SG Sixth Form Curriculum Guide Sept 2020 by Sherborne Girls

SIXTH FORM

INFORMATION BOOKLET

SHERBORNE GIRLS S IX T H FOR M

Contents

Sherborne Girls Learner Profile

Welcome to the Sixth Form

Meet the Sixth Form Team

Careers and Higher Education

Applying to the Most Competitive University Courses

Subject Choices

The Sixth Form Curriculum

Subjects Biology 13 Business 14 Chemistry 15 Classical Civilisation

Classical Greek

Design Technology: Fashion and Textiles

Design Technology: Product Design

Drama and Theatre

Economics 24 English Literature

Fine Art

French

Geography 31 German 32 History 33 History of Art

Latin 36 Mandarin Chinese

Mathematics 40 Core Mathematics

Modern Languages

Language Enrichment Options

Music 45 Photography 46 Physical Education

Physics 48 Psychology 50 Religious Studies

Spanish 54 The Extended Project Qualification (EPQ)

Co-Curricular Opportunities

Entrepreneurship 59 A Sporting Life

Drama, Music & the Arts

Adventure & Leadership

Boarding Life

A Social Life

Leiths

69 1

Spiritual Courageous

Reflective, caring, principled, show Christian values, care about their own well-being and that of others.

Principled, reflective, risk-taker, resilient, ambitious

Curious Inquirer, knowledgeable, thinker, ambitious, imaginative

Adaptable Balanced, risk-taker, thinker, resilient, resourceful, flexible

Compassionate Caring, open-minded, reflective, principled, contribute to community, respectful

School

VALUES SG Learner Profile: Learning Attributes and Attitudes

Welcome to the Sixth Form The Sixth Form is a very exciting time to be at Sherborne Girls, whether a former 11+, 12+ or 13+ entrant, or new to the school. This is because, in the Sixth Form, girls have more opportunity than ever before in their lives to make individual decisions about what they spend their time studying and how they use co-curricular time. In consultation with girls and their families, the Sixth Form team will guide pupils as they approach this new phase, helping them to make these important choices so that each girl will be stimulated to become the best version of herself that she can be as she develops her ambitions for future study or work. We monitor each girl’s progress at every point of her two years in the Sixth Form, responding to her needs as she matures; we continue to offer guidance for as long as girls need it, sometimes years after they have taken their last school exams. Perhaps partly because there is always plenty of help available at every stage, our Sixth Formers tend to become more and more confident and self-reliant, volunteering for challenging roles and taking responsibility for themselves and others. There are hundreds of combinations of subjects available, so each Sixth Former has a bespoke programme to suit her interests, talents and plans for the future. Academic work is complemented by a vast range of activities outside the classroom: some to develop girls’ creativity; some to hone their minds; some to keep them fit or enhance teamwork skills or self-reliance; some that build confidence to lead others, both in public or in a quieter arena. Some of our most popular clubs in the school are founded and organised by Sixth Form girls themselves, whilst others are supervised by staff who are experts in their field. The Upper

Mrs Florence Corran Director of Sixth Form

Sixth year group which left Sherborne Girls in the summer of 2019 celebrated the school’s best results since 2015. Our pupils achieved an outstanding 50% of grades at A* or A. Individually, 27% of our pupils achieved straight A*/A grades across all their subjects. The autumn of 2019 sees two Sherborne Girls take up places at Cambridge University, three beginning Medical degrees and two starting Fine Art courses at Central St Martin’s. Our girls apply for a vast range of ambitious courses at Higher Education, from Philosophy to Mathematics, from Anthropology to Biochemistry and from Neuroscience to Music. The success and variety of our pupils’ Higher Education choices is a testament to the inspiration and guidance they receive across the curriculum from their dedicated, knowledgeable subject teachers. Regardless of statistics, what really counts is the people our Sixth Formers become. We want them to develop into outward-looking adults who are eager to challenge themselves and aim high in whatever spheres of life they find themselves. Because they enter the Sixth Form as the most senior pupils in mixed-age houses, they have plenty of opportunity to establish themselves as role models from the start: from overseeing prep to saying ‘goodnights’, from directing and acting in House Drama to organising Sports Day, our Sixth Form is at the heart of everything the school does and we are very proud of the Sixth Form girls.

S HER BO RNE GIR L S SIX T H FORM

Meet the Sixth Form Team

Mrs Rachel Allen Assistant Head of Sixth Form EPQ Coordinator

Mr David Banks Assistant Head of Sixth Form Apprenticeships and Overseas Universities Coordinator

Mrs Katie McManus Careers Coordinator

Miss Erica Sutherland Oxford and Cambridge Preparation Advisor

Mrs Caitlin Barnes-Evans Housemistress Mulliner (U6 Boarding House)

Mrs Kate Scorer UCAS Coordinator

Dr Jane Hopper Medical Courses Advisor BMAT preparation

Mrs Claire Mason Art Foundation Courses Advisor

In order to support girls as they approach choices, we offer a range of opportunities for guidance in the U5 (Year 11):

• Careers testing and individual interviews with external careers advisors: completed by Michaelmas half term

• Sixth Form Information Evening: 1st Exeat of Michaelmas term • Individual interviews with Housemistress/master: start of Lent term • U5 Parents’ Meeting and Seminar: January • Tutorials with personal tutor: ongoing

Careers and Higher Education Sherborne Girls is committed to helping its pupils make successful choices about the most appropriate path to take after school. The needs of the individual are paramount and, although in most cases the girls do progress onto traditional degree courses at competitive universities in the UK and abroad, this is definitely not the right option for everyone and there are many other exciting opportunities for pupils to consider. 81% of university applicants from Sherborne Girls secured places at Russell Group and other highly competitive universities in 2019 including Oxbridge. Advice is available from both Mrs Scorer and Mrs McManus (Head of Careers) throughout the process to girls and parents at any time either on a drop-in or pre-arranged basis. In addition, Mr Banks is available to talk about Apprenticeships Schemes and applying to university abroad. A comprehensive programme to help girls plan their future is embedded into the Sixth Form curriculum and delivered at appropriate moments throughout the two years. Up-to-date advice is essential, and the girls are encouraged to seek information from reliable sources as they decide on the best route. The programme includes:

• Talks to the year group highlighting their options after school • Individual interviews in the Lent term • A day of workshops in the Trinity term of L6 to help girls make applications for the next stage • Use of Unifrog, a comprehensive careers and university online platform • Talks by university admissions tutors • Opportunities throughout the two years to meet employers and explore different careers • An opportunity to attend an apprenticeship fair • Visit to an Oxbridge Conference • Personal Statement and CV workshops • Information about going to university abroad

Through this, pupils are well prepared for the challenges they will face when they leave Sherborne Girls. The girls are kept up to date about forthcoming events and opportunities and they are encouraged to gain relevant work experience and attend Taster Courses and Open Days. Those applying for Oxbridge, Dentistry, Veterinary Science or Medicine are assigned a mentor and attend weekly sessions to help them prepare for this highly competitive process. Our aim is to prepare Sherborne girls thoroughly for the many challenges and exciting opportunities, which will come their way.

“ Being in the U6 feels like just one step away from university. You have greater freedom but much more responsibility for yourself. You really learn how to act independently.” Top university destinations in 2020 Durham Exeter Bristol Edinburgh Imperial

S HER BO RNE GIR L S SIX T H FORM

Careers and Higher Education Opportunities UCAS All students applying to UK universities do so using the Universities and Colleges Applications Service, or UCAS. Students can apply to a maximum of five universities for entry immediately post-A Level, or for a deferred place post-gap year. In school we guide students through this process, providing workshops on how to make competitive applications, as well as one to one tutoring, enabling each student to select the perfect courses and institutions for her. As a result of our bespoke tutoring structure, the tutor knows each student incredibly well, and is able to craft a reference which gives every girl the best chance of success. In 2019, over 90% of applicants secured places at their first or second choice universities. The UCAS process is overseen by the UCAS Coordinator, working in conjunction with the Head of Sixth Form. Foreign Universities Many countries now offer degree routes to students from Britain and all over the world: for some of our pupils, taking up a place in a university abroad is a wonderful opportunity to expand cultural and academic horizons and in recent years Sherborne girls have gained places to study at European, Asian, Australian and North American universities. In some cases, universities outside the UK can be cheaper such as the Netherlands, where a year’s tuition is £2,060. We have traditionally supported many pupils going to the US and Hong Kong, but now we find a whole range of universities all around the world are applied for. This is an exciting development and reflects how outward looking and internationally minded Sherborne Girls are.

Apprenticeships and Degree Apprenticeships We ensure each girl’s individual needs are considered and for many of our pupils Higher and Degree Level Apprenticeships provide a great alternative to traditional university courses. A Higher Apprenticeship can take from one to five years to complete and may involve parttime study at a college, university, or training provider. According to government figures, 90% of apprentices in England stayed on in employment after completing their qualification, 71% with the same employer. Importantly, at the end of Higher or Degree Level Apprenticeships, one has a degree qualification and experience without the debt. Competition for Higher Apprenticeships can be fierce because there are often only a few vacancies and entry requirements can be high. Apprentices are paid throughout, gain professional experience earlier than conventional graduates and the training costs are funded by the employer and the government. Higher and Degree Level Apprenticeships are available in a wide range of industries and job roles. The majority fall within the industries listed below:

• construction, planning and the built environment • agriculture, horticulture and animal care • arts, media and publishing • business, administration and law • engineering and manufacturing technologies • education and training • information and communication technology • science and mathematics • retail and commercial enterprise • health, public services and care Recently, a pupil from Sherborne Girls left to start a Higher Level Apprenticeship at PWC. She is now a qualified Tax Accountant and earns the same as the graduate trainees as she qualified during the apprenticeship. For many girls at Sherborne, this would be a great option.

Careers Education The aim of Careers Education for the Sixth Form at Sherborne Girls is to broaden the girlsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; horizons and expose them to a wide-range of potential careers, so that they are well-informed and confident when making important decisions about their future. Our provision includes plenty of exciting events, such as: networking evenings with contacts from a wide range of industries, a Careers fair attended by representatives from universities and employers, additional support for girls applying for medicine, veterinary or dentistry (in the form of practice interviews with experienced practitioners and mock â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;mini-multiple interviewsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;), assistance in arranging work experience and subject related talks and suppers to name but a few. Events run throughout the school year and they are underpinned by oneto-one support and advice for each and every girl who may need it. Girls are able to drop-in or make appointments to speak to the Careers Coordinator, or indeed any other member of the Sixth Form team, and we will endeavour to help and assist them with their queries.

SHERBORNE GIRLS S IX T H FOR M

Applying to the Most Competitive University Courses

At Sherborne Girls we are committed to ensuring that every pupil leaves school heading to the perfect destination for her; for many of our students, that means taking up a place (either immediately or following a gap year) at Oxford, Cambridge or other highly-regarded courses at a Russell Group University. Places at these universities are immensely competitive and so we provide wideranging support for our students as they compete to gain offers. Support includes, but is not limited to, the following:

• Experienced Sixth Form one-to-one tutoring • •

•

• •

• • • • •

providing individualised UCAS support for every student Individual sessions with the UCAS Co-ordinator, and support provided by subject teachers and the Sixth Form Team Opportunity for students to attend and present at Turing Society (Sixth Form Academic enrichment society organised jointly with Sherborne School) Opportunity for students to attend and present at Sixth Form Thinkers (Sixth Form Academic enrichment society organised jointly with the Gryphon Academy; there is a specific focus on interview-based applications) Department-run academic enrichment opportunities such as Chemistry Symposium and Senior History Society Participation in Senior Debating Society and Model United Nations, enabling students to boost their UCAS applications and develop skills of reason and debate Students are encouraged to enter university-run essay competitions Students are encouraged to undertake university-run MOOCs (Massive Online Open Courses) Structured, individual guidance on completing the UCAS form Permission to attend up to two more Open Days during term-time Whole day of ‘Life After SG’ workshops including personal statement seminar.

In addition, students applying for early-applicant courses (Medicine, Vet Science, Dentistry and all course at Oxford and Cambridge) receive the following support: ne to one mentoring from a subject specialist • O • Practice for any specific exams set for entrance to courses (eg ELAT, HAT, MAT UKCAT)

• Evening session shared with Sherborne School • • • • •

to meet current Oxbridge undergraduate students and other applicants in subject areas Formal interview practice evening (at Sherborne Girls for Medicine, Dentistry and Vet students; at Sherborne School for Oxbridge candidates) Mini Medic Interview evening (for Medics, Vets and Dentists) Opportunity to participate in a conference at Marlborough College run by Oxbridge Applications (for Oxbridge candidates) Visit to Oxford University to meet two colleges’ Admissions staff and undergraduates Visit to Oxford and Cambridge student conference.

Mrs Scorer k.scorer@sherborne.com

S HER BO RNE GIR L S SIX T H FORM

Subject Choices

Choosing A Levels When pupils make their subject choices, it is wise to bear in mind any plans for Higher Education. Many courses at university require specific subjects at A Level. Informed Choices is an excellent website that offers an interactive guide to help pupils make A Level choices that will match their future aspirations: informedchoices.ac.uk

some subjects were listed as â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;facilitating subjectsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; however this list has now been scrapped so unless particular subjects are required for a course, pupils should choose subjects they enjoy as they are more likely to do well in those subjects which will then open more opportunities to them after school.

If a pupil is unsure what they want to do after school, they should choose subjects that will leave as many options open as possible. In the past

In addition to the information online, pupils are urged to talk to teachers, house staff and the careers and UCAS advisors, all of whom can help them with their decision and because they know the pupils can give good advice to suit each individual.

The Sixth Form Curriculum

Choose three of the following A Level subjects: Biology Business Chemistry Classical Civilisation Design Technology: Fashion and Textiles Design Technology: Product Design Drama and Theatre Economics English Literature Fine Art French Geography

Extra academic qualifications and timetabled lessons: In addition to three (or occasionally four) A Level subjects, L6 girls attend weekly compulsory timetabled lessons in PSHEE (personal, social, health and economic education) and Study Skills. The Study Skills course is designed to lead towards the Extended Project Qualification: most girls will submit an EPQ in the autumn of their U6 year, although this is not compulsory. The minority of girls who choose not to submit an EPQ must nevertheless attend Study Skills lessons. Please see page 56 for more information about the EPQ.

German Classical Greek History History of Art Latin Mathematics Mandarin Chinese Further Mathematics (only with Mathematics) Music Photography Physical Education Physics Psychology

Girls may also opt to join additional timetabled classes to study for internationally recognised qualifications in: • French: DELF • Spanish: DELE • Italian: PLIDA • German: Goethe Institute (taught at Sherborne School) • Maths: Core Mathematics (AS) Please see page 41 for information about Core Mathematics and pages 42-43 for more on the Language Proficiency Diplomas.

Religious Studies Spanish

S HER BO RNE GIR L S SIX T H FORM

A LEVEL SUBJECTS

BIOLOGY Why study Biology? Biology is a good pathway to many university courses and hence scientific careers. These include Biological Sciences, Medicine, Microbiology, Veterinary Science, Dentistry, Pharmacology, Physiotherapy, Nursing, Psychology, Agriculture and Environmental Science. For these courses Chemistry may be essential, and Physics or Mathematics would complement the subject. Knowledge of chemistry and mathematics is required, though it is not essential to study either of them at Sixth Form level in order to take A Level Biology. Course content The A Level course is divided into eight topics which consider the fundamental principles of all the Life Sciences. The topics build on knowledge gained at GCSE and develop a greater depth of understanding. Practical investigations and skills are a key part of the course and enable links to be made to wider world science. The eight topic areas of the A Level course are listed below: 1. Biological molecules 2. Cells 3. Organisms and exchange with the environment, e.g. gas exchange, digestion and transport in animals and plants 4. Genetic information, variation and relationships between organisms 5. Energy transfer between organisms, e.g. photosynthesis and respiration 6. Organisms responding to changes in their internal and external environment, e.g. homeostasis and the nervous system 7. Genetics, populations, evolution and ecosystems 8. The control of gene expression, nervous systems, populations, evolution and ecosystems Will I enjoy it? Biology is life! It enables us to explain living organisms from the molecular level to their interactions within communities. If you enjoyed Biology at GCSE, then you should certainly consider it for A Level. Practical work, including field work, is an essential part of the course and will relate to the theory taught. Analysis and evaluation will also be key elements of the work covered.

Assessment Examination board: AQA Biology is examined by three end-of-course written examinations, each of which is two hours in length. Paper 1: 35% of A Level Questions on topics 1-4 Paper 2: 35% of A Level Questions on topics 5-8 Paper 3: 30% of A Level Questions on any content including a synoptic essay and critical analysis of experimental data. Teachers will also assess your practical skills (based on a minimum of 12 required practicals) against Common Practical Assessment Criteria. If you achieve the required level of competency, you will receive a practical endorsement pass grade. This is separate from your A Level grade and a pass is a requirement for some university courses. What else should I consider? You may want to choose Biology if you wish to pursue a career in Biology or a related discipline. You may just want to enjoy studying the subject for its own sake or because you have a passion for plants, people or the planet. Biology is a well-respected academic subject which cultivates a wide range of transferable skills. You will learn Biological facts but you will also learn to interpret data and transfer information from one form to another. You will work independently and collaborate with others for practical work and presentations. There will be opportunities to develop and share your own personal interests within the subject. Communication skills are at the heart of Biology and you will gain a basic knowledge of statistical tools as well as learning how to use spreadsheets for data manipulation, which will help you to communicate clearly and evaluate the strength of any findings â&#x20AC;&#x201C;essential skills in any walk of life. Who can give me more information? Dr J Hopper j.hopper@sherborne.com

S HER BO RNE GIR L S SIX T H FORM

BUSINESS

Why study Business? Business is an exciting, modern A Level subject that has evolved significantly since it was first introduced many years ago. The subject balances academic theory with an appreciation of ‘real world’ application and many pupils go on to study business related degrees at Russell Group universities. Equally, Business A Level teaches many skills that are essential for other subjects at university or in the workplace: in today’s competitive working world, employers are looking for employees with the ability to make judgements and analyse real scenarios; this subject helps to build a foundation in these critical areas. The surge in demand for business or economics-related subjects nationally, both at A Level and Degree Level, reflects the current turbulent business world and the realisation that to improve the way businesses function, people who have studied them and the economy in which they function are required. People who wish to get a head start in the business world would benefit from the foundation this course will build. Course content The topics lend themselves to studying and engaging with the business world. The specification and assessment should encourage you to follow business developments and think critically about contemporary business issues. Most of the assessment material is based on real business situations. By examining and thinking critically about real business situations as you study the subject, you will gain an insight into different contexts. This will help you to understand the key issues in any situation, compare and contrast them with other situations and apply your understanding. Will I enjoy it? The course will be taught with a strong emphasis on current events in the business environment. This means the subject is unpredictable and as we try to make sense of the changes happening daily, there is great opportunity for individual interpretation, diversity and expression. This subject demands creative solutions to business

problems and the infinite range of plausible solutions means you are only limited by your own imagination. This course will help you understand many of the functions of friends’ and families’ businesses and bring the subject to life. What else should I consider? Business sits well with most subjects and is commonly studied with Geography, Economics, Religious Studies, History of Art, Classical Civilisation, Design and Technology, Mathematics, English and Modern Languages. It is a good pathway to university courses in Business and Finance, Management, Marketing and Economics. It will improve your employment prospects in a wide range of careers as companies continue to seek employees with a working knowledge of business. Assessment Examination board: AQA Three 120-minute examinations. Each paper provides 33.3% of the marks. Specification at a glance 1. What is business? 2. Managers, leadership and decision-making 3. Decision-making to improve marketing performance 4. Decision-making to improve operational performance 5. Decision-making to improve financial performance 6. Decision-making to improve human resource performance 7. Analysing the strategic position of a business 8. Choosing a strategic direction 9. Strategic methods: how to pursue strategies 10. Managing strategic change Who can give me more information? Mrs Morray-Jones e.morrayjones@sherborne.com

CHEMISTRY

Why study Chemistry? ‘Every aspect of the world today, even politics and international relations, is affected by chemistry,’ said Linus Pauling. Chemistry is all around us: our food, our clothes, water, air, medicines, detergents and cleaning agents for example; even our emotions are governed by chemical reactions in the body. Chemistry helps you to study and understand the world around you. The A Level course is designed to provide opportunities to consider the applications of Chemistry in the wider environment, such as the development of new forms of energy, the study of climate change and the uses of nanotechnology and analytical techniques. Course Content • Atomic Structure • Chemical Bonding and the Periodic Table • Quantitative Chemistry • Oxidation and Reduction reactions • Organic Chemistry • Energetics • Polymers and Analysis • Chemical kinetics • Equilibrium • Acids, Bases and pH • Electrochemistry • Thermodynamics • Environmental Chemistry • Transition Metal Chemistry Will I enjoy it? If you like solving problems, looking at the fine detail and analysing data, then Chemistry is for you. It helps you to understand current events and to explain how things work. It teaches useful skills; you learn how to be objective, how to reason and apply logic, and to make informed decisions. Practical work is an integral part of the study of chemistry and much of the theory is backed up by the experiments covered on the way.

Assessment Examination board: OCR Three end-of-course examinations Paper 1: Periodic table, elements and physical chemistry (2 hours 15 minutes) Paper 2: Synthesis and analytical techniques (2 hours 15 minutes) Paper 3: Unified chemistry (1 hour 15 minutes) Teachers will also assess pupils’ practical skills (based on a minimum of 12 compulsory practicals) against Common Practical Assessment Criteria. Pupils reaching the required standard will receive a pass grade for their assessed practical activities, which is required for entry to some university courses. What else should I consider? Chemistry opens up career options; it sits well with a wide range of subjects and is often regarded as the central science; it is complementary to the other sciences, Geography and Mathematics. It also works well with other subjects such as Religious Studies and Languages because Chemistry extends the range of skills that you can develop. It is a good pathway to a wide range of scientific courses and careers. It is an essential qualification for the study of Medicine, Dentistry, Veterinary Science, Forensic Science and Pharmacy; most universities also require it for the study of Biology and Environmental Science. Many other university courses, such as Law, value the rigorous analytical skills gained in the study of Chemistry. Who can give me more information? Mr Angelosanto a.angelosanto@sherborne.com

S HER BO RNE GIR L S SIX T H FORM

CLASSICAL CIVILISATION

Why study Classical Civilisation? ‘The dazzling thought-world of the Greeks gave us our ideas of democracy and happiness.’ Here, Professor Edith Hall sums up why you should study Classical Civilisation for it involves discussions that are directly relevant to today’s world. Focusing on the civilisations of Greece and Rome, this wideranging subject involves the study of literature, art and ancient thoughts and ideas. You don’t need to know any languages, all the texts are in translation and it doesn’t matter if you haven’t studied the Greeks and Romans before. You not only acquire specific classical knowledge, but also important transferable skills such as analysing sources and developing independent, critical and evaluative approaches. You learn to formulate and support an argument and develop a valuable understanding of cultures very different to your own. All of this makes Classical Civilisation an excellent way to develop a range of skills for further study and to support other academic interests, whether you are studying other humanities or looking for one humanities subject that covers a wide range of bases. Of course, it is a richly rewarding subject in its own right. Course content We study three topics: The World of the Hero; Greek Art; Love and Relationships. The first topic explores both the Greek and Roman epic, with the study of Homer’s Odyssey and Virgil’s Aeneid. The works of Homer and Virgil explore the exciting tales of gods and heroes and are the foundations of Western literature and the cornerstone of classical culture. The second topic involves the study of visual sources – freestanding sculpture, architectural sculpture and vases. The 6th-4th centuries BC was a period of great change in the Greek world and this is reflected in the art that was produced. You will get to appreciate the profound effect Greek art has had on the art of later periods, not least in defining ideas of beauty and in how architecture is used to give shape to the daily life of a society. In Love and Relationships, you will get the opportunity to recognise and relate to the passions,

frustrations and delights of love in the ancient world. The ethical questions raised by these ideas continue to be wrestled over by successive generations and you will find yourself having interesting and important discussions about love, desire, sex, sexuality and the institution of marriage. You will be able to draw comparisons and make judgements about ideal and reality and the nature of ‘right’ and ‘wrong’ ways to love or be loved. The words of Sappho, Homer, Ovid, Plato and Seneca will all give you wonderful insights into the classical world. Will I enjoy it? Of course you will. You will be able to enjoy discussion on classical life and thought and the impact the Greeks and Romans had upon society. The questions we discuss in lessons may also arise in other subjects – what is heroism? What role does fate play in our lives? How should a man treat a woman (or vice versa)? How do we perceive beauty? What is art? What else should I consider? In the past, girls have had the opportunity to attend theatre, lecture and museum visits organised by the department. Classical Civilisation is a well-regarded subject that teaches many skills. As an A Level subject, it complements many other subjects, in particular History of Art, Theatre Studies, English and Religious Studies. The A Level is particularly valued not only by Classics departments but can often lead to the university study of Classics, Drama, English, History, History of Art, Philosophy and Politics. It is listed on UCL’s list of preferred A Level subjects and on Trinity College, Cambridge’s list of Generally Suitable Arts A Levels. It is a useful subject for degrees in Classical Studies and Philosophy – visit www.informedchoices.ac.uk. Information from UCAS shows that students who studied Classical Civilisation went on to study in such diverse disciplines as Medicine, Veterinary Science and Chemistry!

You do not need to have studied the GCSE in order to take it for A Level. Assessment Examination board: OCR Specification code H408 Three end-of-course examinations: • The World of the Hero 100 marks / 2 hours 20 minutes / 40% • Culture and the Arts – Greek Art 75 marks /1 hour 45 minutes / 30% • Beliefs and Ideas – Love and Relationships 75 marks / 1 hour 45 minutes / 30% Who can give me more information? Mrs Elliott s.elliott@sherborne.com

S HER BO RNE GIR L S SIX T H FORM

CLASSICAL GREEK

Why study Classical Greek? The language and civilisation of the ancient Greeks has informed the way people live for over 2,000 years and continues to offer endless opportunities for questioning and reflection. You could start with the epics of Homer and the poetry of Sappho and work your way through the philosophical ideas of Socrates, Plato and Aristotle and then move onto the powerful tragedies of Aeschylus, Sophocles and Euripides. Step outside the classical world and recognise the influence of the Greeks on the works of Karl Marx and Friedrich Nietzsche or on the words of the suffragettes, who quoted Medea’s views on childbirth as they protested. It is difficult to find a part of life that has not in some way been influenced by the ancient Greeks so what better than to read their writing in the original language and to learn how their world can shine a bright light on our own.

What else should I consider? As an A Level subject, Classical Greek complements almost every other subject, from the sciences through any modern language to Theatre Studies, English and Religious Studies. It is a qualification that is highly valued by universities and can be useful to pupils intending to study courses such as Medicine, Law, Modern Languages, English as well as Classics. Recent pupils have gone on to study Classics at Oxford and other degrees such as Ancient History, Art, Classical Literature, Medicine and Theology at Edinburgh, Newcastle, Durham, Exeter and Falmouth. You need to have studied the GCSE in order to take it for A Level.

Course content The A Level course builds on the GCSE, allowing you a more sophisticated understanding of the language. This enables a more detailed study of prose and verse literature, inspiring and motivating you to gain a deeper understanding of the life and culture of the ancient world. There are separate papers in the language and literature. For the language, both prose and verse authors are studied (Xenophon and Euripides). For the literature, we study two from Thucydides, Plato and Plutarch as our prose authors and two from homer, Sophocles and Aristophanes as our verse authors.

• Unseen Translation:

Assessment Examination board: OCR Specification code H444 Four end-of-course examinations: 100 marks / 1 hour 45 minutes / 33%

• Comprehension:

50 marks / 1 hour 15 minutes / 17%

• Prose Literature:

5 marks / 2 hours / 25% • Verse Literature: 75 marks / 2 hours / 25% Who can give me more information? Who can give me more information? Mrs Elliott s.elliott@sherborne.com

Will I enjoy it? But of course. There is no denying that it is a challenging subject, one that is academically rigorous, and you will have to develop a passion for grammar (if you haven’t got one already). However, the language is again in the ascendant as more Greek plays are performed in national theatres and many novels inspired by (female) characters from Greek literature are published (by such respectable authors as Pat Barker, Madeleine Miller, Charlotte Higgins). What better way to make your university application stand out than by having an A Level in a classical language. 19

S HER BO RNE GIR L S SIX T H FORM

DESIGN AND TECHNOLOGY Fashion and Textiles Why study Design and Technology: Fashion and Textiles? • Have you ever wondered what designers actually do? • Have you ever wondered how and why fashion and interior trends develop? • Have you ever wondered how social and cultural issues influence creative industries? This Design and Technology course is an inspiring, thought-provoking and creative subject exploring fashion and textiles in depth. It will give you the practical skills, theoretical knowledge and confidence to succeed in a number of careers, especially those in the thriving creative industries. The course will give you insight into the way designers, manufacturers and other industry professionals work. You will investigate influences on design and technology, whilst putting your learning into practice by producing prototypes of your choice. Course content During the two-year course you will study a range of materials, including new technologies such as wearable electronics and chromatic pigments. You will develop a technical understanding of how textile products function and how they are made to appropriately support the design and manufacture of your own design solutions. You will gain an understanding of wider design principles and commercial issues, as well as the ability to identify market needs and opportunities for new products, to initiate and develop design solutions and make and test prototypes. The theoretical aspects of the course are taught as much as possible through practical tasks, although you will also be provided with a textbook to support your learning. Will I enjoy it? If you are interested in developing your creativity, enjoy experimenting with materials and working collaboratively, this course will give you a great deal of satisfaction. The coursework element especially, gives you the opportunity to be very artistic, imaginative and experimental and unlike previous

Textiles qualifications, the coursework requirement has been updated to reflect how designers currently work. Throughout the year you will have the opportunity to visit exhibitions and participate in workshops to broaden your understanding of the subject and its place in the modern world. What else should I consider? Like any other A Level subject, this course can be used as a credible qualification to progress onto any degree course of your choosing, as well as other Higher Education or professional opportunities. In particular, it can take you into any of the creative industries. It can be combined with English, for journalism, Drama for theatre costume design, Art for any creative degree, History for costume perspectives, Science for the everexpanding range of textile science degrees, and more besides. This course will strengthen your critical thinking and problem-solving skills which are relevant to any future career. Through the analysis of historical cultural, social and economic changes as well as contemporary issues you will develop a critical understanding of the world we live in today. It is recommended that you have taken a GCSE in Textiles and that you have a sound ability in mathematics and science. Assessment Examination board: AQA Coursework: You will produce a ‘Design Project’: 50% of the marks for the A Level will be evidenced through a written or digital portfolio and photographic evidence of the final prototype/s. Written papers: The Technical Principles examination paper: 30% – 2 hours 30 minutes The Designing and Making Principles examination paper: 20% – 1 hour 30 minutes Who can give me more information? Mrs Mason c.mason@sherborne.com

Product Design Why study Design and Technology: Product Design? Product Design is an engaging and dynamic subject, with problem solving and exploration at its core. During the two years, you will develop an in-depth understanding of professional design practices and expand your knowledge of materials, design and manufacturing processes and wider issues that affect all aspects of the industry. You should have an inquisitive mind, a love of creating and an interest in the design of the world around you.

What else should I consider? The course has strong maths and science elements, so a sound understanding of these areas would be highly recommended. This course supports progression beyond A Level and the content reflects authentic design practice, giving an insight into the way that creative, engineering and manufacturing industries function, so is a good pathway into these.

Course content With both practical and theory elements, Product Design is a diverse subject. The first year is aimed at building a strong theoretical understanding of materials and manufacturing processes, alongside the wider social and ethical issues related to design. This is paired with small design tasks that provide a practical context to the learning. You will develop your making skills with hand tools and machinery, through to computer aided design and 3D printing.

The course is assessed as follows: Exam paper 1 (30%): Technical principles. Exam paper 2 (20%): Design and making principles. Non-exam assessment (NEA) (50%).

Assessment Examination Board: AQA

Who can give me more information? Mrs Mason c.mason@sherborne.com

The second year focuses on the NEA (non-exam assessment), a sustained project where you apply the skills and knowledge youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve learned to solve a design issue. Involving exploring, creating and evaluating, the practical prototyping is supported by the building of a digital design portfolio documenting your progress. You will decide your own brief and identify design opportunities, develop solutions and make and test prototypes, working with live clients and stakeholders. Will I enjoy it? This course is for people who enjoy taking risks, showing innovation and enterprise. You need to think creatively and critically, working skilfully to produce high quality prototypes and products. It develops your research skills and intellectual curiosity, as you come up with solutions to problems in the real world.

S HER BO RNE GIR L S SIX T H FORM

DRAMA AND THEATRE

Why study Drama and Theatre? Drama and Theatre has become a highly respectable A Level over the last decade and is valued by universities as a subject connected to both the arts and the humanities. The balance of practical skills and academic knowledge, as well as a growing understanding and empathy for the world around us, allows you to develop a wide range of skills and disciplines. It is one of the few subjects that is not based 100% on a written paper at the end of the U6, so if you would prefer to be able to work practically and know you have 60% of your marks before the stressful end exam season, this would be a good choice. It will also give you the opportunity to spend lessons doing something creative, on your feet, not stuck behind a desk. If you are interested in the world around you; want to create work that questions assumptions; enjoy finding innovative ways of communicating with an audience and most importantly enjoy performing – this subject is for you! Course content You will study five different plays from various eras (performing sections of three of them), learn to evaluate live theatre as a critical audience member and create your own piece of verbatim theatre based on a topic that interests you. You can be assessed as an actor, a director or a designer. You will be assessed on your written essay skills and your practical acting and directing skills in equal measure. Will I enjoy it? Drama is a subject with an almost infinite number of starting points, style and influences. Whatever your passion, you can explore it through the medium of drama. We aim to make the study of Drama an enjoyable and positive learning experience. If you are passionate about acting, directing and performance you will enjoy this course.

What else should I consider? Drama and Theatre A Level does not only lead to degrees in the performing arts, although obviously if you are interested in acting, directing, technical theatre or anything based in TV, film or theatre it is an invaluable starting point. The collaborative and presentation skills you learn are highly valued by courses such as Business, Law and even Medicine. Subjects which complement Drama include English, Classics, History and Art amongst others. You could also consider doing a practical EPQ which is performance-based or an Arts Award Gold. Drama GCSE is not obligatory, but you should have done some co-curricular Drama if you didn’t study it. There will be opportunities for you to take part in co-curricular drama via one of the school productions and in the House Drama competition. You should consider taking up these opportunities as well as looking for chances to stage your own work as the more performance experience you have, the more successful you will be in your examined work. Assessment Examination board: AQA One written examination (40% of A Level)

• One question on Hedda Gabler by Ibsen • Three questions on Bronte by Polly Teale • One question on a play you have been to see. Four practical pieces Presentation of three extracts from four different plays (plus reflective report) (30%) Presentation of a devised piece of drama (plus devising log) (30%) Who can give me more information? Miss Nurse l.nurse@sherborne.com

S HER BO RNE GIR L S SIX T H FORM

ECONOMICS Why study Economics? Economics is an exciting social science. You may think that it is all about money, but Economics is actually the study of life. You will examine the behaviour of individuals and how we make decisions in a world of finite resources. Economics is a corner-stone to understanding current affairs and international relations. You will be able to understand how to solve many of today’s greatest problems such as inequality, obesity and plastic pollution. Economics is a highly credible subject with academic rigour, which will allow you to access some of the most prestigious universities in the UK and overseas.

Why study this subject? Economic issues are important to everyone. Economists try to understand and provide solutions to the most challenging questions facing society today, for example:

• How can a government intervene to reduce the

impacts of climate change? To what extent are different measures to tackle CO2 emissions effective? What are the pros and cons of different sources of energy: offshore windfarms, nuclear plants or fracking for natural gas?

• Have some internet companies such as Google, Facebook and Twitter become too big for the good of society? Are these firms so essential to daily life that they should be regulated as public utilities?

• Who should pay for healthcare? Is it feasible for

Will I enjoy it? If you enjoy discussing current affairs and analysing problems, then Economics will provide plenty to interest and challenge you.

• What are the consequences of the increased

What else should I consider? Economics is a particularly useful subject to study alongside Geography (there is much overlap with the Geography A Level); Psychology (Economics involves a module on behavioural economics, which is closely linked to Psychology); and Mathematics (Economics will allow you to apply your mathematical skills to real world contexts). Economics is not compulsory in order to apply to read Economics at university, but it would demonstrate your interest in the subject in your UCAS application. Economics is a highly-regarded subject within many careers, including management consultancy, accounting, banking, insurance, marketing, the civil service and any large multinational company. Economics would also give you useful skills and knowledge if you are hoping to set up your own business.

the NHS to continue to provide healthcare free at the point of treatment? Should health treatments be based on clinical need or on ability to pay?

trade war between the US and China – for consumers and firms in each country, and for the global economy.

• The increasing income gap between top and

bottom earners: should the government increase the national minimum wage, or introduce a maximum wage? Alternatively, is inequality an inevitable (or even essential) ingredient in a capitalist society?

Course content There are four themes: 1. Introduction to Markets: this theme focuses on microeconomic concepts. You will develop an understanding of how markets work, market failure and government intervention (i.e. tax, subsidies and regulation). 2. The UK Economy: this theme focuses on macroeconomic concepts. You will develop an understanding of the macroeconomics objectives (economic growth, low inflation, low unemployment and a trade balance). You will examine the policies that governments can use to achieve these goals, including monetary policy, fiscal policy and supply-side policies. 3. Business behaviour and the labour market: this theme develops the microeconomic concepts introduced in Theme 1 and focuses on business economics. You will develop an understanding of: business growth, business objectives, revenues, costs and profits, market structures, labour market and government intervention. 4. A Global Perspective: This theme develops the macroeconomic concepts introduced in Theme 2 and applies these concepts in a global context. You will develop an understanding of international economics, poverty and inequality, emerging and developing economies, the financial sector and the role of the state in the macro-economy.

Assessment Examination Board: Edexcel At the end of the course, you will be required to complete three examination papers, which involve a mix of calculations, data response questions and essays:

• Paper 1: Markets and business behaviour (35%) • Paper 2: The national and global economy (35%) • Paper 3: Microeconomics and macroeconomics (30%)

Who can give me more information? Mrs Morray-Jones e.morrayjones@sherborne.com

S HER BO RNE GIR L S SIX T H FORM

ENGLISH LITERATURE

Why study English Literature? Studying English Literature at A Level will give you immense pleasure, stimulate your curiosity, improve your writing skills and set you up as an informed and critical reader for life. You will study a wide range of texts; from Middle English texts such as Chaucer to contemporary poetry and novels, all taken from the literary canon. Typically, you will study: two Shakespeare plays; modern American drama by the likes of Arthur Miller or Tennessee Williams; a pre-nineteenth century novel by a classic author such as Austen or Dickens; a twentieth century novel and a wide selection of poetry from across the ages. You will also learn how to write critical appreciations of a wide range of unseen prose and poetry and be encouraged to question critical views. The subject is mostly essay based, although you will be taught in a variety of styles and will be encouraged to hone your presenting, discussion and creative skills too. Over the summer of the Lower Sixth, you undertake an individual project exploring Gothic literature and comparing texts of your own choice. This gives you the chance to demonstrate your independent learning and research skills. The A Level set texts are carefully chosen to give you a taste of the widest range of literature, including contemporary feminist texts and to prepare you for further study at university level. Because of the immense richness of this subject, many students choose to take their learning further with a literature based EPQ. Will I enjoy it? Yes! Without exception, the A Level cohort at Sherborne love this subject. We are frequently told by students that English Literature has become their favourite subject and the one that they actually enjoy revising!

What else should I consider? The course can equip you with many skills that are useful to employers and universities: the ability to construct a well-supported argument; the ability to write fluently and clearly, and the ability to consider and evaluate the opinions of others and draw a balanced conclusion. The course can lead to careers in PR and marketing, journalism, teaching, law, publishing and many others. It is highly regarded by universities and employers. Subjects to combine with English: Other subjects which complement it particularly well include Modern Foreign Languages, History, Classics, History of Art and Psychology. However, English Literature can be combined with any subject and is often taken by medics and scientists too. In terms of GCSE requirements, we recommend that those students who have achieved at least a 6 in English Language and Literature are best suited to this course. Assessment Examination board: CIE This is a linear course, assessed through four two-hour exams at the end of the Upper Sixth. Each paper is equally weighted at 25% of the course and these are closed book examinations. Paper 1 is Drama and Poetry, Paper 2 Prose and Unseen, Paper 3 Shakespeare and Drama and Paper 4 is Pre and post 1900 Poetry and Prose. Who can give me more information? Mrs Troup l.troup@sherborne.com

SHERBORNE GIRLS S IX T H FOR M

Art and Design: FINE ART Why study Art and Design: Fine Art? Art at this level gives you the opportunity to build on your creative and technical skills to a far more sophisticated level than at GCSE. Studying A Level Art develops qualities of self-discipline, independence of thought and the ability to form insights into the world around us. We encourage visual curiosity, experimentation with a wide range of media and, perhaps more importantly, we encourage you to question why we produce art and what we are trying to communicate to our audience. A Level Art is a course that aims to teach pupils ‘how to think’ not ‘what to think’. Course content The first year of the course is predominantly experimental and involves an introduction to the various disciplines taught within the department. This gives you the opportunity to see the possibilities inherent in the techniques learnt. Painting, drawing, mixed media, fibre art, print making, ceramics, sculpture, installation and photography are all areas within the Fine Art specialism. Alongside developing skills, you need to understand how ideas, feelings and meanings connect to images and artefacts at a personal level and how they are socially constructed over time through genres, styles and traditions. You will improve your aesthetic understanding and critical judgement. An important part of A Level Art, therefore, is an understanding of context and subjective response to it. Will I enjoy it? If you have visual curiosity, enjoy experimentation with a broad range of media and have an open mind, then this is a course from which you will gain great fulfilment. To encourage and nurture a love of the subject, we organise educational trips to London and abroad in conjunction with History of Art (New York, Paris, Rome to name a few recent destinations...). We hold regular workshops and life drawing classes and there are lots of other opportunities for you to create an exciting yet challenging course, tailored to bring out the best in you as an individual.

What else should I consider? The creative industries are some of the fastestgrowing contributors to the UK economy and A Level Art is an excellent pathway to a career within this sector. This would include all forms of Art and Design including: Illustration; Fine Art; Graphics; Fashion; Film; Animation; Architecture; Spatial Design; Interior Architecture, to name a few. A Level Art is widely accepted by universities for degree level courses, however, it is often expected that you take an Art and Design Foundation Diploma after your A Levels to create specialised portfolios before moving on to the top Fine Art undergraduate degree courses. Sherborne Girls regularly sends pupils to Central St Martins, Camberwell, and other top-ranking art colleges. Assessment Examination board: AQA Component 1: Personal Investigation (60%) You develop work based on an idea, issue, concept or theme leading to a finished outcome or a series of related finished outcomes. Practical elements should make connections with some aspect of contemporary or past practice of artist(s), designer(s), photographers or craftspeople and include written work of no less than 1,000 and no more than 3,000 words which supports the practical work. Component 2: Externally Set Task (40%) You respond to a stimulus, provided by AQA, to produce work which provides evidence of your ability to work independently within specified time constraints, developing a personal and meaningful response which addresses all the assessment objectives and leads to a finished outcome or a series of related finished outcomes. Please note: pupils taking A Level Fine Art will be charged a studio fee of £20 per term. Who can give me more information? Mrs Mason c.mason@sherborne.com

S HER BO RNE GIR L S SIX T H FORM

FRENCH Why study languages? A language A Level complements a whole variety of subjects. Many students study a language at university as part of a degree programme, whether this be as a major or minor subject. More and more students take advantage of university placements in Europe as part of their programme. You may need languages for all sorts of careers – and having a language to a high level may well give you the edge in a competitive job market. Why study French? More than 220 million people speak French on all the five continents. French is a major language of international communication. It is the second most widely learned language after English and the sixth most widely spoken language in the world. French is also the second most widely taught language after English and is taught on every continent. The OIF, an international organisation of Frenchspeaking countries, is made up of 77 member states and governments. French is both a working language and an official language of the United Nations, the European Union, UNESCO, NATO, the International Olympic Committee, the International Red Cross and international courts. Proficiency in French is essential for anyone considering a career in any international organisation. After English and German, French is the third most widely used language on the internet. An ability to understand French offers an alternative view of the world through communication with French speakers from all over the world and news from the leading French-language international media (TV5, France 24 and Radio France Internationale).

Course Content A Level builds on the skills of listening, speaking, reading and writing which you have already acquired (at GCSE or equivalent). Through the study of the topic areas, you will develop not only your language skills but also your understanding of people and culture in the French-speaking countries. Effective language learning skills are crucial and there will be a strong emphasis on the daily learning of new vocabulary and practising various grammar structures. Regular listening and reading are also vital in the language learning process, as the more you are exposed to authentic texts and audio sources, the better your own command of the language will become. During the course you will study two works, which may be novels or films, for example, L’Etranger (Albert Camus), No et Moi (Delphine de Vigan) or Sac de Billes (Joseph Joffo). Your oral examination will include a discussion of an individual research project. This will give you an opportunity to identify and research an area of interest related to the French-speaking world. Assessment Examination board: AQA At A Level your language skills and cultural knowledge will be assessed by external examinations at the end of the two-year course.

• Paper 1: Listening, Reading and Writing (including translation tasks) 40%

France is often considered the language of culture. A French lesson is a cultural journey into the worlds of fashion, gastronomy, the arts, architecture and science. Learning French also offers access to the works of great French writers such as Victor Hugo or Marcel Proust and famous poets like Charles Baudelaire or Jacques Prévert, in the original text. It means being able to hear the voices of actors Alain Delon or Juliette Binoche, and the pleasure of being able to understand the words of French songs sung by an Édith Piaf or a Charles Aznavour and even sing them yourself. 30

• Paper 2: Critical response to literary texts/ film 30%

• Paper 3: Oral exam, including discussion of research project 30%

Who can give me more information? Mrs Blewitt s.blewitt@sherborne.com

GEOGRAPHY Why study Geography ? Geography is an interesting and diverse, broadbased academic subject. The course covers both Physical and Human environments and the complex interaction of processes that shape our world. Geography combines well with both the arts and sciences, and is highly regarded by universities because it opens up a very wide range of options for degree study. Employers and universities regard Geography as a robust academic subject rich in skills, knowledge and understanding. Course content You will study three Physical topics: • Ecosystems, • Cold Environments • Water and Carbon. You will study three Human topics: • Changing Places • Urban Environments • Global systems and Governance You will also take part in two field trips. The first is a residential trip during which you will collect data to support the course content. This trip will also introduce you to a wide variety of data capture techniques that you should use to help you to complete your own independent investigation. The second trip is a day trip to explore a more local destination as a case study for the Changing Places topic. During the course you will answer a range of different styles of question. Some questions are worth between 4 and 6 marks and can be based around the interpretation of a map or graph or photograph. 9 mark questions require longer responses in which you may be required to develop your ideas by including case study material, and 20 mark essay questions are more synoptic in nature as you will need to bring different aspects of the course together, often making links between Human and Physical content. Will I enjoy it? As well as studying a variety of topics and themes, you will learn about them in relation to a range of locations across the globe. In your lessons you will learn in a variety of ways, including the use of videos, using techniques such as GIS, and by

referring to a range of secondary source material such as photographs and census data. You will have the opportunity to discuss many vital issues that affect the world today such as climate change, migration, poverty, pollution and the use of global resources. Geography will enhance your essay-writing skills as well as your ability to carry out extended research and then to effectively identify and select relevant information. Michael Palin believes that ‘Geography is the subject that holds the key to our future’. You should consider Geography if you enjoy learning about people and their societies, cultures and environments. If you are keen to develop a wide range of skills and you are seeking a broad-based academic subject, look no further. What else should I consider? Geography will prepare you for a career in sustainability and green issues, urban regeneration and planning, energy supply, retail location, managing the effects of hazards and climate change, law, human rights, international relations, politics and welfare, among many other fascinating professional areas. It is preferable that you have studied Geography at GCSE and that you have achieved grade 6 or above in English, Mathematics and Science. Assessment Examination board: AQA Specification code 7037 You will complete two papers under examination conditions which together account for 80% of the A Level: Paper 1 Physical Geography. 40% Paper 2 Human Geography. 40% The third component is an individual fieldwork investigation that is worth 20%. Who can give me more information? Mrs Morray-Jones e.morrayjones@sherborne.com 31

S HER BO RNE GIR L S SIX T H FORM

GERMAN Why study German? 1. German is the most widely spoken language in Europe. More people speak German as their native language than any other language in Europe. It is also the 3rd most popular foreign language taught worldwide and the second most popular in Europe and Japan, after English. 2. Germany is an economic powerhouse. Germany has the third largest economy in the world and is the economic powerhouse of the European Union. From cars to machinery and industrial equipment, from pharmaceuticals to household goods, German businesses earn 1 in 3 Euros through export. The competitiveness and desirability of German products on the market creates a need for German speakers and numerous employers both within the UK and in other countries around the world fill their vacancies with candidates who can speak this hugely important business language. Adding German to your CV will give you a significant advantage when it comes to job-hunting. 3. German-speaking countries have a rich cultural heritage. Germany is often referred to as the land of “Dichter und Denker” – of poets and thinkers. And rightly so, because German contributions to the arts and human thought have been nothing short of profound. Philosophy and the sciences would also be unthinkable without the contributions of German speakers. The philosophies of Kant, Hegel, Marx, Nietzsche and numerous others have had lasting influences on modern society. The psychologists Freud and Jung forever changed the way we think about human behaviour. Scientists from the three major German-speaking countries have won dozens of Nobel prizes in physics, chemistry, and medicine. Knowing German allows you to access the works of these people in their original language. Anyone interested in these fields automatically expands her knowledge and skill by knowing German.

Course Content A Level German builds on the skills of listening, speaking, reading and writing which you have already acquired (at GCSE or equivalent). Through the study of the topic areas, you will develop not only your language skills but also your understanding of people and culture in the German-speaking countries. Effective language learning skills are crucial and there will be a strong emphasis on the daily learning of new vocabulary and practising various grammar structures. Regular listening and reading are also vital in the language learning process as the more you are exposed to authentic texts and audio sources, the better your own command of the language will become. You will study a film in the first year of your A Level course (Goodbye, Lenin) and you will read and analyse a literary text in the second year (die Verwandlung by Franz Kafka). Both are fantastic works full of interesting ideas for you to unpick and discuss. Your oral examination will include a discussion of an individual research project. This will give you an opportunity to identify and research an area of your interest. Assessment Examination board: AQA At A Level your language skills and cultural knowledge will be assessed by external examinations in the second year:

• Paper 1: Listening, Reading and Writing (including translation tasks) 40%

• Paper 2: Critical response to literary texts/film 30%

• Paper 3: Oral Examination, including discussion of research project 30%

Who can give me more information? Mrs Blewitt s.blewitt@sherborne.com

HISTORY Why study History? This course will be ideal for you if you are interested in people and politics in the past and want to find out why some countries develop through peaceful change whilst others experience revolutions. If you study History you will be able to develop important skills of source criticism, essay-writing, critical understanding of argument and interpretation. We also hope that you will want to do lots of reading and be able to reflect on the role of the historian in the very process of creating ‘History’. Will I enjoy it? Yes you certainly will if you enjoy debating, questioning and thinking, re-enacting, reading and watching films about the past. You will love History A Level if you are interested in human beings and their motivations; in understanding the present world in which we live or in politics and how we got to where we are now. You will be able to compare the different ways societies have dealt with universal human problems, such as who has power, how countries should be ruled and how individual human actions can affect millions.

Assessment Examination Board: OCR

• British period study and enquiry – 1 hour and 30 minute paper

on-British period study – 1 hour paper • N • Thematic study – 2 hour 30 minute paper • Topic-based coursework essay – 3000-4000 words

Who can give me more information? Mrs Elliott s.elliott@sherborne.com

Course Content A Level History covers Early Modern British History as well as Modern European History. For the British History unit we will investigate Early Tudor Britain: 1485-1558. This includes an enquiry topic: the Mid-Tudor Crisis of 1547-1558. We will also be studying the Cold War in Europe 1991-1995 and as an in-depth study we will look at Russia and its Rulers 1885-1964 with a focus on Alexander II, the ‘Tsar Liberator’. You will be able to extend your knowledge of one of these areas when you complete your topic-based coursework essay in the U6. During the two-year course you will attend at least one major lecture where you have the opportunity to listen to leading academics. In the past, these have included distinguished historians such as David Starkey. There is also the opportunity to listen to lectures at Sherborne School, Sherborne History Society and the Chalke Valley History Festival. We are currently running a trip to Berlin in October which offers further enrichment to A Level study.

S HER BO RNE GIR L S SIX T H FORM

HISTORY OF ART

Why study History of Art? A Level History of Art provides a grand tour of two millennia of art and architecture across the continents and cultures of the globe, spanning European, Middle-Eastern, Asian and African societies. Course content The course is structured in three core areas: visual analysis, thematic study, and the study of arthistorical periods. Additionally, critical texts are studied in relation to all components of the syllabus (except visual analysis) – these can range from biographical to theoretical and form a core ingredient of the assessment.

• In the Visual Analysis component, you learn how

to analyse European art and architecture from the Classical period to the present day, developing the skills and terminology required to describe works of art and architecture in accurate detail. • In the Thematic component, you consider works of art and architecture from different parts of the globe from specific perspectives, comparing and contrasting the different cultural approaches to the same theme – the two themes are ‘war’ and ‘identities’. • In the Art Historical component, you make a detailed study of a specific period in European and / or American art history, considering works in depth with regard to their social, philosophical, and cultural influences, and examining their role and influence in society. Two periods are chosen from a possible five: the Italian Renaissance (1420-1520); and British and American contemporary culture (1960-2015). Good GCSEs in humanities subjects in which writing skills are acquired and examined, such as English Literature, RS and History, is a significant advantage. Previous experience of visual culture – such as visiting art galleries, museums, and sites of architectural heritage – is a distinct advantage.

Will I enjoy it? History of Art is a humanities subject, so it requires many of the same skills as subjects such as English Literature, Religious Studies and History, along with the specific skills applicable to the study of visual culture. Enthusiasm to undertake close visual study of works of art and architecture is essential for the A Level. You should also be able to read texts in a critical manner and be able to formulate your own arguments into clearly structured essays that are fluently expressed. Likewise, an enjoyment of the world of ideas and concepts is crucial to getting the best out of the A Level. A strong interest and appreciation of visual culture, in all its diverse forms across the globe, is an essential ingredient for success and enjoyment of the A Level History of Art. What else should I consider? Taught at Oxford, Cambridge, Edinburgh and many of the Russell Group Universities, those students who have studied A Level History of Art are very well prepared for an undergraduate degree in the subject. As a humanities subject, A Level History of Art also facilitates entry into humanities undergraduate degrees, such as Classics, English Literature, History, and Philosophy. Assessment Examination Board: Edexcel Your A Level grade will be decided by two 3 hour written exams. There is no coursework component, but part of the exam papers requires you to comment on works of art and writing which you’ve not previously studied. Who can give me more information? Mr Casely j.casely@sherborne.com

S HER BO RNE GIR L S SIX T H FORM

LATIN Why study Latin? ‘Latin is the maths of the humanities but Latin also has something that mathematics does not and this is the history and mythology of the ancient world. Latin is maths with goddesses and gladiators and flying horses or flying children.’ So says Llewelyn Morgan, Professor of Classics at Oxford. Latin is an historically significant language that is also embedded in many modern languages and so its study not only gives important insights and shortcuts to other languages but also leads to a greater understanding of how language works. But most importantly, it gives you the chance to experience the literature and culture and society of the ancient Romans. Fundamentally, the study of a classical language trains the mind, developing skills of critical thought, memory and close analysis, as well as an appreciation of the beauty and power of language. Linguistic skills lie at the heart of the course, since it is through a deep understanding of the workings of a language that true intellectual contact can be made with peoples of the past. Through the different genres of classical texts, you will be able to examine their ideas and artistry within their historical, political and cultural contexts. At the end of the Sixth Form, you will truly learn what it is exactly that the Romans have done for us! Course content The A Level course builds on the GCSE, allowing you a more sophisticated understanding of the language. This enables further study of prose and verse literature, through which you will gain a deeper understanding of the life and culture of the ancient world. There are separate papers in the langue and literature. For the language, both prose and verse authors are studied (Livy and Ovid). For the literature, we study two from Cicero, Tacitus and Livy as our prose authors and two from Virgil, Catullus and Ovid as our verse authors. Will I enjoy it? Of course you will. You can build on your GCSE knowledge and get up close and personal with Latin authors and find out so much about how they led their lives, who they mixed with socially, what they thought of their political leaders. It is often

surprising how similar the daily trials and tribulations of an ancient Roman are to those of each of us today. It is a challenging subject indeed but highly rewarding and it complements so many other subjects, whether with its gritty determination to demand grammatical rigour or the frequent examples of the inspiration it provided authors and playwrights and poets of later years with tremendous inspiration. Carol Ann Duffy, Shakespeare, The Hunger Games – all of them took inspiration from the Romans (who in turn were inspired by the Greeks). What better way to make your university application stand out than by having an A Level in a classical language. What else should I consider? As an A Level subject, Latin complements almost every other subject, from the sciences through any modern language to Theatre Studies, English and Religious Studies. It is a qualification that is highly valued by universities and can be useful to pupils intending to study courses such as Medicine, Law, Modern Languages, English as well as Classics. Recent pupils have gone on to study Classics at Oxford and other degrees such as Ancient History, Art, Classical Literature, Medicine and Theology at Edinburgh, Newcastle, Durham, Exeter and Falmouth. You need to have studied the GCSE in order to take it for A Level. Assessment Examination Board: OCR Specification code H443 Four end-of-course examinations:

• Unseen Translation:

100 marks / 1 hour 45 minutes / 33%

• Comprehension:

50 marks / 1 hour 15 minutes / 17%

• Prose Literature:

75 marks / 2 hours / 25% V erse Literature: • 75 marks / 2 hours / 25% Who can give me more information? Mrs Elliott s.elliott@sherborne.com

S HER BO RNE GIR L S SIX T H FORM

MANDARIN CHINESE

Why study Chinese? 1. China is the factory of the world. Since the opening of the Chinese economy in the 1980s under the then leader, Deng Xiao Ping, China has become a manufacturing hub and powerhouse with many household names and goods produced there. From iPhones to DFS sofas, you will be surprised if all or part has not been manufactured in China. 2. China has perhaps the richest and longest histories on earth. The Chinese have long been the explorers, the inventors, the thinkers and poets to counter the achievements of the ancient Greeks and Egyptians and Islam. 3. Although there are probably more Chinese speaking or learning to speak English than other English speakers of this world, in order to truly understand the people, traditions and culture, one really must understand the characters and concepts of Chinese. With an ever emerging economy and industrial intellect, there will be many opportunities in the future for Chinese and non Chinese people to find jobs associated with this great nation. Course Content A Level Chinese builds on the skills of listening, speaking, reading and writing which you have already acquired (at GCSE or equivalent). Through the study of the topic areas, you will develop not only your language skills but also your understanding of people, the concepts and culture in the Chinese-speaking countries. Effective language learning skills are crucial and there will be a strong emphasis on the daily learning of new vocabulary and practising various grammar structures. Regular listening and reading are also vital in the language learning process as the more you are exposed to authentic texts and audio sources, the better your own command of the language will become.

You will study a film in the first year of your A Level course (Beijing Bicycle, Wang Xiao Shuai) and you will read and analyse a literary text in the second year (A Pigeon Called Feng, Cao Wen Xian). Both are fantastic works full of interesting ideas for you to unpick and discuss. Your oral examination will include a discussion of an individual research project. This will give you an opportunity to identify and research an area of your interest.   Assessment Examination board: EDEXCEL At A Level your language skills and cultural knowledge will be assessed by external examinations in the second year:

• Paper 1: Listening, Reading and Translation 40% • Paper 2: Written Response to Works and Translation 30%

• Paper 3: Speaking 30% Who can give me more information? Mrs Liu-Plant Y.liuplant@sherborne.com Please note that this is Mandarin and not a Cantonese course.

S HER BO RNE GIR L S SIX T H FORM

MATHEMATICS

Why study Mathematics? Mathematics is a mixture of ideas, problem solving and the application of numerical skills. Brain training and the development of logical thinking and organisation are at its core, so it complements many other courses. The academic rigour and skills that are developed are also desirable in any career. The teaching staff are fully committed to providing a broad mathematical education and our â&#x20AC;&#x153;open doorâ&#x20AC;? policy for providing support is extremely popular. Course content The A Level Mathematics course provides a study of mathematics in three main areas: Pure Mathematics (algebra and functions, proof, coordinate geometry, calculus and trigonometry); Statistics and Mechanics. The course includes the use of technology to analyse large data sets. The aims of the course are to enable you to develop mathematical knowledge, problem solving skills, mathematical reasoning and modelling skills. Will I enjoy it? If you enjoy a challenge, have found the mathematics you have studied so far both interesting and relatively quick to pick up, and find satisfaction from working on a problem from different angles without getting frustrated, then the answer is yes, you will enjoy the subject. It is hard work and you will make mistakes or feel stuck at times, but the most satisfying thing about mathematics at A Level is the pursuit of the right method, spotting the link between the topics and the sense of accomplishment when you do make a breakthrough. Mathematics can be beautiful and if you choose to take A Level Mathematics or Further Mathematics you will start to see how all the different areas from your GCSE study link together.

What else should I consider? Mathematics is the language of most sciences and will train you to be a logical problem solver, giving you skills that are highly valued by both universities and employers in later life. As such it is a requirement for a large variety of Science or Economics-based courses at university, and it is listed as desirable for a significant number more. Whilst Mathematics is rightly seen as a challenging course at A Level, if you are achieving at least a grade 8 at GCSE or IGCSE and have a real interest in the subject, there is every opportunity to attain the highest grades. A Level Further Mathematics If Mathematics is your real interest then you could study both Mathematics and Further Mathematics. This would count as two A Levels (Further Mathematics cannot be studied alone). The Further Mathematics course includes compulsory Core Mathematics modules (Complex Numbers, Differential Equations, Proof, Matrices, Vectors, Coordinate Systems and Series) there are two options that must be taken which are chosen based on the interests and aptitude of the students, these are selected from Further Pure 1 and Further Pure 2, Further Statistics, Further Mechanics and Decision. Assessment Examination board: EDEXCEL 100% Examination, assessed at the end of the course. A Level Mathematics: three exams, each 2 hours with equal weighting: two Pure Papers and one combined Statistics and Mechanics. A Level Further Mathematics: four exams, each 1 hour 30 minutes with equal weighting: two Core Papers and two options papers Who can give me more information? Mr Utting p.utting@sherborne.com

Core Mathematics (Academic Enrichment Option) Level 3 Mathematical Studies (Core Maths) is a new qualification designed for students who have achieved a grade 4 or above at GCSE. It helps to develop studentsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; mathematical skills and thinking and supports courses such as A-level Psychology, Sciences, Business Studies and Geography as well as technical and vocational qualifications. The main focus of the course is to show how Mathematics is relevant in the real world, to this end the compulsory content of the course covers personal finance, analysis of data, estimation and critical analysis of given data and models. We will also do the optional Statistical Techniques section as this ties in best with the other A-Levels offered at the school. This will cover topics such as Normal Distribution and Correlation and Regression. This course should help you to realise how Mathematics can be useful in everyday life and should provide you with the tools to make informed decisions in a wide variety of situations. If you are interested in the way the world works and how to interpret the incredible amount of information and data that is available currently then this course should be extremely interesting. Core maths is equivalent in size to an AS qualification and as such carries the same number of UCAS points. The true benefit of taking it is in its usefulness alongside other A-Level and university courses particularly subjects such as psychology, business-related courses, sports and social sciences, and natural science courses. We are not intending for there to be a significant amount of outside the classroom work and the course will be taught over one year, for two lessons a week. Assessment: AQA 100% Examination assessed at the end of the course. The exams will be taken at the end of the L6 year. You will sit two exams, each 1 hour 30 minutes, one covering the compulsory content and one covering statistical techniques.

S HER BO RNE GIR L S SIX T H FORM

MODERN LANGUAGES Please refer to individual subject pages for French, German, Spanish and Mandarin Chinese.

Why study Modern Foreign Languages? The study of one or more foreign languages has obvious practical benefits for communication with foreign-language speakers in the world of work as well as for leisure travel. The satisfaction and pleasure derived from being able to speak and understand foreign languages proficiently are considerable and certainly worth the effort that goes into mastering a new language.

Learning about the different cultures around the world (which is an important part of any language course) will increase your enjoyment of travel in foreign countries and also help you to think more critically about your own culture. Use of foreign language websites, YouTube videos, radio and TV are some of the ways of achieving foreign language immersion and adding exciting new dimensions to your learning journey.

In the world of work there is firm evidence that people with language skills have a distinct advantage: they have the edge at interviews, they communicate better and they earn more.

What else should I consider? All foreign language courses have as their main aim the use of the language. You will therefore enjoy participating in class and be committed to language-learning strategies such as learning vocabulary and frequent independent listening and learning. You will also be keen to speak as often as possible with native speakers, especially our foreign language assistants, with whom you will have an additional timetabled lesson. The most successful pupils have an analytical approach to language study: you should be interested in studying how language works and in comparing similarities and differences between languages. Successful pupils also tend to be those who read newspapers, magazines and books independently in the foreign language and use all the means available to them – for example apps and songs – to make the foreign language an integral part of their daily life.

As well as being good for your career, languages are rewarding to learn for their own sake, because they open your mind up to other cultures and encourage you to think more deeply about the different ways in which human beings communicate with one another. Language qualifications are well regarded by universities and highly valued by employers and are therefore undoubtedly worth including in your education portfolio, as either the principal focus or a valuable component. Will I enjoy it? Communication in a variety of forms – speaking, texting, blogging, tweeting – is central to all our lives today. In the world of education and work, many people also spend a great deal of time presenting, debating and undertaking extended writing of different kinds. These ‘higher’ skills are developed on an A Level foreign language course. They are skills that require hard work, but the rewards are great. The ability to understand and communicate very effectively in a foreign language will give you a greater sense of empowerment as a global citizen. They are skills which certainly enrich your life, and are, quite simply, great fun.

All of our Sixth Form language courses can lead to a variety of university courses in which one or more languages are either the main subject of study or available in combination with other subjects. Traditional language degree courses – especially those at Oxford and Cambridge – place more emphasis on literature, but you can also find courses which will allow you to pursue your interests in a whole range of subjects such as History of Art, Politics, History, Economics, Law, Philosophy and so on, alongside the language study. Who can give me more information? Mrs Blewitt s.blewitt@sherborne.com

Language Proficiency Diplomas The Modern Languages Faculty offers teaching for four European language proficiency diplomas, three of which are examined at the Exeter University Foreign Language Centre; our nearest centres for German are the Goethe Institut in London and Cardiff University Modern Languages Department. All four diplomas are based on the levels of the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR-L) and recognised worldwide by businesses and universities. They can be taken at different exam levels within the CEFR-L. Teachers will tend to aim the class for Level B1, but students will be entered for and examined at the level that they reach. Exams are available once a year, so students can take an exam in the L6 or in the U6. The French DELF and Spanish DELE diplomas are usually open to those who have studied the language to GCSE and who want to continue, aiming for Level B1. The Italian PLIDA diploma is offered as a beginnersâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; course. A GCSE in a modern language or Latin is preferable but not essential. Students will aim for Level B1 over five or six terms, usually taking the exam in the Upper Sixth. The German Goethe-Zertifikat may be taught at Sherborne School; lessons are open to students who have a GCSE in German, and classes will aim for Level B1. Those who want to complete a diploma in one year and take an exam in the Lower Sixth can do so, and will be entered for the CEFR-L Level that they have reached. Students can always take a higher Level the following year if they wish. So, if you are thinking of applying for citizenship or plan a career that may take you abroad using your language skills, a diploma will provide you with an official assessment of your language knowledge, a great addition to your CV.

SHERBORNE GIRLS S IX T H FOR M

MUSIC

Why study Music? Studying Music A Level is the ideal preparation for further musical study at college or university, or it may be that you are simply a keen musician with a deep interest in learning more about music. As well as our five full-time members of staff, the Music Department enjoys fantastic support from a large number of professional musicians who teach instruments and singing on a weekly basis. This gives us a vast amount of expertise and experience to draw upon. Girls studying Music at A Level have the full use, benefits and inspiration of our splendid new Music School situated in the Merritt Centre. Among the state-of-the-art facilities are a suite of twelve Apple Mac computers, a Rock Room, a recording studio and, of course, the stunning Gransden Hall, already celebrated for its flexible performance space and superb acoustics. Course Content The A Level course provides a great opportunity to develop your skills in the following areas: performing, composing, studying, listening and analysing. You will need to be a keen performer, instrumentally, vocally or both. The ability to play a keyboard instrument is a great advantage. The Performance element is coursework and will include either solo or ensemble performing or a mixture of the two. There are ample opportunities for any combination! Studying traditional harmony will enable you to compose in various pastiche styles and to develop your own compositional expertise. Set works are drawn from an anthology of classical, popular, film and world music styles and you will gain skills in listening and analysis.

Will I enjoy it? If you love music, enjoy listening to a wide variety of genres and styles and have a real interest in ‘how music works’, then taking the A Level course could be an excellent option for you. Through the performing and composing aspects you will certainly get the chance to continue your development as an original, expressive and creative individual. Assessment Examination Board: EDEXCEL omponent 1: Performing 30% • C • Component 2: Composition 30% • Component 3: Appraising 40% What else should I consider? Music sits well with any other academic subject, humanities or sciences. It is a good pathway to Higher Education at a conservatoire or university, either for a continuation of musical study or as preparation for any other academic, vocational or performative discipline. There are many career opportunities connected with music available to you, including performing, teaching, publishing, librarianship and work with broadcasting and recording industries. Who can give me more information? Mr Clarkson s.clarkson@sherborne.com

S HER BO RNE GIR L S SIX T H FORM

Art and Design: PHOTOGRAPHY

Why study Photography? Photography falls within the same specification as A Level Art & Design Fine Art and is structured in a similar way, the obvious difference being that instead of producing work in the medium of pencil or paint, images are produced using some form of lens based media, i.e. photographs using digital or traditional 35mm film. Photography will teach you ‘how to see’ and will add significantly to your understanding of the visual, digital world we all inhabit. Developing such skills is an essential part of 21st Century life and will enhance your visual understanding, and add to your skills in other subjects by teaching you what it means to independently wrestle with ideas, to experiment with a wide range of photographic processes and outcomes, and to critically evaluate your own successes and areas for development. Course content The A Level Photography course will offer you the opportunity to explore a broad range of photographic techniques and processes. These will include both traditional, black and white darkroom techniques as well as digital photography, studio lighting and creative post production software techniques with still and moving images. The course is designed to teach you the fundamental technical and experimental skills needed to produce successful photographs and lens-based media outcomes, and ultimately prepare you to make final resolved works using any technique or process you wish. Students will be taught the following: • The SLR and DSLR cameras: technical investigation into how to use a single lens reflex camera. Composition: compositional skills needed in creating exciting photographic images through the lens. • Darkroom: the technical process of chemical film development, photograph printing and experimentation.

• Studio: technical investigation into how to use

continuous, strobe and creative lighting setups.

• Digital Post Production: image organisation,

editing, enhancement, manipulation and presentation using industry standard software, Adobe CC including Bridge, Lightroom, Photoshop and Premier Pro. • Reference to the work of contemporary photographers and historical movements will be made throughout. Will I enjoy it? If you enjoy taking photographs, being visually creative and are interested in exploring new ways to express ideas and meanings this will be a great course for you. It is also very well suited to those that enjoy a project and coursework-based approach to learning and who are inspired by other artists work including visiting exhibitions and working with other students to realise intentions. What else should I consider? There is no requirement that you have studied Photography or Art before. Photography may be chosen by the ‘Art Specialist’, that is, the student who knows that art school is their future and chooses to combine Photography with Art. However, it is just as likely that you are looking for a creative subject to add to your A Level subject combination and like Art, it is accepted by most university courses and provides a foundation for a vast and growing range of careers. Assessment Examination board: AQA All assessment takes place at the end of the course and is composed of:

• Personal Investigation (60%)

– Portfolio of practical work – 1,000-3,000 word written element • Externally set assignment: 15 hours (40%) Who can give me more information? Mrs Mason c.mason@sherborne.com

PHYSICAL EDUCATION

Why study Physical Education? Studying A Level Physical Education (Sports Science) will give you a fantastic insight into a remarkable world of performance sport and participation sport. The course is studied through a range of contexts and studies the different factors concerning health and exercise and their impact on society.   It is a fascinating and challenging course in which you will learn about the science behind performance as well as about many other factors which can impact on sports performance potential. Course content Physical Education is split into 3 theoretical areas which aim to link science, psychology and social concepts to practical performance. You will learn and apply your knowledge in the following areas: Physiological factors affecting performance • Applied anatomy and physiology • Exercise physiology • Biomechanics

What else should I consider? A Level Physical Education complements a variety of courses in both humanities and science and is a respected and recognised A Level by universities in the United Kingdom. There are now a wide range of higher education courses offered by many universities, involving the study of physical education and sport science. Assessment Examination board: OCR Assessment is in two parts: Theory is assessed in the form of three  written examinations (70%), and there is a practical assessment of performance in a chosen sport along with completing the Evaluation and Analysis of Performance for Improvement (30%). Who can give me more information? Mr Garnsworthy r.garnsworthy@sherborne.com

Psychological factors affecting sports performance • Skill acquisition • Sports psychology Socio-cultural issues in physical activity and sport • Sport and society • Contemporary issues in physical activity and sport Will I enjoy it? Physical Education will suit you if you are: • Interested in Sports Performance • Interested in Nutrition and/or Dietetics • Fascinated by the Human Body, Biomechanics and Human Movement • Studying other sciences • Interested in Physiotherapy

S HER BO RNE GIR L S SIX T H FORM

PHYSICS Why study Physics? Whatever your ambition, A Level Physics can help you to realise it. In Physics, you gain a qualification that is highly regarded by universities and employers â&#x20AC;&#x201C; not just for the knowledge you have acquired but also the analytical skills you have developed alongside the ability to think logically. From the smallest sub-atomic particles to the nature of black holes, if you want to understand how the universe works, then Physics is for you. How can an electron be in two places at the same time? What is dark matter? What is light, wave or particle? If you enjoy solving problems, are open minded and enjoy a challenge, Physics is for you. Lessons are a mix of theory and practical and while there is a mathematical element to it, you do not need to study A Level Mathematics to complete the A Level Physics course but a good maths grade at GCSE is desirable. Course Content Physics is the most fundamental of the experimental sciences; it seeks to explain the universe itself from the very smallest particles to the vast distances between galaxies. In the first year we aim to build on prior knowledge of topics including Mechanics, Waves and Electricity, while introducing new topics such as Particle Physics and Quantum Phenomena. You have the opportunity to learn about historical scientific discoveries alongside cutting edge science. In the second year, we develop these ideas further through the study of Electric, Gravitational and Magnetic Fields. The concept of the field is one of the great unifying ideas in Physics. Other topics include Thermal Physics and Nuclear Physics. The course is completed with the study of an Astrophysics module. Practical work is at the heart of Physics and we offer opportunities to develop key practical skills throughout the course. The A Level course has a separate practical endorsement based on assessments you complete in class. Your final A Level grade is based only on the marks you secure in your final written examinations.

Will I enjoy it? Yes! How can you not enjoy discovering how the world around you operates? A Level Physics gives you the opportunity to explore the questions often introduced at GCSE, but seldom explored. As your analytical skills develop further you will be able to underpin this knowledge with a firm mathematical footing, allowing further opportunity to explore fields of interest. The bulk of the mathematical content is accessible with a good grade at GCSE. The more demanding mathematics required in the second year will be covered in class. To help you develop your ideas, the lessons are a mix of theory and practical work. The work in the classroom is supported with lectures by visiting speakers and trips to places of scientific interest. Recent trips have included the Fleet Air Arm Museum at Yeovilton, the Science Museum in

London, the Diamond Light Source in Oxfordshire and the Joint European Torus experimental fusion reactor at Culham. Assessment Examination Board: AQA Specification 7408 The course is assessed by three 120-minutes papers at the end of the course. • Paper One (34%) covers the material taught in year one (electricity, quantum phenomena, mechanics and waves) • Paper Two (34%) covers the material taught in year two (further mechanics, fields, thermal physics and radioactivity) • Paper Three (32%) covers the astronomy module, practical skills and data analysis.

Practical skills assessment is carried out throughout the course. What else should I consider? Nuclear physics, medical physics and civil engineering provide popular career paths for physicists. Many more become involved in other disciplines of science and engineering such as meteorology or technology and communications. However, a physics qualification is highly valued in a wide range of careers such as law, banking, finance, actuarial science, theatre and lighting design and journalism. The opportunities are limitless! Who can give me more information? Mr Grierson j.grierson@sherborne.com

S HER BO RNE GIR L S SIX T H FORM

PSYCHOLOGY Why study Psychology? Psychology A Level offers an engaging and effective introduction to the enormous field of psychological academic study. You will study theories and concepts which help to explain human behaviour and experience and you will learn how to apply a variety of experimental and nonexperimental research methods to gather evidence to support these theories. You will excel in Psychology if you have a relatively strong scientific background and competence in Mathematics and, of course, an inherent curiosity about human behaviour. The course will help you to develop skills valued by Higher Education and employment such as the ability to explain complex concepts clearly and concisely in writing, to think logically and critically, and piece together arguments based upon a range of often apparently conflicting research evidence. You will also need an open mind and the skills to listen and then question concepts and evidence carefully.

Course content The course covers the fundamentals of Psychology as well as several applied topics. Although there is no coursework, you will have the opportunity to practise different research techniques in class and analyse your findings using descriptive and inferential statistics. Compulsory content 1 Social influence 2 Memory 3 Attachment 4 Psychopathology 5 Approaches in Psychology 6 Biopsychology 7 Research methods 8 Issues and debates in Psychology

Options

Assessment Examination board: AQA

9 Relationships

• Paper 1: Introductory Topics in Psychology.

Option 1 10 Gender 11 Cognition and development Option 2 12 Schizophrenia 13 Eating behaviour 14 Stress Option 3 15 Aggression 16 Forensic Psychology

Compulsory content 1-4 above. 2 hour written exam (33.3% of A-level) • Paper 2: Psychology in Context Compulsory content 5-7 above. 2 hour written exam (33.3% of A-level) • Paper 3: Issues and Options in Psychology Compulsory content 8 above. Optional content, one from option 1, one from option 2, one from option 3. 2 hour written exam (33.3% of A-level) Who can tell me more about this course? Mr Angelosanto a.angelosanto@sherborne.com

17 Addiction Will I enjoy it? Psychology is a fascinating field; it helps explain why we are who we are and what motivates our actions. It is endlessly interesting, both in understanding the actions and behaviours of groups, culture and individuals, and in helping us understand ourselves. The subject will ask much of you but it will undoubtedly reward endeavour and provide a challenging but enjoyable addition to your Advanced Level programme. What else should I consider? Psychology ‘fits’ well with many other A Levels including Biology, Geography, Business Studies and Religious Studies. In order to study Psychology at A Level you will need good Science and Mathematics GCSE grades. If you decide to take the subject further, a degree in Psychology can offer many opportunities in fields such as clinical work, for instance psychiatry, therapy and counselling; insights into business, in particular human resources and market research, as well as career paths in Educational Psychology, Occupational Psychology, Forensic Psychology and many more.

S HER BO RNE GIR L S SIX T H FORM

RELIGIOUS STUDIES

Why study Religious Studies? A Level Religious Studies is a highly engaging subject and you can expect classes to involve a considerable amount of discussion and debate. To get the most out of the subject, you must be willing to participate in these discussions, both sharing your own ideas and listening to and respecting the views of others. You will develop skills of critical evaluation and analysis, which you will practise within these discussions and in essay-writing. Whilst a full course RS GCSE in the subject is desirable, it isn’t essential. Religious Studies is very accessible at A Level provided you have strong writing skills. In this light, a good grade in an essay-based GCSE, for example English, is a big plus. You should have a keen interest in the subject, including a desire to broaden your knowledge and understanding of religion, philosophy and ethics, and to develop your skills in critical thinking and analysis. Where can it lead? A Level Religious Studies can provide you with excellent transferable skills, from essay writing, confidence in debating and the ability to appreciate other viewpoints. These skills can be incredibly helpful in a range of university degrees involving critical thinking and discussion e.g. Humanities, English, Psychology, PPE. Universities highly value applicants with a good grade at A Level in RS. Religious Studies or a related subject at degree level can lead to a range of challenging and rewarding jobs, using either direct knowledge

gained from the subject or the skills gained. Possible jobs from a Religious Studies or Philosophy degree include: lecturing, teaching, advice worker, archivist, work within ‘third sector’ organisations, counselling, community development worker, and police officer or youth worker. Course content In Philosophy of Religion you will study philosophical issues and questions raised by religion and belief. These include arguments regarding the existence or non-existence of God, the nature and influence of religious experience and the problems of evil and suffering. You will also explore philosophical language and thought through significant concepts and the works of key thinkers, illustrated in issues or debates in the philosophy of religion. Religion and Ethics are characterised by the study of ethical language and thought, with exploration of key concepts and the works of influential thinkers. Ethical theory will also be applied to issues of importance; namely euthanasia, business ethics, and sexual ethics. Developments in Religious Thought provides an opportunity for the systematic study of Christianity. This will include the exploration of religious beliefs, values, teachings and practices that shape religious identity, as well as sources of wisdom and authority. Also central are the ways in which religious traditions have developed over time and religious responses to challenges and significant contemporary social issues, such as feminism and evidence for the existence of the historical Jesus.

Will I enjoy it? Yes, we think you will. If you like independent thought, studying RS is an excellent training in thinking for yourself. In our experience, many people are quick to say that beliefs, especially on such philosophical matters as ethics or religion, depend on upbringing. But very few people say this about themselves. Does what you think about abortion or about life after death come straight from your parents and teachers? Or do you think you have good reasons to believe what you do? If you aren’t thinking for yourself already, doing RS will provide you with the perfect opportunity!

Assessment Examination board: EDEXCEL Three examination papers, equally weighted. • Philosophy of Religion • Religion and Ethics • Developments in Religious Thought Who can give me more information? Mr Melligan j.melligan@sherborne.com

Subject matter: the questions that RS investigates are the most profound questions that we can ask. It investigates the deepest aspects of what it means to be human. Are we simply animals that have evolved, or do we have a spiritual dimension that will survive the death of our bodies? Does God exist, and if so, what does God expect of us? What can we know about the world we live in, and is certainty important? Is there one moral code for all people to live by, or is right and wrong ‘simply’ a matter of culture? Dispute: if there are any answers to these questions, they are not obvious! Philosophy requires you to suspend your belief and disbelief while thinking. It asks you to avoid being too quick to jump to conclusions, especially the conclusions you want to be true. Thinking hard without quickly falling back on what you already think can be quite scary at first; that’s why, perhaps, some people don’t have any time for philosophy – it can feel unsettling and personally challenging while offering a chance to grow. 53

S HER BO RNE GIR L S SIX T H FORM

SPANISH

Why study Spanish? A Level Spanish will enable you to become confident in the use of the language whilst learning about many aspects of the culture of both Spain and the Hispanic world. You will also study some fascinating cultural topics. Ludwig Wittgenstein, a well-known twentieth century Austrian philosopher expressed the value of learning foreign languages when he said, ‘The limits of my language are the limits of my world’. Learning a language in the Sixth Form is one of the best ways to broaden your horizons. Course content Year 1: Aspects of Hispanic society: current trends • Modern and traditional values: family changes; attitudes to marriage and divorce; the influence of the Catholic church. • Cyberspace: the influence of the internet; smart phones in our society and social networks • Gender equality: women in the workplace; feminism, male chauvinism and the changes of LGTB rights. Artistic culture in the Hispanic world: • The influence of celebrities: music stars, cinema, TV and models • The regional identity of Spain: customs and traditions; gastronomy and languages • Cultural heritage: civilizations that contributed to the cultural heritage of Spain and the preColumbian heritage of Latin America; Spanish and Latin American artists and the role of architecture in Spain; the diversity of Hispanic music and dance. Cultural topic: The film, Pan’s Labyrinth by the Mexican director Guillermo del Toro. Year 2: • Multiculturalism in Hispanic society • Aspects of political life in the Hispanic world • Monarchies and dictatorships • Social movements Cultural topic: The play, La Casa de Bernarda Alba by Federico García Lorca.

You will also dedicate time to your Independent Research Project based on an area of your interest. Will I enjoy it? You will enjoy gaining a deeper knowledge of the Spanish language in context as you discover the ins and outs of several very different cultures. You will find that there is more of a purpose to learning the language than simply practical reasons as you will feel the satisfaction of being involved in a new world. You will find yourself becoming more interested in finding out what is happening in the Spanish or Latin American news and it will all make more sense to you as you will have a better understanding of the culture, history and society of the countries you are studying. You will also feel much more integrated in the Spanish/Hispanic world if you decide to spend some time there. It is a course that will move you away from the stereotypes and will show you the reality of Spain and Latin America. What else should I consider? You will become more confident in Spanish as you spend one-to-one time with our Language Assistant. You may decide to begin a career using Spanish or take Spanish at university, perhaps alongside another subject, which would give you many options at the end of your studies. Assessment Examination Board: AQA Who can give me more information? Mrs Carvia-Meadows g.carviameadows@sherborne.com

S HER BO RNE GIR L S SIX T H FORM

The Extended Project Qualification

Why study the EPQ? You take an EPQ alongside your A Levels. It is a 5000-word report on a subject of your choice (or a 1,500-word report plus the creation of an artefact) and a presentation on both the planning and project management of your EPQ, as well as the content of your report. There are so many reasons for doing an EPQ. From an academic point of view, it helps to develop confidence in independent research, time management and a whole host of other skills that could be very useful at university. We make it easy to manage since you will have timetabled lessons to guide you through the process as well as a dedicated supervisor who will discuss your ideas and help you as you progress on your journey. An EPQ is valuable – it is worth the equivalent of half an A Level – and more and more universities are making lower offers to pupils who achieve an A or A* in their EPQ. In addition, an EPQ lets you study something that you love that is not on any examination syllabus – here is a selection of EPQ titles from past years at Sherborne Girls and this is an excellent example of the personal choice and range of topic:

• How far did Dr Neil Aggett’s upbringing and life • •

• • •

experiences influence his actions against Apartheid in South Africa between 1976-1982? Should the UK government continue to subsidise electronic vehicles? To what extent has Social Darwinism evolved since its origin and how is this concept presented in ‘The Age of Innocence’ and ‘Portrait of a Lady’? How has the etymology of six English swear words developed? Clothes against Conflict – creating three outfits for a fashion show (Artefact) How far has Bogota in Colombia come since the late 1980s in terms of public safety relating to the drugs industry?

• Should Sarah Kane be considered the most • •

• •

controversial playwright in the style of ‘In-YerFace’ theatre? How far and in what ways was Napoleon influenced by Augustus, Julius Caesar and Alexander? An artefact: my own short story and an analytical essay explaining what I took from my reading in terms of techniques and subject matter to inspire me What is the greatest effect domestication has had on dogs? How ethical is cotton farming?

Will I enjoy it? The Presentation Evening in the Michaelmas term of the U6 is always buzzing with pride and enthusiasm from the pupils and with admiration from their peers, teachers and parents. When former EPQ pupils have been asked if they enjoyed the process, the answer is always ‘Yes’. Of course, there is hard work to be completed along the way but it is important to remember that you are exploring a topic that genuinely interests you and that you are undertaking a university-level piece of research. What else should I consider? An EPQ can take up a lot of your time but it is your chance to choose something totally and utterly specific and you can become the resident expert on this. You will be developing and improving your own learning and performance as a critical, reflective and independent pupil. Universities and employers value the EPQ for they consider the skills that students develop as extremely useful. Some universities adjust their standard A Level offer for certain courses to include the EPQ; others use EPQ results in to distinguish between students who have the same A Level results. You can refer to your EPQ in your personal statement and at any interview.

Assessment Examination board: AQA Three equally-weighted parts: • Production Log • Essay or Artefact • Presentation Assessment Objectives Managing time and planning Use of resources Development and realisation Review

20% 20% 40% 20%

Who can give me more information? Mrs Allen r.allen@sherborne.com

S HER BO RNE GIR L S SIX T H FORM

Co-Curricular Opportunities This is a selection of the many opportunities you will be offered to stretch yourself in ways that are fun and enriching outside of your lessons. The list below is representative of the range of activities that take place each year, but there are plenty of options for Sixth Formers to form new societies, with as much support from staff as they need.

Sport Football Touch Rugby Bouldering / Climbing Social Badminton

Science & Maths Chemistry Symposium Sherborne Girls Advanced Science Society BioMed Soc Dissection Club Biology and Chemistry Olympiads Astronomy

Model United Nations This is a pupil-run club which meets at school regularly and also sends delegates to several inter-school MUN conferences each year. “Taking part in Model United Nations is such a worthwhile opportunity; it teaches diplomacy, the ability to think on your feet and gives huge confidence to someone who wants a good topic of conversation in an interview, as well as a lovely addition to a CV. Anyone with an interest in international affairs, or just someone looking for a nice group of friends and a biscuit every week is more than welcome to turn up and give it a go!” A L6 girl’s view on Model United Nations

Creatives Life Drawing Art Scholars School Productions Choir Madrigals Orchestra Gold Arts Award Mindfulness / Relaxation / Spirituality Tai Chi Focus Board Game Club Book Group Language / Public Speaking New Views Playwriting Turing Society Senior Debating Humanities BIRDS – a forum to discuss gender, identity, politics and society FemSoc Geography Society Senior History Soc PPE Soc Business and Economics Soc Amnesty International Model United Nations Young Enterprise GovPol Club

Some highlights:

Sixth Form Thinkers Sixth Form Thinkers is a dynamic, academically enriching society which meets fortnightly with students from the Gryphon Academy. Working in subject-based groups with students from the Gryphon you will prepare presentations, complete Oxbridge entrance exams, and listen to a series of short lectures about applying for the most competitive university courses. All L6th students are welcome; we expect the most able to attend. The Chemistry Olympiad The Chemistry Olympiad is a highly regarded national competition aimed at U6 Chemistry students. The Chemistry Olympiad consists of a two hour examination which tests topics that are beyond the demands of the A Level specification. If a student successfully progresses beyond Round 1 by a achieving a high enough score in the test, they will be invited to the regional and national stages of this competition. Students will be required to attend additional support and coaching lessons to enhance their chemistry knowledge and understanding. This is a wonderful opportunity to explore and study chemistry to a level beyond the

confines of A Level specifications. This is a definite ‘must’ for any Chemistry student wishing to apply for a science-based undergraduate course at university. The Turing Society All Sixth Formers from Sherborne Girls and Sherborne School are welcome to attend Turing Society meetings. This is a weekly forum for academic explanation and discussion. Each meeting, up to four pupils give a talk on any topic of their choice above and beyond what is presented by the curriculum. There are questions and interesting discussion. Afterwards there is time for a soft drink and socialising. BioMed Soc BioMed Soc is an opportunity for any senior pupils interested in Biological or Medical issues to meet and discuss current topics of interest. Activities include discussion, research, presentations, sharing knowledge and experiences, preparing for interviews, watching documentaries and discussing ethical issues. Any one from U5 or sixth form is welcome. The group is always open to new ideas and there is a potential for leadership and organisation. Senior History Soc Senior History Soc runs several events during the term which will help to enrich your understanding of History. This might include outside speakers, trips to local historical sites, cinema trips, local lectures, joint meetings with Sherborne School. We also hope to put together a Senior History magazine in 2019-20. This magazine will be student led activity. Astronomy Club Where do we come from? Where do our atoms come from? How did the Universe start? How might it end? These are simple questions to ask that Astronomy Club will explore and discuss. We follow the Edexcel specification with the option of taking a GCSE after two years. Everyone is welcome to give it a try. We may be making use of our observatory on some very cold, frosty nights so this activity may not be suitable for anyone with an allergy to hot chocolate.

Plays and Musicals Everyone is welcome to audition for the school productions – you don’t have to be studying Drama. There’s always a mix of musicals, devising, large and small casts. It’s a great way to do something fun and creative in the evenings and make friends across the year groups and with the boys. There is also House Drama, House Dance and House Singing across the year to be involved with. Who can I talk to about activities? Mr McClary deputycc@sherborne.com

Entrepreneurship At Sherborne Girls we recognise the importance of entrepreneurship within education and we wholly support the findings of the Rose Review Report released in March 2019, which identified the economic potential of female entrepreneurs and that harnessing women’s entrepreneurial talent could be one of the greatest opportunities for economic growth in the 21st century. Alison Rose’s review of Female Entrepreneurship identified many constraints women face in relation to starting and growing businesses and in particular 55% more women cite fear as a barrier to starting a business along with a perceived lack of skills and experience. At Sherborne Girls we strive to address these constraints across the curriculum by encouraging all girls to develop creativity, communication, critical thinking, computational thinking and collaboration skills through our broad curriculum.  Girls have opportunities to meet and hear from both male and female entrepreneurs on a regular basis and attend Business Conferences to develop essential entrepreneurial traits.  We will be celebrating Entrepreneurship Week in November with a focus across our academic and co-curricular programmes on Female Entrepreneurs. Source:  https://www.gov.uk/government/ publications/the-alison-rose-review-of-femaleentrepreneurship

S HER BO RNE GIR L S SIX T H FORM

Co-Curricular

A Sporting Life Sherborne Girls strongly believes that sport plays a very important role of the holistic development of an individual. Apart from the long term health benefits associated with physical activity and a healthy lifestyle, sport helps to develop an individual’s well-rounded understanding of teamwork, leadership, honesty, respect, excellence, resilience and more. Our pupils have a tremendous opportunity to participate in a wide variety of competitive and recreational sports. Spread over the three terms, our main sports are; Hockey, Lacrosse, Netball, Cross Country, Swimming, Athletics and Tennis. Girls are encouraged to step out of their comfort zone to sample other sports and activities on offer too. The school also offers an opportunity to receive additional performance coaching from suitably experienced and qualified coaches. These include Tennis, Squash, Badminton, Dance, Fencing, Karate and more. All pupils at Sherborne Girls automatically become members of the Oxley Sports Centre. This gives the girls access to a wide number of activities including Swimming, Yoga, Zumba, Spinning, Boxercise, Junior Gym, Circuits, Boot Camp and Pilates just to name a few.

From entry into Sherborne Girls, it is an expectation that all pupils play in representative teams throughout the year. As pupils enter the Sixth Form, many continue to play in regular representative sports fixtures whilst others opt to participate in a structured physical activity programme run by the Oxley Sports Centre. As you can see, there is something for everyone and we encourage all girls to maintain a healthy level of physical activity whilst at Sherborne Girls. We aim that the physical activity experience is a meaningful and enjoyable one which the girls will continue to enjoy throughout their life. Mrs Dart j.dart@sherborne.com

“ Be it hockey, lacrosse, netball or squash, sport is one of the best ways of making new friends... it’s also great fun.”

S HER BO RNE GIR L S SIX T H FORM

Co-Curricular

Drama, Music & the Arts If Drama is important to your daughter, but studying Drama in the Sixth Form is not an option, they need not worry: there are many opportunities to get on stage and perform! Our thriving Drama Department puts on productions throughout the year, with a major joint school production at the end of the Michaelmas term with Sherborne School. They also have the chance to write or direct their own plays; attend drama lectures and screenings or run workshops for younger years. House plays are very important too, and as a Sixth Form pupil, they will have the opportunity to produce, act, or work backstage for both their house or school productions, at both Sherborne Girls and Sherborne School.

Arts Award Gold If pupils are already taking part in some of the co-curricular Drama offered, then they might want to use that to go towards an Arts Award Gold. As well as taking part in an Arts activity (such as one of the school productions or choreographing House Dance) they would also need to research the arts sector; review a performance they have seen; debate an arts issue and run their own arts project â&#x20AC;&#x201C; such as directing house drama, writing a play, teaching younger girls how to make their own clothes or putting on a musical theatre night. This is a great way of getting accreditation for the work one is already doing in any creative subject at Sherborne Girls.

Speech & Drama

The Music Never Stops

Speech and Drama supports life-skills, bringing with it confidence, self-expression, and an ability to empathise with a wide variety of personality types. In addition, the higher medal grades of both LAMDA and Trinity Guildhall carry UCAS points for some HE courses.

Music is in the life-blood of Sherborne Girls. There are so many chances for girls to immerse themselves in music: whatever their level, they will find challenges, rewards and expert teaching.

It ties in with Drama as a curriculum subject since, in the process of working on a variety of scripted pieces, we discuss such issues as theatrical style, specific playwrights, theatre practitioners, and periods in theatrical history. Above all, Speech and Drama is fun!

From Senior Choir to chamber music, String Orchestra to Big Band, there are opportunities to make music every day. We have many joint activities with the boys of Sherborne School, including Symphony Orchestra and Choral Society. If singing is what matters most, then the renowned Madrigal Society may be the ensemble for them. There are regular performance opportunities, both in school and beyond, as well as overseas tours every two years.

â&#x20AC;&#x153; Arts Award allows girls to learn new skills, do some research into their favourite performer or director and pass on their learning to others. They keep a portfolio of evidence to be submitted at the end of the year where they can gain a nationally recognised award.â&#x20AC;?

S HER BO RNE GIR L S SIX T H FORM

Co-Curricular

Adventure & Leadership Adventure and Leadership is integral in the development of pupils at Sherborne Girls. Alongside the excellent academic provision at the school, all Sixth Form girls are encouraged to develop attributes that should enable them to become effective leaders in later life. We do this by providing a range of opportunities both on and off the campus. Adventure The ethos behind all of our adventures is to promote a healthy respect for, and enjoyment of, the outdoors, alongside equipping girls to be confident in dealing with real and challenging situations. This engenders adaptability, courage and resourcefulness. The foundation of all trips is an invaluable shared experience in which strong bonds are developed; girls gain a huge amount of independence and quickly learn how to remain positive in adverse circumstances. All of these skills are transferable, and the experiences give them real perspective when it comes to the pressures of school life and beyond. Furthermore, all of these attributes are critical to being a successful leader. Leadership Alongside the clear thirst for adventure, Sixth Form girls are also encouraged to take on many leading roles at the school. When girls enter L6, they are the oldest in their houses and are expected to set an example and encouraged to take on the

responsibilities of a House Prefect. As they enter their final year, the opportunities to become a full School Prefect and even Head of School are open to all. Leadership attributes are promoted within academic and co-curricular groups, with examples including the opportunity to train as a ‘Supporter and Listener’, to take on specialist roles like Head of Choir, a Sports Captain or a Subject Ambassador, or to represent the school as a ‘Youth Advisor’ on Sherborne Town Council. Not everyone aspires to big and obvious leadership roles within the school, but the development of qualities such as intellectual enquiry, self-motivation and effective communication are critical to building the selfconfidence and independence required at university or in the workplace. Mulliner (the U6 house), in particular, is an environment in which this becomes more obvious, providing the transition between school and the next step. Whatever girls’ ambition, Sherborne Girls aims to promote those leadership qualities which will be invaluable throughout their lives.

Adventurous Activities We have our own fantastic climbing wall, coupled with a bouldering facility. As one of the may physical activities on offer, the girls can take up climbing as a competitive sport or as part of a wider and more social climbing club. Sailing is a regular weekly activity, we have four dinghies on nearby Sutton Bingham reservoir suitable for beginners. For those more advanced sailors we team up with Sherborne School to race against other schools in the South West. Our 50m pool is ideal for teaching the basics of paddling and we have 8 canoes in which girls can learn the basic skills. This is often a stepping stone for pupils who go on to take up the challenge of kayaking in open water. For those who prefer dry land, cycling is an increasingly popular activity and girls can develop their stamina in our spin zone before progressing to the outdoors on one of our touring bikes. DofE Gold Award & L6 Expeditions All girls have the opportunity to enrol in the Duke of Edinburgh Gold Award when they start in L6. There will be interviews as part of this process and spaces on certain expeditions are limited. We hope to maintain the excellent up take of recent years. Many will have experience of previous levels of the award, but this is not a requirement. The award at

Gold level has five sections: volunteering, physical, skills, residential and the expeditions. Some of these sections recognise activities in which many are already involved; others encourage them to take up something new. The award requires weekly commitment to many of the above sections for a period of up to 18 months, and all girls are required to undertake a training programme during which they prepare for and complete their expeditions. Expedition options are varied and exciting, with walking, cycling and canoeing on offer. Girls travel to various parts of the UK and further afield in conjunction with the award. Recent final expeditions include conquering the Great Glen in Canadian canoes, and a superb mountaineering expedition to the Picos de Europa in Northern Spain and cycling in Northern France. We do not limit all of our trips to DofE girls, and offer some of the more exciting trips as a one-off experience, enabling as many girls as possible to gain the benefits of these ventures.

The Friday Series

The Library

Significantly adding to a pupil’s educational experience is what sets Sherborne Girls apart and what drives many of our initiatives. At the centre of this is the Friday Lecture Programme: a schedule that has the ambition of presenting our pupils with extraordinary people who will challenge, inspire and motivate.

The Library is a fantastic environment in which to study at Sixth Form level. The space is split into two key areas – a large, traditional Library that offers the opportunity for focused, quiet study as well as a second space in which you can relax with the daily newspapers, magazines and subjectspecific journals and work on group projects. The Library holds an excellent collection of academic material in every subject – both essential texts as well as secondary and tertiary sources too. We have subscriptions to online resources such as The Economist online and JSTOR. The Librarian and Assistant Librarian can offer personalised help with finding high-quality, reliable information for your Sixth Form work, as well as study skills and referencing advice. The book collection also includes a great selection of fresh and prizewinning fiction. Staff are always available to recommend top reads. We also stock DVDs, both to support your academic work and just for entertainment and fun. Wi-Fi, PCs, colour printing and photocopying are all available throughout the day and evening and the Library catalogue can be accessed remotely from any computer in school, and from home 24/7 during holiday time.

A good speaker is worth so much more than the hour they spend with the girls; the value they bring transcends the lecture theatre and demands that those in the audience look beyond themselves to fresh possibilities and other worlds. Recent speakers have fulfilled this ambition admirably. Simon Weston CBE, Lt Col Lucy Giles RLC, Bonita Norris, Rt Hon Maria Miller MP, Peter Tait and Princess Badiya El Hassan have all given our pupils the clear message “you too can achieve whatever you set your mind to.” We frequently invite speakers, very often eminent women, who have professional lives in areas of interest to the girls, as well as areas in which they have less experience.

S HER BO RNE GIR L S SIX T H FORM

Co-Curricular

Boarding Life

In the L6, girls are in one of our five mixed-age group houses, where they will be one of the most senior girls. In the U6, they transfer to Mulliner House, an U6 only house that accommodates the entire year group. There are so many advantages to this: the sense of purpose that Mulliner engenders in all pupils, as well as greater freedom and a heightened sense of independence. It really is the first step towards university. â&#x20AC;&#x153; Mulliner stands for independence and personal responsibility. You get to know the whole year group better than before. It prepares you for university by promoting a mature approach to school life and studyâ&#x20AC;?

New to Sherborne Girls?

“ Everyone here is really friendly and open and the houses make you feel at home.” If pupils are new to Sherborne Girls or considering coming here for their Sixth Form study, don’t worry, they won’t be alone! Each year we welcome around 25 new girls to the L6. Out of a year group in excess of 90, that is quite a high proportion, so they will by no means be the only one who is new. We will invite them to spend some time with us in late June when GCSEs are complete: our post-exams activity programme will provide them with an excellent opportunity to meet their new classmates well in advance of the Michaelmas term, so when September comes, they will already have established some good friendships.

S HER BO RNE GIR L S SIX T H FORM

Co-Curricular

A Social Life

Our relationship with our closest neighbour is very important to us. Sherborne School (the Boys’ School) works very closely with Sherborne Girls, be it in the classroom, through joint lectures and a vast selection of co-curricular activities, and of course many social events. Pupils will never be bored at the weekend. The Sixth Form social programme often involves both schools. Every Saturday night something is happening. Girls might participate in an ‘Open Mic Night’ in the Tea Crate, or perhaps decide on a quiet supper with friends in a local restaurant. It might be school bands making themselves heard, or a night at ‘The Stick’, Sherborne School’s Sixth Form social club or socialising in ‘Queenie’s’ the café in our Merritt Centre. Whatever it is, girls will have every opportunity to socialise with their year group as well as the Sixth Form boys at Sherborne School.

Leiths

The Leiths Introductory Certificate in Food and Wine This course will give you one of the most important life skills anyone can have. Not only does it teach you how to cook good, healthy food for yourself, it gives you a step up on the employment ladder should you wish to put your skills to use cooking for families, working in restaurants or delis, ski chalets or any other related cooking work during a gap year, holidays or beyond. Leiths School of Food and Wine is the most prestigious and respected cookery school in the country and enjoys a reputation for producing practical, professional and well-rounded cooks. This course has been specifically designed to teach the basic skills necessary to become a confident, capable and efficient cook. The dishes prepared are interesting, with an increasing degree of skill required, providing a balance between classical methods and modern recipes. The course spans five terms, starting in the L6 and finishing at the end of the U6 Lent term. Pupils will learn the skills needed for meat, fish and vegetable preparation, including full roast dinners and accompaniments, stocks, sweet and savoury sauces, the use of gelatine, various pastries including layered and choux, meringues, ice creams, cakes, bread, scones, buns and canapés. The dishes range from family-style meals to those of dinner party standard. Along with all of these wonderful cooking skills, the course teaches neat presentation, efficient kitchen method and correct food hygiene. One of the lessons focuses on wine tasting and how to pair it with food and is conducted by a wine specialist from Leiths.

Assessment To gain the Leiths Introductory Certificate in Food and Wine, pupils must pass both practical and theory examinations which are administered and moderated by Leiths. Added to these marks is a system of continual assessment which encompasses food tasting, kitchen method, time plans, tests and one piece of written coursework in the form of a menu planning exercise. Girls will also take the most basic of hygiene examinations, a qualification required for any type of cooking-related employment. The Introductory Certificate carries three levels of Pass: Pass, Merit and Distinction. There is an additional charge of £1,900 for this course which is spread over four termly payments of £475. Leiths Course Trainer Mrs Farris t.farris@sherborne.com

01935 818224 registrar@sherborne.com sherborne.com

Sherborne Girls Bradford Road Sherborne Dorset DT9 3QN