Name of course - The Hemel Hempstead School · 2018-11-27 · A2 course builds on the AS knowledge, consisting of 2 more units. An investigation carried out on a residential field

Subject Information

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Fine Art

Awarding Body / Specification No : OCR / H161/H561

Name of provider : The Hemel Hempstead School

Name of Partnership Area : West Dacorum

What will you be learning?

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

Entry Requirements

GCSE Art Grade B

How is the course examined or assessed?

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

What happens when you have finished?

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

More information

Miss L Rayner, Head of Subject

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Biology

Awarding Body / Specification No : Edexcel / 8B101/9B101




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

Entry requirements

GCSE Science Grade BB, Maths Grade B


There will be 2 written exams in June (Units 1 and 2). There is a written report on a visit to a site of biological interest. Similarly at A2 there will be 2 exams in June (Units 4 and 5) and an extended investigation, usually carried out on a field course in September of the A2 year. Practical lab work is carried out throughout the course with at least 6 core practicals which are written up and used for teacher assessment. In addition, a report is produced looking at any aspect of biology being carried out in a place of work. This year it included a visit to Whipsnade Zoo where aspects on the role of zoos in society and breeding programmes were looked at to give ideas for the report.


Successful completion of AS and A2 can lead to progression to higher education courses – medicine, life sciences, sports science, environmental science or into level 4 vocational qualifications or directly into employment in science and related sectors.

More information

Mrs S Whalley, Subject Leader Biology

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Chemistry

Awarding Body / Specification No : OCR / H034/H434




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

Entry requirements

GCSE Science Grade BB, Maths Grade B


AS Consists of 3 units :

Units 1 and 2 are examined by written paper at the end of Year 12.

Unit 3 comprises a number of tasks which assess the student’s skill level at practical techniques, analysis and interpretation of data and evaluation. These are carried out at various times during Year 12.

A2 Consists of 3 units :

Units 1 and 2 are examined by written paper at the end of Year 13.

Unit 3 comprises a number of tasks which assess the student’s skill level at practical techniques, analysis and interpretation of data and evaluation. These are carried out at various times during Year 13.


Chemistry A level is essential for medicine and veterinary science and is a required or recommended subject for many other degree courses such as zoology, forensic science, biomedical sciences, pharmacy, materials science and many others.

More information

Mrs James, Head of Subject

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Dance

Awarding Body / Specification No : AQA / 1231/2231




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

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

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


Unit 1: Understanding Dance Written Paper 1 hours 30 minutes

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


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

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

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

More information

Miss Sepala, Head of Department

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Design and Technology: Product Design

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




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

Entry requirements

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


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

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


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

More information

Ms P Ozier, Subject Leader

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Design and Technology: Textiles

Awarding Body / Specification No : AQA / 1561/2561




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

Entry requirements

GCSE Textiles Grade C


Text 1 AS 50% coursework – approx 50 hours design portfolio ( coursework may be Text 2 entered in the following forms; a single design and make project, two smaller projects and/or a portfolio of work). 50% written exam – 2 hours

Text 4 A2 50% coursework – approx 60 hours – a single substantial design and make activity Text 3 50% written exam – 2 hours (based on Design and Manufacture)


Art Foundation courses in Higher Education Textiles Technology. Fashion Design, Interior Design, Costume/Stage Design, Fashion Buying, Textile Design.

More information

Ms Ozier, Subject Leader

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Economics

Awarding Body / Specification No : Edexcel / 8ECO1 and 9ECO1




The course is presented over 4 units. AS level: Unit 1: 6ECO1 Microeconomics: principles of economics, how markets work and fail. Demand and supply, externalities and elasticities. Unit 2 :6ECO2 Macroeconomics: Managing the economy, globalisation, international trade, investment, inflation, economic growth and government policies. A2 level: Unit 3 : 6ECO3 Business Economics and Economics Efficiency. Pricing and the nature of competition between firms. Pricing and output in different contexts. Government intervention to keep markets competitive. Unit 4 : 6ECO4 The Global Economy. The balance of payments, economic growth, exchange rates, international competitiveness, Government policies, poverty and development issues.

Students will have to be able to analyse basic graphs and make basic calculations. It is also required that students show an interest in economic events as published in the media.

Entry requirements

GCSE Maths Grade B, English Language Grade B


A 1½ hour exam on each unit consisting of supported multiple-choice where students write a short justification of why a particular answer was chosen. Plus one data response question.


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

More information

Mr J West

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English Language

Awarding Body / Specification No : AQA 1706/2706



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

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

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

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

At AS, candidates explore the fundamental structures and functions of writing, speech and conversation and how language functions in different social contexts. Unit 1 – Categorising Texts covers the introductory aspects of the study of language, using a variety of texts for the basis of this study. In addition it focuses on three specific social contexts: Language and Power, Language and Gender and Language and Technology. Unit 2 – Creating Texts encourages students to develop their own writing skills, producing writing in different genres for different audiences and purposes.

At A2, candidates explore the nature and functions of language, how its key constituent parts have been developed under the influence of a variety of contextual factors and how these changes may be analysed and evaluated creatively.

Entry requirements

GCSE English Language and Literature Grade B


AS Unit 1: exam of 2 hours (60% of total AS/30% of total A Level marks) Unit 2: coursework (40% of total AS/20% of total A Level marks) A2 Unit 3: exam of 2 hours (30% of total A Level marks) Unit 4: coursework (20% of total A Level marks)


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

More information

Mr Mitchell

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English Literature

Awarding Body / Specification No : OCR H071/H471




Among the many benefits, this course encourages students to:

Read widely and independently

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

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

At AS, Unit F661 will introduce students to the way you structure language and form, as well as context and other readings, influence a reader’s understanding of the set poet and novel. Unit F662 will introduce students’ to the skills required for close analysis and how to compare texts with similar themes written post-1900.

At A2, Unit F663 focuses on pre-1800 poetry and drama texts, as well as Shakespeare and involves exploring different aspects of literacy representation. In Unit F6764, candidates will study a range of texts including one of their own choosing and will compare three.

Entry requirements

GCSE English Literature and Language Grade B


Unit F661 – Poetry and prose 1800-1945: 2 hour exam, closed book (60% of total AS/30% of total A Level) Unit F662 – Literature post-1900: Coursework (40% of total AS/2-% of total A Level) Unit F663 – Drama and Poetry pre-1800: 2 hour exam, closed book (60% of total A2/30% of toal A Level) Unit F664 – Texts in Time: Coursework (40% of total A2/20% of total A Level)


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

More information

Mr Mitchell

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Geography





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

Entry requirements

GCSE Geography Grade B


Unit 1 : Physical and Human Geography

Rivers, floods and management

Coastal environments

Global population change

Health Issues Unit 2 : Applied Geography

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

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

Plate tectonics and associated hazards

Weather and climate and associated hazards

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


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

More information

Mr Williams

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Government and Politics

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




There are 2 sections to the AS course :

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

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

Entry requirements

GCSE English Language Grade C compulsory, History Grade C desirable


Two exam papers at AS and A2.


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

More information

Ms R Akeroyd

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History

Awarding Body / Specification No : Edexcel 6H101/9H101



What will you be learning? Two modules will be studied: European History: Unit 1

Luther, Lutheranism and the German Reformation 1517 – 1555

And either; The Catholic Reformation 1540 – 1600

Or The Revolt of the Netherlands 1509 – 1609 English History: Unit 2

Henry VIII 1509 – 1540 Aims of the course:

To gain an understanding and knowledge of these periods of History

To consider the nature of historical sources and their use

To become aware of the differences of opinion and interpretation in History

To promote an understanding of continuity and change in the past

Entry requirements

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


Unit 1: External Examination one paper of 1¼ hours, two essay questions (50% of AS) Unit 2: External Examination one paper of 1½ hours. Source based paper (50% of AS)


This leads to the Edexcel A2 History Course:

Protest, Crisis and Rebellion in England 1536 – 1588 (Unit 3)

The Golden Age of Spain 1474 – 1598 (Coursework) (Unit 4)

More information See a member of the History Department

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ICT

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




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

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

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

Entry requirements

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


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

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


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

More information

Mrs Head (Subject Leader)

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Mathematics

Awarding Body / Specification No : Edexcel 8371/9371




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

Entry requirements

GCSE Maths Grade A


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


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

More information

Ms K Konarzynska

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Further Maths (AS)

Awarding Body / Specification No : OCR 3896/7896




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

Entry requirements

GCSE Maths Grade A/A*


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


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

More information

Mr Laroussi

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French





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

Entry requirements

See student guide


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


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

More information

Mrs Wright, Subject Leader French,

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German





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

Entry requirements

GCSE German Grade B


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


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

More information

Mrs Hartley, Learning Leader

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Music

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




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

Entry requirements

GCSE Music Grade B, Sing or play an instrument


You will be required to do a 5-6 minute solo performance which will be internally assessed and externally moderated (30%). You will compose 1 piece of original music in response to a brief; this will be externally marked (30%). There is a written paper which will involve aural and analytical responses to works you have studied and some unseen pieces. This will include a short theory exercise (40%).


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

More information

Mrs Bailey

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

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Physical Education





The content of the course will address current contemporary topics in sport such as the impact of ergogenic aids, technology and increasing commercialisation, skill acquisition, applied physiology and psychology.

This specification builds on students experience from GCSE to enhance their knowledge and increase their understanding of the factors that affect performance and participation in physical education. The qualification looks to equip students with skills and knowledge required for higher education or the world of work.

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

Entry requirements:

GCSE PE Grade C, Science Grade BB


AS Unit 1: Opportunities for and the effects of leading a healthy and active lifestyle 2 hour written examination 60% Unit 2: Analysis and evaluation of physical activity as a performer and/or in adopted roles (Coach/official) Internal assessment with external moderation 40% of AS Practical A2 Unit 3: Optimising performance and evaluating contemporary issues within sport 2 hour written examination 30% of A level Unit 4: Optimising practical performance in a competitive situation Internal assessment with external moderation 20% of A level


There are various opportunities available to successful students. They may continue their studies at PE college or university or may prefer to work in the expanding Sport and Leisure Industry.

More information

Miss Bevan

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Physics





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

Entry requirements

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


Unit Assessment Weighting AS Mechanics 1 hour written exam AS – 30%, A Level – 15% Electrons, Waves and Photons 1 hour 45 minute written exam AS – 50%, A Level – 25% Practical Skills in Physics 1 Internal practical assessment AS – 20%, A Level – 1-% A2 The Newtonian World 1 hour written exam A Level – 15% Fields, Particles and Frontiers of Physics 1 hour 45 minute written exam A Level – 25% Practical Skills in Physics 2 Internal practical assessment A Level – 10%

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


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

More information

Science or Careers staff at Hemel Hempstead School.

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Psychology


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

What will you be learning? Why is it that some people suffer from stress and mental illness? Why do some people fear snakes yet a few think they are cuddly? Psychology looks at questions like these in the study of the human mind and behaviour. It is a science with cutting edge research that has real world applications to issues in everyday life, ranging from things like artificial intelligence to social change. In your first year you may study topics such as research methods, social psychology, gender development, individual differences or cognitive psychology. This introduction will form a sound basis for the second year, in which you might study topics such as sleep, forensic psychology, celebrity worship, cognition and law, perception or mood disorders.

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

How is the course examined or assessed? Examinations : AS = 2 written papers (1 hours 30 minutes each) A2 = 2 written papers (one = 1 hour 30 minutes & one = 2 hours)

What happens when you have finished? An A-Level in Psychology can help your career either directly or indirectly. Of course, if you wish to become a Psychologist, Therapist or Mental Health Worker this A Level is of direct value when embarking upon your first degree.

More information Mr P Waller www.aqa.org.uk/qual/gce/psychology

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http://www.aqa.org.uk/qual/gce/psychology

Religious Studies: Ethics and Philosophy



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

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

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

How is the course examined or assessed? Exam based – 2 modules each year

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

More information Mrs Bridgman/Miss Dayton

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Sociology



Can you apply for this course on line?

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

Entry requirements GCSE English Language Grade C

How is the course examined or assessed? AS – 2 written papers A2 – 2 written papers

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

More information Mrs Johnson

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Drama and Theatre Studies

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


What will you be learning? This course comprises 4 units over 2 years. Students will explore and analyse theatrical history and theory through practical performance, research and evaluation of live performance. An interest in theatre and performance is essential as is the ability to work independently on research and analysis. A GCSE in Drama (or BTEC) is desirable and a GCSE in English is essential.


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

More information Mrs Heale, Miss Kydd

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BTEC Level 3 Diploma in Business

Awarding Body / Specification No : Edexcel


What will you be learning? The BTEC level 3 Diploma in Business is a 120-Credit qualification that consists of 4 mandatory units plus 8 optional units out of 42 on offer. It is broadly equivalent to 2 GCE A-Levels. The mandatory units are: Unit 1: The Business Environment Unit 2: Business Resources Unit 3: Introduction to Marketing Unit 4: Business Communication The remaining units allow for specialising if desired but we aim to give a breadth covering some areas of Accounting, Marketing, HR, Management, Administration and Retail. The course is a very practical, work-related one.

Entry requirements English Grade C

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

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

More information Mr West

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BTEC National Certificate in Performing Arts

Awarding Body / Specification No : Edexcel C4335


What will you be learning? You will learn about being a performer across all three disciplines (Dance, Drama and Music) and what it means to be in the Performing Arts business. You will also learn about the industry and the possible work opportunities that are available.

Entry requirements Experience and strong interest in the Arts. A very practical course. No specific level of ability required but experience and enthusiasm in performing is essential. Strong commitment to the Arts department and rehearsals. Drama, Dance and/or Music grade C, English Language Grade C.

How is the course examined or assessed? There is no final examination. It is a modular course with external moderation. You will be formally assessed on practical tasks, rehearsing, written logs, performances and evaluations throughout the course. You will have a big final assessment to end the course.

What happens when you have finished? You can go on to work in the industry across different career paths including Business in the Performing Arts, working with theatre companies or training to become a professional performer. The course provides versatile opportunities. BTEC National Diplomas are recognised by performing arts institutions, colleges, universities and employers.

More information Ms S Kydd

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BTEC Level 3 Diploma in Sport

Awarding Body / Specification No : Edexcel BJ420


What will you be learning? The BTEC Level 3 Diploma is a practical, work related course. You learn by completing projects and assignments that are based on realistic work based situations, activities and demands. As well as learning about the employment area you have chosen, you develop the skills needed to start your career. The course is made up of 120 credits. A total of 13 units as follows: Principles of Anatomy and Physiology in Sport Practical Individual Sports The Physiology of Fitness Sports Nutrition Assessing Risk in Sport Leadership in Sport Fitness Training and Programming Sports Injuries Sports Coaching Organising an Event Sports Development Work Experience in Sport Fitness Testing for Sport and Exercise

Entry requirements GCSE PE desirable

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

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

More information Miss Bevan and Mr Colquhoun

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Certificate in Financial Studies

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


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


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

How is the course examined or assessed? The course consists of 2 units:

Unit 1 – Financial Capability for the Immediate and Short Term

Unit 2 – Financial Capability for the Medium and Long Term

Each unit is assessed in 2 parts:

Part A: Multiple choice e-test – 35 questions

Part B: Written paper – 5 essay responses to pre-release cast study.

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

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

More information Miss May

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Extended Project Qualification

Awarding Body / Specification No : AQA 7993

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

Can you apply for this course on line? What will you be learning?

The Extended Project is a Level 3 qualification introduced in September 2008. Learners may choose to take the Extended Project Qualification as an extension from studies for any other qualifications at Level 3 (GCE, BTEC, NVQ, other academic or vocational qualifications including Modern Apprenticeships).

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

Become more critical, reflective and independent learners

Develop and apply decision-making and problem-solving skills

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

Learn to apply new technologies confidently

Demonstrate creativity, initiative and enterprise.


Learners develop an initial idea for a project they may wish to carry out and discuss their ideas with their supervisor. Learners initially carry out some research to enable them to develop their ideas sufficiently to make a formal project proposal that includes their project aims, initial plans and likely format in which to present their project. They complete a Project Proposal Form. The supervisor evaluates the Project Proposal against the aims of the Extended Project. On completion the learners must give a presentation, which should be for a non-specialist audience using media appropriate to the type of project. The presentation must include a live question and answer session overseen by the supervisor. Learners also complete a Production Log as they carry out their projects.


More and more universities are welcoming the EPQ as an indicator of realised skills and potential ability in the fiercely competitive arena of entrant selection. “The University welcomes applications from students who have taken the Extended Project Qualification (EPQ). We see this as positive evidence of motivation to explore a subject in greater depth, as well as an opportunity for further development of analytical, critical thinking and independent research skills”.

More information

Dr Brown

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Food Science and Nutrition (QCF)

Awarding Body / Specification No : WJCE 9620/A3/C3/D3


What will you be learning? You will have the opportunity to learn about the relationship between the human body and food as well as practical skills about cooking and preparing food.

Entry requirements Ideal for students who have followed GCSE Hospitality and Catering (or Food Technology).

How is the course examined or assessed? The course is unit based and comprises of controlled assessment, internally and

externally moderated. Credits are awarded for each unit building to the Diploma at

the end of the second year of study.

What happens when you have finished? Courses in Higher Education Hotel and Catering Management Food Marketing Management Food Science Sports/Food related courses Food and Nutrition Food Product Development Dietetics

More information Mrs Walker

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Documents

Name of course - The Hemel Hempstead School · 2018-11-27 · A2 course builds on the AS knowledge, consisting of 2 more units. An investigation carried out on a residential field