PROSPECTUS

www.ems6college.org

WELCOME To

English Martyrs
Sixth Form College

Leaving school and starting

college can be both an exciting
but also daunting experience.

Art & Design (3D)

16

Biology

18

Business Studies

19

Chemistry

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22

Digital Media

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Here at English Martyrs we hope that we can ease

that transition and provide you with the help,
support and results that you need to move onto the
next stage of your lives - whether that be pursuing
a degree at university, an apprenticeship or moving
straight into employment.

English Language

26

History

35

We have students who study with us from all over the North East
and we are very proud of the sense of community and family
spirit that we have established here. We believe that our pastoral
and academic support, from a range of specialist staff, is second
to none and is one of the reasons why our students are so
successful in their college studies and in the world beyond.

ICT

36

Modern Foreign Languages

41

The information in this prospectus will provide you with just a

flavour of what EMS6 has to offer. Visit our website for the latest
updates and information and follow us on social media.

Music

42

Mrs C Hogarth

Head of Sixth Form

The English Martyrs Sixth Form College

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Computer Science

We look forward to meeting

and working with you.

Art & Design

English Literature

28

Geography

30

Graphic Design

32

Health & Social Care

34

Law

38

Mathematics

39

Further Mathematics

40

Performing Arts

43

Photography

44

Physical Education

45

Physics

46

Product Design 3D

47

To study at EMS6 you must have achieved a minimum of 5 Grade C passes at GCSE or equivalent.
Individual subjects also have additional requirements.

Product Design Textiles

48

Courses subject to change.

Psychology

50

Religious Studies

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Supporting YOU

to success!

Here at the college we aim

to support you emotionally,
socially and personally so
that you can achieve your
academic potential.
In order to do this, there are various support
systems in place.
Consistently, over 80% of our Year 13 students go on to study at
university with almost all of the remaining students leaving with a
clear destination in mind. The Sixth Form Team support students
and guide them onto the appropriate progression route.
Students from our college go on to follow a number of pathways
including: apprenticeships, employment, gap years and university.

WHERE ARE
THEY NOW?
4

The English Martyrs Sixth Form College

Sixth Form Specialist Learning

Mentor - Mrs Beverley Scaife

The Personal Tutor

Bev is always available to speak

to on a one to one basis about
any issue you may have, from
discussing career aspirations and
plans to matters of a personal
nature.

Students are allocated a Personal

Tutor at the start of their time at
English Martyrs who will remain
their tutor for the two years that
they study here.

Part of Bevs role is to provide assistance to

any student who may need extra support.

Every morning, students will register with their

tutor and follow the Tutor Programme with
them. They can speak to their tutor in the first
instance in relation to any issues they may
have.

She also oversees our Destinations support,

including the UCAS application process when
students are applying to universities, and
gives advice and guidance on next steps in
terms of employment and careers.

Because our tutors come to know their tutor

group well, they are instrumental in adding a
personal touch to references, helping students
through difficulties and passing on key
information throughout the year.

Students who Left EMS in 2016, HAVE GONE ON TO SUCCESSFUL FUTURES:

Students who Left EMS in 2015, HAVE GONE ON TO SUCCESSFUL FUTURES:

Poppy Stuart
The Academy at Shotton Hall Oxford University
English Language and Literature

Chloe Defty
Dyke House Sports & Technology
College University of Cumbria
Primary Education

Lucy Gould
Manor Community Academy
University of York
Social Sciences

Hannah Ferguson
The Academy at Shotton Hall
Northern Power Grid
Assistant Buyer

Michael Hainsworth
High Tunstall College of
Science University of Leeds
Physics & Astrophysics

Charlotte Morgan
St Michaels Catholic Academy
- Gap year
With Frontier working on a
marine conservation project

Luke Gardiner
St Hilds Church of England
School Teesside University
Comics, Graphics and Sequential
Art
Annabelle Napper
High Tunstall College of Science Queen Mary University of London
English

Emily Ward
The English Martyrs
School & Sixth Form
College Newcastle
University
Medicine

Head of Sixth Form anD

Heads of Year
As well as a Personal Tutor,
students also receive support from
the Head of Sixth Form and two
Heads of Year.
The Head of Sixth Form and Heads of Year will
monitor students in terms of attendance and
academic performance and progress but they
are also there to support students pastorally
so that they can achieve success.

www.ems6college.org

Enrichment
Opportunities
Developing you beyond the
classroom is important to us.

We recognise how vital it is to develop skills for the

future. Opportunities for enrichment include:

EPQ - The Extended Project

Qualification

Development workshops on areas such as personal branding and

presentation skills led by local universities

All of our students are

offered the chance to
undertake the Extended
Project Qualification.

Enterprise activities
Workshops on preparing for university, apprenticeships and
employment including help and guidance with making choices,
studying abroad and applying through UCAS
Opportunities to volunteer locally and take part in career focused
work experience
Study skills workshops
Reflection days
Sixth Form Sports Day

This is a stand-alone qualification

that carries up to 28 UCAS points.
With the support of a Supervisor,
students choose a topic which
extends beyond the parameters of
their A Level courses.
Universities and employers value
the skills that it develops, such
as independent research, project
management, reflection, self-directed
learning and critical thinking skills.

Charity, volunteering and fundraising

Want to work within the community?
Develop transferable skills whilst making a
contribution to a worthy cause.
Charity events, volunteering and fundraising are an integral
part of life at our college.
Opportunities include:
Working with local community groups on projects
The Youth SVP group - a voluntary charity group which
focuses on improving the lives of people by carrying out
positive work within the community. Past projects have
included donating to the local food bank and creating
Happy Planters
Children in Need fundraising
Competing to raise money in our annual 5 Challenge
for St Cuthberts Care
Mentoring within the school community
Supporting our school and college nominated charities Teenage Cancer Trust, CLIC Sergeant, WaterAid, Great
North Air Ambulance and the RNLI
John Paul II Award

The English Martyrs Sixth Form College

www.ems6college.org

Engineering Education Scheme

EDF Energy Mentoring Scheme

The Sixth Form Debating Society

Sport

This provides an opportunity

for students to experience the
world of engineering, as well as
developing problem solving, team
working, presentation and project
management skills; skills that
are invaluable to employers and
universities.

Our college is proud to have a

working partnership with EDF
Energy.

Those who cannot understand

how to put their thoughts on ice
should not enter into the heat of
debate.

At the English Martyrs Sixth Form College we have a wide range of

sports and sporting facilities for both competition and leisure.

This scheme has enabled students to make

excellent business contacts, led to work
experience and even inspired some to
undertake a degree or career in engineering
or a similar field.
In a team of four, students have the chance
to work alongside an experienced engineer
on a real and challenging project with a local
engineering company over the course of six
months. The scheme includes a three day
residential workshop at the University of
Newcastle and a company visit to see the
project in context.

The English Martyrs Sixth Form College

This is a fantastic opportunity for STEM

students to become involved with a local
business and market leader.
The process involves a launch evening
followed by a competitive application and
interview process.
Successful candidates participate in a two
year mentoring programme which includes
contact sessions with the EDF Energy
Mentors and training days at the power
plant in Hartlepool. This scheme provides
high quality work experience, employment
preparation and work based skills.

- Friedrich Nietzsche
Established in 2010, The Sixth Form Debating
Society researches and debates relevant,
current and interesting topics. Debate
motions have included: Minimum alcohol
pricing would be good for Britain and Harry
Potter is more appropriate for a teenage
audience - than Twilight.
As well as arranging a number of in house
debates, the society has entered local and
national competitions with some success.
Whilst some students enjoy being at
the forefront of debates and delivering
speeches, others prefer to contribute to the
research and project work which happens in
preparation.

Our football team have had huge success

recently, and we aim to continue in this way
over the coming years. The team won the
East Durham League last season, and went on
to beat the champions of the West Durham
League to become overall winners. Players
from Y12 and Y13 are invited to try out for the
team each year.
The netball team play in the South Durham
and Cleveland League every season, and we
often finish within the top 3. The girls are
also entered into the U19 National Schools
Championships a competition often
including future international stars. The team
usually progress to the regional round, and
even the finals of this competition, which
involves a weekend away. This year the team
will also compete in the U19 South Durham
and Cleveland Challenge Cup.
Students have access to a multi gym and
swimming pool to keep them in shape
and there is an all-weather football pitch
which can be booked for competitions and
recreational use. We often organise fivea-side football tournaments which are very

popular with our students, particularly when

our college staff enter a team and friendly
rivalry is guaranteed.
The college are very supportive of any elite
athlete that enrols here. Past students with
heavy training schedules such as Hannah
Picknett (GB Rowing Start Programme) and
Claire Brown (U21 England Netball) were able
to manage their studies effectively with the
help and support of college staff.
We are also fortunate to have Aeronauts
Trampoline Club based in our college, and
students are welcome to join the group
after college hours
to participate. In
addition, more
experienced
performers are
welcome to come
along and help
coach at the school
club, which is held
every week on a
Thursday night.

Overseas Excursions and Other

Trips
Here at EMS6 we offer students
the chance to experience the
world outside the college walls.
We provide many opportunities to travel to
enhance your studies or purely for fun!
Some highlights include:
A trip to New York where art and
photography students have a chance to
complement their A Level studies
Trips to Barcelona, Florence and Rome
Ski trips
Trips to France and Germany
Field trips and study visits
Residential visits to Oxford and Cambridge
Visits to universities throughout the country
for open and information days
Day trips to places such as Durham and
Whitby

www.ems6college.org

Moral & Spiritual

DEVELOPMENT
English Martyrs is a place
with a strong Christian
ethos and community.

We believe that it is this ethos which makes us a place

that really aims to look after you not just academically
but pastorally, emotionally, socially and spiritually.

Chaplain - Anne Marie Lavelle

Retreats and Youth Events

Commonly asked questions:

Anne Marie helps lead a lot of our

spiritual activities but she is also a
great support to our students.

We organise and encourage our

students to take part in retreats
and youth events.

If English Martyrs is a Catholic college, do I have to be

Catholic to enrol?

Her openness and friendliness make her a firm

favourite with us all.

Retreats are scheduled throughout the

college year. Some involve a day of fun and
reflection whilst others have a residential
opportunity built into them.

Absolutely not! We welcome people of all faiths as well as those who

do not profess a faith - and we pride ourselves upon the diverse set of
beliefs we have within our college community.

What does being a Catholic college actually mean?

It means we provide opportunities for our students to embrace their
faith if they so wish. For those who are not Catholic however, it still
offers lots of benefits!! We strongly believe in the personal dignity of
everyone and we really see ourselves as a family, a community, who all
work together to create an environment of mutual respect and support.

Will I have to say a lot of prayers every day?

We do have a chapel where students are free and welcome to drop in
and pray in private. Morning prayers are held at 8.35am every day and
Mass is celebrated on a Friday morning for those who wish to attend.
Tutor groups do present morning prayers on one day throughout the
year but often groups choose societal and moral issues as a focus. As
a college, we have a number of services throughout the year such as a
Christmas Service and a Leavers Mass.

MET Sessions
MET stands for Moral, Ethical and
Theological study.
On your timetable you will find one lesson
a week reserved for a compulsory lesson of
MET. Here you will develop your independent
thinking and debating skills on a range of
contemporary topics linked to morals and
ethics such as war and human rights.

We work alongside the Youth Mission Team

to deliver these retreats and students always
have a great time!
In the lead up to exams, we offer a chance
to take some time out and relax at a retreat students speak about how beneficial this is as
part of their examination preparation.

Students are given a chance to share and

debate the topics under consideration as well
as developing an understanding of the issue
from the point of views of other individuals
and organisations.

These opportunities to come together are very much focused on

reflecting or celebrating!

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The English Martyrs Sixth Form College

www.ems6college.org

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Getting involved with

the Arts at EMS6

Art, Music, Drama, Dance

Whether you study one of
these subjects or not, we
welcome the involvement of
our Sixth Form in the range of
activities that are available.

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The English Martyrs Sixth Form College

Art

Music

Dance and Drama

As one of a limited
number of colleges
to offer specialist art
provision, we feel that
we offer a significant
opportunity for our
students.

Our Music department offers a multitude

of opportunities for those studying Music
and for all of the students in our college
regardless of your standard, grade or area
of interest.

Students interested in pursuing a career as a performer can

enhance existing skills and acquire new skills during their time at
English Martyrs.

As well as the specialist, highly

skilled staff who teach these
subjects, we have purpose built
art areas which include a suite of
Mac computers, a photography
studio and an art gallery where
students and professional
artists exhibit their work. Work
is regularly submitted and is
successful in competing in
national and local competitions.

Whether you see music as a career in the future or just a

hobby you would like to pursue, we have something for
you.

We are constantly improving our provision and opportunities for aspiring young
performers. You may have seen our success stories in the local press which include
students going on to secure places with top London performing arts schools, Young
Americans, the National Youth Theatre, Got to Dance, Britains Got Talent and National
Youth Musical Theatre. Recently students have secured unconditional offers at the
prestigious Mountview Academy of Theatre Arts in London.

Students can make use of the purpose built recording

studio which was opened by the Iron Maiden guitarist
and former English Martyrs student, Yanick Gers. The
studio contains state of the art equipment which enables
students to write, produce, record and perform their own
pieces in a professional environment.

Our programme of study and extracurricular provision aims to ensure that students are prepared
for auditions, interviews and performances.

We have an orchestra, a Big Band, a training band and

several choirs. We host opportunities for student to
perform such as musical soirees and school performances
including musicals, Rock Night and concerts.

Our purpose built performance studios ensure that students can develop in professional
surroundings that are equipped for lessons and small scale productions. The space is
also available after college for rehearsals. Resources include: a lighting rig, sprung dance
floor, dance mirrors, studio black curtains, sound system and iPads with projector.

There are many opportunities to perform throughout the year both inside and outside
of college. This has included: the School Show, Sixth Form Pantomime, NT Connections
and the Shakespeare Youth Festival,

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ART & DESIGN

This is an ideal subject
for those wishing to
pursue a career in any of
the creative industries.
Entry Requirements

Students are expected to have at least

a C grade or equivalent at GCSE level in
an Art and Design subject.
A portfolio can be viewed for
consideration by an art teacher on
request if you have not achieved the
required grades. It is essential that you
have good drawing skills if you wish to
study Art and Design.

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The English Martyrs Sixth Form College

Students will learn to develop and produce personal creative,

independent work, analyse their own visual work as well as evaluate
and learn from artists, designers and crafts people. In Year 12 and 13
students will study one main unit of work.
This will be thematic and will change based on the particular focus and interests of the
student, and they will also complete a project based on a starting point from the examination
paper. In all there will be 2 units of study in Year 12 and 2 units of study in Year 13.
The main focus will be the development of a sketchbook or journal. This will show evidence of
the chosen thematic unit and experimentation with a variety of artistic techniques.
Students who have studied Art and Design here have gone on to varied degree courses
which include architecture, graphic design, fine art, textiles, fashion and photography.

I settled into English

Martyrs very easily.
The teachers and tutors
are always there if you
need them.

Art and Design can lead to many careers including:

Animator
Graphic designer
Interior designer
Fashion designer
Photographer
Web designer

Make-up artist
Textile designer
Furniture designer
Automotive designer
Architect

Amy Chapman Year 13

www.ems6college.org

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ART & DESIGN

(3D)
3D Art and Design is a
very exciting Art A Level.
Entry Requirements

Students are expected to have at

least a C grade or equivalent at
GCSE level in an Art and Design
subject. A portfolio can be viewed for
consideration by an art teacher on
request if you have not achieved the
required grades. It is essential that
you have good drawing skills if you
wish to study Art and Design.

Students will learn how to draw, paint

and create using a variety of art materials.
You also get the opportunity to design
and think about how you can turn your
artwork into an actual object. This course
focuses on 3D Art techniques. You will
get the opportunity to work with clay and
other 3D media. There is a possibility of
looking at architecture and theatre design.
In Year 12 and 13 you will study one main area of
investigation. This will be thematic and will change based
on your particular focus and interests. You will also
complete a project based on a starting point from the
examination paper. In all there will be 2 units of study in
Year 12 and 2 units of study in Year 13.
The main focus will be the development of your
sketchbook or journal. This will show evidence of your
chosen thematic unit and experimentation with a variety
of artistic techniques.
A creative degree prepares you for the modern world
because it not only gives you crucial vocational skills,
it also equips you with the life skills you will need to be
adaptable, self sufficient and it remains relevant in the
years ahead.

The teachers here are

specialists in their subjects
and very supportive.
A-Levels are a real
step up from GCSE but
EMS helps you to step
up to the challenge.
Greg Robertson Year 12

Some careers that this course could lead to are:

Animator
Graphic designer
Interior designer
Fashion designer
Photographer
Web designer

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The English Martyrs Sixth Form College

Make-up artist
Textile designer
Furniture designer
Automotive designer
Architect

www.ems6college.org

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Biology

As it is such an all encompassing subject, there is something in

Biology for everyone.
You will study a range of topics including:
Biological molecules
Cells
Energy transfers
Gene expression

Biology A Level will

give you the skills to
make connections and
associations with all The lab book
will complete 12 required practicals and present a lab book for the Practical
living things around you. Students
Endorsement. The Endorsement is a requirement of all Science undergraduates at university
Entry Requirements

GCSE Combined Science BB

GCSE Separate Science BBB
GCSE Mathematics grade B equivalent

so is ideal preparation for the next level. The practicals include chromatography, investigating
enzymes, use of microscopes and dissection techniques.

Examinations

The course is taught by Biology specialists and all practical work is internally marked. The
examinations are held in June and externally marked. A Level examinations (three 2h papers)
will be taken at the end of the two year course.

BUSINESS
Studies
Business Studies
allows students to
explore the world
of business in the
21st century.
Entry Requirements

You do not need to have studied

GCSE Business Studies.
It is expected that students have
achieved GCSE English and Maths
at grade C or above. Please note
the new Business Studies course
does have a lot more Maths
content than in previous years.

You will study businesses from a variety of contexts including large/

small, UK focused/global, services/manufacturing. The course not only
concentrates on the internal workings of businesses, but looks at the
fast changing external environment in which these businesses work.
You will consider well-known businesses
from the perspective of different
stakeholders. Critically, you will gain an
understanding of the strategic decisions
made by businesses in order to increase their
competitiveness in the market place.
A variety of teaching and learning methods
are used to enable you to develop the
required skills to be successful. For
example, student presentations, analysis
of business problems to make appropriate
recommendations, analysis of data, critical
thinking to develop lines of argument and
make informed decisions.
The course will cover: Why businesses exist,
Different forms of ownership, Managers
& Leaders, Stakeholders, Marketing,
Operations (Production), Finance, Human
Resources, Analysing the strategic position
of a business, Choosing strategic direction,
strategic methods and managing strategic
change.
Question papers use a variety of assessment
styles including short answer, data response,
essays and case study analysis. You will be

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The English Martyrs Sixth Form College

assessed by two examinations in Year 12

(internally assessed) and three formal and
externally assessed exams in Year 13.
Business A Level can lead to a wide range
of degree level courses including: Business,
Marketing, Human resources, Accounting
and Finance and Economics. It is a great
complementary subject for many other areas
of study, such as, Engineering, Design, Law
and Geography.
This subject also provides an excellent
preparation for the world of work whether
you fancy yourself as the head of a
successful multinational, or you prefer to set
up your own small business this course will
give you the knowledge and skills required.
We will also be offering the opportunity for
you to organise and run your own Young
Enterprise company as an extra-curricular
activity, giving you the opportunity to
experience what it is really like to manage a
business. How many students can put CEO
of a company on an application form?

www.ems6college.org

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CHEMISTRY
The course is suitable
for students who
enjoyed Chemistry at
GCSE, and for those
who thrive when faced
with a challenge.
Entry Requirements

Only strong candidates with a keen interest

in Science and in particular Chemistry will be
successful on this course.
The course is currently undergoing changes
so although this may be subject to change,
expect entry requirements to be at least BB in
Additional Science and B in GCSE Chemistry
and B equivalent in GCSE Mathematics.

The course will develop students

ability to apply the scientific
method to many real life
situations, and will give students
an opportunity to discover
science through a wide range of
experiments.
For those who desire a career in science,
engineering and medicine, the course will
provide one of the important university entry
requirements to pursue such career options.
Practical work and problem solving skills are
crucial for any successful chemist. Students
will carry out a range of laboratory practical
experiments to support their learning. Do
not expect lectures, problem solving will
make up the vast majority of lessons - you
will be encouraged to think outside of the
box and apply your knowledge to unfamiliar
situations.
Two exam papers contain 105 marks. They
each contribute 35% to the A Level grade.
A third exam paper contains 40 marks from
practical skills and data analysis, 20 marks
testing any area of the specification and 30
marks from multiple choice questions (total
of 90 marks.) This contributes 30% to the A
Level grade.

Even though I
didnt go to school
at English Martyrs,
after the first week,
I couldnt have imagined
ever having been
anywhere else.
Calum White Year 13

This course requires students to demonstrate

their competency in practical investigations
via a lab book.

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The English Martyrs Sixth Form College

www.ems6college.org

21

Computer
Science
The Computer Science
course is ideal for students
with an enthusiasm for
learning how computers
operate at machine level
and who want to develop
a greater understanding of
programming environments.
Entry Requirements

All students wishing to study Computer

Science at A Level should have a minimum
of a grade B in Maths at GCSE due to the
level of computational thinking required to
complete the course.

The course is taught using a mixture of practical and theory lessons.

Practical lessons will involve a range of individual activities to allow
development of key programming skills. Theory sessions will include a
mixture of group work and independent study opportunities.
During the first year you will study the following topics:
Computing Principles
Algorithms and Problem Solving
These units will give you a sound understanding of many key theoretical aspects of the
course while also allowing you to develop some basic programming skills in Visual Basic,
JavaScript, HTML and CSS.
You will then study three further topics in Year 13:
Computer Systems
Algorithms and Programming
Programming Project

EMS is unique in the sense that it offers

not only an excellent quality of teaching
but also the support and guidance which
welcomes students from all schools into
the college community.
James Dunn Year 13

The first two topics build on the knowledge and understanding from the units covered in
Year 12 delivering a greater level of comprehension. The programming project allows you to
plan and implement a solution to a real world ICT problem, identified by yourself, to create an
effective solution using a broad range of programming skills.
This course will give you an excellent grounding in fundamental programming techniques and
a theoretical knowledge of computer systems. Both of these areas will be advantageous for
those hoping to forge a career in the computer science industry or a related higher education
course. Visual Basic is an industry standard programming language and is used throughout
Year 12 and 13.

No formal Computing or ICT based

qualification is required for entry; however
you may find some concepts easier to
understand if you have studied Computer
Science previously at GCSE level.

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The English Martyrs Sixth Form College

www.ems6college.org

23

Digital Media
The course is aimed at
students with an interest
in creative computer
design and it allows
students to develop
skills relevant to this
progressive and forward
thinking sector.
Entry Requirements

It is not necessary to have a Media based

qualification to take up this course; however
a good imagination and a creative mind are
absolutely necessary.
It is expected that students wishing to study
Digital Media will have a grade C in English
Language GCSE to allow them to complete the
relevant research and planning documentation
that will go alongside each product.

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The English Martyrs Sixth Form College

Digital Media is a course that has been designed to provide students

with a technical level qualification, giving opportunities to develop a
wide range of skills within the dynamic interactive media industry.
There are two externally examined units in the Digital Media Course:
Pre-Production and Planning
Analysing Media Products
These units will give you a good understanding of how the digital media industry operates
and you will learn how to utilise some standard industry practices in your work. You will also
complete three coursework units from the following list:
Create a Media Product (mandatory)
Sound Production
Advertising Media
Journalism and the News
Personal Media Profiles
Social Media
This course has proven to be very popular in recent years due to the growth of the digital
media industry with 72% of students achieving a Distinction* or Distinction grade and 100%
gaining at least a Merit level in 2016. You will develop a range of analytical skills and gain a
strong overview of the digital media industry and the products within.
Good computer skills will have a positive impact across all subjects and this course will
also allow you the opportunity to gain an up-to-date knowledge on the latest industry
developments. Studying Digital Media will open up many career and further education
opportunities including those in graphic design, social media, web authoring, storyboarding,
game design and illustration.

www.ems6college.org

25

English
Language
Were going to learn to
cut and paste kids!
Were going to learn to
cut and paste, kids!
Commas matter.
Punctuation saves lives!
English Language allows
students to engage with
language in the world
around them.
Entry Requirements

In order to be considered for this course

you must have a grade B at GCSE level
in English Language.
A GCSE grade C or above in
Mathematics/Science is also essential.

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The English Martyrs Sixth Form College

Prescriptivist or descriptivist?
Do you embrace language change or
wince at your friends terrible grammar
and outrageous punctuation on
Facebook?
Whatever your belief, English Language allows
you to explore your personal point of view. Youll
be encouraged to develop your study of written,
spoken and multi-modal texts. You will hone your
critical analysis skills and evaluate data from all
sorts of places. You will also have the opportunity
to sharpen up your creative writing and research
skills.
The course is fast paced. It has to be. Be prepared
to create presentations, work in a team and deliver
your own lessons. You will enrich your taught input
with autonomous investigations of linguistics.
Its taught by experienced specialists and is
extremely popular with excellent results. In 2015,
73% of students achieved A*-C grades.
Its a keystone A Level. Studying English literally
gives you the key to an awe-inspiring wealth
of future careers, from law to leisure industries,
advertising to accountancy, tourism to teacher
training, journalism to public services to the media.
Or, you might just end up becoming a writer!
A Level assessments include two summative
examinations and the compilation of a coursework
folder. This folder is made up of a language
investigation and a piece of original writing.

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English
LITERATURE
If you are going to get
anywhere in life you have
to read a lot of books.
- R.Dahl
Entry Requirements

In order to be considered for this course you

must have a grade B at GCSE level in both
English Language and English Literature.

This course aims to broaden your

understanding of genre through reading
and analysing a range of challenging
literary texts; focusing initially on the
concept of tragedy you will explore
seminal texts from canonised tomes to
contemporary classics.
You will find this course: rewarding, enriching and
exciting. You will develop skills in both written and
spoken English and you will also learn how to read
texts closely and discuss a wide range of issues.
Literature is life and all aspects of humanity are under
the microscope in this consideration of poetry, prose
and drama. You will be required to work independently
and think critically as well as show your creative side.

I will wear my heart upon

my sleeve for daws to peck
at. I am not what I am.
Act 1, Sc 1 Othello, W. Shakespeare

This course will be taught using a range of learning

and teaching activities including: teacher and student
led lessons, presentations, group work, independent
study and research. The course is taught by Literature
specialists and is extremely popular with excellent
results. In 2015, 96% of students achieved A*-C grades.
At A Level you will complete two examinations and
produce a coursework folder of two essays. You will
also be asked to keep a Reading Journal throughout
the course. You must read the core course texts but
you should also read widely around the subject, every
text is a product of its context, the debate of which is
often as intense as it is intriguing.
Students often go on to study Literature at university
feeling fully prepared and ready for the challenge.

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29

GEOGRAPHY
As a subject linking the
arts and the sciences
Geography is highly
flexible in terms of
what you can combine
it with at A Level.
Entry Requirements

All students who wish to study Geography to

Advanced Level ideally should have achieved at
least a grade C at GCSE. Although a qualification
in Geography at GCSE is desirable it is not
essential and in this case a student would need a
grade C in English and Maths at GCSE level.

This qualification looks at both physical and human geography.

You will study a range of physical geography topics including water and the carbon cycle as
well as coastal environments and global hazards.
You will also study human geography including the study of how places have changed over
time as well as investigating places in context; the regional, national, international and global
relationships which impact on the areas selected for study.
In the second year, topics are studied in greater depth, with case studies being chosen from a
diverse range of places.
You will be taught by two specialists. A lot more independent study is expected at A Level.
Both your teachers will set homework and research tasks.
There is a residential field study visit to North Yorkshire in early March of Year 12 which will
prepare you for the skills components of your course.
Throughout the course, there are opportunities to visit places in the regional area as well as
Iceland and Sorrento.
There are two examination papers at A Level (80%) and a personal study (20%) submitted in
Year 13.

I am so glad that I chose to come

to English Martyrs. The support
I receive is fantastic and I enjoy
getting involved in everything that
the college has to offer!
Rebecca Lake Year 12

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The English Martyrs Sixth Form College

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31

GRAPHIC DESIGN
This course is designed
to provide a specialist
programme of study
that covers the key
knowledge and
practical skills required
to progress in the field
of Graphic Design.
Entry Requirements

Students should have a minimum of

grade C at GCSE in any Art subject.

Students will study disciplines such

as: advertising, illustration, packaging
design, typography, website design,
desk top publishing and animation.
We encourage students to be creative, independent
and individual and help them develop the skills they
will need to progress in the field of Graphic Design.
The research and development work is completed in
a sketchbook and we have two suites of computers
with the latest Adobe software for the production
of final outcomes. Students are able to work to their
strengths and develop their own style.

EMS has a real community

feel. It is a sociable, friendly
and pleasant place to be!
Hannah Hunter Year 13

The course consists of 4 units of work. The

coursework units will be separated into smaller
projects covering a range of graphic design skills
including: advertising, illustration using traditional
and digital techniques, packaging design,
typography and interactive media. Students will
complete an examination which is assessed with
their portfolio of work at the end of Year 13.
Students often progress to art and design
foundation courses and then degree courses,
although we have a high percentage of students
who have been accepted directly onto Graphic
Design courses on the strength of their creative
portfolio.
The nature of the course provides the perfect
foundation for progression into a career in Graphic
Design, one of the most popular and modern forms
of art and design in the world today.

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33

HEALTH &
SOCIAL CARE

The course helps

students to progress
to higher education,
onto degree courses,
apprenticeships or
employment.
Entry Requirements

It is not essential that students have

studied Health and Social Care
previously but students must have five
or more GCSEs at Grade C or above, a
grade C in English is crucial.

It is suitable for students who are considering a career as: a nurse,

midwife, social worker, teacher, health visitor, paramedic, counsellor
and many more health related professions.
Students have the opportunity to take
the BTEC Level 3 Extended Certificate
in Health and Social Care which is the
equivalent in size to one A Level. It is for
students interested in learning about the
health and social care sector alongside
other fields of study, probably with a view
to progression to a wide range of degree
courses, not necessarily in the health or
social care sector.
Students studying this qualification will
study four mandatory units over the two
years covering the following content areas;
Human Life Span Development (this unit
is exam based)
Supporting Individuals with Additional
Needs (this unit is coursework based)
Working in Health and Social Care
Principles of Safe Practice in Health and
Social Care
Students who want to progress directly
into a career in the Health Care Sector
should consider the BTEC Level 3 National
Diploma in Health and Social Care which is
equivalent in size to two A Levels. Students
will study the same units required in the

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The English Martyrs Sixth Form College

BTEC Level 3 Extended Certificate in Health and

Social Care over two years but will undertake
another additional four units, which include:
Promoting Public Health (this unit is coursework
based)
Work Experience in Health and Social (this unit
is coursework based)
Enquiries into Current Research in Health and
Social Care (learners will be assessed through a
written task which will be assessed in supervised
conditions)
Meeting Individual Needs
Students will be given the opportunity to
experience a vocational placement and undertake
a unit called; Work experience in Health and Social
Care. Work experience provides a foundation
for the development of professional skills and
personal attributes which are essential for working
in the health and social care sector and many
more professions. Students will be required to
undergo an Enhanced Disclosure Application
accepted under the Exceptions Orders to the
Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974.

HISTORY
History allows for
the study of the
past to allow greater
understanding of the
present and the future.
Entry Requirements

All students who wish to study

History should have achieved at least
a B grade at GCSE.

Although a qualification in History is

desirable, it is not essential and in this
case a student would need a B grade
equivalent in English Language.

This course offers students the chance to explore a whole range of

historical time periods with the help of specialist staff.
Unit 1: England 1377-1455- you will study Richard II, under whose rule England almost came
to revolution. You will explore the power-plays and intrigue of medieval kingship under the
Usurper King Henry IV, learn how England defeated a vastly larger French army at Agincourt
and find out how Henry VIs mental health began the Wars of the Roses.
Unit 2: Democracy and Dictatorships in Germany- you explore the turbulent history of
Germany from the extremely democratic Weimar Government to dictatorship under Hitler
to the division of Germany following World War 2, resulting in the construction of the Berlin
Wall.
Unit 3: Civil Rights in the USA, 1865-1992- in this unit we consider how the civil rights
movement in the United States changed in the period from the abolition of slavery to modern
day. In this topic we not only cover African American rights but also the rights of women,
workers and Native Americans.

100% of your A Level is assessed in Year 13. Coursework makes up 20% of your overall mark
and the remaining 80% is made up of three examined units.
The History Department run a collaborative trip to Berlin with Modern Foreign Languages
for KS5 students each year. There are also opportunities to visit London, as well as local
university libraries for coursework research.
History is widely recognised as an A Level which equips students with the skills to succeed in
a range of professions. Previous students have gone on to study at Durham, Newcastle and
Cambridge, as well as forging diverse careers in the uniformed services and the Institute of
Modern Art, Middlesbrough.

The course is extremely popular with students

with excellent results. In 2015 an impressive 100%
of single option students achieved A* - C and the
Double Option students achieved 87% A* - C.

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35

Information
Communication
Technology
The ICT course has
been designed to
provide students with a
relevant, flexible and up
to date qualification.
Entry Requirements

It is not necessary to have an ICT qualification

to take up this course however good
organisational skills and the ability to work
towards strict deadlines are necessary.
It is expected that students wishing to study
ICT will have a grade C in English Language
GCSE to allow them to complete the relevant
documentation for each product.

Students will experience a wide range of computer-based skills

related to many ICT based job and further education opportunities
by exploring a vast range of topics within the information and
communication technology sector.
There are two externally examined units when following the application developer route:
Fundamentals of IT
Global Information
These units will give you a good understanding of how the digital media industry operates
and you will learn how to utilise some standard industry practices in your work. You will also
complete three coursework units from the following list:
Application Design (mandatory)
Social Media Products
Digital Marketing
Web Design
Mobile Technology
The course is taught through a mixture of theory and practical lessons. Theory lessons
will help you establish a deep knowledge of the subject and relevant industry production
techniques. Practical sessions will be focused around independent project work using
industry standard software.
The ICT skills developed throughout this course will equip you well for the future whether you
go into a computer based industry or higher education. The subject will open up many career
opportunities including those in digital media, information technology, communication skills
and graphic design.

English Martyrs College

has helped me to come out of
my shell and grow into the
person I am today.
Mia Crawford Year 13

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The English Martyrs Sixth Form College

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37

LAW
A robust legal
system is the
foundation of a
fair society.
Entry Requirements

The course is academically demanding with the

requirement that students are able to construct
essays of a high standard which critically
evaluate areas and concepts of law.
As such, students will require at least 5
GCSEs at grade C or higher including English
Language and preferably other humanities,
science and mathematics based subjects.

If you feel strongly about concepts like justice and equality then this
course could be very rewarding for you.
You might see yourself in a career involving the criminal or civil justice system. Alternatively
you might want to choose Law because it is a fascinating course which will help you develop
transferable skills such as analysis and problem solving.
The course is mainly classroom based although you will have the opportunity to see the law
in action through a visit to the Crown Court. As you progress through the course, you will
learn about different sources of law such as judicial precedent and legislation and about the
operation of criminal law looking at non-fatal offences against the person and those which
are fatal such as murder and manslaughter.
You will also learn about property offences such as theft, burglary, robbery and blackmail.
When you are confident with the offences you will apply the law to fictional scenarios and
decide whether a person would be guilty or not guilty.
Past students have gone on to a range of careers including the police, social work, teaching
and many have entered the legal profession as solicitors following a degree in Law.

MATHEMATICS
Mathematics is a
challenging but
rewarding and diverse
subject that can open
doors for the future.
Entry Requirements

It is expected that students will have achieved

GCSE Maths at grade B or above. In addition,
students who have not covered A/A* work
at GCSE will be expected to complete
independent study of this work before the
course begins so that they are fully prepared.

You will study a variety of key mathematical areas including: Algebra,

Graphs, Trigonometry, Calculus and Geometry in the Pure Maths
modules as well as Statistics and/or Mechanics.
In your first year you will study a mixture of Pure Mathematics and Statistics.
The Pure Mathematics content will build upon the algebra and trigonometry skills developed
at GCSE such as solving quadratics, simultaneous equations, sine and cosine rule and extend
them further. You will be introduced to Calculus where you will learn how to differentiate and
integrate.
The Statistics studied in the first year of the course will focus mainly on the interpretation of
data, probability and correlation which will be studied in greater depth than that at GCSE.
In your second year you will continue to develop a greater understanding of Pure
Mathematics by solving more complex problems using technical and sophisticated algebra
techniques. This will include further techniques for differentiation, integration and solving
trigonometric equations. Depending on your chosen path, you may study more Statistics
including hypothesis testing or you may study Mechanics. In Mechanics you will look at
modelling real life problems with a particular focus on uniform and non-uniform motion,
forces and momentum. For students studying Physics it is strongly recommended that you
study Mechanics in A Level Mathematics.
The Mathematics A Level course is assessed at the end of 2 years of study and is 100% exam.
During the course students will sit regular internal assessments (at least 1 per half term) as
well as completing weekly homework.
In each year of the course students will be able to take part in the UKMT Individual Maths
Challenge as well as compete in the UKMT Maths Team Challenge.
To study Mathematics at university you will be required to have at least an A Level in
Mathematics and some universities will also want an A Level in Further Mathematics. For a lot
of courses an A Level in Mathematics is desirable and sometimes essential including Physics,
Engineering, Computing, Economics, Chemistry and many others.
It is not just the content that you study that makes an A Level in Mathematics highly
desirable; it is the complex problem solving and logical thinking skills that you will also
develop. Many Mathematics degree graduates are highly sought after and pursue careers in
wide ranging industries.

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39

FURTHER
MATHEMATICS
Further Mathematics
is a challenging
qualification which
both extends and
deepens your
knowledge and
understanding
beyond the standard
A Level Mathematics.
Entry Requirements

It is expected that students will have achieved

GCSE Maths at grade A or above. In addition,
students who have not covered A* work
at GCSE will be expected to complete
independent study of this work before the
course begins so that they are fully prepared.

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The English Martyrs Sixth Form College

In addition to the skills developed in A

Level Mathematics, you will develop
further algebra techniques and study
topics such as matrices, complex
numbers, mathematical proof and
differential equations in the Pure
Mathematics modules as well as some
Applied Mathematics.
In your first year you will study a mixture of Pure
Mathematics and Decision. The Pure Mathematics
content will build upon the algebra skills developed
in A Level Mathematics and you will be introduced
to complex numbers, matrices, vectors and
mathematical proof. The Decision Mathematics
studied in the first year of the course will focus
mainly on algorithms, network problems, game
theory and linear programming.
In your second year you will move on to study
complex numbers and vectors in greater detail
along with differential equations and group
theory. This will be supported by further study
of Statistics and/or Mechanics in addition to that
covered in the A Level Mathematics. If you wish
to study Mathematics at university, it is strongly
recommended that you study Further Mathematics
at A Level as most universities have it as a
requirement.
The Further Mathematics A Level course is
assessed at the end of 2 years of study and is 100%
exam. During the course students will sit regular
internal assessments (at least 1 per half term) as
well as completing weekly homework.

Modern Foreign
Languages

FRENCH / GERMAN / SPANISH

Through language
learning students acquire
a deeper understanding
and awareness of
different cultures.
Entry Requirements

In order to study a language at A Level

students will normally be required
to have grade B at GCSE, however,
students who sat higher level papers
may be accepted with a GCSE grade C.

The four skill areas of listening, speaking, reading and writing

developed at GCSE will be extended further through the study of
current topical materials in French, German or Spanish.
The ability to communicate in a foreign
language is highly regarded by both
universities and employers and language
learning helps develop key communication,
interpersonal and problem solving skills that
are highly valued in the work place today.
Students study a range of social, political and
cultural topics relating to France, Germany or
Spain.

Social Issues and Trends:

Youth culture, including fashion and trends,
music, television
The changing state of the family
The digital world
Multiculturalism

Artistic Culture:
Festivals and traditions
Art and architecture
Study of a film and novel
Grammatical competence is developed
throughout and by the end of the course
students will be able to communicate
effectively and spontaneously in the language.
In the second year, an individual research
project allows students to focus on an area
of personal interest and further develop
their linguistic and cultural awareness
independently.

The courses are taught by 2 specialist

teachers and students are also provided
with a mini i-Pad so that they have access
to authentic listening and reading materials
and to encourage independent learning.
During the two year A Level course
students usually have the opportunity
to take part in a visit to develop their
language skills and experience the culture
of the country first hand.
The course is assessed by external
examinations:
Paper 1 Listening and reading (40%)
Paper 2 Writing (30%)
Paper 3 Speaking (30%)
Listening exams are completed
independently using an MP3 player.
An A Level in a foreign language is always
highly regarded by universities and
employers. Students frequently continue
their study of a language at university,
often combining it with another discipline
such as History, Maths, Accountancy,
Business or Linguistics.
It is increasingly common to include
a language module in a wide range of
degree courses.

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41

MUSIC
Music A Level gives
you the opportunity
to engage with music
more deeply as a
performer, composer
and listener.
Entry Requirements

GCSE Music (grade C or above)

GCSE English (grade C or above)

Grade 5 standard (or equivalent) in

their first instrument/voice
Grade 5 theory would be
advantageous- extra classes are
available to support A Level Music
studies.

The subject is divided into three

component parts, developing both
academic and practical skills.
1. Appraising Music: Students will listen to a range
of music from across music history and will learn
to identify complex musical features included
within them, as well as studying three strands of
learning and one optional area of study (music
for theatre).
2. Performing Music: Students will be asked to
perform 10 minutes of music either as a soloist or
as a member of an ensemble with an option to
perform through music technology.
3. Composing Music: Students will compose two
pieces of music, one is a free composition, one
is set to a brief. Students will create their music
using Sibelius or ProTools 10.
The course is taught by two Music specialists who
have a wealth of performance, composition and
analytical experience.
Music is a fully recognised academic A Level and is
extremely desirable at Russell Group universities.
Previous Music A Level students have gone on to
study at a range of universities such as Cambridge
and Durham and conservatoires such as The
Royal Northern College of Music and The Royal
Conservatoire of Scotland.
There are many extra-curricular opportunities
available to students, including performing in our
annual school show, Rock Night, the Orchestra,
Big Band and Chamber Choir. A Level musicians
are expected to be leading members of our school
ensembles and mentor younger students.

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The English Martyrs Sixth Form College

Performing
Arts

Cambridge Technical Level 3

Performing Arts
gives students an
understanding of all
aspects of the discipline
and combines it with the
opportunity to specialise
in the performance of
Drama, Dance, Music
and Theatre Production.
Entry Requirements

GCSE grade C or above in English and any

experience within the arts. An A to C grade in
Drama, Dance or Music preferred but a GCSE in
these areas is not essential.

This course allows you to be creative and imaginative within

performance and portfolio work. You gain a greater understanding of
the arts and will challenge yourself within in art forms.
The subject is a blend of practical and written assessments. You will be encouraged to
demonstrate your skills and talents. Within the first year you will develop practical skills,
understand how to apply these into the industry and importance of the arts within the
community.
The second year of the course contains two units, the first one working independently on solo
performances and the second is developing your knowledge of practitioners and working
with your peers. Examinations of units are externally set by the examination board and
internally and externally assessed.
The course is designed with the work place in mind, with refreshing and exciting content, that
is up to date and fit for purpose. It is particularly suitable for students who want to take the
pathway of Acting, Dance, Music and Theatre Production.
You will practically apply your skills and knowledge in preparation for future study or the
workplace, as well as developing technical and performance skills alongside theoretical
knowledge and understanding to underpin your skills.
You will be equipped with the skills to be able to research, apply elements to your own
performance and set out project proposals. You will gain a range of transferrable skills that
will underpin freelance work in your chosen field.
The course is extremely popular with
excellent results. In 2015, 100% of students
achieved A*- C grades. Students have gone
on to higher education courses at university
or Performing Arts Schools as well as taking
up freelance opportunities.
During the course, there are opportunities
to take part in school musicals, trips to the
theatre to see professional shows, workshops
and visits from professionals in the industry
plus many extra curriculum groups.

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43

PHOTOGRAPHY
This is an Art centred
subject encouraging
creativity, individuality
and independent
learning.
Entry Requirements

There are no specific

qualifications needed for the
Photography course although
an artistic eye is an advantage.

The subject is a blend of practical

darkroom and digital - and written critical
studies and evaluation.
Students will consider a range of topics and produce
a portfolio based around experimental, landscape,
portraiture and close up photography in the first year.
The second year of the course involves a personal study
into a chosen theme of Photography. Students research
and analyse their theme and produce a portfolio of work
based on their findings. The examination unit at the end
of Year 13 is externally set by the examination board and
takes the form of a creative portfolio of work similar to the
coursework unit.
The course is designed to allow students to be
independent and creative; to produce exciting, individual
photography work whilst exploring and drawing influence
and inspiration from selected artists and photographers.
Students are encouraged to experiment with traditional
techniques as well as exploring new techniques and there
is potential to try video production and editing. We have
a fully functional dark room and portrait studio as well
as three computer suites, equipped with state of the art
computers and Adobe Creative Suite package.
The course is taught by Photography specialists and all
work is internally marked and externally moderated.
The course is extremely popular with excellent results. In
2015, 98.3% of students achieved A*-C grades. Students
have gone on to higher education courses at university
as well as taking up apprenticeships and freelance
opportunities.
During the course, there are opportunities to visit New
York and Barcelona to develop photographic studies.

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The English Martyrs Sixth Form College

Physical
Education

This course is
a combination
of practical and
theoretical work,
although the majority
of lessons are
classroom based.

Entry Requirements

Students should have 5 GCSE grades A*C. It is vital that students are competing
in a sport and will continue to do so.
This is because 30% of the A Level
grade is practically-assessed. There is
no requirement for students to have
completed GCSE PE.

Successful students will be engaging in sport outside of lesson time,

and any practical lessons will have a theoretical element to them, in
order to prepare for the examinations at the end of the course.
The A Level course is designed to prepare students
for a sports-related degree and eventually a career
in sport, whether this is as a teacher, a sport
scientist, a physiotherapist or a coach. Course
content includes: applied anatomy and physiology,
biomechanics, sports psychology, sport and society,
and technology in sport.
The A Level specification has changed recently,
and the course content is designed to be in line
with recent developments in sport, fully preparing
students for further study within this area.
A Level Physical Education has been successfully
taught at this college for over 15 years by very
experienced teachers who have a full, balanced
and up-to-date knowledge of the course in order
to guide students through both the practical and
theoretical elements. Many of our students go on
to study Sports Science or Coaching at university,
or use this course to complement other A Levels in
order to study related degrees.
During the course, we have numerous opportunities
to visit sports science laboratories at Teesside
University, where the students can take part
in VO2max testing, reaction-time analysis,
temperature regulation in different environments,
and many other course-related activities. These
sessions have proved invaluable to students who
are able to draw on these experiences within
examination questions.

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PHYSICS
This is a subject
involving advanced
scientific models
and theories,
problem solving and
mathematical skills.
Entry Requirements
Combined Science BB

Separate Science BBB

Mathematics grade B equivalent
Recommended combined study with
A Level Mathematics.

A large part of the course involves the use of mathematical skills

(such as algebra) combined with the understanding of scientific
theories, to attain answers pertaining to topics such as Particle
Physics, Mechanics and Electricity.
The aim is to prepare students to develop the skills to
potentially answer any physical question, or plan an
experiment to investigate the Universe at any scale.
Students will complete 12 required practicals and present
a lab book for the Physics Practical Endorsement. The
Endorsement is a requirement of all Science undergraduates
at university. The practicals include investigations into
stationary waves, emf, gravitational fields and elasticity of
metals.
The course is taught by Physics specialists and all practical
work is internally marked. The examinations are held in June
and externally marked. A Level examinations (three 2 hour
papers) will be taken at the end of the two year course.
The course requires an interest in how the Universe works,
from subatomic particles to galaxies. It is a demanding
curriculum which requires tenacity, self-motivation,
preparation and practise.
The EMS Physics results in 2015 were, on average, 8% higher
than similar centres nationally. Students have gone on to
higher education courses at university as well as taking up
apprenticeships. During the course, there are opportunities
to visit universities and meet Physics celebrities such as Dr
Pete Edwards and Prof. Carlos Frenk.
One student from Year 12 will become Physicist of the Year a prestigious award given by the Odgen Trust which comes
with the opportunity for a scholarship at Durham University.

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The English Martyrs Sixth Form College

Product Design
3D
Product Design is all
about designing and
making innovative/
new products.
Entry Requirements

A GCSE grade C or above in Maths, English and

Science along with a Technology subject would
normally be required.
The GCSE in Technology should be an A*-B grade
and preferably be in Resistant Materials, Graphic
Products or Engineering. Other Technology subjects,
however, can sometimes be taken into account.

This subject is aimed at those interested

in the way business and industry
identifies potential products and
successfully designs and manufactures
them on different scales, for a wide range
of different consumers.
Product Design combines 3D visual design and practical
workshop based manufacturing to produce high quality
products that have the potential to be developed and
sold to a mass market.
The course consists of a number of coursework and
examination units that focus on a wide range of
topics relating to product design such as materials,
manufacturing processes, human factors in design and
modern technologies.
Students will be required to produce a range of design
portfolios and practical pieces working in both the
design studio and practical workshop. They will work
with a wide range of machinery including CAD CAM.
The second year of the course is very similar a two
hour written paper which accounts for 25% of the
marks available and a coursework unit which accounts
for the final 25% of the A Level.
On successful completion of this course a number of
different, exciting career paths could be available for
our students. Of course theres product or furniture
design but automotive design or even web design are
two other popular options. Other exciting alternatives
such as interior design, architecture, teaching, design
marketing, manufacturing, the CAD industry or even
engineering are examples of other career paths that
Product Design, 3D Design could lead to.

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47

Product Design
TEXTILES
Textiles have such
a wide range of
applications that they
affect every aspect of
our daily lives.
Entry Requirements

A GCSE grade C or above in Maths, English

and Science along with a Technology subject
would normally be required.

D&T Fashion and Textiles A Level gives you the opportunity

to develop your capacity to design and make products and to
appreciate the complex relations between design, materials,
manufacture and marketing.
The subject will enable you to develop a wide range of skills, including working with others,
thinking creatively and making quality products.
Over the two years there are four main study topics. Unit 1 introduces you to materials,
production processes and the impact of cost and design. Unit 2 is about designing and
making a variety of products through a portfolio approach. Unit 3 looks at the relationship
between materials and components, processes and manufacture. Unit 4 consists of one
design and make project where you will record the process you went through.
Textile Design could take you into a number of exciting careers. Of course being a textile
designer is a natural outcome, but there are other job prospects, such as working as an
interior designer or in fashion merchandising and buying. The advertising and marketing
profession always needs creative people too, as does the manufacturing industry. You could
also apply this A Level to your portfolio of skills as a teacher

EMS6 is a supportive
community where
you can achieve your
potential.
Jade Jarvis Year 13

The GCSE in Technology should be an A*-C

grade and preferably be in Fashion & Textiles.
Other Technology or Art subjects, however,
can sometimes be taken into account.

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The English Martyrs Sixth Form College

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49

Psychology
Psychology is the
study of human
behaviour, put more
simply it aims to
uncover reasons for
our behaviour.
Entry Requirements

5 GCSEs (Grade C and above) including

Maths and English.
Psychology includes 25% Biology and
10% Maths so a Science GCSE Grade C
and above is also desirable.
As of September 2015 Psychology was
given the status of a science subject.

Are we a product of our genes or experience? Most people, when

they hear the word Psychology think of mental illness and abnormal
or deviant behaviours, but it isnt limited to extreme behaviours.
We also look at very ordinary behaviour such as memory, relationships with others and
aggression. Below are some examples of research areas in Psychology, these are also
examples of what we cover in the syllabus.
Could anyone be a killer?
What is a Psychopath?
Does stress make us physically ill, if so how?
Are suicide bombers mad, bad, neither or both?
Is it true we are genetically pre-programmed to sniff out the ideal mate?
Why do lap dancers earn more money when ovulating?

Religious
Studies

Why did 38 people witness a murder but none of them phone the police?
By studying A Level Psychology you will get the opportunity to meet ex-convicts, including
those sentenced for murder, in order to gain an insight into the reasons for their crimes. We
also organise a talk with Gamblers Anonymous to understand the cause of addictions.
Psychology is a popular, fascinating and very interesting subject which is increasingly
recognised by both universities and employers as a very worthwhile A Level to study.

Philosophy of religion

Learners will study: ancient philosophical influences/the nature of the soul, mind and body/
arguments about the existence or non-existence of God/the nature and impact of religious
experience/the challenge for religious belief of the problem of evil/ideas about the nature of
God/issues in religious language.

The study of
and ethics:
moral, ethical and Religion
Learners will study: normative ethical theories/the application
ethical theory to two contemporary issues of importance/
philosophical ofethical
language and thought/debates surrounding the
idea of conscience/sexual ethics and the influence
questions to significant
on ethical thought of developments in religious beliefs.
better understand
in religious thought:
human nature. Developments
Learners will study: religious beliefs, values and teachings,

Why do footballers experience an increase in testosterone during home games?

How does the brain recover after injury?

In Religious Studies you will cover 3 elements:

Entry Requirements

All candidates who wish to study

RS should have gained at least a
grade C in Religious Education
and English at GCSE.

their interconnections and how they vary historically and in

the contemporary world/sources of religious wisdom and
authority/practices which shape and express religious identity,
and how these vary within a tradition/significant social and
historical developments in theology and religious thought/key
themes related to the relationship between religion and society.
The course is taught by RS specialists. The course is extremely
popular with excellent results. In 2015, 71% of students achieved
A*-C grades. Students who have studied RS in the past have
embarked upon various courses and careers.
Past students have gone on to study for degrees in Law,
Theology, History, Education, French, Philosophy, Psychology,
Sociology, English and Music. Past students have entered
various occupations including Banking, Nursing, Acting,
Teaching, Administrative work, Social work, Law and
Accountancy to name but a few.
Many students from other schools have been successful on the
course.

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Catcote Road, Hartlepool TS25 4HA

T: 01429 273 790
E: admin@emshartlepool.org

www.ems6college.org
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The English Martyrs Sixth Form College

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