A Levels

Art & Design at A Level offers students a chance to immerse themselves in a wide range of creative disciplines including painting, drawing, ceramics, textiles, sculpture, printmaking and photography. The course encourages exploration of personal themes, with pupils developing their own artistic identity and vision. Through both a personal investigation and an externally set assignment, students learn how to communicate visually, think critically, and respond to cultural, historical and contemporary influences. A strong foundation in GCSE Art (Grade 7–9) is recommended, along with the ability to work independently and creatively.

This course focuses on photography as an expressive art form and lens-based media. Students develop technical camera skills, image editing, and darkroom practices while exploring creative and conceptual themes. The coursework portfolio builds over time, encouraging self-expression and the application of critical thinking through visual storytelling. The second year culminates in an externally set assignment. Pupils should have prior experience in an arts-based GCSE subject and be confident in working independently, using sketchbooks and visual journals to support their ideas.

Biology A Level is an engaging and wide-ranging course covering the structure and function of cells, genetics, ecosystems, human physiology, disease, evolution and biotechnology. Students develop practical lab skills and are assessed through three written papers and a practical endorsement. The subject supports future study in medicine, veterinary science, dentistry and environmental science. Pupils are advised to have at least Grade 6 in both GCSE Biology and Chemistry (or Grade 8 in Combined Science), as well as a Grade 6 in Maths.

Chemistry A Level is a dynamic and demanding subject exploring the principles of organic, inorganic and physical chemistry. Pupils carry out practical experiments and apply theoretical concepts to real-world situations. The course suits students with strong scientific and mathematical abilities and is essential for university courses in medicine, dentistry, chemical engineering and pharmacology. Pupils must have at least Grade 6 in GCSE Chemistry and Grade 6 in Mathematics. Assessment includes three written papers and ongoing practical evaluations.

This course is ideal for creative problem-solvers who enjoy exploring how products are conceived, designed and manufactured. Pupils engage with contemporary design contexts, materials and technological developments. The course includes two written exams and a substantial design-and-make project, giving pupils autonomy over their design direction. It develops valuable skills for careers in architecture, engineering, product design, and graphics. Pupils with strengths in Art, Science, or Maths will find this course particularly complementary.

Economics investigates how individuals, firms, and governments allocate resources. Students explore the principles of microeconomics (markets, supply and demand, and failure) and macroeconomics (growth, inflation, unemployment, and global trade). They develop a logical, evaluative approach and learn to apply economic theories to real-world problems. Pupils are expected to keep up with economic news and engage in critical discussion. No prior study is required, but good essay writing and numeracy skills are essential. Assessed through three exams at the end of Year 13.

English Literature allows students to explore classic and contemporary literary works in drama, poetry, and prose. Emphasis is placed on critical reading, analytical writing, and engaging with wider cultural and historical contexts. Pupils complete three examined units and one coursework component, where they have freedom to choose and compare two texts. This subject develops highly transferable skills in communication, argumentation and interpretation. A minimum of Grade 6 in English Literature is expected for success in the course.

Geography bridges the natural and social sciences, covering diverse topics such as ecosystems, climate systems, urban development, globalisation, and population change. The course includes a personal fieldwork investigation and two substantial written exams. Pupils learn to interpret data, understand global issues and develop strong research and communication skills. A background in GCSE Geography (Grade 6+) is preferred, and field trips form a key part of the learning experience.

This course explores the political, social and cultural changes that have shaped the modern world. Units include British and American history, as well as an independent coursework project on British India. Pupils examine a range of historical sources and develop arguments through critical analysis and essay writing. A GCSE in History is helpful, but not essential; strong written English and an analytical mindset are crucial. Assessment is through two written exams and one non-examined investigation.

A Level Mathematics challenges students to apply logic, problem-solving and high-level numeracy across a wide range of contexts. The course includes pure mathematics (algebra, calculus, trigonometry), statistics (data analysis, probability), and mechanics (forces, motion). Pupils sit three equally weighted exams, all with calculator use. A minimum Grade 7 in GCSE Maths is essential. The course suits students interested in engineering, economics, sciences, computing and architecture, and pairs well with both STEM and humanities subjects.

Further Mathematics is studied alongside A Level Mathematics and introduces more advanced concepts such as complex numbers, matrices, differential equations and decision mathematics (including game theory and linear programming). Students sit four exam papers, deepening their analytical skills and mathematical fluency. This course is highly recommended for those considering university courses in maths, physics, engineering, and computer science. A Grade 8+ in GCSE Maths is required due to the course’s pace and complexity.

Media Studies explores how media forms such as TV, film, gaming, advertising, and online platforms construct meaning and influence society. Students engage with contemporary and historical media products, theoretical approaches, and develop their own cross-media project using digital tools. The course includes two written exams and one practical coursework component. Ideal for students interested in communications, journalism, marketing, or creative production, it encourages critical thinking and cultural awareness.

Music A Level combines practical musicianship with academic study. Students perform, compose, and analyse a broad range of genres including classical, jazz, pop, musical theatre and 20th-century styles. Coursework is weighted toward performance and composition, with a final written exam assessing listening and analytical skills. Pupils should be at least Grade 5 standard on an instrument and comfortable with music theory. The course fosters creativity, discipline, and cultural insight—skills that are valuable in both music and wider academic fields.

Philosophy & Ethics invites students to explore fundamental questions about existence, morality, and belief. Pupils study classical thinkers like Plato and Aristotle, as well as modern perspectives on religion, science, and ethics. The course enhances logical reasoning, abstract thought, and debate skills. It is assessed through three written papers, each focusing on religion, ethics, or philosophy. No prior study of Religious Studies is required, but strong essay-writing skills and intellectual curiosity are key to success.

Physics A Level covers topics including mechanics, electricity, waves, quantum phenomena, and the laws that govern the universe. Pupils build strong mathematical and investigative skills through theoretical work and experimental investigations. The course includes three written exams and a practical skills endorsement. A solid background in Maths and Physics is essential (GCSE Grade 6+). Physics is an ideal choice for those interested in engineering, natural sciences, computing or research.

Psychology explores human behaviour through scientific investigation and theory. Topics include memory, social influence, attachment, psychopathology, and optional subjects such as forensic psychology and gender. Students learn to evaluate research, analyse data, and apply psychological concepts to real-life scenarios. Assessment is through three exams at the end of Year 13. It combines well with sciences and humanities. Pupils should have at least Grade 5 in English, Maths, and Biology.

Spanish A Level develops fluent communication and cultural understanding through the study of society, politics, literature and film in the Hispanic world. Students deepen their grammar and vocabulary while undertaking an independent research project as part of their oral exam. The course is assessed via listening, reading, writing and speaking components. Pupils are expected to have achieved at least Grade 7 in GCSE Spanish. The course offers valuable language skills for global careers and university study.