In the following sections, you will find detailed information about each A Level subject we offer, including course content, entry requirements, assessment methods, and potential progression routes.
As you explore your options, consider your strengths, your future aspirations, and the subjects you most enjoy — choosing wisely now will help you build a strong foundation for your next steps.
| Examining Board | Specification Title | Specification Code |
| AQA | (AS and) A Level Biology | (7401) 7402 |
Biology is the study of living organisms, their physical structure, function, growth, origin, evolution and distribution. Biology is divided into many specialised fields to cover such a broad content- it is a complex subject! Biologists study molecular structure first, to grasp the basic understanding of living organisms and further on they will study deeper concepts of chemical processes, physiological mechanisms, behaviour and development.
If you have an interest in any concepts of Biology, you should study this course!
Biology is often studied in conjunction with other subjects and lay the foundations for further study, such as: biochemistry, ecology, medicine, veterinary nursing and zoology. The course is structured in a way that will allow you to nurture your passion and be challenged at the same time. Practical aspects of the course will give you the opportunities to embed your skills and knowledge.
Biology is a fascinating, but complex subject- underpinned by some demanding ideas and concepts therefore the entry requirements for this course are there to ensure that the students who are accepted onto A level biology are able to cope with the mass of information packed in this course.
Grade 6 In Science (ideally separate science/triple. Some crucial content is missed from the trilogy course and will need to be caught up on over summer holiday before the course begins)
Grade 6 in English (there is a large essay/reading/writing aspect to the course)
Grade 6 in maths (there is a maths requirement within the course)
The challenging two year course on offer will include the following topics:
Course content:
Biological Molecules
Cells
Organisms exchange substances and their environment
Genetic information, variation and relationships between organisms
Energy transfers in and between organisms (A Level only)
Organisms responding to changes in their internal and external environments (A Level only)
Genetics, populations, evolution and ecosystems (A Level only)
The control of gene expression (A Level only)
All assessment takes place at the end of this two year course (summer of Year 13). The A Level Biology course is assessed by sitting externally examined written papers. All examinations assessed in the summer of Year 13 (3 exam papers in total). Practical work will be continually developed throughout the course and students will carry out 12 core investigations over the course of the A level, with the aim being able to develop and demonstrate a deeper appreciation of the skills, knowledge and understanding of ‘How Science Works’. These practical skills are assessed in written papers. 10% of the overall assessment of A Level Biology will contain mathematical skills equivalent to Level 2 or above.
At least 15% of the overall assessment of A Level Biology will assess knowledge, skills and understanding in relation to practical work.
As a fascinating A Level, the career options following on from A Level Biology are virtually endless. However, Biology should be considered an essential A Level to take (where possible) in preparation for degrees in medicine or veterinary sciences.
A Level Biology is a fascinating A Level; this means that it is one of a handful of A Level subjects commonly asked for in universities' entry requirements, regardless of the course you are applying to do. This makes it a good choice to keep you degree options open.
Practical work is an essential part of the course. Therefore, you will be expected to take an active and confident role within these practical lessons. However, support will be on hand throughout).
The handling of dead tissue (for dissection) is expected/required as part of the course (unless agreed beforehand by your teacher)
Fieldwork is an essential part of this course and in the past students were attending a 3 days residential Field Studies at the end of the first year. Due to covid-19 restrictions Biology Field trip 2021 will be confirmed later in the year.
For More information on AQA Biology go to AQA website
Who can I contact for further information?
Danuta.Plasota@westsomersetcollege.org
| Examining Board | Specification Title | Specification Code |
| AQA | A Level Business | 7132 |
Are you…
Wanting to study for a business degree at University?
Wanting to be a manager?
Interested in buying shares?
Wanting to set up your own business?
An avid watcher of Dragon's Den or The Apprentice and think you can do better?
An independent thinker with lots of ideas and opinions?
A problem solver?
Wanting to add value to your other A Levels?
Thinking of a career in Business?
If so, A Level Business is for you
5 GCSEs at Grades 9-4, including English and Maths. whilst the prior study of GCSE Business is beneficial, it is not essential.
You will study a wide range of topics, including: enterprise, human resources, environmental factors, marketing, accounting and finance, production, ethics, international trade, the digital law, economics and change management.
What is Business?
managers, Leadership and decision making;
Decision making to improve marketing performance;
Decision making to improve operational performance;
Decision making to improve financial performance;
Decision making to improve human resource performance;
Analysing the strategic position of a business;
Choosing strategic direction;
Strategic methods: how to pursue strategies;
Managing strategic change
Emphasis throughout the entire course is on problem solving and decision-making. You will learn how to use a wide range of contemporary business tools and models and apply them to today's businesses.
An interesting and challenging learning experience which includes debates, lively discussions, the use of internet and social media. The opportunity to put your ideas, opinions, independence of thought and initiative to practical use.
The development of transferrable skills which are relevant to the world we live in -problem solving, creative thinking, research, evaluation, communication, personal development and decision making.
Opens a range of possibilities in the world of work, enterprise, further and higher education.
A valuable and well respected entrance qualification to University.
A Level Business is an excellent base for a University degree, especially a degree in business, management, human resources, accountancy, law, finance, philosophy and economics, sociology and psychology. Careers with a business degree are diverse and have high earning potential.
A range of career possibilities including banking, insurance, advertising, distribution, sales, accounting, law, education, central or local government and business consultancy. Business skills, which touch on every part of our modern society are in high demand worldwide and are often well paid.
Entrepreneurship and the benefits of running your own business.
3 two hour papers, that rely on the knowledge of the whole specification. These are taken at the end of the second year.
For more information contact:
Craig.Williams@WestSomersetCollege.org
West Somerset College is delighted to offer the AQA Chemistry A Level course, which provides students with a comprehensive understanding of the subject and its applications.
| Examining Board | Specification Title | Specification Code |
| AQA | (AS and) A Level Chemistry | (7401) 7405 |
Miss Danuta Plasota
Chemistry is the study of the substance of which matter is composed, the investigation of their properties and reactions, and the use of such reactions to form new substances. The course begins by revisiting basic chemistry concepts learned at GCSE, but it quickly becomes more challenging, requiring students to apply their knowledge in new and complex ways.
There are several reasons why students should consider studying A Level Chemistry. Firstly, it is a fascinating subject that can lead to many exciting career opportunities. Secondly, it is a facilitating A Level, which means that it can be taken alongside any other subject and is recognized and respected by universities and employers. Additionally, some degrees require or desire applicants to have a chemistry A Level, making it a valuable asset for students who wish to pursue a career in medicine, veterinary sciences, or other science-related fields.
The entry requirements for this course are designed to ensure that students are well-prepared for the rigors of A Level Chemistry. Students will need to have achieved a minimum of 6 grades in GCSE Maths, English, and Science (preferably triple). They should also be extremely organized and able to keep up with the large amount of content covered in the course.
Students will be assessed through externally examined written papers at the end of the two-year course. There will be three exam papers in total, and students will also be required to complete 12 laboratory practical tasks, which will be internally assessed and contribute to their final grade.
A Level Chemistry is a valuable asset for students who wish to pursue a career in science, medicine, or other related fields. It is a facilitating A Level, which means that it can be taken alongside any other subject and is recognized and respected by universities and employers. With an A Level in Chemistry, students can go on to study a wide range of subjects at university, including medicine, veterinary sciences, chemistry, and physics.
Practical work is an essential part of the course, and students will be expected to take an active and confident role in laboratory sessions. Students will also be required to handle strong chemicals, and therefore, safety protocols will be strictly enforced.
For More information on AQA Chemistry go to AQA website
Who can I contact for further information?
At West Somerset College, we are proud to offer the OCR A Level Computer Science qualification, which is designed to equip students with the skills and knowledge needed to succeed in this exciting and rapidly evolving field.
| Examining Board | Specification Title | Specification Code |
| OCR | A Level Computer Science | H446 |
Mr Jason Laney
Our A Level Computer Science course is designed to provide students with a thorough understanding of the fundamental principles and concepts of computer science, including algorithms, programming, data representation, and computer systems. Students will also have the opportunity to develop their problem-solving skills and learn how to design, implement, and evaluate computer systems.
Students will be assessed through a combination of written exams and coursework. The course is designed to prepare students for progression to higher education or employment in the computer science industry.
At West Somerset College, we offer a supportive and inclusive learning environment that is tailored to meet the needs of each student. Our experienced teaching staff are dedicated to helping students achieve their full potential and succeed in their chosen career paths.
Wanting to study for an economics or economics-related degree at university? Wanting to know more about how the world works? Interested in understanding government decisions and policies? An independent thinker with lots of ideas and opinions? A problem solver? Wanting to study a new subject? If so, A Level Economics is for you.
| Examining Board | Specification Title | Specification Code |
| Edexcel | A Level Economics | 9EB0 |
Economics is the study of how society uses the world's resources. It is a subject that is concerned with choices, the allocation of scarce resources and the behaviour of individuals, firms and the government. Economics is divided into two categories: Microeconomics, which explores the concept of consumers and markets, and Macroeconomics, which looks at economics on a national and international level by considering themes like unemployment, inequality and trade/budget deficits.
A Level Economics is a challenging yet very rewarding A Level. It is highly respected and valued by universities and employers. Throughout the entire course, you will be using problem-solving skills in order to make informed decisions and recommendations. Economics is such a useful tool for the future as anything you end up doing in life revolves around economics in some way, therefore this course allows you to be a step ahead at all times.
3 two-hour papers worth 100 marks each. Paper 1 will focus on microeconomic issues (units 1 and 4), paper 2 will focus on macroeconomic issues (units 2 and 3) and paper 3 is a synoptic assessment (all 4 units) with a pre-release case study.
A Level Economics is an excellent base for a university degree, especially a degree in Economics, Business, Law, Geography, Philosophy, Politics and Sociology. With such a prestigious A Level, a huge range of career possibilities are available. These include economist, business law, banking, investment analyst, stock broker, education sector, business journalism, central or local government and business consultancy.
5 GCSEs at Grades 5 or above, which must include English and Maths.
Ecnomics A- Level
| Examining Board | Specification Title | Specification Code |
| Edexcel | A Level Economics B | 9EB0 |
Course Leader: Mr Craig Williams
What is it all about?
If so, A Level Economics is for you.
What are the requirements?
5 GCSEs at Grades 5 or above, which must include English and Maths.
What will I learn on this course?
Economics is the study of how society uses the world’s resources. It is a subject that is concerned with choices, the allocation of scarce resources and the behaviour of individuals, firms and the government. Economics is divided into two categories: Macroeconomics, which explores the concept of consumers and markets, and Macroeconomics, which looks at economics on a national and international level by considering themes like unemployment, inequality and trade/budget deficits.
The four main units you will study over the two years are:
What are the benefits?
Economics is a challenging yet very rewarding A Level. It is highly respected and valued by universities and employers.
Throughout the entire course you will be using problem solving skills in order to make informed decisions and recommendations. Economics is such a useful tool for the future as anything you end up doing in life revolves around economics in some way, therefore this course allows you to be a step ahead at all times
Lessons will be relevant, up-to-date, interesting and challenging learning experiences, which will include debates, lively discussions, presentations and the use of the Internet for research. There will be plenty of opportunities to put your ideas, opinions, independence of thought and initiative to practical use.
You will develop your critical thinking skills in order to act, think and analyse like an economist, hopefully leading you to make better choices for yourself, the community around you and the world.
Where can A Level Economics take me?
A Level Economics is an excellent base for a university degree, especially a degree in Economics, Business, Law, Geography, Philosophy, Politics and Sociology.
Did you know that almost every UK Prime Minister has taken economics as part of their degree? With such a prestigious A Level, a huge range of career possibilities are available. These include economist, business law, banking, investment analyst, stock broker, education sector, business journalism, central or local government and business consultancy. Economic skills, which touch on every part of our modern society are in high demand worldwide and are often very well paid. Even if you do not want to pursue a career in economics, it could help you to better understand how the world economy works, why laws are set, what our government do and how it affects you and your future.
How will I be assessed?
3 two-hour papers worth 100 marks each. Paper 1 will focus on microeconomic issues (units 1 and 4), paper 2 will focus on macroeconomic issues (units 2 and 3) and paper 3 is a synoptic assessment (all 4 units) with a pre-release case study.
For more information, please contact:
Craig.Williams@WestSomersetCollege.org
For More information on Edexcel Economics go to the Edexcel Website
Are you a bookworm who loves debating and writing critically? Do you have a keen eye for detail and analysis? Our English Literature A-Level course is perfect for you.
As an English Literature A-Level student at West Somerset College, you will explore three different forms of literature: drama, prose, and poetry. You will build on your skills in analysis and debate, and study a range of texts including William Shakespeare's Hamlet, Margaret Atwood's The Handmaid's Tale, and poems from the Romantic movement.
| Examining Board | Specification Title | Specification Code |
| Edexcel | A Level English Literature | 9ETO |
Course Leader: Mr James Harper
This course is suitable for students who enjoy reading, arguing their opinion, writing critically, and have a keen eye for detail and analysis. It is a rigorous and demanding course, and students will need to be confident independent learners.
To join this course, you will need to have achieved 5 GCSEs at Grade 9-4, including English and Maths. It is desirable to have a Grade 5 or higher in English Literature.
You will learn a range of skills, including how to become a confident critical writer, analyse texts insightfully, and learn about history, language, people, their motivations, and passions.
The course is assessed by three formal examinations (80% of marks) and one written non-examined unit of personal study (20% of marks).
English Literature A-Level can lead to a wide range of academic and work-based pathways, including studying a Literature or English-based degree at university. It is a qualifying subject for Law and is a popular choice alongside History, Psychology, Sociology, and Modern Foreign languages.
At West Somerset College, our Fine Art A Level course is designed to help you develop your artistic skills and creative voice.
| Examining Board | Specification Title | Specification Code |
| OCR | Art & Design- Fine Art Endorsement | H200/H600 |
As part of the OCR specification, you will produce a portfolio of artwork from a variety of different themes, experimenting with different materials and processes. You will also develop work for a personal investigation, including a written element, based on your own ideas and chosen medium. There is an externally set task or ‘exam project’ at the end of the course.
Throughout the course, you will have the opportunity to visit galleries in London, including visits with the rest of the arts faculty. You will also have the chance to exhibit your own work and participate in a Foreign Trip.
To be eligible for this course, you will need to have 5 GCSEs at grade 9-4, including a grade 5 in Art or an equivalent design-based course.
You will be assessed on your coursework, which accounts for 60% of your final grade, and a Controlled Test, which accounts for 40%.
’The post 16 Fine Art course at WSC is a hard working but fun and creative learning environment, we have our own 6th form area where we can work throughout the day and the teachers are excellent and very supportive’
From this course, you would normally progress to further and higher education through a foundation course or directly onto a degree course.
For further information about the Fine Art A Level course at West Somerset College, please contact us at:
| Examining Board | Specification Title | Specification Code |
| Edexcel | A Level French | 9FRO |
Choosing to study French at A Level is a very wise choice, as it will open a lot of opportunities in your career, future international travel, and Higher Education. The government has stated there is a National Crisis of Linguists currently, so by continuing languages for as long as possible you will give yourself the edge when applying for the top universities and jobs.
A Level French is a fascinating and challenging subject that will equip you with essential skills for success in the course and later in life, such as research, public speaking, problem-solving, and communication and collaborative skills. You will study different aspects of the French-speaking world and develop a deeper understanding of its culture, history, and society.
To study A Level French at West Somerset College, you will need to achieve a minimum grade 5 in French GCSE and meet the general entry requirements for A Level study of 5 GCSEs at grade 9-4 including English and Maths.
You will be assessed through three papers:
Classes are generally quite small to help with discussion in French and the course generally, which is advantageous in language learning. You will also have the opportunity to practice implementing new grammar in your work and see your own progress in regular assessments and vocabulary quizzes.
| Examining Board | Specification Title | Specification Code |
| Edexcel | A Level Further Maths | 9FMO |
West Somerset College offers the Further Mathematics A Level, a challenging and rewarding subject that builds upon the skills and knowledge gained in A Level Mathematics.
This course is designed for students who have a passion for mathematics and are looking to develop their skills and knowledge in a more advanced and in-depth way.
Students will study further pure mathematics, with an emphasis on algebraic methods, as well as an applied subject such as mechanics, statistics or decision maths.
To be eligible for this course, students must have achieved a grade 9-7 in GCSE Mathematics.
This course is ideal for students who are considering a career in mathematics, engineering or science, and want to develop their skills and knowledge in a more advanced way.
The course will cover pure mathematics in more detail than the ordinary A Level, as well as other aspects of mathematics such as:
Students will also have the opportunity to study further pure mathematics, including complex numbers, matrices, and differential equations.
Students will be assessed through four written examination papers, each lasting 1 hour and 30 minutes and worth 25% of the qualification.
Paper 1 and Paper 2 will cover core pure mathematics, while Paper 3 and Paper 4 will cover the student's chosen option in further mathematics.
'A very challenging but enjoyable subject which stretches mathematical understanding to its limits.'
'Considered to be difficult; however, the quality of teaching makes it seem easy.'
'Further maths involves lots of problem solving that gives you a good sense of achievement when you finish a lesson.'
The qualification is recognised by employers and in higher education as an indication of high ability in mathematics.
Some universities regard it as essential if a degree in mathematics is contemplated.
| Examining Board | Specification Title | Specification Code |
| AQA | A Level Geography | 7037 |
Geography is the study of Earth's landscapes, peoples, places and environments. It is a unique subject that includes both social sciences (human geography) with the natural sciences (physical geography).
Geography is a multi-disciplinary subject that makes it varied and exciting. It will help provide a framework for relating to other fields and develop many transferable skills such as team work, questioning, analysing, investigating, decision making, evaluating, ICT, data manipulation, statistical analysis as well as enhancing spatial, social and environmental awareness.
The A Level Geography course at West Somerset College is a two-year course that includes the following topics:
The A Level Geography course is assessed by sitting two externally examined written papers at the end of the second year. You will also complete an individual fieldwork investigation based on a question or issue relating to any part of the course.
The skills you develop studying Geography make you of potential interest to a wide range of employers. As well as expanding your geographical knowledge, the course will also develop many transferable skills that can be applied to a variety of careers. You can also go on to study a diverse range of courses in higher education.
Fieldwork is an essential part of the course and you will undertake two individual days of fieldwork in Year 12 and a two-day residential in Year 13. You will be provided with a large range of textbooks which you can keep at home for the two years.
For more information on the A Level Geography course at West Somerset College, please contact:
| Examining Board | Specification Title | Specification Code |
| Edexcel | A Level History | 9HI0 |
This course is suitable for anyone who is enthusiastic about and interested in History. The course aims to challenge students, to build upon their enjoyment and enthusiasm and, most of all, expand their understanding and appreciation about the importance of events, issues and individuals in shaping Britain and the world of today.
History A Level not only helps you to develop historical skills, but also other important skills that are useful in both academic and vocational work. It helps you to build up skills in research, independent study, extended writing, the use of evidence, as well as, debating and developing an argument.
As well as professions directly associated with the subject itself, for example, teaching, archiving and archaeology, History A Level is considered highly beneficial in many fields including accountancy, law, journalism, politics, market research, advertising and diplomacy.
In addition to the general entry requirements for A Level, which is five subjects at grade 9-4 including Maths and a 5 in English, it is desirable to have a 5 or above in History or a comparable subject (such as English or Geography).
In your first year of study you will study two topics - Russia, 1917-91: From Lenin to Yeltsin and Mao’s China, 1945-76 - both of which are exam based. In the second year, you will study your third exam based topic, ‘The British Experience of Warfare 1790-1918’, and complete a piece of coursework centered around the origins of the First World War.
All assessment takes place at the end of this two year course (summer of Year 13). The A Level History course is assessed by sitting three externally examined written papers and an internally assessed piece of coursework.
You will be provided with course text books, given the opportunity to purchase recommended revision guides, as well as, have access to an extensive library, which includes a range of historical articles and historians’ interpretations.
For more information on this course, please contact
| Examining Board | Specification Title | Specification Code |
| Edexcel | A Level Maths | 9MA0 |
The study of numbers, equations, functions, and geometric shapes and their relationships.
A level Mathematics is an interesting and challenging course which extends the methods you learned at GCSE and includes applications of mathematics, such as Statistics and Mechanics Mathematics.
The logic and reasoning skills developed by studying A Level Mathematics make sure the qualification is widely respected even in non-mathematical arenas.
"A-level maths is tremendously important. It provides a firm foundation for all scientific, technical, engineering and mathematical careers and a flying start for many other types of career, such as those in finance, medicine, agriculture … etc. The list is endless! "
Entry requirements are 5 GCSEs at grades 9-4 including English and Maths with a grade 6 or above in GCSE Maths essential.
Mathematics students need to be good at thinking logically and analytically.
You need to enjoy solving problems both creatively and strategically, and be able to formulate reasoned arguments to justify your results and calculations.
Most importantly you will have excellent numeracy skills and the ability to process and interpret data.
You will sit 3 papers at the end of 2 years.
Each paper is 2 hours long.
Papers 1 and 2 assess your Pure Core understanding, and paper 3 assesses your understanding of Statistics and Mechanics.
Calculators can be used on all 3 papers.
For more information please refer to our website: westsomersetcollege.reactdev.co.uk
Dan.Neal@WestSomersetcollege.org
| Examining Board | Specification Title | Specification Code |
| OCR | A Level Media Studies | H409 |
Media Studies is a vibrant and engaging course that combines creativity with academic rigor. As a Media Studies student at West Somerset College, you'll have the opportunity to explore a wide range of traditional and modern media forms, from television and cinema to online media and mobile apps.
Throughout the course, you'll learn to critically evaluate media texts and engage in debates about the role of media in society. You'll develop your practical skills using multimedia hardware and software, and have the opportunity to create your own cross-media products.
The Media Studies A-Level is assessed through two formal examinations and one piece of coursework. The exams account for 70% of the marks, with the coursework making up the remaining 30%.
To take Media Studies A-Level, you'll need to have achieved 5 GCSEs at Grade 9-4, including English and Maths.
Media Studies is an excellent foundation for a career in film, television, radio, journalism, graphic design, marketing, advertising, or other media-related professions. Popular paired subjects include English Literature, Psychology, History, Sociology, and Art.
Mr James Harper is the Course Leader for Media Studies at West Somerset College. If you have any questions or would like to learn more about the course, please don't hesitate to contact him. James.Harper@WestSomersetCollege.org
| Examining Board | Specification Title | Specification Code |
| OCR | Art & Design – photography endorsement | H200/H600 |
Photography is a widely studied subject throughout both further and higher education, and is also transferable to a variety of careers in media, journalism, film, animation and the arts.
This course allows you to develop your photographic skills using a variety of traditional and modern techniques, and includes practical photography, making and manipulating photographic images, as well as the theory behind the practice.
The development of your projects will be informed by analysing photographic traditions and artist's work, giving you a unique and engaging learning experience.
To join this course, you will need:
On this course, you will:
Assessment for this course is split into two components:
'The post 16 Photography course at West Somerset College is a hard working but fun and creative learning environment, we have our own 6th form area where we can work throughout the day and the teachers are excellent and very supportive.'
From this course, you would normally progress to further and higher education through a foundation course or directly onto a degree course.
| Examining Board | Specification Title | Specification Code |
| AQA | A Level Physics | 7408 |
o study Physics is to seek a better understanding of our universe. Physics is a science that is central to many other scientific disciplines and to all types of engineering. Physics deals with how and why things behave in the way they do. It helps to explain everything in our everyday world and beyond.
This course gives students a seamless transition from GCSE to University courses in Physics and Physics related disciplines. It maintains students' enthusiasm for Physics and develops their interest in the subject.
We believe that Physics is fundamentally an experimental subject. As such, the Physics taught at West Somerset College will provide numerous opportunities to use practical investigations and experiences to link theory to reality and equip students with the essential practical skills they need.
An A Level in Physics makes you highly employable. The range of skills covered means many job opportunities exist. There are many examples of jobs that people with A Level physics do, such as: careers in medicine and healthcare, veterinary medicine, product design, architecture, the computer industry including computer game design, meteorology, environmental conservation, and engineering.
Grades 9-4 in higher tier GCSE Combined Science courses or in GCSE physics course AND grade 6 or above in GCSE mathematics. A-Level Physics is a very demanding course and students should ensure they are prepared to work consistently to the best of their ability in order to meet these demands.
The A Level Physics course is assessed by sitting externally examined written papers. All examinations assessed in the summer of year 13 (3 exam papers in total). Practical work will be continually developed throughout the course and students will carry out 12 core investigations over the course of the A level, with the aim being to develop and demonstrate a deeper appreciation of the skills, knowledge and understanding of How Science Works.
In the first year you will study particles, quantum phenomena, materials and waves, mechanics, and electricity. Year 2 follows a similar structure where you will study the three key areas of Thermal Physics, Further Mechanics, Fields, and Nuclear Physics. A final topic on Astrophysics completes the course.
You will be provided with laboratory coats and given the opportunity to purchase recommended books or revision guides. We benefit from excellent technician support and the Physics department is well resourced with modern apparatus and hardware.
We pride ourselves on a strong, open, and honest working relationship between teachers and students. Our students are kept informed of their progress via short topic tests and verbal feedback. We give students ample opportunity to practice their examination technique but also encourage interactive ways of learning and assessment.
For More information on AQA Physics go to AQA website
Who can I contact for further information?
| Examining Board | Specification Title | Specification Code |
| AQA | A Level Phsychology | 7182 |
A dictionary definition of Psychology would read something like, ‘the scientific study of the human mind and its functions’. Psychology is more than this! Psychology is everywhere around us. It is intriguing, it is emotional and above all it is thought-provoking. This course offers you the opportunity to learn about the science behind human behaviour by understanding how research is conducted and used to develop theories and laws about human behaviour.
5 GCSEs at grade 9-4 or above including English and Maths. Ideally, Grade 6 or above in GCSE Additional Science or in a separate Science subject (preferably Biology) There is a need to be genuinely numerate, as we will be analysing and interpreting data and making simple statistical calculations.
Examination (100%). There will be three two hour papers at the end of the course (each worth 33.3% of the A level), for which we will prepare you thoroughly! Paper 1, will examine 4 compulsory units such as Social Influence, Memory, Attachment & Psychopathology. Paper 2 will comprise of 4 further compulsory units such as Approaches in Psychology, Bio Psychology & Research Methods. The third paper comprises of the optional units such as Relationships, Gender, and Schizophrenia & Forensic Psychology.
This is a two-year A level course which broadly divides into two sections: compulsory content which looks at the various strands of Psychology such as Research Methods, Social Psychology and Development Psychology. And the optional specialised units such as Relationships, Schizophrenia & Forensic Psychology.
Being an independent learner is vital to your success in A Level Psychology. You will be expected to prepare before all lessons. In class, we will use group work, lectures, presentations and discussions to support / stretch and develop your understanding from your independent work.
For More information on AQA Psychology Course, click here
Martyn.aldridge@westsomersetcollege.org
| Examining Board | Specification Title | Specification Code |
| AQA | A Level Sociology | 7192 |
Sociology is the study of society, the 'social world' or social behaviour. It looks beyond the day-to-day and asks; what is the real nature of society, why does it function like it does and for whose benefit?
This two-year A-Level course provides you with the opportunity to gain a deeper understanding of the world around you and reflect on social issues that are often relevant to your own social experiences. In the first year, there is a focus on key concepts and theoretical perspectives before moving on to the sociology of education and families and households to complete the year. This will be followed up by the study of the mass media and crime and deviance in year two.
Studying Sociology will help you become adept in understanding and analysing sociological issues and devising potential solutions to various social inequalities relating to factors such as class, gender, race, and poverty. This A-Level combines well with any other combination of subjects, especially Psychology, Criminology, Health and Social Care, Geography, History, English and Media Studies.
Sociology offers a challenging and stimulating course that is widely recognised and highly respected by universities as well as employers. The study and essay skills learnt are an excellent preparation for Higher Education and for career paths such as Law, policing, market research, politics, education, social work and Journalism, as well as the civil service and jobs in the service sector.
Students are required to have obtained 5 GCSE passes at grades 9-4. This must include a 5 in English. In special circumstances, the department may consider students who do not meet these requirements. There is no requirement to have studied Sociology at GCSE – just to have an open and enquiring mind.
The course offers a number of compulsory core topics, as well as optional topics:
There are a range of different question styles, all exam-based. These range from short answer to longer essay questions. There is no coursework. Assessment will take place at the end of the two-year course.
The Sociology department is proud of the support it gives to students. Lessons at A Level are very different from GCSE, with much more room for discussion, group-work, student presentations and independent research, as well as teacher-led activities. The department will provide students with the necessary textbooks, and a library of books that students can borrow to aid their independent learning.
| Examining Board | Specification Title | Specification Code |
| Edexcel | A Level Spanish | 9SP0 |
Spanish is a modern, global language spoken by over 550 million people worldwide. Choosing to continue your Spanish studies at A-level creates a range of opportunities for your career, higher education, and international travel.
The UK Government recognises that there is a significant shortage of linguists nationally, so by studying Spanish A-level you will be giving yourself the edge when applying for the top universities and jobs.
The A-level Spanish course builds on your GCSE experience, opening your eyes to the very best of the culture, current affairs, media, and lifestyle that the Spanish-speaking world has to offer. You will also develop essential skills that will equip you for success later in life: research, public speaking, problem-solving, and communication skills.
In addition to the general entry requirements for A-level study of five GCSEs at grade 9-4, including English and Maths, you will need to achieve a minimum grade 5 in Spanish GCSE.
The A-level Spanish course covers a range of subject areas, including:
Students will also study literary and film content, including:
Additionally, students will complete an independent research project, choosing a topic of personal interest that relates to the Spanish-speaking world.
Students will be assessed through three papers:
Classes are small, which facilitates genuine and extensive use of Spanish during lessons, and individual support. By the end of the course, you will be able to use your Spanish confidently and fluently to discuss a range of everyday topics and to enable travel to Spanish-speaking countries.
The Languages Department have a range of resources which you are welcome to borrow to support your studies – grammar books, textbooks, and revision guides, novels, films, etc.
If you have any questions or would like more information about the A-Level Spanish course, please do not hesitate to contact us.
Jake.Perrett@westsomersetcollege.org
For More information on the Edexcel Spanish Courses Course, click here
| Examining Board | Specification Title | Specification Code |
| OCR | A Level Art and Design - Textiles Endorsement | H600 |
This course offers a unique opportunity to explore the world of textiles and art, combining practical skills with theoretical knowledge.
On this course, you'll have the chance to develop your artistic skills through the exploration of various materials and processes. You'll create practical textiles, manipulate fabrics, and work with different materials, all while analysing the work of artists to inform your projects.
Assessment is split into two components: a practical coursework element and an externally set task. Throughout the course, you'll have the opportunity to visit museums and art galleries, and go on joint study trips to London.
60% coursework, 40% controlled test
From this course, you'll typically progress to further and higher education through a foundation course or directly onto a degree course.