SES A Level Course Guide 2024

A Level

A LEVEL

The A Level pathway is built upon extensive study, usually of three subjects. This study is complemented by the completion of an Extended Project (detailed on page 8) and helps pupils prepare for study at university and beyond. For a small number of pupils, taking four A Levels is appropriate. Most commonly, those taking four subjects will take Mathematics and Further Mathematics, in addition to two other subjects. If you wish to take four subjects in another combination this is at the discretion of the Sub-Warden Academic and you should arrange to see him as soon as possible to have the process for this explained to you. The national A Level curriculum review of 2013/14 resulted in an overhaul of subject content and style of examination. The changes have been broadly welcomed as they provide for more rigour and challenge. The new courses contain 20% more material than their predecessors and are examined only in the Upper Sixth year. Pupils should scrutinise course detail carefully as skill requirements may have shifted significantly from that required in previous years. Examination of A Level Biology, for example, contains more mathematical calculations than previously and therefore should not be taken by pupils with a low GCSE Maths grade.

Pupils taking the A Level pathway may choose their subjects from the options below:

Further Mathematics* Music Music Technology Physics Psychology Theology, Philosophy and Ethics (RS) Spanish Textile Design

Art Biology Chemistry Classical Civilisations Computer Science Design Drama & Theatre Studies Economics English Literature

French Geography German Greek History History of Art Jewellery Latin Mathematics

NB. The programme available may vary depending on demand and timetabling constraints.

*Further Mathematics may be taken only with Mathematics. Further Mathematics is not considered as a discrete subject to Mathematics and so is taken only as a fourth subject.

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