A Level Courses

Exam board: Cambridge Pre-U

Art and Design at A-level will build on the experiences of students at GCSE.

Projects will be broadly theme-based with students encouraged to build up research across a range of ideas and disciplines. Increasing independence, initiative and ambition will be features of working at this level, as will a developing engagement with issues around the practice and theories of contemporary art and design.

Students will gain experience of the following in each year:

• Developing a body of independent imaginative work and ideas in 2 and 3 dimensions Group and individual work to long and short briefs
• Life drawing and experimental approaches to drawing
• Art workshops, gallery visits to commercial and public collections
• Discussion and practical-based work in a range of materials
• Bi-annual Year 12/13 foreign art trip (we have been to Berlin, Venice, Barcelona, Madrid and Andalucia in recent years)
• Mounting and hanging their own interim exhibitions throughout the course
• Working with a range of teachers trained in different disciplines
• Managing their own permanent studio space in Year 13

Assessment

Unit 1 Portfolio (30%)

The portfolio is an exploratory investigation over the first year of the course in which students build a diverse and substantial folder of work. Work is based around 2 themes and the focus is on investigation skills and experimentation rather than resolved outcomes. Students will develop their own ideas through sketchbook exploration, and study the working practices and contexts of a range of related artists, designers and creative practitioners. They will be encouraged to be independent, inventive and bold, and to visit exhibitions to inform their work.

Unit 2 Critical and Contextual Study (30%)

The critical and contextual study is a written essay of 3000–3500 words with relevant illustrations. The focus of the study is an aspect of the visual arts of interest to the candidate.

The title and subject of the critical and contextual study is expected to evolve through ideas generated by candidates during either the first or second year of the course. With guidance from the teacher, candidates develop their own focus and title for their individual study. Visits to exhibitions and museums will help students to narrow their focus.

The Critical Study will be written during the second year of the course.

Unit 3 Project  (40%) – Year 13

The project involves development of a sustained piece of studio practice culminating into a fully resolved piece or body of work. The ‘starting point’ for the Project is set by the Cambridge exam board and is given to students at the end of the first year. Students are encouraged to investigate and explore mediums and processes that inspire them, and to build a body of informed work that culminates in ambitious and individual resolutions. Project work will be exhibited at the end of the course.

Entry requirements

A Grade 6 at GCSE in an Art related course.

Head of department: Will Lewer

Exam board: Edexcel Biology A (Salters – Nuffield)

This course has been designed to engage and inspire students by showing how an understanding of many contemporary issues requires a grasp of fundamental biological ideas.

The A level course in the first year of Sixth Form contains a well-balanced spread of topics including blood circulation and the heart, DNA and protein synthesis, enzymes, cell biology, evolution and biodiversity. Associated medical issues such as cardiovascular disease and cystic fibrosis are also explored. A level topics include forensic science, ecology, microorganisms, sport science, biochemistry, the nervous system and an introduction to how the brain works. The body’s response to infection is studied and the diseases which can result when the immune system fails to cope are investigated.

There is no coursework component within the course, however, students complete a series of core practicals that will be examined in their written exams.

The Biology Department is well resourced with up-to- date equipment such as a polymerase chain reaction thermocycler and gel electrophoresis.

Year 1

• Topic 1: Lifestyle, Health and Risk
• Topic 2: Genes and Health
• Topic 3: Voice of the Genome
• Topic 4: Biodiversity and Natural Resources

Year 2

• Topic 5: On the Wild Side
• Topic 6: Immunity, Infection and Forensics.
• Topic 7: Run for your Life
• Topic 8: Grey Matter.

Assessment

Paper 1: The Natural Environment and Species Survival. Two hours. 100 marks (33.33% of the total qualification)

Paper 2: Energy, Exercise and Co-ordination. Two hours. 100 marks (33.33% of the total qualification)

Paper 3: General and Practical Applications in Biology. Two hours. 100 marks (33.33% of the total qualification)

Entry requirements

Grade 7/7 in Double Science or grade 7 in GCSE Biology. Grade 7 in GCSE English Language and Mathematics.

Head of department: Philip Price

Exam board: Edexcel

A level Chemistry trains the mind to think clearly and rationally about any problem, not merely a science problem. Logic, objectivity and fairness are also qualities highly regarded by academics and employers alike; indeed Chemistry almost seems to be designed with these qualities in mind.

In recent years Chemistry has been a popular choice at A level and the modular course has proved attractive to Sixth Formers as well as delivering very good results. Looking ahead to higher education, a Chemistry A level is recommended for courses such as Environmental Science and Engineering, as well as the more obvious Chemistry, Biochemistry and related subjects. Chemistry at A level is essential if you wish to study courses in Medicine, Dentistry or Veterinary Science at university. The course is not modular and all the material covered will be examined at the end of the two year course.

Year 1 Topics

• Atomic Structure and the Periodic Table
• Bonding and Structure
• Redox
• Inorganic Chemistry and the Periodic Table
• Formulae, Equations and Amounts of Substance
• Bonding and Structure
• Formulae, Equations and Amounts of Substance
• Organic Chemistry
• Modern Analytical Techniques
• Energetics
• Kinetics
• Equilibrium

Year 2 Topics

• Atomic Structure and the Periodic Table
• Bonding and Structure
• Redox
• Inorganic Chemistry and the Periodic Table
• Formulae, Equations and Amounts of Substance
• Energetics
• Equilibrium
• Acid-base Equilibria
• Transition Metals
• Bonding and Structure
• Redox
• Formulae, Equations and Amounts of Substance
• Organic Chemistry
• Modern Analytical Techniques
• Kinetics I
• All topics across the full A level specification.
• Half of the paper will focus on testing students’ knowledge and understanding of practical skills and techniques.

There is no coursework but students will be expected to complete at least 12 core practicals. Questions in Paper 3 will assess practical techniques.

Assessment

Paper 1: Advanced Inorganics and Physical Chemistry. One hour and 45 minutes. 90 marks (30% of total qualification).

Paper 2: Advanced Organics and Physical Chemistry. One hour and 45 minutes. 90 marks (30% of total qualification).

Paper 3: General and Practical Principles in Chemistry. Two hours and 30 minutes. 120 marks (40% of total qualification).

Entry requirements

Grade 7/7 in Double Award GCSE, or 7 in GCSE Chemistry. Grade 7 in both GCSE Mathematics and English Language.

There is no coursework but students will be expected to complete at least 12 core practicals. Questions in Paper 3 will assess practical techniques.

Head of department: Philip Price

Exam board: OCR

A knowledge of the civilisations of Greece and Rome is fundamental to an understanding of our own. The new A level syllabus offers an integrated study of literature, art, history, culture and philosophy in the ancient Mediterranean world. No previous knowledge of the subject is needed at all, although if you already have GCSE Classical Civilisation you will enjoy deepening and broadening your understanding.

A typical lesson will involve reading or studying a primary source (an extract from a Greek poem or an image of a Roman sculpture, for example), followed by a teacher-led discussion. Often we will turn the spotlight back from the ancient world onto our own world to reassess the nature of our modern societies and values.

An A level in Classical Civilisation provides an excellent basis for a range of degrees from Art to Philosophy. The subject can also be continued at university on its own or in combination with others. A Classics degree will require the study of Latin and/or ancient Greek, but the languages are not an entry requirement in most cases. Classical Civilisation degrees do not require language study, and there are also options such as Ancient & Modern History, Archaeology & Anthropology, Classics & English, Classics & Oriental Studies, and Classics and Modern Languages. Well-known public figures who have found the study of Classics a valuable training before going to high achievement in other fields include: JK Rowling (best-selling author of the Harry Potter series), Tom Hiddleston (Actor), Susan Greenfield (who presented the series Brain Story on BBC2), Sir Anthony Cleaver (ex- Chairman of IBM, Head of UK Atomic Energy Authority), and Sir Jeremy Morse (ex-Chairman, Lloyds Bank).

Assessment

At the end of two years you will sit three papers and exam questions test a balanced combination of factual knowledge and evaluative skills, both historical and literary.

Paper 1 – The World of the Hero

This is a compulsory paper consisting of an in-depth study of either Homer’s Iliad or Homer’s Odyssey and Virgil’s Aeneid. At KAS we study the Iliad. These Epic poems are studied in translation.

Paper 2 – Culture and the Arts

You will study one of the following options: Greek Theatre; Imperial Image; Invention of the Barbarian; Greek Art. All of these topics involve the study of visual and material culture and all but Greek Art include the study of literature in translation. At KAS, the current choice is The Invention of the Barbarian, which looks at the Greeks and their attitude to ‘others’, especially the Persians. This exciting course offers the chance to learn something about the Persian empire as well as about the Greeks.

Paper 3 – Beliefs & Ideas

You will study one of the following options: Greek Religion; Love and Relationships; Politics and the Late Republic; Democracy and the Athenians. These topics involve the study of an area of classical thought, in combination with the study of literature in translation or visual/material culture. Currently at KAS we study Greek Religion.

Entry requirements

Grade 6 or equivalent in English, History, Classical Civilisation, Religious Studies or similar at GCSE.

Extra information

We will visit the British Museum as part of our studies and if possible, we will also go to Classical Greek plays, either in the original with subtitles or in translation, and to lectures and other relevant events.

We are hoping to run a Classics Department trip to Greece this year and a Classics Club will be starting very soon, with active participation by the Sixth Formers.

Head of department: Judith Rice

Exam board: OCR

A level Computer Science introduces students to a practical and relevant approach to the changing world of Computing. Combined with academic principles, the course is intensely creative combining invention, innovation and excitement enabling learners to develop:

• An understanding and ability to apply the fundamental principles and concepts of computer science, including: abstraction, decomposition, logic, algorithms and data representation.
• The ability to analyse problems in computational terms through practical experience of solving such problems, including writing programs to do so.
• The capacity to think creatively, innovatively, analytically, logically and critically.
• The capacity to see relationships between different aspects of computer science.
• Mathematical skills.
• The ability to articulate (moral), social (ethical), legal and cultural opportunities and risks of digital technology.

In addition to lessons, students will be required to work independently in order to understand the theory material for the two examinations which they will complete in Year 13. Students will also be expected to develop an understanding of programming in order to prepare for the non-examination programming coursework unit. Skills will also be developed in solving problems, designing systems and understand the power and limits of human and machine intelligence, preparing them to go on to study Computer Science at a higher level.

Assessment

Component 01 – Computer Systems

This is one written paper worth 40% of the total A level.  The content assessed is:

1.1       Characteristics of contemporary processors, input, output and storage devices

1.2       Software and software development

1.3       Exchanging data

1.4       Data types, data structures and algorithms

1.5       Legal, moral, cultural and ethical issues

Component 02 – Elements of computational thinking

This is one written paper worth 40% of the total A level.  The content assessed is:

2.1       Elements of computational thinking

2.2       Problem solving and programming

2.3       Algorithms

Component 03 or 04 – Programming Project

This is a non-exam assessment (coursework) worth 20% of the total A level.

3.1       Analysis of the problem

3.2       Design of the solution

3.3       Developing the solution

3.4       Evaluation

Entry requirements

In line with KAS A level entry requirements.

Extra information

You’ll have opportunities to see computing outside of the classroom during visits to London Stock Exchange, National Museum of Computing and conferences at Imperial. We also run a robotics and programming club.

Head of department: Raj Bhalsod

Exam board: OCR

This is a course that will address the major challenges that face our society today. It will explore the way that art, architecture, fashion, photography, graphic design have both shaped and helped us understand the issues of the day.

We will explore the lives of artists, the challenges they address both political and personal, and the continuing relevance of those challenges today.

How do ideas, tensions and challenges repeat and evolve across time and cultures? E.g. class inequality, political censorship, feminism, protest? How do we engage with an increasingly complex and fluid culture of identities?

This is a personal and political course that critically engages with art and its vital role in providing a critique of our society.

You will use a work journal to record ideas and a folder for practice- based work. You will curate exhibitions and study how artists, writers and galleries communicate ideas to a public. You will visit galleries and learn how to make sense of them and develop a language to address their approaches. You will be encouraged to visit galleries and exhibitions and to base your learning around responses to primary recording. You will lead and model your enquiries around your own individual interests. It is both written and visual.

Assessment

Unit 1 The Personal investigation (60%)

Students build a portfolio of investigatory work which explores the context in which art, design and architecture is made, the cultural pressures and influences which shape it and in which it exists. The portfolio will explore ideas around chosen themes, such as the human figure in art, representations of women in art, architecture and the built environment. Students will be able to shape their investigations around their individual interests.

• Research will take the form of sketchbook-based enquiry, balancing written and visual materials.
• Formal and visual analysis lie at the heart of understanding art work. Students will develop skills in extended written analysis accompanied by relevant visual research;
• Exhibition visits, reviews, websites, interviews, newspaper reports, curation ideas, presentations, as well as practical responses all provide ways that students can respond.
• Comparative analysis in the differentiation between styles, genres, subject matter and historical cultures allied to an understanding of practical techniques and materials and how they affect meaning.

The External Assignment (40%)

This is a timed project over 6-8 weeks in which students respond to one of a number of starting points set by the board, and make a personal investigation.  You will build an understanding of  relevant technologies, materials, processes and resources; continuity and change in different genres, styles and traditions relevant to their chosen areas of study, how ideas, feelings and meanings can be conveyed and interpreted in images and artefacts;  how images and artefacts relate to the time and place in which they were made and to their social and cultural context;  a working vocabulary and specialist terminology which are relevant to their chosen area of study. Outcomes can be in the form of a curated exhibition, a series of practical responses, or architectural models, an illustrated essay, with their studies showing a depth of research and reading, understanding and analysis.

Entry requirements

Students may have studied art at GCSE, but this is by no means an obligation. On this course there are opportunities for both the more academic student and the more practical art-based student.

We would expect students to have a achieved a grade 6 in either English, Art, History or Photography GCSE.

Head of department: Will Lewer

Exam board: Edexcel

Economics looks at the question of how to allocate resources optimally both from an individual’s point of view (Microeconomics) and also from the perspective of society as a whole (Macroeconomics). At its root lie moral questions about how we want to live our lives both as individuals and as a social unit. Based upon a number of assumptions on these issues Economics builds a conceptual structure that allows us to explain how resources are allocated in the world today. Once you understand this conceptual structure you can then use it as a framework to assess the limitations of how society works and explore ways to improve it.

Economics is not all about money! The study of economics helps you to understand various aspects of finance but Economics is primarily about choice, scarcity, opportunity and the impact of decision making on our lives. You may be asked to think about questions as diverse as “Why do we have a sugar tax and is it fair?”, “Should those who are unemployed receive benefits?” and “Will the UK be better off outside of the EU?” Economics offers a way of thinking about the world that enables us to make the best of what we have both as individuals and as society as a whole.

In order to be able to enjoy studying Economics you need to be able to construct logical arguments from many different perspectives. Whilst the Maths component of the specification is not onerous you will need to be fluent with interpreting data in graphical form and with the concepts of ratio, percentage and index numbers. Classroom discussions will be based on a wider reading list that you will need to go through independently.

This is a challenging two-year linear course that is examined synoptically at the end. It gives you the opportunity to gain a deeper understanding of the subject whilst developing your study skills to prepare you for university life. Consequently it has a higher UCAS tariff than the modular A-level courses that are currently offered by the various exam boards.

Assessment

The 2-year linear course has 3 papers

Entry requirements

Grades of 6 or above at GCSE in Maths and English/History.

Head of department: Victoria Gibson

Exam board: OCR

The idea that reading for pleasure is one of the keenest enjoyments in life is central to our teaching. We believe that creating an atmosphere in which reading is a joy allows students to develop in confidence as thinkers about literature, rather than simply consumers. Our classes are discursive and we encourage both lively debate and self-reflection.

The OCR A level qualification allows learners to:

• Read widely and independently, both set texts and others that they have selected for themselves
• Engage critically and creatively with a substantial body of texts and ways of responding to them
• Develop and effectively apply their knowledge of literary analysis and evaluation in writing
• Explore the contexts of the texts they are reading and others’ interpretations.

Assessment

Component 1 – Drama and Poetry pre-1900

• 40% of A-level
• Written exam paper of 2 hours 30 minutes
• Closed text

Three texts are studied Text choices include:

Shakespeare

•  Coriolanus
•  Hamlet
• Measure for Measure
• Richard III
• The Tempest
• Twelfth Night

Drama

• Edward II – Marlowe
• The Duchess of Malfi – Webster
• She Stoops to Conquer – Goldsmith
• A Doll’s House – Ibsen
• An Ideal Husband – Wilde

Poetry

• The Merchant’s Prologue and Tale – Chaucer
• Paradise Lost Books 9 & 10 – Milton
• Selected Poems – Coleridge
• Maud – Tennyson
• Selected Poems – Christina Rossetti

Component 2 – Comparative and Contextual Study

•  40% of A-level
• Written exam paper of 2 hours 30 minutes
• Closed text
• Learners choose one topic area and study two whole texts: American Literature 1880–1940; The Gothic; Dystopia; Women in Literature; and The Immigrant Experience are the

Text choices include:

American Literature 1880-1940

• The Great Gatsby – Fitzgerald
• The Grapes of Wrath – Steinbeck
• The Age of Innocence – Wharton

The Gothic

• Dracula – Stoker
• The Bloody Chamber and Other Stories – Carter
• Frankenstein – Shelley

Dystopia

• The Handmaid’s Tale – Atwood
• 1984 – Orwell
• Brave New World – Huxley

Women in Literature

• Sense and Sensibility – Austen
• Mrs Dalloway – Woolf
• The Bell Jar – Plath

The Immigrant Experience

• The Reluctant Fundamentalist – Hamid
• Call It Sleep – Roth
• Brick Lane – Ali

Component 3 – Literature post-1900

•  20% of A-level
• Coursework (3,000 words)
• Two tasks with a choice of close reading critical analysis OR re-creative writing with commentary AND a comparative essay

Entry requirements

Grade 7 in GCSE English Literature and GCSE English Language. An enthusiasm for reading and a curiosity about the world are essential.

Head of department: Alex Marrion

Exam board: OCR

The new, linear OCR Film Studies A level course involves the detailed analysis of the forms and conventions of film. It combines practical production in conjunction with written, theoretical examinations. Any required technical skills will be taught in Year 12, including the use of digital DSLRs, camcorders and Final Cut Pro X.

Students are encouraged to watch and analyse all forms of film – including British independent, short films, European experimental film, documentary and Hollywood blockbusters – to gain a thorough understanding of film conventions and industry practices. Students develop their own understanding of the film industry through independent study, and it is recommended that they view films beyond the set film list, as well as keep abreast of industry developments through online features, film magazines, TV and radio podcast dedicated to the business of film. They will also take part in workshops and screenings at the British Film Institute and our own Phoenix Theatre. Students will develop their own practical skills to the point at which they are able to make independent decisions about research and planning, production and post production.

Year 1

• Studying Film – exploring film history through micro elements, such as cinematography, editing and sound. Film choices include 2001: A Space Odyssey and The General.
• Contemporary US and UK film industries – looking at film as text, covering elements of narrative, genre and representation in films like Star Wars: The Force Awakens and Ex-Machina.
• Practical – short filmmaking – students make either a 4-5 minute short film from script to screen, or a ten-page screenplay with photographed plans and storyboards. Students watch a selection of eight short films, which should inspire them in terms of camera, mise en scene, narrative and representation. All practical work is produced individually by each student, though they are encouraged to put together a crew to assist on shooting days.

Year 2

• European Cinema – part of the Film History examination, this unit explores film movements like German Expressionism as well as the experimental nature of film, from Nosferatu to L’Age D’Or.
• Documentary Film – filmmaking, theory and critical debates on naturalism and narrative. Film choices include Searching for Sugar Man and Man on Wire.
• Ideology across three films – a theme-based unit, which explores films from an ideological perspective. For example, themes of family and home will be compared across Moonrise Kingdom, A Separation and Room.

Assessment

Written examinations account for 70% of the overall qualification, so students must possess very good analytical and literacy skills. There are three assessments in total:

• Film history. This is a 2 hour exam with a weighting of 35%.
• Critical approaches to film. This is a 2 hour exam including synoptic assessment with a weighting of 35%.
• Making a short film. This is a non-exam assessment with a weighting of 30%.

Entry requirements

Grade 6 in English and at least one other art or humanities subject.

Extra information

At KAS students can expect to attend several different days at the British Film Institute where there are short film courses and competitions we encourage you to enter. We go on cinema visits as well as putting on our own screenings through the Year 12 Film Club – Star Wars was the most recent screening and there are plans for regular screenings next year.  We are also planning some alumni film events, plus masterclasses/panel events for 2019/2020.

Head of department: Nuray Jemil

Exam board: AQA

Pupils at KAS follow the AQA French A level syllabus. The course provides stimulating content to enable students to develop their linguistic skills alongside their understanding of the culture and society of countries where French is spoken.

Students study technological and social change, looking at diversity and the benefits it brings. They will study highlights of French-speaking artistic culture, including francophone music and cinema, and learn about political engagement and who wields political power in the French-speaking world. Students also explore the influence of the past on present-day French-speaking communities. Throughout their studies, they will learn the language in the context of French-speaking countries and the issues in which have shaped them. Students will study texts and have the opportunity to carry out independent research on an area of their choice.

Films from French-speaking directors and literature from French authors form part of the teaching content, and are studied either as extracts or as whole pieces over the two-year course.

In the first year, students will develop their reading, writing, listening, translating and speaking skills over the following topics: changing family structures, cyber-society; volunteering; cultural heritage and French contemporary music. A film will also be studied in depth.

In the second year, topics include multiculturalism, the socially marginalised, criminality, the vote, social protest and immigration. A piece of literature will be studied in depth, and students get to do some individual research for a presentation as part of the oral examination.

Pupils also benefit from 1:1 speaking sessions with their teachers throughout the course.

We provide an enriching experience in French, so our teaching extends beyond the classroom. A trip is organised annually to Lyon, to which students are actively encouraged to take part. We also run a French debating club every fortnight, which has a huge impact on students’ speaking confidence and fluency. We are a member of the Independent School Modern Languages Association (ISMLA) and join in their annual debating competition every year. Finally, a French Drama Festival takes place at KAS every year; this is mainly designed for A level students and enables them to explore their acting skills in a foreign language whilst competing against 15 other schools.

Assessment

Paper 1: Listening, reading and writing: two hours 30 minutes; 50% of the A level

Paper 2: Writing: two hours; 20% of the A level.

two hours 30 minutes;

Paper 3: Speaking; 21-23 minutes; 30% of the A level.

Entry requirements

Levels 7-9 in French GCSE are needed to be able to access the syllabus confidently.

Extra information

Each year we host the French Theatre Festival here at King Alfred School and all students are encouraged to enter. We also enter students into the French Debate competition (ISMLA). One of the highlights for most students is the annual language and cultural enrichment trip to Lyon. In addition to these students are given the opportunity to participate in:

• The fortnightly French Debate club
• The Stephen Spender translation competition
• Outings to A level French conferences
• Outings to the BFI for student conferences regarding French film
• Theatre performances in French in London (depending on what is currently showing)

Head of department: Camilla Parsons

Exam board: OCR

By focusing on the major global issues likely to dominate our future sustainable use of the planet, Geography encourages students to think about their own place in the world; their values, their rights and their responsibilities. It encourages them to find out more about the places that they are connected to or interested in. Geography appeals to those with enquiring minds who are interested in a wide range of issues and would like to keep breadth as well as depth in their A level programme.

The study of Geography also develops many transferable skills that form the basis of life-long learning. Geographers are independent thinkers who are able to critically analyse and respond to issues, data or ideas they are presented with in a systematic and informed way. These skills prepare students well for university and make them highly desirable employees in whatever field they choose to pursue. Geography graduates can be found in every area of the economy; from the arts through charity work to the Civil Service and the City.

The new OCR A Level course runs over two years and be examined in three exams at the end of Year 13; in addition to one piece of coursework as detailed below.

Assessment

Entry requirements

Grade 7 or above at Geography GCSE

Head of Department: Fay Crowther

Exam board: Edexcel

This is an exciting and relevant History course that gives students the chance to explore topics and key themes that span the 17th, 19th and 20th centuries, and provides an excellent bridge between GCSE and university.

The theme of revolution in Europe runs through two of the modules, with the challenges of Civil War, Restoration and Glorious Revolution in Britain and the Revolution in Russia. Alongside this course students study a wide ranging look at Civil Rights and race relations in the USA from the end of the Civil War up to the election of Obama.

We are very supportive in encouraging all our students to achieve their best work. There is a strong focus on essay writing and document analysis and we place a high emphasis on class discussion and wider reading. Coursework in particular will help develop students’ research and independent study skills.

• Unit 1: Britain, 1625-1701: Conflict, Resolution and Settlement.
• Unit 2: Russia in revolution, 1894-1924.
• Unit 3: Civil rights and race relations in the USA, 1850-2009.
• Unit 4: Coursework on interpretations of the Civil Rights movement.

Assessment

• Year 12 Unit 1 (30%) – Two essays and one source- based interpretation question.
• Year 12 Unit 2 (20%) – One source based question and one essay.
• Year 13 Unit 3 (30%) – Two essays and one source based question.
• Year 13 Unit 4 (20%) – A single coursework assignment on a question set by the school.

Entry requirements

Grade 6 in History or English GCSE.

Head of department: Leon Whitham

Exam board: OCR

Every time you get a bus or spot an ambulance or pram, use a credit card or debit card or follow somebody’s example, see the doctor etc …. you are using Latin. It’s there in everyday language: far from dead, it’s very much alive.

Latin was the language of one of the world’s most extensive, powerful and long-lasting empires. After the fall of the Roman Empire it became the language of learning and of the Christian Church, used in the corridors of power and as the language of faith for centuries. It also changed, gradually becoming the modern Romance languages we are so familiar with today: Italian, Spanish, French, Portuguese and Romanian. Through these languages it influenced English. People who study Latin find it helps with their English grammar, vocabulary and spelling; it gives an insight into modern languages; it helps with scientific terminology and stretches the mind with puzzles and poetry.

Above all, it gets you to the heart of the Roman and medieval mind. With Latin, you can read ancient and medieval literature in their original. Latin A level enables you to study the language to a high level and to read some of the world’s greatest literature in the language in which it was written.

Assessment

At the end of the second year of study there will be four papers.

Paper 1 – Unseen translation

This paper requires students to translate a passage of unseen narrative prose and a passage of unseen poetry in English, and to scan two lines of Latin verse.  The prose passage will come from the historian Livy and the poetry from Ovid, so we will prepare for the examination by reading extracts from their work.

Paper 2 – Prose Composition or Comprehension

For this paper, students are given a choice: they can either translate unseen material from English into Latin or demonstrate their understanding of a passage of unseen prose text through comprehension, translation and grammatical questions.

Paper 2 – Prose Literature

You will study two set texts in depth, and will read some other work in translation to help with contextualisation. Questions will include translation, comprehension, and analysis and we will spend time on analytical and essay-writing technique. Cicero, Tactus and Livy are the authors available for study  from 2020.

Paper 2 – Verse Literature

You will study two set texts in depth, and will read some other work in translation to help with contextualisation. Questions will include translation, comprehension, and analysis and we will spend time on analytical and essay-writing technique. Virgil, Catullus and Ovid are the poets available for study  from 2020.

Entry requirements

Minimum Grade 6 or equivalent in Latin GCSE.

Head of department: Judith Rice

Exam board: Edexcel

A difficult subject and commands considerable prestige amongst prospective employers as well as universities. It can help with the study of other subjects (notably Physics, Chemistry, Biology and Geography) but is rewarding and enjoyable in its own right and is a good choice with virtually any combination of subjects taken at A level.

It requires consistent hard work, considerable commitment and a high level of algebraic and numerical skills. Homework of at least three hours per week will be expected. Students need a high level of persistence in solving problems.

Year 1

• Pure Mathematics, Statistics & Mechanics (the AS Edexcel course)

Year 2

• Pure Mathematics, Statistics & Mechanics (the Year 2 Edexcel course)

Assessment

The Pearson Edexcel Level 3 Advanced GCE in Mathematics consists of three externally-examined papers.

• Paper 1 and Paper 2 are 2 hour exams each worth 33.3% of the course. They assess content from Pure Mathematics.
• Paper 3 is a 2 hour exam worth 33.3% of the course.  It will assess content on Statistics and Mechanics.

Entry requirements

Grade 7 or higher at GCSE is required.

Extra information

STEP (Sixth Term Examination Paper) Mathematics is a well-established mathematics examination designed to test candidates on questions that are similar in style to undergraduate mathematics. We offer to train suitable students for STEP exams.

Annually, the Maths department runs the UKMT senior competition and the Hans Woyda competition. We also run Maths club. We will probably visit the Thorpe Park STEM fair to enhance the study of Mechanics.

Further Mathematics

Exam board: Edexcel

Further Mathematics can be offered to suitable candidates as a second, much harder, mathematics qualification. Your suitability needs to be discussed with members of the mathematics department. There is some flexibility in which units can be studied and this would be determined by the needs of the individuals within the group.

Year 1

• Core Pure Mathematics 1 & Decision Mathematics 1.

Year 2

• Core Pure Mathematics 2 and Further Statistics 1.

All modules are assessed by written examinations of duration 1 hour 30 minutes and each carries the same weight in the overall grading.

Assessment

The Pearson Edexcel Level 3 Advanced GCE in Mathematics consists of four externally-examined papers.

• Paper 1 and Paper 2 are 1 hour 30 minute exams each worth 25% of the course. They assess content from Pure Mathematics.
• Paper 3 and Paper 4 are 1 hour 30 minute exams each worth 25% of the course. They are option units.  The options we run at KAS are Further Statistics 1 and Decision Mathematics 1.

Entry requirements

Grade 7 or higher at GCSE is required.

Head of department: Jeff Harlow

Exam board: Edexcel

Music Technology is an exciting subject centred around contemporary music. Students will learn how to sequence, produce, record and mix using a range of hardware and software.

Ex students have progressed to study the subject further at degree level and work within the music industry.

We have a recording studio with a range of high quality equipment that includes:

• Neumann TLM-107 condenser microphones X2
• Neumann KM-184 small diaphragm condenser mics X2
• Shure SM58 – X4
• Shure SM57 – X1
• Senheiser drum microphone kit
• Beyer dynamic microphones
• Neve 1073 dual high-end mic pre with EQ
• Toft Audio stereo compressor
• Soundcraft Ghost LE 24 track analogue mixing console
• JBL 4326p Active monitors
• Tascam 34B Analogue tape machine
• Roland Juno 6 analogue synthesiser
• Various guitar effects pedals – including Eventide and Korg
• Apple iMac workstations running the latest version of Logic Pro X and Sibelius software

Music skills are essential and experience at the piano is highly recommended. No prior knowledge of recording or sequencing is needed, but any experience is an advantage. Most importantly, a willingness to embrace all styles of music is expected. Students are required to take part in departmentally organised co-curricular groups. Trips to professional recording studios and concerts are organised. Music Technology allows students to progress to degree level and gives a wide range of career prospects within the music industry including producing, engineering and composing.

There are three areas of study:

• Recording and production techniques for both corrective and creative purposes
• Principles of sound and audio technology
• The development of recording and production technology

Assessment

The course consists of two major coursework projects that amount to 40%

Component 1: Multi-track recording

Component 2: Composition

The next two modules and amount to the remaining 60% of the overall grade

Component 3: Listening and Analysing

Component 4: Analysing and Producing

Entry requirements

GCSE Music – grade 7 or above. Grade III Theory. Grade IV or equivalent standard at one instrument or voice. The ability to play the piano to a basic level is essential.

We do have an assessment prior to joining the course, so anyone who may not have reached the above criteria but has an interest in Music Technology and necessary skills should contact the school and we can assess their suitability for the course as we aim to be as open and inclusive as possible.

Extra information

Due to the popularity of Music Technology we have a lunch time club which runs on a weekly basis.

A yearly visit is organised to The Church Studios in Crouch End where we record a song which is mixed, put onto vinyl and sold at our summer concert as a fund raiser.

Head of department: Neven Vangelov

Exam board: AQA

Students are required to take part in departmentally organised groups and ensembles where appropriate. The concert programme allows for a wide range of musical styles with traditional Christmas and summer concerts as well as the hugely popular Unplugged and Axemonsters gigs, and informal and soloist concerts. Each year the Music Department stages a musical production. Past performances include Grease, Guys and Dolls, Into the Woods, Sweeney Todd, Anything Goes, Chicago and Legally Blond.

Regular trips to a variety of concerts take place which are relevant to the course.

Assessment

Component 1: Appraising Music 40% (exam paper with listening and written questions using excerpts of music)

The areas of study provide an appropriate focus for students to appraise, develop and demonstrate an

in-depth knowledge and understanding of musical elements, musical contexts and musical language. Genres studied are:

• Western classical tradition 1650–1910 (compulsory) focusing on the Baroque solo concerto and the operas

of Mozart; POP Music; Jazz

Component 2: Performance 35% (externally assessed coursework)

• A recital featuring a selection from solo, ensemble and music technology performances.

Component 3: Composition 25% (externally assessed coursework)

• Students must learn how to develop musical ideas and compose music that is musically convincing

through two compositions

• Composition 1: Composition to an externally set brief
• Composition 2: Free composition

Entry requirements

Grade 8 or above in GCSE Music. The course involves the reading and understanding of scores using a variety of natation practices. Grade V Theory at Merit or Distinction, therefore, is an absolute requirement. Grade VI standard or higher on one or more instruments or voice.

Extra information

There are plenty of opportunities to involve yourself in Music beyond the A level Music course. We run piano masterclasses, Jazz at KAS and regular trips to a variety of concerts. We also run regular music groups including:

Senior Show Band, Chamber Choir, Barbershop, Chamber Music Ensembles, Baroque ‘n’ Roll, Rock Bands, Jazz Choir, Jazz Band and Sound Production Club.

Each year we need help from talented musicians to run the KAS Senior Production, Soloist Concerts, Christmas Concert, Spring Concert, Unplugged, Axe Monsters, KAStonbury, Busking Day and number of informal concerts.

Head of department: Neven Vangelov

Exam board: Eduqas WJEC

Year 12

The first year of the course will allow you to explore a broad and diverse range of practical and conceptual starting points for exploring photography. This will involve still and moving images, research work in galleries and museums and travelling in and around London, and abroad, to build your portfolio and work journal. Specific tasks are linked to the history and theory of Photography as well as contemporary practice.

Year 13: Unit 1

This is your personal project and will allow you to develop personal ideas and carry out in- depth research into your chosen area of photographic practice, from documentary to portraiture, fashion to travel and beyond. Research the underlines your practical exploration of photography and other lens-based media is a key component of the Personal Investigation

Year 13: Unit 2

Externally Set Assignment. Build a portfolio of images and research investigating one theme from the options made available at the start of the Spring term. A short project that requires you to put into practice all the practical and research skills you have learnt up to this point.

Assessment

The A level is assessed through two components. The first component, worth 60%, is the personal investigation. The second component, worth 40%, is the externally set assignment.

Entry requirements

Grade 6 or above in Art and Design or Photography GCSE, or on submission of a portfolio of photographic work.

Head of department: Cliff Bevan

Exam board: AQA

Physicists explore the fundamental nature of almost everything we know of. They probe the furthest reaches of the earth to study the smallest pieces of matter and venture far into space to discover exoplanets. Join them to enter a world deep beneath the surface of normal human experience.

In Physics A-level there are opportunities for candidates to

• develop practical skills (for example, in choosing and using materials and equipment).
• practise data-handling skills (for example, estimating, presenting and analysing data).
• use their imagination.
• place physics in a social or historical context and argue about the issues that arise.
• be rewarded for initiative and interest in learning – for finding out for themselves.
• use information and communication technology as an integral part of learning physics.

Year 1

Measurements and their errors; Particles and radiation; Waves; Mechanics and energy; Electricity.

Year 2

Further mechanics; Thermal physics; Fields; Nuclear physics; Plus one option from the following –

Astrophysics; Medical physics: Engineering physics: Turning points in physics; Electronics.

Practicals

Throughout the course you will carry out practical activities including:

• Investigating interference and diffraction of laser light
• Measuring acceleration due to gravity
• Investigating systems that oscillate
• Investigation of the links between temperature, volume and pressure
• Safe use of ionising radiation
• Investigating magnetic fields.

Assessment

There is no coursework on this course. However, your performance during practicals will be assessed. There are three exams at the end of the two years for A level, all of which are two hours long. At least 15% of the marks for A level Physics are based on what you have learnt in your practicals.

Entry requirements

Grade 7/7 in GCSE Double Science or Grade 7 in GCSE Physics and Grade 7 in GCSE Mathematics. The Mathematical demands in Physics is very high so we advise that you study A level Maths alongside Physics

Head of department: Philip Price

Exam board: Edexcel

Politics is a fascinating and constantly changing subject that challenges students’ ideas about how democracy works. By studying this subject at A level, students will learn about how government is organised in the UK and USA in theory and how politics actually works in practice. Students are asked to cast a critical eye over what they learn to form arguments. Skills in research are crucial and students are required to engage in independent study. They are encouraged to challenge their own beliefs and to develop skills of empathy and persuasive argument as well as a sense that arguments must be balanced before conclusions are made. Students learn how to approach short structured questions, how to study stimulus material and how to structure essays. We expect students to develop an extensive knowledge of current affairs and to build up real examples that they can apply to understanding their own lives and to relate to issues in other subjects. The subject would suit anyone with an interest in current affairs who is keen to learn more. Students need to be prepared to stay up-to-date using newspapers, magazines and documentaries and to be prepared to discuss politics and to listen and try to understand others’ views.

The course is divided into three parts:

(i) UK Politics and Government

This section explores the themes of democracy and participation, political parties, electoral systems, voting behaviour and the influence of the media in the UK. Additionally, this looks at the UK’s institutional framework, e.g. the role of the Prime Minister, Parliament and judges.

(ii) US Comparative Politics and Government

This section introduces students to the US systems of government drawing clear contrasts with the UK. For example, it will assess who is more powerful, the British PM or the American President along with the different democratic traditions of these countries.

(iii) Political ideas

This part of the course introduces students to the key political ideologies and the main thinkers who have influenced their development over time. There are three compulsory ideologies: conservatism; liberalism; and socialism and then an optional one is also chosen (from either nationalism, anarchism, feminism, ecologism or multiculturalism).

Assessment

The course is examined by three final two-hour exams which are each worth 33.3% of the overall grade.

Entry requirements

Grade 6 in GCSE English or History.

Extra information

There are lots of opportunities for students to broaden their political knowledge and understanding as well as stimulate their interest outside the classroom. In recent years students have attended Schools’ Question Time in Westminster, a team has taken part in the European Youth Parliament and there are also opportunities to attend revision workshops and conferences.

Head of department: Takako Leung

Exam board: AQA

A level psychology will give you a good fundamental and lasting insight into human behaviour, thinking and reasoning. This will definitely help you to cope better with your own life, but also it will help you to gain a better understanding of others.

Assessment

The A level exam consists of three separate units. Each unit is assessed by a two hour exam, which comprises of multiple choice, short answer and extended writing questions.

Paper 1: Introductory topics in psychology

• Social influence: conformity, obedience, resistance to social pressures, minority influence and the role of social influence processes in social change.
• Memory: models of memory, explanations for forgetting, factors affecting the accuracy of eyewitness testimony, use of the cognitive interview in police setting.
• Attachments: caregiver-infant interactions in humans, stages of attachment, the role of the father, explanations of attachment, secure and insecure attachments, influence of early attachments on adult relationships.
• Psychopathology: definitions of abnormality, behavioural, cognitive and biological approach to explaining and treating disorders, phobias, depression, OCD.

Paper 2: Psychology in context

• Approaches in psychology: origins of psychology, learning approaches, cognitive approach, biological approach, psychodynamic approach, humanistic approach.
• Biopsychology: the role of the nervous and endocrine systems on behaviour.
• Research methods: all methods and techniques of conducting independent research.

Paper 3: Issues and options in psychology

• Issues and debates in psychology: gender and culture in psychology, free will and determinism, the nature-nurture debate, holism and reductionism.
• Relationships: theories of romantic relationships, relationships formation, maintenance and breakdown, factors affecting attraction, nature of virtual relationships, levels of parasocial relationships.
• Schizophrenia: symptoms, validity of diagnosis, biological and psychological explanations, drug therapy and antipsychotics, cognitive behavioural

therapy and family interventions.

• Forensic Psychology: issues in defining crime, offender profiling, types of offenders and investigative Psychology, geographical profiling, biological and psychological theories of crime, dealing with offending behaviour, including recidivism, behaviour modification and anger management.

Entry requirements

Grade 6 in English GCSE.

Extra information

Every year students attend trips to Sigmund Freud’s house to explore the depth of the unconscious, London Zoo to experience the systematic desensitisation therapy for arachnophobia, Natural History Museum to look at the evolutionary impacts on human behaviour. We area also regular visitors to the Wellcome Collection for their frequent mental health events.

Head of department: Ania Herbut

Exam board: AQA

In our increasingly globalised world, communicating in another language, learning about the political aspects of another country and having an understanding of a country’s society, literature and culture are invaluable. Spanish is an exciting and challenging course that combines all of the above.

During the course, you will learn to communicate and debate on current affairs, politics and socio-economic issues related to Spain and the Spanish-speaking world. You will learn a lot about cultural references, the arts and the literature in the Hispanic world combined with the in-depth study of a film and a set text.

The course is very interactive and you will have the opportunity to develop your knowledge and language skills through a variety of different mediums such as TV, music, the internet and authentic texts. As well as topic-based lessons and weekly grammar lessons, you will improve your fluency and pronunciation in small groups as well as in 1:1 sessions with your subject teacher.

Studying a language at A level leads to a range of career opportunities. Students who have studied languages go on to have careers in a variety of sectors including teaching, translating, sales and marketing, travel & tourism, journalism, fashion, work in the foreign office or secret service, interpreting and banking.

Spanish extends beyond the classroom at King Alfred and a number of extra-curricular activities are on offer. This includes an annual trip to Salamanca and a Spanish Debating Club run fortnightly.

Assessment

Assessment takes place at the end of the two year course.

Entry requirements

Levels 7-9 in Spanish GCSE are required to access the syllabus confidently.

Extra information

Each year we enter students into the Hispanic Theatre Festival at North London Collegiate School. One of the highlights for most students is the annual language and cultural enrichment trip to Salamanca. In addition to these students are given the opportunity to participate in:

• The fortnightly Spanish Debate club
• The Stephen Spender translation competition
• Outings to A level Spanish conferences
• Outings to the BFI for student conferences regarding Spanish film
• Theatre performances in Spanish in London (depending on what is currently showing)

Head of department: Camilla Parsons

Exam board: AQA

We want students to have an inspiring experience of A level Drama and Theatre.

This qualification emphasises practical creativity alongside research and theoretical understanding. Students learn through experience, seeing theatre and making theatre for themselves. Students are introduced to a wide range of theatrical styles and contexts as they explore plays practically, devise and work on performances. Students can choose to develop as a: Performer; Designer (lighting, sound, set, costume, puppets); Director; Combination of these.

There will be appropriate enrichment activities over the two years including masterclasses, workshops and outings to enhance student learning. Whichever option they choose, students will gain many invaluable skills, both theatrical and transferable, to expand their horizons.

This is an exciting course which is accepted by all universities as an entrance qualification. The course demands practical, creative and communication skills in almost equal measure meaning students are prepared for university and beyond.

Assessment

Component 1: Drama & Theatre

• Written exam of 3 hours / Open book / 80 marks / 40% of A level
• Section A: 1 question from a choice of set plays from List A (25 marks)
• Section B: question on a given extract from one of set plays from List B (30 marks)
• Section C: One question on the work of theatre makers in a single live theatre production (25 marks)

Component 2: Creating Original Drama (Practical)

• The creating and performing devised drama influenced by the work of one prescribed practitioner
• Working notebook (40 marks) / Devised performance (20 marks)
• 60 marks in total / 30% of A level
• Marked by teachers & moderated by AQA
• (postal moderation from requested sample)

Component 3: Making Theatre (Practical)

• Practical exploration & theatrical interpretation of three extracts (extracts 1,2 & 3).
• Methodology of a prescribed practitioner must be applied to extract 3
• Performance of extract 3 (40 marks) / Reflective report (20 marks)
• 60 marks in total / 30% of A level
• Marked by AQA (visiting examiner)

Entry requirements

GCSE 6/7 English or Drama.

Extra information

We pride ourselves on running lots of different productions, trips, competitions and workshops that you can get involved in.  These include but are not limited to:

• The Senior School Show
• School Shakespeare
• ISTA (International Schools Theatre Association) Festivals in Europe
• New Views. National Theatre Playwriting Competition
• Theatre Trips
• Drama Workshops
• Masterclasses
• Audition Technique Classes

Head of department: Lucy Hall

Exam Board: WJEC – Educas

 A course in 3D Design offers a unique opportunity within the curriculum for candidates to identify and solve real world problems. Using insights to gain an understanding of their user, they design and then manufacture solutions to a wide range of human centred project contexts. This will relate to an area of the candidates personal design interest and can include architecture, furniture design, environmental design, jewellery, interaction design and product design, too name but a few of these potential areas to specialise in.

This A level course is intended to be of interest to candidates with a real passion for design and is suitable for those students wanting a career in design or associated areas. The program of study is based entirely on coursework and has a focus upon being ‘hands on’, proactive, independent learning with the ability to ‘think through making’ at the heart of its pedagogy.

In the first-year students will take part in a range of projects that build their subject specific knowledge, skills and understanding. In the final year of the course students will complete two units of work for the A level award.

Assessment

Component 1: Personal Investigation (60%)

The Personal Investigation – two integrated parts:

A major in-depth critical, practical and theoretical investigative project and outcomes based on themes and that have personal significance;

An extended written element of 1000 words minimum, which may contain images and texts and must clearly relate to practical and theoretical work using an appropriate working vocabulary and specialist terminology.

Component 2: Externally Set Assignment (40%)

Part 1 & 2: Preparatory study period and 15 hours sustained focus work

Externally set assignment. Responses take the form of critical, practical and theoretical preparatory work/supporting studies, which inform the resolution of ideas in the 15 hours sustained focus study. Planning has to relate to the outcomes. The department has two extremely well equipped “university level” workshops and two design studios with the latest CAD/CAM. There is a blacksmith’s forge and outdoor project works. There are trips to design weeks and graduate shows. The department also has excellent links with Eindhoven’s Design Academy and Northumbria University, considered two of the best HE Design courses in the world.

Entry requirements

Ideally, DT at GCSE but students who have only studied Art will also be considered.

Basic skills needed include ICT, CAD, sketching, modelling and researching, all of which are developed on the course. Students will also need to be familiar with workshop practice and have a basic grounding in the use of hand tools and workshop machinery.

Head of Department: Miranda Socratous

Exam board: University of the Arts London (UAL)

This Level 3 Extended Diploma in Performance and Production Arts is an alternative route at post GCSEs. Moving away from a more traditional route of study, this vocational course in performance has been designed to provide students with the skills, knowledge and understanding of a wide range of performance and production disciplines.

Over the two years, there will be many exciting opportunities to perform; including singing showcases, music concerts, drama performances and full-scale productions.

Lessons are taught practically, although students are expected to research and record their own progress through log books and in feedback sessions.

This rigorous course mean that students have to be equally energised and committed to developing both their practical skills and academic appreciation of the arts.

At the end of their two year training students will be well equipped to start their own career in the Performing Arts Industry or alternatively go on to study at University or Drama School.

UAL have produced a great video looking at the Extended Project part of the course which you can watch here.

Assessment 

Students are assessed through rehearsals, practical performance, reflective journals (audio/ video and written) and evaluations. Independent research is moderated and written work is only set in order to aid progression and development throughout the programme. You can see examples of UAL Extended Essays here.

Continuous formative assessment is given throughout each project, this is made up of verbal feedback, teacher observations and tutor 1-2-1. At the end of each project each student receives a formal summative assessment that will be kept on record. It will highlight how the student has met/is exceeding each unit’s assessment criteria as outlined in the UAL specification.

To achieve a PASS in any unit – all assessment criteria must be met. Units 8 and 12 are assessed and graded PASS, MERIT or DISTINCTION.  Failure to meet assessment criteria will lead to a referral. Students are allowed ONE opportunity to redeem a referral.

UCAS Points 

The UAL Level 3 Extended Diploma in Performance and Production Arts is included in the UCAS tariff and attracts tariff points : PASS 72 / MERIT 120 / DISTINCTION 168 

Entry Requirements

It is recommended that students have a minimum of 4 x GCSE’s at grade 4 or above, at least one of which should be in a Performing Arts subject. Music or Dance grades of the appropriate level may also be considered as suitable entry qualifications.

Head of department: Lucy Hall

Read more about the UAL course here.