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Course overviews

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A Levels

Students who choose to study English Literature can expect to experience a wide range of fascinating texts. We follow the AQA Specification, which includes a Poetry Anthology, The Great Gatsby, Handmaid's Tale, A Streetcar Named Desire and Othello. We strive to deliver our lessons in an engaging and active way which inspires our students to achieve the best results they can.

The qualification also requires students to complete an essay as coursework, where students can choose the texts and title of their work.  Students who take English Literature can expect to be invited to theatre trips and cultural visits which enhance their learning.

English Literature students can look forward to a wealth of careers, including teaching, publishing, editing, journalism, creative writing, archiving, librarians and much more. 

 

Through studying biology at A level, we aim to provide students with an understanding of the core principles of biology, including an awareness of the diversity of life and the function of living systems. Students will have the opportunity to engage in discovery, through the collection of data and the acquisition of field and laboratory skills in biology.

Students will become proficient in organisational and analytical skills used in biology, including hypothesis testing, experimental design, data management, statistical analyses and interpretation of data.

Potential pathways for biology students include: medicine, dentistry, nursing, midwifery, physiotherapy, biomedical science, paramedic science, sport and exercise science, biochemistry, pharmacology, anthropology, forensic science and equine studies. 

Students who choose to study A level Art and Design can expect to experience an exciting creative journey that involves them building on their skills acquired at GCSE. We follow the AQA Specification and enter students for Fine Art, where they will develop further their understanding of the creative process, develop their contextual and analytical skills and continue to communicate their ideas visually.  

Areas of study include everything from painting and drawing to installation and sculpture. Using space in their own Sixth Form art room students will be able to grow in confidence and develop into well rounded artistic individuals. A level Art requires students to cover two components. Component 1 will see students develop and produce a personal investigation into an idea, issue, concept or theme which will be supported by written material. This will count for 60% of the total A level marks. In component 2 they will produce personal work in response to a range of exciting starting points set by AQA which will count for 40% of their total A-level marks. 

A Level Art and Design can lead to a degree in the Arts as well as a wide variety of careers in the creative industries.  

 

Studying History at Thomas Clarkson Academy will benefit any student wishing to enter a career in journalism, international relations, law, politics, and more.

We have carefully selected our two components to reflect issues that are still very relevant today, namely the American Dream and the British Empire. Not only does the American Dream component help our students to understand the current position of the United States and its global influence, it also allows students to dissect the factors that impact an election campaign and the functioning of a modern democracy.

In addition to this, the British Empire exposes students to the debates surrounding contentious issues pertinent today – students are encouraged to develop a sense of inquiry and be able to use source materials and evidence to ask challenging questions about those interpretations.

Finally, there is an NEA which is an independent research and essay component allowing the students to showcase their knowledge and understanding of the skills gained while completing the qualification. 

 

Students who study Physics will delve into a wide variety of interesting topics including cosmology and mechanics. We follow the OCR A Specification, which follows on from GCSE by deepening understanding of previously covered topics, and introducing new ideas through engaging content and practicals. The qualification requires students to complete a minimum of 12 practicals which will be written up as part of the course assessment. Students who study Physics at A level have a wide range of careers and university courses open to them, from different areas of engineering to pilots and many more!

 

A Level chemistry follows OCR Chemistry A specification, which consists of the theories in physical chemistry, inorganic chemistry and organic chemistry. During the two-year course, students can expect an in-depth study of knowledge and understanding in atomic structure, bonding, shapes of molecules, acid and bases, kinetics, equilibria, hydrocarbons, alcohols, amines, polymers, carbonyl compound, carboxylic acid, spectroscopy and organic synthesis. Both years, students are expected to carry out a set of practicals to acquire the common practical skills in chemistry.

The progress in this course is assessed by three written examinations and a minimum of twelve practical activities which are the part of practical endorsement. Our lessons are delivered by very experienced staff who have immense knowledge in the subject. For the last six years, our chemistry department has seen 100% of students passing the course, many of them with A*- B grades and progressing to study either a degree in chemistry or a related course at Russell Group universities.

 

We're living in the time of the Digital Revolution, a time where our world is being transformed by artificial intelligence, smart technology embedded into every-day devices and powerful computing technology worn about our person. Studying Computer Science is a step further into this world, one where we explore algorithms, programming, problem solving, computational thinking, ethical computing, software, networks and much more.

Students who choose Computer Science will work on an individual project of their choice to research, design and implement a solution to solve a real-world computational problem. Students have access to their own A level computer lab and a virtual reality system. Computer Science careers are many and when combined with other subjects, offer interesting and diverse possibilities.

 

Not everyone gets the opportunity to study GCSE Dance at their secondary school. Although it helps with the progression to A level, it is still possible for students to opt for A level Dance without having previously studies GCSE Dance. Students need to have dance experience (ideally in ballet and/or contemporary) and have a passion for dance. 

A Level Dance is a dynamic qualification which encourages students to develop their creative and intellectual capacity, alongside transferable skills such as team working, communication and problem solving. All of these are sought after skills by higher education and employers and will help them stand out in the workplace whatever their choice of career.

TCA began offering A Level Dance last year and from the first cohort, one student went on to study dance at university. He is planning on coming back to deliver workshops to our GCSE and A level Dance students during this academic year.

 

Students who choose to study Drama and Theatre Studies will develop their teamwork, creativity and knowledge of all aspects of the theatre. During the course they can expect to experience a wide range of fascinating texts including a minimum of five complete play texts. 

We follow the Eduqas Specification, which requires collaborative as well as independent work from students. They will participate in a minimum of three performance projects and study three set texts from pre and post-1956 in preparation for the written exam.

We strive to deliver our lessons in an engaging and active way which inspires our students to achieve the best results they can. Students who take Drama and Theatre Studies can expect experiences of live and streamed theatre to enhance their learning.

Drama and Theatre Studies students often go on to study Performing Arts, Law, Teaching, Management and enter a wide range of careers including the armed forces and first responders. Studying drama may not lead to a career in the performing arts industry but will equip you with a wide range of highly desirable, transferable skills.

The Eduqas A Level in Film Studies is designed to introduce A level learners to a wide variety of films in order to broaden their knowledge and understanding of film and the range of responses films can generate.

The course therefore offers opportunities to study mainstream American films from the past and the present as well as a range of recent and contemporary British films, American independent films and global films, both non-English language and English language. The historical range of film represented in those films is extended by the study of silent film and significant film movements so that learners can gain a sense of the development of film from its early years to its still emerging digital future. Studies in documentary, experimental and short films add to the breadth of the learning experience.

Production work is a crucial part of this specification and is integral to learners study of film. Studying a diverse range of films from several different contexts is designed to give learners the opportunity to apply their knowledge and understanding of how films are constructed to their own filmmaking and screenwriting. This is intended to enable learners to create high quality film and screenplay work as well as provide an informed filmmakers perspective on their own study of film.

 

We aim to create the very best Psychology students at Thomas Clarkson Academy. The aim of the Psychology curriculum is to equip students with the appropriate knowledge and skills needed to be able to understand and explain the causes of human behaviour and the impact of this behaviour on wider society. We do this using quality first teaching, which ensures students understand underlying psychological principles and can apply them in a variety of familiar and unfamiliar contexts. We want students to be able to think analytically and reach logical conclusions based on scientific evidence.

We follow the AQA Specification, which includes units such as attachment, memory, social influences and relationships. Psychology students  are constantly challenged to work collaboratively and think independently when engaging in all lessons and class debates.

 

Are you interested in how people behave? How society is changing and what conflicts occur? Topics such as the modern family, the education system and crime and deviance will be studied in A level Sociology, whilst studying theoretical perspectives such as feminism, Marxism and Functionalism. Questions raised will include why divorce is on the increase, why girls outperform boys at school and what are the causes of crime. 

Sociology is the study of society and looks at how everyday experiences shape our lives. We will study patterns of behaviour within social groups and the impact of class, gender, ethnicity, and age on social relationships. Most A level students go on to Higher Education to study a wide variety of subjects at university. In recent years these have included Sociology, Criminology, Social Policy, International Relations, Psychology, Law, Business Studies and Film Studies. The jobs taken up also cover a wide range including marketing, law, civil service, social work, and teaching. The course is all examination based with three exams at the end of the second year for the full A level. All students will also sit two AS exams at the end of the first year in May. 

Sociology is an illuminating field of study that analyses and explains important matters in our personal lives, communities, and the world. The course examines societal development in relation to our culture and identity and the role of the family, media, and the impact of our criminal justice system. We examine sociological research skills linked to social inequality. Year 1 focuses more closely on inequality and power, particularly in relation to education. Global debates are introduced through the study of globalisation and the digital world. 

 

Students who choose to undertake Religious Studies at A Level will study the AQA AS and A Level Religious Studies. 

Religious Studies offers the unique opportunity to develop transferable skills which will be of benefit across all areas of study. The Russell Group of top universities has made it clear that Religious Studies A Level provides ‘suitable preparation for university generally’.  

This specification is designed to be taken over two years. There is no course work component in A Level Philosophy. This is a linear qualification. In order to achieve the award, students must complete all assessments at the end of the course and in the same series.

The exams are made up of two components: Component 1 consists of Philosophy of Religion and Ethics, and Component 2 consists of the study of Religion and the Dialogues.

In addition to the skills mentioned above, students will also develop transferable skills including team working, research skills, problem-solving, presentation skills and confidence. Lessons are planned with a range of teaching and learning methods aimed at engaging, inspiring and motivating students to learn and think independently.  Philosophy and Ethics students have a wealth of career opportunities available to them including social work, health worker, law and much more. 

 

Taking an A level in French is a great option for anyone who wants to pursue a career in an international company, study a joint honours degree at university or simply immerse themselves in the culture of France and other French-speaking countries. There are lots of advantages to holding an A level qualification in the French language.

For example, not only will you be able to communicate in a second language which happens to be one of the world’s most widely-spoken languages, you will also become more employable as language qualifications showcase your linguistic abilities and attest to your interest in global issues – and both of these things are highly valued by employers.

So, if you’re a year 11 student about to sit your GCSE in French, reflect on your future choices and remember that French A Levels will definitely open more doors for your future.

Watch: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=v7lU8mwb770&feature=emb_logo

Geography is the subject which holds the key to our future" - Michael Palin.

There has never been a better or more important time to study A level Geography. Dealing with vital issues such as climate change, migration, the environment, social issues and natural hazards, A level Geography is one of the most relevant subjects you could choose to study. Students at TCA will enjoy the scope of the material they cover in geography, the insights it can provide into the world around us and the highly contemporary nature of the issues it tackles. 

At TCA we follow the AQA specification, which is divided in two aspects; physical and human. There is also a non-examined assessment component, where students will have the opportunity to produce an investigation of their own design based a subject within geography that interests them.

Geography is a highly respected academic A level. As well as Geography-based degrees, it can support a wide range of other studies such as Biology, Business Studies and Economics.

 

A level Mathematics is a qualification which can give you the motivation and confidence to identify connections between topics and to apply the reasoning skills you develop to real life problems using mathematical modelling.

It builds on your understanding of mathematical concepts and their various applications which makes it a great subject complement to all sciences, geography, psychology, economics and business studies and is a good contrasting subject to modern languages.

As a result A level Mathematics is the most popular A level subject and nationally, attracts significantly more candidates than any other subject. It is a sought after for many university qualifications. 

A level Further Mathematics provides even deeper insight in the connections between topics in mathematics and demonstrates aspects of the practical and theoretical applications of the subject. The qualification is a great opportunity to view the beauty of mathematics and how its development influences the world around us from different perspectives.  

The curriculum of A level Further Mathematics allows for some flexibility and the chance for students to engage with strands of mathematics closely related to research or careers in which they are aiming to progress after sixth form. 

 

Why study A level economics?

A-Level Economics offers students the opportunity to build a comprehensive understanding of economics, preparing students for real-world scenarios and helping them develop critical thinking skills.

A-Level Economics covers a wide range of topics, including market structures, consumer behaviour, production and costs, national income, inflation, unemployment, fiscal and monetary policies, international trade, development economics, financial systems, and more. This diverse curriculum ensures that students gain a holistic understanding of how economies function at both micro and macro levels.

By studying A-Level Economics, students can develop valuable skills. They will learn how to analyse economic issues, evaluate policy options, and make informed decisions. The course also emphasises the development of quantitative skills, such as data analysis and analysing and producing graphical representations of economic models.

A-Level Economics encourages students to explore current economic issues and debates, using current examples from the world around us. This ensures that students are equipped with knowledge and awareness of the real-world challenges that economies face today and in the future.

Choosing A-Level Economics as an A-level option can be beneficial for several reasons. Firstly, economics provides a solid foundation for further studies in economics, business, finance, and many other subjects at the university level. Secondly, it equips students with transferable skills, such as critical thinking, problem-solving, and data analysis, which are highly valued in many professions. Lastly, economics helps students develop a better understanding of the world around them, enabling them to make informed decisions as citizens and consumers.

Year 12

Microeconomics Theme 1 

  • What is economics?
  • Demand, supply and the market model
  • Market failure
  • Government intervention - taxes, subsidies and price caps

Macroeconomics Theme 2 

  • The circular flow of income
  • Aggregate demand and aggregate supply
  • Measurements of economic success
  • Government interventions - monetary, fiscal and supply side policies

Year 13

Microeconomics Theme 3

  • Business economics - growth and objectives
  • Market structures - Monopoly, oligopoly, monopolistic and perfect competition
  • The labour market
  • Government intervention - competition and labour regulations

Macroeconomics Theme 4

  • International economics
  • Inequality
  • Development economics
  • Financial markets

Russian is the 8th most spoken language in the world! More science materials are printed in Russian than in any other language except English. Russian A level combines well with courses in other languages, English, Business, Politics, Economics, Computing or Philosophy. It is also particularly valuable for students who seek to enhance their employability.

BTEC 

Students who choose to undertake Business at Level 3 will study the OCR Level 3 Cambridge Technical Extended Certificate in Business.  This is equivalent to 1 A-Level and highly regarded in both universities and workplaces.  This qualification provides students with both knowledge in business concepts and a wide range of transferrable skills.  

Students will learn about how businesses are formed, run and the external influences which impact upon them.  The course is assessed through two external assessments and three internally assessed coursework units.  Each coursework unit will provide students with the opportunity to engage with real businesses either through visits, guest speakers or virtual communications.  

The skills developed include team working, IT skills, problem-solving, presentation skills and confidence. Lessons are planned with a range of teaching and learning methods aimed at engaging, inspiring and motivating students to learn and think independently.  

Business students have a wealth of career opportunities available to them including Management, Human Resources, Advertising, Marketing, Social Media, Finance and much more.  

Year 11 students: If you have any questions about this course, contact I Robinson on Teams.

Level 3 Food Science and Nutrition qualification has been designed primarily to support learners progressing to university for those wanting to pursue careers or learning in a wide range of areas such as food industry production. An understanding of food science and nutrition is relevant to many industries and job roles. Care providers and nutritionists in hospitals use this knowledge, as do sports coaches and fitness instructors. Hotels and restaurants, food manufacturers and government agencies also use this understanding to develop menus, food products and policies that that support healthy eating initiatives. Many employment opportunities within the field of food science and nutrition are available to graduates.

 

Students who choose to undertake Health and Social Care at Level 3 will study the BTEC Level 3 Extended Certificate.  This is equivalent to 1 A level and highly regarded in both universities and workplaces.  This qualification enables students to develop a knowledge base for working with people in every stage of their lives.  This course will develop your knowledge and understanding of patterns of human growth and development, how individual needs are meet and the physiological needs of individuals at every stage of their life.  

The course is assessed through two external assessments and two internally assessed coursework units.  Each coursework unit will provide students with case studies that look at real scenarios within different health and social care settings and people with differing needs.   In addition, students will develop transferable skills including team working, research skills, problem-solving, presentation skills and confidence. Lessons are planned with a range of teaching and learning methods aimed at engaging, inspiring and motivating students to learn and think independently.  

Health and Social Care students have a wealth of career opportunities available to them including Social work, health worker, carer, GP surgery managers, care assistants and much more.   

 

Students who study Sport at TCA will study BTEC National Extended Certificate in Sport. Firstly, sports students will explore the anatomy and physiology of the human body, and its effects on sports performance. In addition, students will study Fitness Training and Programming for Health, Sport and Wellbeing, by analysing a client’s lifestyle and fitness and providing recommendations for improvements.

Sports students will also study the Application of Fitness Testing and learn how to conduct these tests in a valid, reliable way. Finally, in Year 13 students will study a unit in Professional Development in the Sports Industry, where they will undertake an investigation into the scope of careers of the industry, and take part in a full application process to support their progression to a career of their choice.

Previous students on the course have gone on to study Sport at various universities across the country, leading onto exciting opportunities such as PE teacher, sports scientist, nutritionist, sports analyst and physiotherapy to name a few.