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Sixth Form Subjects

Thornton offers a wide range of subjects and courses. The majority of courses are A Levels but we have extended our provision to include popular vocational courses. Specifications for each course can be found by clicking on the subject boxes below.

The curriculum at Thornton is built around the choices students make, as we design our option blocks based on students’ chosen subject combinations.

Existing Thornton students and girls who are joining us for Sixth Form have a meeting with tutors to discuss options in detail. Thornton is in an excellent position to review and select the most appropriate and interesting courses of study for students from the various examination boards.

There is a Sixth Form Curriculum Booklet 2024-25 available to download (PDF) or click on the relevant subject images below for course details.

ART, CRAFT, DESIGN , PHOTOGRAPHY, A-LEVEL

ART, CRAFT & DESIGN/ PHOTOGRAPHY – A-LEVEL

Studying a creative subject helps a student to prepare for the next stage of their lives. The skills gained are indeed transferable to all aspects of post-18 adult life. Studying for an A Level qualification in any of these areas results in a student whose skills include independent analytical and critical thinking, reasoning verbally, risk-taking, good time management, using their initiative and creatively solving problems. Art enhances fine motor skills, hand and eye co-ordination – would we trust a surgeon with an untrained eye or shaky hand?

A-Level Art & Design with specialisms available in:

Art, Craft and Design: this incorporates elements of at least two of the following (tailored for each student) – painting, drawing, printmaking, sculpture, textiles, lens/ light-based image making.

Photography: incorporating the disciplines of film- based photography and digital photography and editing.

Trips to galleries, museums and places of cultural interest are considered integral to the course and will need to be taken independently as well as in school time.

Future Careers

There is a projected surge in demand for multimedia artists, animators and illustrators, especially those who are technologically minded, due to the increasing demand for online and digital advertising. Fine artists are also reaching a wider market through websites and online applications.

There are more than 150 art-related careers available in the workplace.

BIOLOGY

BIOLOGY

Biology is the study of life. Biologists study the function of biological molecules, cells, whole organisms and environments. Biologists are pioneers in a large number of fields that affect our lives each day, including genetic engineering and medicine.

Biology is an ever-expanding field that offers a large number of opportunities in a wide range of occupations. For careers in the health sector, including medicine, physiotherapy and nursing, employers put a high priority on the study of Biology at A Level. Other applications of the subject are found in fields such as environment, microbiology, marine biology, veterinary science and the sports and leisure industries. The skills you will develop whilst studying Biology are highly regarded by employers.

The course covers four fascinating topics:

Biology and disease
The variety of living organisms
Populations and the environment
Control in cells and in organisms

These four topics give a solid grounding in Biology and each topic has a selection of practical investigation which are designed to bring the topics to life.

Practical Skills are assessed via a number of required practicals that assess the ability to: follow instructions; record data in a systematic manner; carry out research and handle chemicals and equipment safely. A proportion of these skills will be tested in the written exam papers.

Future Careers

Biology can lead to a career in medicine, paramedical services, veterinary medicine, nursing, pharmacy, ophthalmics, biotechnology, agriculture, forestry, horticulture, conservation and many more.

CTEC LEVEL 3 NATIONAL DIPLOMA IN ART & DESIGN

ART

CTEC LEVEL 3 NATIONAL DIPLOMA in ART and DESIGN

This CTEC Level 3 is a two years qualification equivalent in size to two A Levels.

The qualification is designed to be the substantive part of a 16–19 study programme for learners who want a strong core of sector study. This programme may include other vocational qualifications or A Levels to support progression to higher education courses in art and design areas before entering employment.

Optional units allow learners to gain knowledge in areas such as fashion, textiles, graphics, photography, 3D studies and fine art.

Who is this qualification for?

The OCR CTEC National Level 3 Diploma in Art and Design is an Applied General qualification and is equivalent in size to 2 A Levels. Learners who want to take this qualification will have successfully completed a Level 2 programme of learning with GCSEs or vocational qualifications.

What does this qualification cover?

The content of this qualification relates directly to the skills and understanding needed for further study in art and design and has been developed in consultation with higher education. There are six mandatory units. Through these units, learners will develop knowledge and understanding in visual communication and the creative process. Learners will understand the importance and influence of the work of artists and designers to develop and realise their creative intentions. The OCR CTEC Level 3 Diploma in Art and Design is designed to enable learners to refine their knowledge in the sector and increase their levels of independence.

Where Next:

As well as direct employability sills, both A-Level and CTEC qualifications can lead to a variety of further study at university.

Vocational skills:

cognitive and problem-solving skills: use critical thinking, approach non-routine
problems applying expert and creative solutions, use systems and technology
intrapersonal skills: communicating, working collaboratively, negotiating and influencing, self- presentation
interpersonal skills: self-management, adaptability and resilience, self-monitoring and development.

Potential further study options:

BA (Hons) Art and Design
BA (Hons) Interior Design
BA (Hons) Fashion Design
BA (Hons) Textiles
BA (Hons) Graphic Design
BA (Hons) Photography
BA (Hons) Fine Art

CHEMISTRY

CHEMISTRY

Students who have an enthusiasm and want to develop further their interest in Chemistry are likely to perform well in this A Level. Students need to have a logical and critical approach to problem-solving and have a deep appreciation of the skills, knowledge and understanding of how Science works. A good understanding of basic mathematical principles is also important.

The level of work has been tailored to follow on from GCSE Chemistry specification and will develop candidates’ knowledge and understanding to provide a pathway to further studies. The course integrates theory and relevant practical work. The subject content will include four core areas of Chemistry:

Physical Chemistry
Inorganic Chemistry
Organic Chemistry
Practical skills in Chemistry

The following key topics will be studied in depth:

Atomic Structure and Periodic Table; Bonding and Structure; Redox; Amount of Substance; Modern Analytical Techniques; Acids and Bases; Rates of Reaction; Chemical Equilibrium; Enthalpy Changes; Entropy Changes; Electrode Potential and Electrochemical Cells, Group 1, 2 and Group 7 Elements; Transition Metals; Studies of Organic Compounds and Polymers.

Future Careers

There is an international shortage of, and therefore huge demand for, chemists. Relevant courses available at University include Pure Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, Biochemistry, Metallurgy, and Pharmacy.

Many other courses, including Dentistry, Medicine, Veterinary Science and Engineering, demand Chemistry as an essential A Level. Chemistry is also welcomed in the areas of banking, finance and management as successful candidates have demonstrated excellent academic ability in a very tough subject. As such, studying this A Level keeps open a magnitude of opportunities for further studies and careers.

DRAMA & THEATRE

DRAMA & THEATRE

The Drama and Theatre A Level course offers a fantastic bridge between GCSE and higher education Drama courses. Students will be working as though part of a theatre company, experimenting and exploring ideas through workshop-based learning.

Students will be able to further their knowledge of theatre practitioners, whilst now having the opportunity to study the work of well-known theatre companies, as well as recognising the technical aspects of theatre. This will allow students to gain an appreciation and understanding of set design; the use of costume, hair and makeup; sound and lighting design, as well as acting. Coupled with multiple opportunities to go to see live theatre, this will broaden students’ experiences of professional work and challenge their perceptions of what theatre is.

Through crafting devised and scripted work, as well as a reinterpretation of a text, students will create various different forms of Drama, vastly improving their skills through the intensive working process. Students can choose whether they act in these three pieces, or whether they would like to be a designer. All of these pieces will be performed for a live audience.

Course requirements

It is preferred that students have a GCSE in Drama, however candidates without this will still be considered for the course. This decision will be based on previous experiences, a genuine passion for the subject and the willingness to fully commit to improving their practical skills.

‘Theatre is a form of knowledge; it should and can also be a means of transforming society. Theatre can help us build our future, rather than just waiting for it.’

Augusto Boal

ECONOMICS & BUSINESS

ECONOMICS B

This course allows students to relate what they are learning to the world around them – locally, nationally and globally. This Economics and Business course provides a unique insight into much of what happens in the real world – why are some commodities more expensive than others? Why do some people earn so much? Why is it sometimes so difficult for people to find jobs? It looks at the role of Governments – how involved should they be in what we buy, how much we earn or how firms behave? What is their role in managing the economy, and how effectively can they do so? Students will learn how markets work – invaluable knowledge for anyone looking to pursue a career in buying or selling, management or policy making.

Opportunities

Students study Economics and Business because it provides a perfect combination of numeracy, literacy, calculations and analysis. As a social science it provides insight into the real world, the opportunity to learn how to critically assess evidence and deliver well-structured arguments. There are a number of university courses and career options where a Economics B A Level is an advantage including economics, business studies, social sciences and engineering.

ENGLISH LITERATURE

ENGLISH LITERATURE

The English Literature course contains an exciting combination of drama, prose and poetry texts from. We follow the Pearson Edexcel specification, which aims to enable students to:

read widely and independently set texts and others that they have selected for themselves
engage critically and creatively with a substantial body of texts and ways of responding to them
develop and effectively apply their knowledge of literary analysis and evaluation

A Level English Literature is regarded as a facilitating subject by competitive universities.

develop and apply their knowledge of literary analysis and evaluation
develop and apply their understanding of the concepts and methods appropriate for the analysis and study of language
use linguistic and literary approaches in their reading and interpretation of texts, showing how the two disciplines can relate to each other
engage creatively and critically with a wide range of texts
explore the ways in which texts relate to each other and the contexts in which they are produced and received
develop their skills as producers and interpreters of language
undertake independent and sustained studies to develop their skills as producers and interpreters of language.

A Level English Literature is assessed by a combination of examinations (80%) and non-examined assessment (20%). A love of reading is an essential requirement. A willingness to discuss and debate texts is also desirable, as our lessons are taught in the style of university seminars.

EXTENDED PROJECT QUALIFICATION (EPQ)

EXTENDED PROJECT QUALIFICATION

The extended project qualification (EPQ) is a qualification which enables students to demonstrate to universities and employers a range of skills including independence, project management, research and critical analysis, and presentation skills.

Students have the opportunity to embark on a largely self-directed project, to study an aspect of one of their courses in greater depth, or to choose a wider topic which is of interest, possibly something which might be useful for a future career. Students will work with a supervisor over the course of a year to guide them at each stage of the project, and will attend taught sessions on aspects of the course.

The EPQ provides the opportunity for students to learn how to conduct effective online research, deal with data, review literature, how to construct a piece of academic writing including referencing, ethics and professional codes of practice in research, analysis and presentation of data, how to evaluate sources, ICT and presentation skills, and how to become a reflective learner. These skills are invaluable to students as they enter into higher education/career and beyond.

The EPQ is recognised by universities and gains UCAS points equivalent to an AS level – A*-E.

Course Details

Students will complete their project over the course of Year 12. Then responsibility for managing the project lies with the student, but they will attend weekly taught sessions and regular supervisor meetings will be held to guide the students.

Assessment Details

Students decide to produce either a:

5000 word research based written report
performance (e.g. dance/drama/music) or a community project. This will require a shorter 1000 word report alongside
an artefact (piece of art/product, business venture, computer software). This will require a shorter 1000 word report alongside

The process and end product are both assessed via a production log (diary of progress), and students pre- sent their finished product to an audience, as part of the assessment process.

The EPQ is internally assessed by supervisors and the centre co-ordinator, and externally moderated.

FORENSIC & CRIMINAL INVESTIGATION

The Pearson BTEC Level 3 National Diploma in Forensic and Criminal Investigation is equivalent to two A levels and is typically the major qualification in a full two-year study programme. This qualification enables students to acquire substantial cross-sector scientific knowledge and practical scientific skills, as well as forensic evidence collection and analysis skills, an appreciation of the application of psychology in forensic profiling and an understanding of the criminal justice system.

Everyone taking this qualification will study seven mandatory units, covering the following content areas:

principles and applications of science
practical scientific procedures and techniques
science investigation skills
forensic investigation procedures in practice
applications of criminology
criminal investigation procedures in practice
applications of criminal and forensic psychology.

Students choose six option units from a group, which has been designed to support progression to the range of sector-related courses in higher education, and to link with relevant occupational areas. The option units cover content areas such as:

physiology of human body systems
forensic genetics
environmental forensics
forensic fire investigation
practical chemical analysis
forensic anthropology and archaeology.

In addition to the applied science, forensic science, criminology and criminal and forensic psychology sector- specific content outlined above, the requirements of the qualification will mean the student develops the transferable and higher order skills which are highly regarded by higher education and employers. For example, the study of applied and forensic science, criminology and criminal and forensic psychology particularly encourages development of skills such as evaluation, analysis and synthesis. These skills are developed through the variety of approaches to teaching and learning enabled by the specification. In particular, the synoptic unit: Applications of Forensic and Criminal Psychology allows students to demonstrate their ability to plan, research, address problems, assimilate data, and draw together and communicate their findings.

The qualification carries UCAS points and is recognised by higher education providers as meeting the admission requirements to many relevant degree courses.

FRENCH

FRENCH

Why study a Modern Language?

An obvious reason to learn a new language is to be able to communicate with the people who speak it. This includes both the people you meet when travelling as well as people in your own community. Your trip to another country will be greatly enhanced in both ease of communication and friendliness if you speak the language. Speaking another’s language shows respect for that culture, and people in every country prefer it when tourists make an effort to speak the local language.

Cultural understanding

Speaking a new language helps you to get to know another people and culture, as language and culture go hand in hand. Because language simultaneously defines and is defined by the world around us, learning another language opens one’s mind to new ideas and new ways of looking at the world.

What is the A Level course like?

A Level French builds upon your existing knowledge gained at GCSE, giving you a sound understanding of using your language in a variety of contexts and situations.

The A Level French course is structured so that you’ll study four modules each year which will form the basis of the reading, writing and listening exams and also the speaking test.

What can I do afterwards?

Languages are an invaluable skill to have. Having a French language qualification can increase your salary from eight to 20% and gives you a head start on other potential employees as, by speaking another language, you are vital to any company who does international business (and there are a lot of them).

Business and careers

Speaking more than one language is a skill which will increase your marketability. French language study can help to increase problem-solving skills, memory, and self-discipline.

GEOGRAPHY

GEOGRAPHY

People who choose Geography will gain a deeper understanding of how the world works and how the people in it interact. Geography is a great choice of subject to study at a time of growing concern about climate change, shrinking energy resources and global poverty; it is one of the most relevant courses people could choose to study for our times.

The A Level Geography course will cover both the physical and human environments and the complex interaction of processes that shape our world. It will also, importantly, show the applied side of the subject – how human intervention affects the environment and how people adapt and mitigate the effects of processes on their environment. This is complex and dynamic and varies from place to place depending on people’s resources, technology and culture. There is plenty of room for discussion and extended research which will help you become an independent thinker and learner. By the time you get to your exams, you will be able to show your understanding of a range of opinions and be able to illustrate your answers with case studies from local, national and international examples.

Of course, many A-Level students do not yet have a clear idea of what kind of career they might want to pursue. If you are in this position, remember that Geography as an A Level gives you the chance to keep your options open as it covers both arts and science components. It is quite likely that when you choose Geography your classmates will all be doing different combinations of A Level subjects – this adds to the interest when it comes to discussions on issues as everyone will have very different ways of thinking and expressing their opinions.

GOVERNMENT & POLITICS

GOVERNMENT AND POLITICS

Politics is a fascinating subject which is of vital importance to all of us in our daily lives. This course will provide an insight into political beliefs central to an understanding of the modern world. You will learn how to study politics critically. You will examine how democracy really functions; why political decisions are made by the minority rather than the majority, and how politics here in the UK and in other countries are affected by global developments.

Almost everything we experience is connected to politics. How much tax we pay, the quality of healthcare we receive and the type of education we are offered. We will study politics on a national and global scale and see how this affects our future security and quality of life.

Part of the excitement and challenge of studying politics is that it is ever changing. Lessons involve lively discussion where students can explore their own points of view and learn to understand the points of view of others.

Who should study Politics, and why?

Everyone should study politics — all members of society should have a better understanding of the general rules under which they live. For these rules to be effective, as many people as possible should actively participate in making them, upholding them and maybe, changing them. This is what is meant by ‘active citizenship’. A healthy society is a society in which many people participate in political activity and do so with insight and understanding.

What makes politics different as an academic subject is its emphasis on debate, discussion and argument.

HEALTH & SOCIAL CARE - LEVEL 3 DIPLOMA

HEALTH & SOCIAL CARE – LEVEL 3 DIPLOMA

Do you have the desire to work with people in a range of health, social care or educational settings? Are you approachable, trustworthy, enthusiastic and compassionate? If so, Health and Social Care may be the course for you. Studying Health and Social Care at Level 3 will enable you to progress onto a range of courses in Higher Education including Adult, Child or Mental Health Nursing, Primary School Teaching, Childcare, Physiotherapy, Public Health Degrees, Midwifery and many more. Alternatively, you may choose to progress onto a related apprenticeship or training position or take up employment.

The Level 3 Diploma in Health and Social Care has been designed to account for two-thirds of a two-year, full- time programme of study. The qualification is equivalent in size to two A Levels and can be taken alongside a related A Level and/or EPQ.

The qualification carries UCAS points and is recognised by Higher Education institutions as contributing to meeting admission requirements to many relevant courses, but it is important to check whether the universities offering the courses you wish to apply to accept Level 3 Diplomas.

It can be taken alongside, for example:

An A Level in Biology, which could lead to a BSc
(Hons) in Nursing or Midwifery.
An A Level in Psychology, which could lead to a
BSc (Hons) in Psychology.
An A Level in Sociology, which could lead to a BSC (Hons) in Social Work.

Does the qualification provide transferable knowledge and skills for higher education?

Studying a Level 3 Diploma in Health and Social Care will give you the opportunity to develop many transferable skills that universities value. These include:

The ability to learn independently and manage workload.
The ability to research actively and methodically.
The ability to be able to deliver presentations and be active group members.

Course content

The qualification consists of seven mandatory units which include; Anatomy and Physiology, Infection Control and Safeguarding. There are an additional five optional units which can be tailored depending on the interests and aspirations of the students. Optional units we currently teach include; Psychology for Health and Social Care, Creativity and Acitvity for Children and Young People and Nutrition for Health.

HISTORY

HISTORY

When does History begin? History begins NOW, at this very moment. What happened a second ago is already history. History is the huge succession of events that created us. You cannot begin to know about yourself, to understand the present, the way we live and why, until you understand something of your roots in the past.

The study of History:

Provides a sense of identity
Helps to make sense of the world
Provides lessons in right and wrong

History A Level will give you knowledge and skills which will prepare you for higher education and which are also useful in any career. Some of these skills are:

acquiring a broad range of historical knowledge and understanding, including a sense of development over time, and an appreciation of the culture and attitudes of societies other than our own;
evaluating critically the significance and utility of a large body of material, including evidence from contemporary sources and the opinions of more recent historians;
engaging directly with questions and presenting independent opinions about them in arguments that are well-written, clearly expressed, coherently organised and effectively supported by relevant evidence;
gaining the confidence to undertake self-directed learning, making the most effective use of time and resources

Future Careers

There are so many careers out there that require the skills that a study of History can bring; Law, Medicine, Business, finance, accountancy, Tourism, town planning, Politics, journalism and research, to name but a few!

MATHEMATICS - FURTHER MATHEMATICS

MATHEMATICS/ FURTHER MATHEMATICS

Five Good Reasons to study Mathematics & Further Mathematics

One – Career Opportunities

Mathematics and Further Mathematics are versatile qualifications, well-respected by employers and are both “facilitating” subjects* for entry to higher education. People who have studied mathematics are in the fortunate position of having an excellent choice of career. Whilst the number of young people studying A Level Mathematics and Further Mathematics is increasing there is still a huge demand from science, engineering and manufacturing employers.

Two – Employability Skills

The reason why so many employers highly value Mathematics qualifications is mathematics students become better at thinking logically and analytically. Through solving problems you develop resilience and are able to think creatively and strategically. The writing of structured solutions, proof and justification of results help you to formulate reasoned arguments and, importantly, you will have excellent numeracy skills and the ability to process and interpret data.

Three – Preparation for Higher Education

For progression to many courses at university it is important to have strong mathematics skills. For most Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) degree courses A Level Mathematics is a requirement and A Level Further Mathematics is often a preferred subject.

Four – Supporting Other Subjects

The mathematical skills you learn in A Level Mathematics are of great benefit in other A-Level subjects such as Physics, Chemistry, Biology, Computing, Geography, Psychology, Economics and Business Studies.

Five – An Interesting Course

A Level Mathematics is an interesting and challenging course which extends the Pure methods of GCSE and includes optional applications of mathematics, such as Statistics, Mechanics and Decision Mathematics. A Level Further Mathematics broadens your mathematical skills and promotes deeper mathematical thinking. You will be introduced to interesting new areas of Pure Mathematics such as complex numbers and apply mathematics in a wider range of contexts.

* The Russell Group of leading UK universities published a guide to post-16 subject choices, Informed Choices. It describes Mathematics and Further Mathematics as facilitating subjects.

MUSIC

MUSIC

A-Level Music is an exciting exploration of music providing both breadth and depth of study. The three fundamental areas of performance, composition and appraising are developed through critical and creative study.

With a range of areas of study from Bach to Stevie Wonder and the development of the Symphony to the chamber music of Debussy, you can choose to study the areas that suit you best. Two compositions, one to a given brief, one free choice, enable the development of skills in your chosen area. Performance is a crucial aspect of the course, with a final recital that allows you to showcase your skills.

You will consider A Level Music if you are passionate about listening to and performing music. The course encourages students to consider the historical, social and cultural context of the music that they study.

This course is available to all students who have a keen interest in music of all genres and who are prepared to perform as a vocalist or instrumentalist. Students who have completed a GCSE course will find this a good foundation for the work covered at A Level but it is not a pre-requisite. Knowledge of music theory to Grade 5 standard or equivalent is desirable.

You will be significantly better prepared for A level music if you have already completed the GCSE course. In order to be able to access the music A level course you will need at least Grade 5 music theory and be able to perform at least to a Grade 6 standard on your first study instrument.

PHOTOGRAPHY

A-Level Photography incorporates the disciplines of film-based photography alongside digital photography and editing.

Trips to galleries, museums and places of cultural interest are considered integral to the course and will need to be taken independently as well as in school time.

Topics included in the course may include:

History of photography (equipment, materials, photographers and photographic movements)
General photographic theory
Darkroom skills for black and white photography
Digital photography
Using Photoshop
Photographic contextual studies

PHYSICS

PHYSICS

Physics expands knowledge about nature and generates fundamental knowledge needed for the future technological advances that will continue to drive the economic engines of the world. Physics contributes to the technological infrastructure to take advantage of scientific advances and discoveries. Physics is an important element in the education of chemists, engineers and computer scientists, as well as practitioners of the other physical and biomedical sciences.

Physics extends and enhances our understanding about the earth, agricultural, chemical, biological, and environmental sciences. Astrophysics and Cosmology are of substantial importance to all peoples of the world.

Physics at A Level offers the opportunity to study how things work, from the smallest subatomic particle to the whole universe. It suits those who have enjoyed the study of Physics at GCSE and can be a good choice with subjects such as Mathematics, Chemistry and Biology.

It develops an interest in, and understanding of, the way things work and the ability to analyse problems in a logical and quantitative manner.

It is valuable for those thinking of degrees and careers in Sciences, Engineering, Medicine, Architecture, Management and Law.

PSYCHOLOGY

PSYCHOLOGY

What is Psychology?

Most people when they hear the word ‘psychology’ think of mental disorders and crazy, abnormal behaviour, BUT – psychologists are not just interested in such behavioural extremes; many are interested in investigating very ordinary, everyday behaviour such as memory, aggression, thinking, obeying others and sleeping, to name just a few research areas.

Psychology aims to describe and explain behaviour which, in turn, allows us to predict and modify behaviour. It is a FANTASTIC subject, because it is about you, me and everyone around us and it tries to explain why we do the things we do!

Courses Content

The course content is designed to allow you to develop a broad knowledge base and an understanding of concepts, theories and studies from core areas of psychology such as cognitive, developmental, social and psychopathology, in addition to a full understanding of the approaches and of the methods used in research.

Assessment

In the June of second year you will sit three papers, each two hours in length and worth 33.3% of your final A level grade.

Future Careers

The great thing about psychology is that it doesn’t close any doors. An A Level in psychology can be the first step into a career as a chartered psychologist in a field such as clinical, neuroscience, forensic, occupational, sports, or environmental psychology, as well as teaching or research. Psychology is a highly regarded qualification by higher education institutions and employers alike; especially in fields that are ‘people-oriented’ – such as marketing, HR, policing, teaching, PR, nursing, counselling… the list goes on!

RELIGIOUS STUDIES

RELIGIOUS STUDIES

Philosophical and Moral reasoning play an important role in shaping our society and consciously or subconsciously influence what people think, feel, and believe. Indeed, throughout human history philosophers, of one form or another, have both affected and directed the lives of billions of people. By studying Religious Students, students get a broad look at how recorded wisdom from the Ancient Greeks to the present day challenge, shape and influence the course of human history.

Choosing Religious Studies will give students a much better understanding of themselves and the society in which we live. It requires students to be logical, open minded and analytical in thought. The subject is a rigorous and respected, it is academically and intellectually demanding. A broad range of material must be learned, understood and assimilated. It will be essential to have at least a Grade 5 at GCSE level in English in order to take Studies. An assessment is carried out by analytical and critical essay writing.

Students will be required to demonstrate their ability to:

Critically analyse and evaluate the views and arguments of scholars/academics
Account for the influence of social, religious and historical factors on developments in the study of religions and beliefs
Absorb and retain complex information and identify key issues
Sift and select relevant information and think logically
Develop a critical approach to contemporary issues
Understand and take a sensitive approach to different cultures and beliefs
Engage in debate in a way that recognises the right of others to hold a different view.

Future Use

Religious Studies encourages students to develop critical and evaluative skills which will enable them to go on to Higher Education to study a wide range of courses including Religious Studies, Theology, Philosophy, Law, Sociology and the Social Sciences. The skills it provides are particularly useful for future careers in Law, Education, Social Work, Politics, Medicine, Administration or the Media.

SOCIOLOGY

SOCIOLOGY

A-Level Sociology aims to develop a critical understanding of society by examining the most important institutions within the social structure. Sociology is a stimulating and relevant subject, offering you the opportunity to develop a range of transferable skills. This A Level studies how human society develops and changes and how people interact with one another.

The central aim of the A Level in Sociology is to examine relationships and inequalities between people and the effects of the social, economic and political influences may have on them.

The aims of the Sociology Department in teaching the subject are in line with the ethos of Thornton College:

To inspire students’ curiosity to know more about the past and to foster a love of learning.
To provide a curriculum that encourages students to try something new and difficult .
To encourage conceptual thinking; students think about questions of diversity, significance, interpretation, change and continuity, causation and consequence.
To help students develop their ability to think and communicate with clarity and precision.
To encourage students to reflect on their learning, explore and develop learning strategies as a means of enhancing their learning.
To help students remain open to continuous learning through a broad and, in parts, unfamiliar curriculum.
To instil in students the need for persistence in the development of skills and understanding.
To encourage thoughtful questioning, with a focus on what it is students are seeking to find / understand.
To encourage students to listen with understanding and empathy; to appreciate the complexity of people’s lives and the varied interpretations that exist.
To equip students to ask perceptive questions, think critically, weigh evidence, sift arguments, and develop perspective and judgement.
To encourage students to use a wide range of resources when seeking to further understand and discover new content.
To help students develop a sense of identity and understanding of the values of the society in which they live through learning about the development of Britain, Europe and the world.

‘As students learn skills to make them successful in learning historical content, an intrinsic motivation to learn becomes evident, thereby prompting deeper learning.’ (Pellegrino, 2010)