 3 modules: Further Pure Maths 2 (FP2), Decision Maths 2 (D2) and Numerical Methods (NM). Numerical Methods includes a piece of coursework.

Where might these lead? Engineering, Astronomy, Electronics, Technology and Programming, Surveying, Banking, Accountancy, Architecture, Medicine, Teaching, Operational Research, Statistical and Actuarial work… It is a must for anyone considering a degree in Maths, one of the Sciences or Engineering.

http://www.ocr.org.uk/qualifications/type/gce/maths/maths_mei/index.html

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Many pupils go on to study music or music related courses at university, these include courses in Popular Music, Instrumental, Music Therapy, Sound Engineering and Theatre Design. Some past pupils have gone on to work as professional musicians or as composers in the world of television and film.

Entry Requirements: You will be expected to have met the general entry requirements for the sixth form. It is expected that you will have previously studied GCSE Music unless there are exceptional circumstances. You will need to be of a Grade 5 standard on an instrument / voice although you need not have taken any examinations. Content: We will follow the OCR specification. At AS there are three units covering the areas of Performing, Composing and Musical Analysis. You will be expected to develop your aural analysis skills and study 6 set works in depth, these pieces will come from 2 areas of study „Orchestral scores‟ and „Jazz recordings‟. At A2 there are three units exploring Performance, Compositional Techniques and Musical Analysis. You will further develop your skills and knowledge in all three areas. At both AS and A2 there is one examination at the end of the course. Coursework in each year consists of at least 2 recorded performances, Viva Voce, set of technical exercises and one full composition.


There are many universities offering courses in Media Studies for those who want to pursue a career in both print and moving image media. People who work in advertising and marketing often have a background in media.

Entry Requirements: You will be expected to have met the general entry requirements for the sixth form. Achieving a C or above in Media Studies at GCSE would be ideal preparation for the course but the Media department will accept people new to subject as long as they are committed and motivated. A grade B or above in English would be an advantage since you will need to be able to write analytical essays. An interest in all forms of media is essential. Content: We will follow the AQA specification. At AS there are two units which require you to investigate and create media. You will learn about media concepts and consider how meaning is created and communicated to the audience. You will study texts and technologies. As coursework you will produce two linked productions from two different technologies. Some of this may be group work. At A2 you will study topics across a range of media technology. You will also consider the role of the media in shaping our beliefs and attitudes. The study of representation will be important. You will also look at the impact of new media. Your coursework will be linked to an in-depth investigation into a media theme/text.

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AS and A2 Level

Entry Requirements: You will be expected to have met the general entry requirements for the sixth form. You will also need at least a grade C at GCSE in Maths, English and Music and have a keen interest in Popular Music and creating your own music. It will also be very useful for you to have some rudimentary keyboard skills and to be able to play at least one instrument to a proficient standard.

Content: At AS there are 2 units.

Music Technology portfolio

Listening exam

The Portfolio will consist of 3 set task

Sequencing – re-creating a well known track using Cubase software.

Recording – Using the 24 track recording studio to record your own piece.

Arranging – Arranging a well known track into a new genre.

The listening exam will require you to answer questions on various styles of music, as well as recognising effects and technological processes in recordings.

At A2 the same 2 units are studied.

The portfolio will consist of 3 set tasks

Extended sequencing

Advanced recording and producing

Composing

The listening exam will require you to re-programme elements of set pieces of music and to re-correct deliberate mistakes made in specific extracts.

Where might this lead? There are many Music Technology degrees offered at a range of universities. The subject provides a good basis to apprenticeships in the recording industry which could lead to a studio producer/record producer role. If you want to become a performer, song writer or composer, it will give you a good insight into all aspects of music production. Bands such as „The Arctic Monkeys‟ studied this A-level. The course could also lead onto a technology/computer related career.

Entry Requirements: You will be expected to have met the general entry requirements for the sixth form. This subject is available to all students with at least a GCSE grade C in Religious Studies. It is also recommended that students have at least a GCSE grade C in English Language to study this course. Content: Philosophy involves analysis and critical thinking. The course is designed to enable candidates to develop a range of transferable skills which can be applied for beyond the study of Philosophy. Candidates will develop the ability to reason, form their own judgements, express themselves coherently and contribute to the process of debate, considering philosophical problems through the study of key text.

AS and A2 Level


This subject provides students with highly transferable skills, valuable at any professional level. Philosophy is a subject „that will turn you from a smart person into a great thinker‟. Philosophy provides access to a diverse range of higher education courses and can lead to a wide range of careers such as Law, Business leaders, Civil Servants, Politics, Journalism, Advertising and Teaching. For more info, visit: http://www.aqa.org.uk/qual/gce/philosophy_new.php

http://www.aqa.org.uk/qual/gce/philosophy_new.php

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AS and A2 Level

Entry Requirements: You will be expected to have met the general entry requirements for the sixth form. You will also need at least grade C or above in Science and English. You will also need grade C or above in GCSE PE or have demonstrated physical ability in two sports or activities. While not absolutely essential, much of the coursework will relate to each student‟s own experiences in their sport. Students who are not actively involved with activity during their A Level years will find this part of the course more challenging. Content: The course follows the Edexcel syllabus. There are two units at AS level and two at A2. These cover all aspects of Physical Education including Sociology, Anatomy, Physiology, Psychology, Biomechanics, Biochemistry and Training Methods. The syllabus places great importance on the coach and official as well as the performer. In each year, assessment is through one written exam and one portfolio style piece of extended coursework, each accounting for 25% of the overall A-Level grade.


All sports related fields including teaching, coaching, management, sports development and sports science. The natural development would be undergraduate Physical Education or Sports Science qualifications.

AS and A2 Level

Entry Requirements: You will be expected to have met the general entry requirements for the sixth form. You will also need grade C passes or above (from the Higher tier paper) in Core and Additional GCSE Science, or grade C passes or above (from the Higher tier paper) from Physics and at least one other science. Due to the relatively high level of numeracy needed for some aspects of Physics you must also have at least a C grade in Maths. Content: We will follow the OCR specification. At AS level there are taught modules on mechanics and on electrons, waves and photons. These are both assessed by written exams. There is also a practical skills module, assessed by tasks of a similar nature to the ISAs undertaken in the GCSE course. At A2 level there are taught modules on the Newtonian world and on fields, particles and the frontiers of Physics. There is also another practical skills assessment, worth 20% of the A2 marks.


Students with a high level of physics knowledge are always in demand. Many pupils go on to study science and engineering related subjects at university. The subject can also tie in well with careers in ICT, Architecture, Medicine and Accountancy.

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BTEC Level 3

BTEC Level 3 Subsidiary Diploma in Production Arts (Set Design and Construction / Theatre Technology / Costume) Entry Requirements: You will be expected to have met the general entry requirements for the sixth form. It is preferable that you have at least a C grade in either Drama or Music. Production Arts students are expected to take part in extra-curricular productions as performers or technicians in order to develop skills taught in lessons. Content: We will follow the Edexcel specification. It is a two year course. You will complete 3 units in each year. Production Arts units include: Production Arts Workshop, Developing Design/Technical Skills and Production Arts Planning. The units will depend on your chosen specialism.


University courses in any of the performance arts: e.g. Music, Drama, Sound Design etc. Courses at Drama School, Stage Management, Arts Administration.

AS and A2 Level

Entry Requirements: You will be expected to have met the general entry requirements for the sixth form. You will also need a grade C or above in English and Science (Core and Additional OR Biology and at least one other Science). In addition it is expected you will have been entered for the Higher Tier Biology paper. You do not have to have studied Psychology before, although it is advisable to research the subject to arrive with a basic idea of what you will be studying. Content: We will follow the AQA(A) specification. You can visit their website at www.aqa.org.uk. At AS there are two units. Unit 1 explores Cognitive Psychology, Developmental Psychology and how research is carried out in these areas through the topic of Research Methods. Unit 2 explores Biological Psychology, Social Psychology and Individual Differences. Each Unit is an hour and a half exam. At A2 there are two units where you will study a range of topic-based options which will consolidate explanations from different Psychological Approaches and engage you in Issues and Debates in Psychology. There is no coursework.


Most universities offer a Psychology degree, as well as related or combination degrees. The subject also provides a good insight into the biological causes and effects on an individual‟s behaviour.

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AS and A2 Level

Entry Requirements: You will be expected to have met the general entry requirements for the sixth form. You will also need a C in Maths and English. You will not need to have studied Sociology before, although it is advisable to research the subject to arrive with a basic idea of what you will be studying. Content: We will follow the WJEC specification. You can visit the website on at www.wjec.co.uk. At AS there are two units. Both provide students with knowledge of contemporary social processes and social changes. Students will be encouraged to develop their own social awareness through active engagement with the contemporary and social world. You will study unit 1 Families and Culture which is an hour long exam, and unit 2 which is Education and Research Methods which is an hour and a half exam. At A2 there are two units; unit 3 Understanding Crime and unit 4, Social Inequality and Research Methods. Both units expect students to have a wider range and greater depth of knowledge and understanding and more highly developed skills of application, analysis, interpretation and evaluation through the topic areas of contemporary society. There is no coursework.


Most universities offer a Sociology degree as well as related or combination degrees. The subject also provides a good insight into the structure of society and the effects of this on the individual. It is also a strong basis for a career in social work.

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AS and A2 Level

Entry Requirements: You will be expected to have met the general entry requirements for the sixth form. You will also need at least a grade C in your Spanish GCSE. Content: We will cover the AQA specification. The knowledge and understanding requirements of this GCE are inextricably linked to the four language skills of speaking, listening, reading and writing in Spanish, in line with the requirements of the subject area. The qualification covers two units at AS and two units at A2. AS Examinations Unit 1 – SPAN1 Listening, Reading and Writing 2 hour written examination Unit 2 – SPA2T/V Speaking Test 35 minutes speaking test (including 20 minutes preparation) A2 Examinations Unit 3 – SPAN3 Listening, Reading and Writing 2 hours 30 minutes written examination Unit 4 – SPA4T/V Speaking Test 35 minutes speaking test (including 20 minutes preparation)

The AS course will cover:



Healthy Living/Lifestyle: Sport/Exercise, Health and Well-being and

Holidays

Family/Relationships: Relationships within the Family, Friendships and

Marriage/Partnerships. The A2 course will cover:

Environment: pollution, energy and protecting the planet

The multi-cultural society: immigration, integration and racism

Contemporary social issues: wealth and poverty, law and order and the

impact of scientific and technological progress

Cultural topic: the study of a target language speaking region/community

or the study of a period of 20th century history from a target language-speaking country/community or the study of a novelist/dramatist/poet from a target language-speaking country/community or the study of a director/architect/musician/painter from a target language-speaking country/ community.



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BTEC National Level 3 AS and A2 Level

Entry Requirements You will be expected to have met the general entry requirements for the sixth form. You will also be expected to have studied GCSE Physical Education and be a regular participant in at least one sport or physical activity. Content BTEC Level 3 National in Sport is delivered by Edexcel. In Year 1 there are 4 compulsory units that are studied:

Unit 1: Principles of Anatomy and Physiology in Sport

Unit 2: The Physiology of Fitness

Unit 3: Assessing Risk in Sport

Unit 4: Fitness Testing

In year 2 there are 3 further units that are studied and these can be selected from a range of options to suit the needs of the learners. There will be practical sessions in both years of the course. There is currently no written exam for BTEC Level 3 Sport. For further course information please visit: http://www.edexcel.com/quals/nationals10/sport-ex/Pages/default.aspx


Studying for a BTEC in Sport offers a vast and varied route into a

sport based profession. It can lead into opportunities to Teach Sport,

Coach or become involved in Sports Development. It can also offer a

route into Sport‟s Massage, Physiotherapy and Sport Psychology.

Entry Requirements: You will be expected to have met the general entry requirements for the sixth form. You will also need grade C in Art GCSE or have a portfolio of previous work that will demonstrate ability in the subject. Content: We follow the AQA Art and Design, Textile Design Endorsement specification. At AS there are 2 units

Unit one – Introduction to textile swatching: cultures and concepts (Portfolio unit = 60% AS)

Unit two- Externally set exam question 5 hour exam 40% AS) At A2 there are also 2 units

Unit three – Self chosen project (Portfolio unit = 60% A2)

Unit four – Externally set exam question (15 hour exam = 40% A2) For more information log on to www.aqa.org.uk and follow the link to Art and Design specification, the endorsement Textile Design.


Students have the option of continuing with an Art Foundation course or

going to university. Students have been able to participate in internships

at fashion houses before attending university courses based on their

experiences or gained apprenticeships based on A2 results. Specialist

areas include Textiles: Weaving, Printing, Fashion Design, Costume and

Theatre Design, Pattern Cutting and many more.

http://www.edexcel.com/quals/nationals10/sport-ex/Pages/default.aspx

http://www.aqa.org.uk

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National Benchmarks

A* A*/A A*/B

The Willink 13.1% 36.9% 63.5%

West Berks 2013 6.6% 24.1% 52.5%

West Berks 2012 5.8% 23.5% 51.5%

England 2012 8.2% 27.0% 52.9%

Subject A* A B C D E U

Art & Design 0 1 3 1 1 0 0

Biology 5 5 5 5 4 2 0

Business Studies 0 2 2 8 0 1 0

Chemistry 4 2 0 1 2 1 0

D&T Product Design 0 0 1 0 0 0 0

Drama 0 0 0 1 1 0 0

English Literature 4 1 8 2 2 1 0

French 0 2 2 0 0 0 0

Geography 1 3 5 1 0 0 0

German 0 1 0 0 1 1 0

History 0 5 7 7 3 0 0

Home Economics 0 0 1 0 1 0 1

Information Technology 1 1 5 0 0 0 0

Mathematics 6 12 4 4 1 4 0

Mathematics Further 0 4 1 0 0 0 0

Media Film and TV Studies 0 1 2 1 1 0 0

Music 0 0 0 2 1 0 0

Music Technology 0 2 3 0 0 0 0

Performing Arts (Voc) 1 0 1 0 3 0 0

Physics 5 7 5 1 3 3 0

Psychology 1 2 5 1 7 1 0

Sociology 2 5 3 4 0 0 0

Spanish 0 1 2 0 1 0 0

Sport/PE Studies 0 2 0 1 2 3 0

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Reading: Biological Sciences Law

Reading College: Digital Photography BTEC Advanced

Royal Holloway: Maths with Statistics

Sheffield: Architecture

Sheffield Hallam: Sport Technology

Southampton: Geography Maths x 2 Oceanography with French Physics Sociology

Southampton Solent: Event Management Geography with Marine Studies

Staffordshire: Sports PR and Journalism

Surrey: Mechanical Engineering Professional Production Studies

Sussex: Physics with Astrophysics

Swansea: Geography Psychology

The BBC: BBC Production Talent Pool - 4 - 5 Months Contract Eastenders, Web Research

The University of West London: Midwifery

University of South Wales: Physical Geography

UWE: Biological Sciences Business and Management Business Management with Accounting and Finance Nursing Science Foundation

Winchester: Accounting and Management History Media Studies Psychology and Child Development

Worcester: History

Aberystwyth: German with Business Management Internet Computing and Systems Analysis

Bath: Chemical Engineering Psychology Mechanical Engineering

Birmingham: Artificial Intelligence and Computer Science Chemical Engineering Psychology

Bournemouth Arts: Fashion Design and Technology

Bournemouth: Business Information Technology Psychology Sport Development and Coaching Sciences

Bristol: Mechanical Engineering Medicine x 2

Cardiff: History

Coventry: Health and Life Science Foundation

Durham: Natural Sciences

Exeter: Biological Sciences

Hertfordshire: Molecular Biology and Genetics

Imperial College: Physics

Kingston: Children's Nursing

Liverpool: Biological Sciences with Foundation Year

Loughborough: Aeronautical Engineering Sport and Exercise Science Air Transport and Management

Manchester: Law with Politics Management

Northumbria: Childhood Studies and Disability Studies

Nottingham: Creative and Professional Writing International Relations and Global Issues

Oxford: Maths

Plymouth: Sound and Music Technology

Portsmouth: Maths

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"The extra-curricular

programme is strong,

offering a wide range of

sports and arts activities,

and most students

participate enthusiastically.

These activities provide

opportunities for students to

make positive contributions

to the community.

ofsted

from the Head of Sixth Form

We want to welcome our Year 11 students to the Sixth Form. You will have the benefit of staff who know you well and this will help you to get a secure start in two very demanding years. We also extend a warm welcome to students who join the school in the Sixth Form. Willink is a medium sized school with a friendly and welcoming atmosphere and students in the past have found that they can fit in well supported by a strong pastoral team

We place great emphasis on academic success but we also value the development of the whole person and therefore value our pastoral and enrichment work.

Mrs S Plumb, Head of Sixth Form

Mission Statement

To develop high achieving, self-motivated, committed and dynamic students who aspire to do their best within the context of an 11-18 school and who are supported by a dedicated tutor team and a highly professional teaching staff who have a vision for a successful sixth form.

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The Willink School School Lane Burghfield Common Reading RG7 3XJ T: 0118 983 2030 E: [email protected]

berks.sch.uk

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