Sixth Form Academic

Our 2023 cohort did themselves, their families and Tranby incredibly proud on results day this year. Read more about Tranby A-Level results 2023 here.

With a return to the historic standards of A Level examinations and having taken GCSEs still under the shadow of COVID, this cohort has performed exceptionally well showing their resilience and perseverance. We always have the highest expectations and are so proud of the work our Upper-Sixth have put in to ensure they secure their all-important places at university and higher apprenticeship programmes.

96% accessed their first-choice university and the remaining 4% secured their insurance choice, which made for a celebratory morning here at Tranby. Read more here.

We are incredibly proud of this group of pupils, who did themselves and their families proud when collecting their A Level results. Whether overcoming challenges to achieve grades to be proud of, or securing offers that allow them to pursue their passions, their commitment and dedication have truly paid off.

An impressive 90% of the cohort progressed to their first-choice university, while the remaining 10% have confidently taken their next steps into further education and apprenticeships.

Discover more here.

Examination Body: AQA 7402 

A Level Biology is challenging, exciting, interesting and relevant; it is a popular subject in the Sixth Form. Biology is the study of life. It encompasses the study of organisms, from the smallest viruses through to human beings. A Level Biology provides an understanding of a variety of biological processes, from the large scale magnificent ecological relationships in a habitat to the function and structure of biological molecules, such as DNA.  

The A Level Biology course aims to build on your understanding of the subject achieved at GCSE and to equip you with the skills and understanding required not only to succeed at A Level, but also to follow a scientific or medical degree at university. 

Entry Requirements 

There are no specific requirements to start A-level study in Biology. Your teachers will be more interested in your potential, commitment and genuine interest in Biology. You must accept that consistent hard work is essential for success. 

Delivery and Assessment 

The course offered is linear, so there are no modules and all examinations are taken at the end of the course. It is anticipated that most pupils will follow the full two-year course leading to the award of GCE Advanced Level Biology. 

Examination Body: AQA 

Business at A Level covers a wide range of related topics including finance, marketing, operations, human resources, strategy and the external environment. It is a subject that will support progression to further study as it can be combined with any number of subjects at degree level. 

Business is based on what happens in the real world around us and is, therefore, a very accessible subject. During the course students will develop important examination skills such as analysis and evaluation, which will aid them at degree level and in the world of work. 

Entry Requirements 

There are no requirements over and above those laid down for Sixth Form entry. However, an interest in current business affairs is advantageous as theory is related to current business examples in class discussions. A willingness and ability to write extended answers is also required as issues are analysed in depth and in detail in exam questions. 

Delivery and Assessment 

The AS and A Level qualifications are stand alone; students will only sit the AS if they are not going to study Business in Year 13. Questions in the exams are multiple choice, case study based and essays. 

Examination Body: AQA Advanced Chemistry 7405 

A Level Chemistry is a highly regarded subject and lends itself to many degree courses and pathways. A chemistry qualification opens doors to a wide range of careers. The food you eat, the clothes you wear and the technology you use all depend on chemistry.   

The Royal Society of Chemistry writes: “In a complex and changing world, chemistry and the chemical sciences are essential. They are vital in our everyday lives and will be vital in helping the world respond to some of its biggest challenges.” 

Entry Requirements 

A minimum 6 in GCSE Chemistry or Double Award Science is required. If you only achieve the minimum standards you must accept that consistent hard work is essential for success. 

Delivery and Assessment 

The course is linear and consists of 9 topic areas. All students are entered in June of Year 13. 

The work involves lectures and regular assessments. In addition, practical skills are assessed on numerous occasions, including 12 required activities which contribute to a Practical Endorsement. It is important that time should be spent outside the laboratory on productive reading and comprehensive study of the subject matter covered. The subject content is divided into three topic areas: Physical, Inorganic and Organic Chemistry, with the content of each examined by three written papers.  

Exam Board: OCR

Why do ancient stories still speak to us today? How did Greek and Roman thinkers shape the way we understand politics, religion, and identity? Can studying the ancient world help us make sense of the modern one? At Tranby, studying Classics unlocks the literature, history, and philosophy of ancient Greece and Rome, exploring how classical ideas continue to influence culture, society, and thought. From epic poetry to political satire, students discover the enduring power of the ancient world to challenge, inspire, and illuminate.

Entry Requirements:
No entry requirements

Delivery & Assessment
Classics is taught through a dynamic blend of teacher-led lessons, group discussion, close reading of classical texts (in translation) and interpretation of visual and material sources, and independent research. Students develop key skills in critical analysis and evaluation, interpreting classical sources within their historical and cultural contexts, and constructing coherent, evidence-based arguments. Through the study of classical literature, thought, and material culture, learners gain a deep understanding of the ancient world and its lasting impact. Assessment focuses on two core objectives: demonstrating knowledge and understanding of classical sources and contexts, and applying critical analysis and evaluation supported by relevant evidence.
 
There are three components, all of which are externally assessed via written exams.

• World of the Hero: 40%
• Culture and the Arts: 30%
• Beliefs and Ideas: 30%

Examination Board: OCR 

Computer Science is not just learning about computers, it is learning how to solve problems using computer systems. This course is for you if you enjoy the challenge of problem solving and developing working solutions. You should be comfortable with Mathematics, as there is a large element of Maths involved in the course.  

Computer Science links to other areas of study including Mathematics and Languages and provides an excellent platform for studying Computer Science or Games Development at university. 

Entry Requirements 

You will need to have achieved level 5 or above in at least five GCSE Subjects and it is preferable if you achieved a Maths grade of level 6 or above. It is beneficial, but not compulsory, to have studied Computer Science at GCSE. 

Delivery and Assessment 

The course consists of three units which are outlined below: 

Component 01: Computer Systems – Written exam 40%  

In this unit you will learn about computer components and their uses, types of software and the different methodologies used to develop software, how data is exchanged between different systems, how data is represented and stored within different structures, different algorithms that can be applied to data structures and the laws and ethical issues around the use of computers. 

Component 02: Algorithms & Programming – Written Exam 40% 

In this unit you will learn what is meant by computational thinking, how computers can be used to solve problems, how programs can be written to solve problems, the use of standard algorithms and their use in describing problems.  

Component 03: Programming Project – Coursework Project 20% 

In this unit you will learn how to produce a coded, computing solution to a real-world problem, including analysis of the problem, design of the solution, development of the solution and evaluation of the finished project. 

Examination body: Eduqas (level 3 Applied Diploma)

The study of criminology is the scientific and systematic study of crime, criminals, and the criminal justice system. It explores why crimes happen, how society responds to crime, and how to prevent or reduce criminal behaviour. It’s a powerful subject that combines real-world impact with deep intellectual exploration.

Criminology is ideal for people who are curious about crime, justice, and human behaviour, and want to make a difference in how society deals with crime and punishment.

Criminology provides links with other areas of study including psychology, history and biology.

Entry requirements:

There are no specific requirements to study Criminology. However, a genuine interest in human behaviour and the criminal justice system is essential as well as a hard-working attitude and commitment to study outside of lesson time.

Delivery and Assessment:

The Level 3 Applied Diploma in Criminology is assessed through a combination of internally assessed coursework (50%) and externally assessed exams (50%). Year 1 will consist of unit 1 and 2, year 2 will consist of unit 3 and 4.

Examination Body: Edexcel 

Product Design is all around us. Everything we come into contact with, from our smart phones and our plastic milk bottles to a Ferrari F1 car and a child’s scooter, has been considered and designed by someone. There is a huge industry made up of many different roles that go into creating all our products that we take for granted. Concept artists, materials analysts, designers, modelling specialists… the list goes on. This is what makes Product Design such a varied and interesting course and career. The subject also leads into other roles such as Architect, Automotive engineer. Graphic designer. Materials engineer. Product manager. Production designer, theatre/television/film. Purchasing manager. 

During the course you will work with a variety of materials and solve practical problems which will challenge your creativity and innovation. You will develop a detailed understanding of design and engineering both from a practical and theoretical prospective. You will be able to analyse any product for how it could be manufactured and what materials would be most suitable for its use. 

Entry Requirements 

Along with the normal Sixth Form entry requirements, you will need a 4 or above in both GCSE Maths and English.  

Delivery and Assessment 

In Year 12 you will undertake a number of practical projects to build your skill level and understanding of the subject. The theory aspect will be spit over the two years and is supported with its own textbook. Year 13 you will take a written examination and produce coursework. Your final practical piece will be a single, integrated design project using any material or combination of materials, which will contain certain aspects of industrial and commercial design. 

Examination body: Edexcel  

The A Level Drama and Theatre qualification encourages creativity and critical thinking. The focus on practical work will allow you to develop your skills, which will support progression to further study of drama and a wide range of other subjects that require communication and presentation. 

The two set texts will require you to articulate how you would perform in certain roles, and design for certain scenes, putting practical work at the heart of each specification. This course will encourage and give you opportunities to think ‘outside the box’. 

Entry Requirements 

There are no requirements over and above those laid down for Sixth Form entry. A Level Drama & Theatre is open to all students who are capable of achieving an A Level standard. 

Delivery and Assessment 

The A Level in Drama and Theatre is assessed through a combination of a 40% written exam and 60% Non-Examined Assessment (NEA).   The 60% practical aspect of the course includes a devised and a scripted performance and work on either a monologue or duologue. 

Exam body: AQA

The basic economic problem is scarcity and Economics can be defined as the study of the allocation of scarce resources between competing uses; it is about the choices we have to make to get the goods and services we need and want. In Economics, we study how markets work, why they sometimes fail and how the government may step in to solve this failure. We also examine the structure of firms in markets and how this structure may help or hinder the allocation of resources. In addition, we look at how the national economy works and how we try to ensure it grows over time to improve economic welfare.

Entry requirements
No additional entry requirements, although a willingness to write extended answers is required.
Delivery and assessment
Economics A Level exams are sat at the end of the two year programme. Three papers are sat, covering three parts of the specification: microeconomics, macroeconomics, and a synoptic unit bringing the two together. Questions in the exams include multiple choice, case study based responses and extended essays.

Delivery and assessment
Economics A Level exams are sat at the end of the two year programme. Three papers are sat, covering three parts of the specification: microeconomics, macroeconomics, and a synoptic unit bringing the two together. Questions in the exams include multiple choice, case study based responses and extended essays.

Examination Body: Edexcel 

As a facilitating subject, English Literature is a prestigious subject that provides a gateway to a range of subjects at degree level. It will encourage you to develop a passion for English Literature and the literary heritage. Through reading widely, critically and independently, you will become an expert in literature across centuries, genre and theme. You will be challenged to develop personal responses to some of the most stimulating poetry, prose and drama in the world. 

Entry Requirements 

You should achieve at least a 6 in GCSE English Literature. 

Assessment and Delivery 

The Edexcel specification offers the opportunity to experience literature at its best, with a focus on analysis and development of personal responses. You will be able to take all examined texts into the examination.  

Over the course of two years, you will explore modern drama and a Shakespeare play, a modern poetry anthology and a set poet as well as classic prose. A coursework unit allows you to explore texts that are of particular interest to you. 

Examination Body: WJEC
Pupils of Film Studies explore a wide range of cinema from Hollywood classics to contemporary international film, as well as documentary, silent cinema and experimental work. The course develops analytical, critical and creative skills through the study of film language, narrative, genre, representation, spectatorship and the work of key filmmakers. Film Studies is a suitable A Level to lead to further study in Film, Media, Communication, Cultural Studies or English, and provides strong support to other arts and humanities subjects such as Drama, Art, History, Sociology, Psychology and Politics. It can be useful for careers in the creative industries including film, television, journalism, marketing, advertising and digital media, as well as education, public relations and arts management. The analytical and evaluative skills gained are also highly transferable to a wide range of professional pathways.

Entry Requirements:
No entry requirements

Delivery and Assessment
Film Studies is taught through a combination of teacher-led lessons, group discussion, close analysis of films and independent research. Pupils will develop skills in critical thinking, essay writing and film analysis, as well as practical filmmaking and screenwriting. Assessment is through a mixture of written examinations and coursework.
There are three components:

• Component 1: American and British Film (35%) – written examination
• Component 2: Global Film: Critical Perspectives (35%) – written examination
• Component 3: Production (30%) – coursework (Non-Exam Assessment), where pupils create either a short film or a screenplay with a reflective analysis.
  
  

Examination body: AQA 

The Fine Art A Level involves a combination of practical manipulation of art media and materials with the expression of ideas and concepts. It demands a high level of thinking, commitment and independent effort. You will spend time learning and improving your drawing, painting, printmaking and mixed media skills and applying them to set projects. Fine Art involves developing a practical and personal response to a subject and linking it to the work of other artists. Throughout the course you will be required to write annotations and evaluations to support the development of your practical artwork. 

Entry Requirements 

• Standard Sixth Form entry requirement  

• Grade 5 in GCSE Art

• Pupils without GCSE Art will be required to show a small portfolio of selected work which they have undertaken independently, or complete a summer project for submission post GCSE results. 

Delivery and Assessment 

This course is assessed by coursework and examined units which are both assessed and marked in school and externally moderated by a visiting examiner to the school.  

Examination Body: WJEC Level 3

This qualification allows pupils to gain a wealth of knowledge about the Food and Nutrition industry. Pupils will have the opportunity to learn about the relationship between the human body and food as well as advanced practical skills for cooking and preparing food. There is a strong emphasis on practical work, making this an ideal choice for pupils who prefer to learn by doing.

Entry Requirements:
GCSE Food Preparation and Nutrition is advisable but not essential. A love of cooking and an appreciation of chemistry is recommended.

Delivery & Assessment
Pupils will generally undergo one practical lesson each week which will entail preparing, cooking and presenting two to three dishes and accompaniments. The remaining lessons will cover the theory part of the course. Both certificate and Diploma are assessed through a combination of written exams and externally set assignments.

Examination body: AQA

Studying French opens the door to a rich cultural world and equips pupils with highly valued communication and analytical skills. Pupils explore contemporary issues in French-speaking societies, from immigration and politics to youth culture and social change. They also study authentic texts, including the novel No et moi and the film La Haine, developing critical insight and linguistic precision. Regular speaking practice builds confidence and fluency, while listening and reading tasks strengthen comprehension. These skills are prized by universities and employers in fields such as international business, law, diplomacy, and media.

Entry Requirements
GCSE in French at Grade 6 or above

Delivery and Assessment
Assessment is through three final examinations:
•    Paper 1: Listening, reading, and translation
•    Paper 2: Written response to literature and film
•    Paper 3: Speaking test based on discussion and independent research

Exam body: Pearson
Further Mathematics is just as you would expect. If you are applying to mathematically related courses at one of the top universities, you are certain to require Further Maths. Such advice is, perhaps, a bit superfluous because, if you are considering such courses, you MUST enjoy Mathematics. If you do enjoy Maths, why not study it in more depth? At the very least it will give you an insight into the difficulties, challenges, and beauty of advanced Mathematics. If you are successful at Further Maths you will not be short of offers from either universities or employers.

Entry requirements
This A Level course is only for pupils who love Mathematics, enjoy a challenge, are self-motivated, hardworking and have at least Grade 8 at GCSE.
Delivery and assessment
Further Pure Maths is compulsory and involves new topics such as Matrices, Complex Numbers, Proof by Induction and introduces the Taylor and Maclaurin Series, Polar Equations and Differential Equations. The course also covers Decision Maths as the optional module, which involves Algorithms, Linear Programming and Critical Path Analysis.

Delivery and assessment

Further Pure Maths is compulsory and involves new topics such as Matrices, Complex Numbers, Proof by Induction and introduces the Taylor and Maclaurin Series, Polar Equations and Differential Equations. The course also covers Decision Maths as the optional module, which involves Algorithms, Linear Programming and Critical Path Analysis.

Exam body: AQA

A Level Geography is a well suited A Level choice for anyone who is interested in the present and future state of our planet and its inhabitants. Pupils will build on the knowledge, understanding and expertise gained at GCSE and will investigate the challenges of the natural world and today’s modern society. The course includes a balance between physical, human and environmental topics, with fieldwork and research skills being a key feature of the course, allowing pupils to complete an individual geographical investigation as part of the course in Year 13.

Entry requirements
Although studying the GCSE in Geography is recommended, it is not essential for studying the A Level.

Delivery and assessment
Geography is a two-year linear course comprising units covering a broad range of topics in Geography. Assessment is via three examinations in Year 13: the Physical Geography paper (30%), the Human Geography paper (30%) and a synoptic paper (20%), as well as a 3000-word individual Geographical Investigation on a chosen topic or issue, worth 20 per cent of the final grade.

Examination body: AQA

German is the language of Europe’s largest economy and a gateway to careers in engineering, science, and international business. Pupils develop advanced linguistic skills while exploring topics such as social diversity, cultural heritage, and political engagement in German-speaking countries. They study a film in Year 12 and a piece of German literature in Year 13, gaining insight into history, ethics, and society. Lessons combine discussion, multimedia resources, and independent research, helping pupils think critically and communicate confidently.

Entry Requirements
GCSE in German at Grade 6 or above

Delivery and Assessment
Assessment is through three final examinations:
•    Paper 1: Listening, reading, and translation
•    Paper 2: Written response to literature and film
•    Paper 3: Speaking test based on discussion and independent research

Examination body: Edexcel

If you like debating, developing your own views and, above all, if you are intrigued about the past, then History is for you. You should also feel comfortable with analytical writing and independent research.

History provides links to many other areas of study including humanities, arts and sciences, so it combines well with other subjects. 

Entry Requirements

You will need a 6 or above at GCSE History.  

Delivery and assessment

At Y12 this consists of two papers, both of which are Modern History options. Students will study Germany and West Germany from 1918-89. This encompasses the creation and fall of the Weimar Republic, the establishment of the Nazi dictatorship and a return to democracy under the Federal Republic of Germany. Thematically, students will assess political change, opposition to the regimes, education and cultural diversity and attitudes towards women and ethnic minorities. In addition, you will study Italy 1911-1946, once again looking at dictatorship and democracy in modern Europe.

In Y13 students will complete one piece of internally assessed coursework which is teacher-led, and a final paper on the rise and fall of the British Empire 1763-1914. In this course, pupils are enabled to understand the history of Britain's influence across the world, told as five episodes in the unfolding narrative of the British Empire in these years. These five episodes are geographically diverse to represent the spread of the empire. These include America, Australia, Canada, India and Egypt. They will also complete two studies in breadth, this would be the changing role of the Royal Navy, and the changing nature of trade. Their coursework will focus on debates surrounding the Holocaust, utilising the knowledge on Germany they previously gained.

Examination body: AQA (All languages)

Pupils will develop their listening skills by working with podcasts, films and news clips from native French, Spanish and German speakers. They will build vocabulary and cultural knowledge through a wide range of authentic texts, including literature, journalism and online media. In Year 12, pupils explore a film, analysing themes, characters and cultural context, while in Year 13 they study a novel in depth, developing critical insight as well as linguistic precision. Focused grammar tasks strengthen accuracy, while regular speaking practice helps pupils gain confidence and fluency in their chosen language.

Delivery & Assessment

Teaching is dynamic and interactive, with lessons combining discussion, independent research and multimedia resources to bring the language to life. Pupils are encouraged to think critically and express themselves with confidence, both in writing and in speech. Assessment at A Level is through three final examinations: a listening, reading and translation paper; a written paper based on literature and film; and a speaking test that focuses on discussion and independent research. Together, these elements reward not only linguistic skill but also creativity, cultural understanding and analytical thinking.

Examination body: AQA

Studying Law gives pupils an understanding of the role of Law in today's society and raises their awareness of the rights and responsibilities of individuals. By learning about legal rules and how and why they apply to real life, pupils also develop their analytical ability, decision making, critical thinking and problem-solving skills. All these skills are highly sought after by higher education and employers. Topics with the A Level are: The nature of law and the English legal system, Criminal Law, Tort Law, and Contract Law.

Entry Requirements

No additional entry requirements

Delivery and Assessment

The course is assessed through three two hour exams. All papers include details on the nature of law and the English legal system. Paper 1 includes Criminal Law, paper 2 includes Tort Law; paper 3 includes Contract Law. All papers contain a combination of multiple choice questions, short written answers and extended essays. 

Examination body: Edexcel 

A Level Mathematics could sensibly be studied in combination with any other subject. Therefore, whatever your main interest, if you are good at Maths, and enjoy it, you should take it at A Level. Past A Level Maths students have become lawyers, engineers and doctors. 

If you are thinking of going into a broadly scientific area, Mathematics can only be a help and may be vital. If you are wondering how good you have to be, then there are no fixed rules. Broadly speaking, at A Level, your grade will not be better than your GCSE grade but what matters most is your attitude and willingness to work. 

Obtaining a Maths A Level shows that you have the transferable skills of analysis, logic, and problem-solving, which will always come in handy. Some degree subjects such as Physics and Engineering ask for a Maths A Level as part of the entry requirements. Others, such as Medicine and Architecture, do not make it a necessity, but they still have a fair amount of mathematical content. 

Entry Requirements 

You will need a grade 7 at GCSE. We do occasionally accept students who obtain a grade 6 but you must be prepared to work very hard, and this normally only happens in exceptional circumstances. 

Delivery and assessment 

A Level Mathematics is made up of two sections: 

Pure Maths - This is two-thirds of the course and extends the Algebra, Co-ordinate Geometry, Trigonometry and Sequences work from GCSE and introduces Calculus. 

Applied Maths - This is one-third of the course and is made up of both Statistics and Mechanics. The Statistics is an extension of topics such as Histograms and Probability at GCSE, whereas the Mechanics involves new topics such as forces and momentum. 

Examination body: EDUQAS

The A Level course builds upon the foundation of GCSE, although strong performers need not have studied music academically before. Pupils are expected to develop their performance and composition skills over the course of the two years, culminating in a portfolio of coursework which is worth up to 60% of the final mark. The course can also be adapted in favour of those who are either stronger performers or composers, with final marks weighted accordingly.

Entry Requirements
At least a grade 6 at GCSE Music, or ABRSM Grade 6 (or eqivalent) on any instrument or voice.

Delivery & Assessment

There are three main components:

1. Performing: Pupils specialising in performance are expected to perform a recital of at least three pieces lasting a total of 10–12 minutes in the second year of the course (35%). Those specialising in composition will perform a recital of at least two pieces lasting a total of 6–8 minutes (25%).
2. Composition: Pupils specialising in composition will submit three compositions with a total duration of the portfolio of 8–10 minutes (35%). Those specialising in performance will compose two compositions, the total duration of the composition portfolio must be 4–6 minutes (25%).
3. Appraising: Pupils develop listening skills and develop an in-depth knowledge and understanding of musical elements, musical contexts, and musical language. This component is assessed through a written examination at the end of the course.

Exam Board: Edexcel

Pupils of Music Performance develop their abilities as instrumentalists or vocalists through solo and ensemble performance, alongside learning about the professional expectations of working in the music industry. The course offers two routes:

1. BTEC Level 3 Certificate (equivalent to half an A Level):
   Unit 1: Solo Performance
   Unit 3: Ensemble Music Performance
2. BTEC Level 3 Extended Certificate (equivalent to a full A Level):
   Unit 1: Solo Performance
   Unit 2: Professional Practice in the Music Industry (examined)
   Unit 3: Ensemble Music Performance
   Unit 4: Practical Music Theory and Harmony

Both routes culminate in a mandatory ensemble performance in the second year. The Certificate is ideal as a fourth subject option with a reduced timetable, while the Extended Certificate offers a more comprehensive programme.

Entry Requirements:
No specific entry requirements though GCSE music is preferredand pupils should have experience in music performance.

Delivery and Assessment
Music Performance is taught through a mix of practical workshops, rehearsals, one-to-one support, independent practice and group performance. Pupils are encouraged to reflect on and improve their technique while developing the confidence to perform live.
Assessment is largely through coursework, performances and portfolio evidence, with one externally assessed unit in the Extended Certificate. This approach allows pupils to demonstrate their musical ability and professional understanding in practical, applied contexts.

Examination body: AQA 

Photography is a popular A Level choice, providing you with the opportunity to focus on a range of processes involved in the use of the digital medium. This is an art-based A level, and whilst you do not need to have taken Art at GCSE, you would be expected to have a small portfolio of your own work. You would be invited to come and have informal chat about the course and be prepared to talk about your work and photography, and also photographers who inspire you. Throughout the course you will be expected to have access to your own DSLR camera and to print your own work for your sketchbook. 

At Tranby, you will have access to the Adobe CC suite and will be using Photoshop and Illustrator in combination with our Wacom Cintiq tablets. Other resources available to you includes digital cameras & lenses and studio lighting facilities. The department offers an open-door policy for Sixth Form pupils, which means that you can access the photography facilities at any time during the school week. 

The course is enhanced by various opportunities to enter school competitions, undertake gallery visits both locally and nationally. You will be expected to contribute to regular displays within school and assist at events such as Prize Giving, where photography is required.  

Entry Requirements 

• Standard Sixth Form entry requirement  

• 5 in GCSE Art 

• Pupils without GCSE Art will be required to show a small portfolio of selected work which they have undertaken independently, or complete a summer project for submission post GCSE results. 

Delivery and assessment 

This course is assessed by coursework and examined units which are both assessed and marked in school and externally moderated by a visiting examiner to the school.  

Examination body: AQA 

An A Level in Physics is always highly regarded and lends itself to many degree courses due to the problem-solving nature of the content and examination.   

A spokesperson for the Institute of Physics says: 

At A Level, you will study a wide variety of new topics, including particles & radiation, mechanics, thermal physics and astrophysics. 

Entry Requirements 

A minimum 6 in GCSE Physics or Double Award Science is required. If you achieve the minimum standard, you must also accept that consistent hard work is essential for success. 

Delivery and assessment  

The course is linear and consists of 9 topic areas. All students are entered in June of Year 13. 

The work involves different lesson styles, with a heavy emphasis on practical work. Assessments on recently covered course materials are frequent to monitor progress. In addition, practical skills are assessed on numerous occasions. It is important that time should be spent outside the laboratory on gainful reading and thorough study of the subject matter covered. 

There are 12 required practicals which are undertaken throughout Year 12 and Year 13. This is in addition to the heavy practical weighting to most lessons, including the use of new and advanced apparatus. 

The content is examined by three written papers.  

Examination body: AQA 

Psychology is the science of mind and behaviour. Psychologists study both how people act and the reasons behind their actions. It is an incredibly diverse subject with topics ranging from memory and neuroscience to child development and mental disorders. 

Students who study Psychology find it interesting because it has relevance to the everyday decisions that we make. Through psychology you can explore questions such as: Why do people lie? Why do some obey authority and others disobey? Why do people develop phobias? And how do companies influence us to buy their products? 

Psychology is primarily a science, but it also develops your writing and mathematical skills. Studying psychology shows universities that you are a well-rounded student able to write essays, plan experiments and handle data competently. An important part of psychology is critical evaluation, a transferable skill which is valued by universities and employers alike. 

Entry Requirements 

You need no prior knowledge of the subject but it will best suit students with an enquiring mind who are interested in people and why they do the things they do. 

Delivery and assessment  

There are 7 topics in Year 1 and 4 topics in Year 2. If taking the full A Level, there are three examinations at the end of Year 13.  

Examination body: 
Pupils of Religious Studies explore ideas from some of the all-time great philosophers including Plato, Aristotle, Aquinas, Descartes and Bentham. Religion Philosophy and Ethics is a suitable A Level to lead to further study in Philosophy, Divinity, Theology, Biblical Studies and Ethics. It provides a good supporting subject to other arts subjects such as Law, Business Studies, History, Psychology, Geography, English and Politics. Religion Philosophy and Ethics can be useful for careers in education, law, social work, politics, youth work, the police, counselling, journalism or the media, as well as the more obvious religious careers, such as clergy. The ethical components of the course also are useful for those pursuing science subjects with a view to a medical or veterinary career.

Entry Requirements 
No additional entry requirements

Delivery & Assessment
The A Level is a synoptic two-year course assessed by three examinations at the end of Year 13. Each exam is two hours and worth 33.3% of the total A Level. The new specification includes a section on developments in religious thoughts as well as philosophy of religion and ethical systems. This is to give a more even balance between the three elements of Religion Philosophy and Ethics. There is no coursework.

Examination Body: AQA

Have you ever wondered how we developed into the society we are today? How the way you see yourself determines the way people identify you? Whether men or women are more likely to commit a crime? How society is structured and how it has changed?

The A Level Sociology course will help you to make sense of the society we live in and understand the cultural and identity issues which affect us all. You will learn a wide range of skills, including the use of evidence to support your arguments, how to investigate facts, critical thinking, and using research methods which are supported by sociological theory.

Entry Requirements
The main prerequisites for the study of A Level Sociology are the usual Sixth Form entry requirements, an interest in today’s society in its widest context, and a willingness to analyse material and write extended answers.

Delivery and assessment
The course will be linear and studied over two years. There will be three final examinations, each two hours in length and weighted at a third of the final total. Students will study:

Paper 1 – Education with Theory and Methods

Paper 2 – Topics in Sociology – Families and Households and Media

Paper 3 – Crime and deviance with Theory and Methods

Examination body: AQA

Spanish is one of the most widely spoken languages in the world and studying it at A-Level gives pupils a competitive edge in global careers. Pupils engage with authentic materials — films, podcasts, and news — while exploring themes such as multiculturalism, social issues, and political life in Spanish-speaking countries. In Year 12, they study the film El laberinto del fauno, and in Year 13, the novel Crónica de una muerte anunciada, gaining deep cultural understanding and analytical skills. Speaking practice and grammar work ensure accuracy and fluency, preparing pupils for exciting opportunities in international relations, tourism, and beyond.

Entry Requirements
GCSE in Spanish at Grade 6 or above

Delivery and Assessment
Assessment is through three final examinations:
•    Paper 1: Listening, reading, and translation
•    Paper 2: Written response to literature and film
•    Paper 3: Speaking test based on discussion and independent research

Examination body: Pearsons

The BTEC course will suit students who enjoy and are keen on sport, not just those who excel in it. Students opting for this subject will participate in a mix of practical and theory lessons so a fundamental interest is a necessity.

The BTEC in Sport allows students to learn by:

• course leader and tutor input
• experiencing and developing an interest in a variety of roles
• increasing their understanding of the modern day developments in Sport

Why Study BTEC Sport?

Major universities are now offering widely recognised degrees in a range of sports related courses from the classic PE degree, to degrees in Sports Physiotherapy, Sports Psychology,
Sports Science, Sports Marketing and Leisure & Tourism. BTEC qualifications are now nationally recognised and are used to support university applications.

BTEC offers the perfect preparation for university with a mixture of research based assignments and units which are assessed via an external exam.

A Distinction* in BTEC is the equivalent of an A* at A Level.

Entry Requirements

It is open to all pupils who are capable of achieving a nationally recognised qualification, it is not a requirement to have taken GCSE PE.

Delivery and assessment

The BTEC Level 3 is internally and externally assessed, with the units and specification being criterion referenced based on a series of learning outcomes.
Learners can be awarded a Pass, Merit, Distinction or Distinction*.

Examination body: AQA 

Textiles is an excellent choice of A level that compliments many of the A level disciplines we offer at Tranby. Popular combinations include Design Technology, Art, Photography, Drama, Business Studies and MFL.  Textiles A Level will allow you to focus on a range of specialisms, working flexibly in fine art textiles, fashion garment making, fabric construction/manipulation, embellishment and print work. There is an expectation that you will have access to a camera and be responsible for the printing and purchase of materials for your independent work. 

The department offers an open-door policy for Sixth Form pupils, which means that you can access the facilities at any time during the school week. 

The course is enhanced by various opportunities to undertake gallery visits both locally and nationally. You will also be expected to contribute to regular displays.  

Entry Requirements 

• Standard Sixth Form entry requirement  

• 5 in GCSE Art 

• Pupils without GCSE Art will be required to show a small portfolio of selected work which they have undertaken independently, or complete a summer project for submission post GCSE results. 

Delivery and assessment  

This course is assessed by coursework and examined units which are both assessed and marked in school and externally moderated by a visiting examiner to the school.  

Prospective pupils may be registered for admission at any time. You can book a private tour HERE and meet Head of Sixth Form, Mrs Robinson along with students. 

Our Registrar Sharon McEwan is available to answer your questions. Please email Sharon.McEwan@tranby.org.uk or telephone 01482 657016.