Sixth Form Options

Agriculture

Level 3 Subsidiary diploma

City and Guilds Qualification

Overview: 

This course is ideal for pupils who love everything to do with Agriculture and wish to work within the agriculture industry. Throughout this course you will cover the key principles, knowledge, understanding and skills relevant to the agricultural industry. 

Pupils will study a range of subjects from soil health, livestock husbandry to crop production. This will include numerous trips and visits to various commercial farms.

Our farm provides the perfect setting for the course, giving pupils the opportunity to work with Badger Face Welsh Mountain sheep, Scottish Black Face sheep and South Devon Cattle.

This qualification expands on the knowledge learnt in Level 2 Agriculture. Alternatively Geography and Science GCSE’s can lead onto this course.

Approach to learning

The units are graded Pass, Merit or Distinction for the level 3 award. This is based on meeting certain criteria throughout the coursework, there is no formal exam for this subject. 

Because the course is 100% coursework  a degree of written and independent learning is required, as well as skillful undertaking of evidenced practical’s. Time will be spent on the farm in all weathers, during class time and in break times working extra duties.

A closer look

 The modules we complete within the course include:

• Understand the principles of plant science
• Understand the principles of soil science
• Undertake agricultural crop production
• Undertake agricultural livestock production
• Undertake sheep production
• Undertake Dairy production
• Understand and carry out farm livestock husbandry

UCAS points:

D*- 56

D – 48

M – 32

P – 16

Animal Care

Level 3 Subsidiary Diploma 

City and Guilds

Qualification overview: 

This course is ideal for pupils who enjoy working closely with animals and would like to understand more about the animal care industry.

This course teaches pupils practical skills of animal management.

Pupils will study a number of units from anatomy and physiology to exotic reptile health and welfare. 

The farm at Bredon offers pupils the opportunity to work with large animals including South Devon Cattle along with small domesticated animals such as dogs, guinea pigs, gerbils and exotics including some reptiles.

Approach to learning

This course involves working closely with animals, and pupils will handle small animals, reptiles and farm animals.

The course is assessed via coursework therefore a degree of written and a high amount of independent learning and extra reading is required, as well as skillful undertaking of evidenced practical’s. Pupils will be supported with their written work by teaching staff.

Pupils are expected to complete extra duties with the animals in some breaks.  

A closer look

The modules we complete within the course include:

• Understand and promote animal health
• Interpret Animal Behaviour and Communication 
• Animal Anatomy and Physiology 
• Principles and Practice of Exotic Animal Health and Husbandry 
• Carry Out Farm Livestock Husbandry 
• Equine Health, Handling and Husbandry Practices

UCAS points: 

D*  – 56

D   – 48

M   – 32

P   – 16 

Applied Science

BTEC Level 3 Extended Certificate

Equivalent to 1 A level

Pearson

Overview

This course is for pupils who have an interest in science and wish to expand their knowledge through applied learning.

The course is delivered via a range of practical and theory-based sessions with an emphasis on the application of scientific principles across Biology, Chemistry and Physics.

Students can progress directly into work, apprenticeships or a wide range of science-based degree level courses including: Biomedical Science, Sports Therapy, Pharmaceutical Science, Paramedic Science, Radiography, Biological Life Sciences and Nursing.

The course is a highly regarded vocational qualification, and has established links to industry.

Approach to learning

The modular, unit based approach to this course helps learners to focus on one particular part of the course at a time.  This module is then followed up with either an external examination assessment or course work is produced which is assessed internally.  Practical work is an integral part of this course with two of the larger units dedicated to developing investigative skills and practical procedures.

A closer look

Modules within the course include:

• Principles and Applications of science 
• Practical scientific techniques.
• Astrophysics, 
• Genetics 
• Electrical circuits and their applications.

UCAS Points:

D* – 56

D  – 48

M  – 32

P  – 16

A Level 

Art and Design

OCR

Qualification Overview:

There is an increasing demand for creative and innovative people in industry and business. Art and Design students are such people. Creativity takes on many forms and, likewise, the creative industry encompasses a broad array of jobs requiring different practices, talents and skills. Apprenticeships in Art Therapy, Puppet Making, Stage Design, Visual Effects allow students to immerse themselves in the world of creative work beyond the school environment.  

Pupils who wish to continue their studies to degree standard have a wide choice of course opportunities including: Architecture, Graphic Design, Fashion Illustration, Special Effects for Film, Fine Art and Interior Design. This subject provides a foundation which could open the door to a relevant University Degree and career.

Pupils embark on a creative journey that develops their ideas through experimentation and sustained investigations. 

To study Art and Design A Level, you will need a minimum of Grade 5 at GCSE.

Approach to learning:

A Level Art and Design incorporates many disciplines and media. Thus approach provides experience, the development of creative skills and the discovery of strength.

The ‘large body of work’ produced demonstrates the pupils ability to develop their responses into creative and sophisticated final outcomes.

A Closer Look:

The course is divided up into 2 Components.

Component One- The Personal Investigation

This component comprises two discrete but linked elements. The Practical Portfolio, which consists of a large sustained project or body of work, and the Related Study, the related context in which their chosen practical portfolio exists.

Component Two- External Task

This component encourages learners to develop a new project or body of work within a shorter period of time and produce a final outcome in 15 hours.

UCAS Points: 

A* – 56

A –  48

B – 40

C – 32

D – 24

E – 16

Biology

A Level

AQA

Qualification overview

This course is ideal for pupils who wish to understand the science of living organisms.

A Level Biology is a nationally recognised course that has been designed to support and inspire pupils.  

The engaging subject content has been selected to ensure it is relevant to the real world.

A Level Biology can lead to careers within pharmaceuticals, physiotherapy, biomedical engineering, research science (life sciences), microbiology, marine biology, conservation, and ecology, environmental management, food science, agricultural engineering and zoology.

Approach to Learning

Practical work is woven into the structure of the course, with an emphasis on securing learning through practical applications. Examination assessments are held at the end of the second year.

Our sixth form laboratory allows pupils access to a quiet study space to continue their practical investigations. Pupils are supported by teachers and are coached in effective exam techniques.

A closer look

 Units of study include:

• Biological Molecules
• Cells
• Exchange of substances
• Genetics
• Energy Transfer
• Organism response
• Ecosystems
• Applications of Genetics

UCAS Points

A* – 56   

A – 48   

B – 40   

C – 32  

D – 24   

E – 16

Catering and Hospitality

BTEC National Level 3 Subsidiary Diploma 

Pearson

Overview

This course is for pupils who have an interest in hospitality and catering and would like to explore a future career within the industry

This course allows pupils to put themselves in the position of a supervisor in the hospitality industry. Pupils carry out real life research into this wonderfully varied, ever changing industry. Their knowledge is used in practical situations. Pupils learn to cook dishes from Europe and beyond. Pupils will also learn how to serve and provide a wonderful customer service experience.

The Bredon fully equipped kitchen and kitchen garden offer the finest opportunity in this course.

Approach to learning

This course combines practical learning, research and visits to different hospitality establishments to enable pupils to understand the industry fully. 

Three cooking units are covered in the course. Working in a fully equipped modern kitchen, pupils’ cooking achievements culminate in a fine dining three course lunch.

Units are internally assessed and moderated. The assessment methods vary but are a blend of written work, observations, products and presentations. There are no final exams for this course.

A closer look

Pupils will take seven units over the course of two years. 

Units include:

• The Hospitality Industry
• Standard within the industries
• Principles of Supervising Customer Service Performance in Hospitality, Leisure, Travel and Tourism
• Providing Customer Service in Hospitality
• European Food

UCAS points 

Distinction * – 56

Distinction   – 48

Merit           –  32

Pass           –  16

Personal and Social Effectiveness 

Level 1/2

ASDAN

 Overview

The Certificate of Personal and Social Effectiveness inspires confidence and equips pupils with the skills and qualities required for work and future learning.

The course teaches pupils communication skills, emotional intelligence, problem solving and collaboration techniques. 

Pupils build on current knowledge through meaningful and relevant learning experiences.

This course builds confidence and develops personal and interpersonal skills.

Approach to learning

The course is assessed through a portfolio of written work, photographs and witness statements.

Regular support and feedback is provided to support the learning process.

A closer look

The course has four main units of work. The modules within the units include:

• Health and wellbeing
• Digital communications
• Beliefs and values
• Citizenship and community
• Sport and leisure
• Enterprise
• Beliefs and values
• Science and technology
• Expressive arts
• Independent living
• Vocational preparation
• Delivering a Project

UCAS Points:

N/A

CISCO Certified Network Associate

Level 4

CISCO

Overview

This qualification is ideal for pupils who wish to pursue a career within IT or as a Networking professional. 

On completion of the course, pupils can study Networking and Cybersecurity qualifications at University or a Degree Level Apprenticeship.

This course can lead to a variety of careers including Network Administrator, Systems Administrator, Network Analyst, Cloud Engineer and Cloud Architect

Within the Cisco Academy Year 13 pupils will also have the opportunity to gain the Introduction to Python certificate (Level 2) as well as an in-house certificate for Installing and Configuring Windows Server (Level 3). Both these certificates are skills based and help to prepare students for a future role within the IT Sector.

CCNA is globally recognized certification in the field of Networking.

Approach to learning. 

All units consist of exams followed by a practice final theory and a practice practical final exam in preparation for the final exams. Students must gain 70% for the final theory and practical exams to pass the course. Please note that there is no grading system and this is a pass or fail course. Students are allowed to re-sit final exams.

A closer look

The modules within this course include

• Introduction to Networks
• Protocol models and number systems
• Ethernet Switching
• Network Security fundamentals
• Role and configuration of Virtual Networks
• LAN Security Concepts
• Troubleshooting
• Enterprise Networking, Security and Automation

UCAS points

This professional qualification does not attract UCAS points.

Economics

A Level 

AQA

Overview

This course helps pupils understand the impact of economics on everyday life. Economics affects every aspect of human experience from employment to luxury items historically and today, and this course allows exploration of such topics.

In this qualification you will study economic theories and methodologies. This helps develop skills such as logic, critical thinking and problem solving.

The study of economics lays the foundation for future study leading to careers in areas such as finance, banking, sales and marketing, insurance or public policy.

Approach to learning

A level Economics is assessed by end of course exams at the end of two years of study. Pupils will be coached in effective exam techniques.

The exam will include a variety of assessment approaches including short and long answer questions, multiple choice questions and an extended case study investigation task.

A closer look

In this course you will study the following areas:

• Economic methodology and the economic problem
• Economic decision making
• Price determination
• Competition
• The labour market
• The distribution of income and wealth: poverty and inequality
• The market mechanism
• The macroeconomy
• Financial markets and monetary policy
• Fiscal policy and supply-side policies
• The international economy

UCAS points

A* – 56   

A – 48   

B – 40   

C – 32  

D – 24   

E – 16

English Language

A Level

WJEC

Overview:

This course is ideal for pupils who have an enquiring mind and enjoy analysing how language influences us.

This course provides pupils with opportunities to develop lifelong skills including critical thinking skills and creative writing skills

This course will make you more critically aware of language and its influence in all spheres of your life: personal and public, business and social. 

Potential career paths include Teaching, Tourism, Advertising, Marketing and PR, Journalism, Media, Creative Writing, Publishing, Civil Service, Law, HR and Personnel Management. 

Approach to learning: 

Do you want to investigate the power of words? Have you ever wondered how spoken and written words can influence our thinking and change the world? How does our language define our responses and choices?

If you gained a grade 6 or above for English Language iGCSE, then this could be the course for you!

This course combines written examinations and a non examination assessment.

A closer look: 

The modules within this course include:

• Analysing language
• Exploring Contemporary English
• Language over time
• Investigating language and identity

We will explore: famous speeches around the world; persuasive and subliminal messages in the media, including propaganda and advertising; forensic linguistics; contemporary and topical issues around language and gender, culture and diversity.

UCAS points:

A* – 56   

A – 48  

B – 40   

C – 32   

D – 24   

E – 16

Environmental Science 

A Level

AQA

Overview

Pupils who enjoy learning about the sustainability of our planet and have a keen interest in understanding how humans impact the environment and our planet will enjoy this course.

The grounds at Bredon are an ideal location for the study of Environmental science.

This course is suitable for pupils who wish to continue onto various careers including: Environmental specialists, Landfill engineers, Nuclear waste management, Hydrogeologists, and Geologists. 

Approach to Learning

With a focus on field work this course combines taught elements with application of knowledge in the environment. Independent investigation is encouraged in the Sixth Form Science Laboratory. The course uses a mixture of teaching resources including specialist dyslexia techniques to ensure pupils achieve their best. 

A Closer Look

This is a two year course leading to examination assessment at the end of the second year.  

A programme of field studies are followed which are linked to the content of the course.  

Units of study include:

• The Biophysical Environment
• Energy Resources
• Pollution
• Biological Resources
• Sustainability
• Research methods

UCAS points   

A* – 56   

A – 48   

B – 40   

C – 32   

D – 24   

E – 16

Business Studies

BTEC Level 3 Extended Certificate 

OCR

Qualification overview: 

This course is ideal for pupils who have an interest in business.

This course provides pupils with the knowledge to understand how businesses operate. The course also focuses on specific areas within a business including HR, marketing, accounting and business planning.

This course is designed to prepare pupils for Higher Education and/or the workplace. Pupils taking this course have gone on to study a wide range of Business disciplines and other subjects at University and colleges. Other pupils have moved onto apprenticeships in business or employment.

The business world places a high value on the ability to research, analyse and evaluate information in order to make considered decisions and pupils will have the opportunity to gain these vital skills. 

Approach to learning

Pupils will need to be able to use  resources to produce a range of business reports, presentations and proposals. Pupils will develop practical employability skills, including the ability to communicate effectively with both internal and external stakeholders, and time management skills.

Pupils will be able to study real businesses through trips, outside speakers and work experience. 

A closer look

The topics included within the course are:

• Different types of business
• Internal structure of business
• Legal, financial and ethical constraints
• Stakeholders
• The social, environmental and technical impact on businesses
• How businesses evolve

UCAS points: 

D*- 56

D – 48

M – 32

P – 16

Extended Project Qualification

A Level (Worth half an A Level)

AQA

Qualification overview. 

The Extended Project Qualification is ideal for pupils who are interested in a topic which sits outside of the traditional A Level topics.

The Extended Project Qualification (EPQ) enables pupils to lead their own research projects. Pupils plan and conduct research on a topic of their choice which is not covered within any other qualification.Pupils can take inspiration from something touched on in class or something personal.

The EPQ allows pupils to explore topics which they are passionate about whilst gaining valuable skills in independent learning and more. 

The EPQ can assist with job applications and University applications in the future.

Approach to learning. 

The EPQ is taken as an extension to other level 3 qualifications at Bredon School. The course is an independent study. Each pupil has a trained supervisor to help guide their research and prepare for a presentation.

A closer look 

Whilst studying for the EPQ pupils become more critical, reflective and independent. Decision-making, planning and problem solving skills are also improved. The EPQ ensures pupils will develop confidence in research, analysis and presentation skills whilst demonstrating creativity and initiative.

Topics previously studied include:

• The Windrush generation
•  Product creating home energy.

UCAS Points

A*- 28

A- 24

B- 20

C- 16

D- 12

E- 8

Fine Art

A Level

OCR

Overview

If you are passionate about Fine Art, this is the course for you.

This course encourages learners to develop skills, creativity, imagination and independence based on personal experience, taught skills and critical understanding.

From Fine Art Painting, Sculpture, Artist Blacksmithing, Fine Art Photography, Curating, Illustration, Installation Art, Animation, Fine Art Printmaking, to Three-dimensional Design, this subject provides a life enhancing experience and a foundation which could open the door to a relevant University Degree and career. 

This course can lead to careers such as Theatre Design, Art Therapist, Teacher, Fashion Design, Graphic Design, Illustrator, Curator, Architecture, Garden Design, Web Design, Photographer, Conservator, Jewellery Design or Artist.

We ask for pupils to have achieved GCSE Art and Design 5 or above.

Approach to learning

The Art Department offers and delivers a wide ranging multi disciplinary course which is rooted in a Fine Art education. Students will therefore work within the disciplines of Drawing, Painting, Sculpture and Printmaking. This allows for a wide experience within Fine Art with the option to specialise.

A Closer Look

The course is divided up into 2 Components.

The first component comprises two discrete but linked elements. The Practical Portfolio, which consists of a large sustained project or body of work within the Fine Art disciplines, and the Related Study, the related historical context in which their chosen practical portfolio exists.

The second component is the external task which encourages learners to develop a new project or body of work within a shorter period of time and produce a final outcome in fifteen hours. 

UCAS Points: 

A* – 56

A –  48

B – 40

C – 32

D – 24

E – 16

Geography

A Level

AQA

Qualification overview. 

Over the next fifty years the World we live in is likely to change more than it has ever done before. A Level Geography encourages an interest in the changing world as a global citizen. 

The course explores our increasingly globalised society, where almost everything we do has a link to another part of the world.  

Studying Geography has never come at a more critical time.  With issues such as land degradation, climate change, economic recession, resource depletion and civil unrest, Geography is increasingly important.

As well as helping progression to university, Geography equips pupils with a broad range of personal skills such as teamwork, independent enquiry and creative thinking – all highly valued by employers. Geography pupils have gone onto varied careers including: Town Planning, Estate Agent, Travel Agent, Expedition Leader,  Lawyer, Conservation Manager, Armed Forces, Hazard Prediction, Pollution Analyst, Aid Worker, Marketing, Flood Protection Manager.

Approach to learning

This course uses a variety of teaching methods to explore the changing world. Recent case studies are used to engage pupils in relevant and interesting examples that develop knowledge, skills and understanding. Our approach engages all learning styles and develops practical skills required to be an effective geographer who will become very employable.  

Pupils undertake at least two days of fieldwork in relation to both physical and human processes. As a consequence, pupils will learn how to plan fieldwork, collect primary and secondary data, present data, analysis skills and draw conclusions.

A closer look

This course include the following modules:

• Coastal Systems and Landscapes; 
• Hazards (tectonic, volcanic, seismic, storm and fire) 
• Contemporary Urban Environments. 

UCAS points

A* – 56   

A – 48   

B – 40   

C – 32   

D – 24   

E – 16

Certificate in Health and Social Care 

Level 3

NCFE CACHE

Qualification overview. 

This course is for pupils who have a passion for caring for others and want to make a difference to someone else’s life. 

The Certificate of Health and Social Care equips pupils with the knowledge and skills to understand the roles and responsibilities of health and social care practitioners. The qualification supports access to further education and a wide range of jobs within the health and social care sector including: Care Support Worker, Healthcare Assistant and more.

There is no entry requirement for this qualification but it is a progression from level 2.

The Certificate in Health and Social Care has been written by a team of subject matter experts.

Approach to learning

These qualifications are made up of units each representing a small step of learning. This allows the qualifications to be completed at the pupils own pace. All units achieved can be ‘banked’. Which means that if pupils want to take another qualification which includes the same units pupils do not have to take them again.

The qualification includes a work placement and external set assessment.

A closer look

The course consists of nine units and an extended  assessment and seventy five placement hours in a health and social care setting.

The units consist of :

• Equality, diversity and rights
• Human growth and development 
• Safeguarding
• Communication
• Infection prevention and control 
• Psychological perspectives 
• Sociological perspectives 
• Working in health and social care 

UCAS Points

A*- 84

A- 72

B- 60

C- 48

D- 36

History

A Level

OCR

Overview

History is learning about the past to understand the present and plan the future.

History teaches us to ask two very important questions: why and how. This is key to sharpening critical thinking abilities. Historians look at the available evidence and come to conclusions, a lot like a good detective, which helps them learn to be organised and manage information.

Studying history improves pupils ability to research, analyse, construct persuasive arguments and communicate findings in a clear manner. History also improves problem solving, presentation, organisation, and time management skills.

The analytical, writing, debate and detective skills developed in a History course ensures pupils are ready for a huge range of careers in history and beyond. This A Level can lead to employment opportunities within law, business, politics, marketing, insurance, journalism, economics, teaching, social research, archaeology and curation.

Approach to learning. 

In this course pupils will learn to analyse sources and interpretations and write academic essays.

Assessment is through coursework and examination and pupils are coached in effective exam techniques.

A closer look

This exciting course covers three modules. There is also a project element where pupils choose a historical topic of their choice.

The three modules are:

• Lancastrians, Yorkists and Tudors 1455-1509 ( the Wars of the Roses)
• Democracy and Dictatorship in Germany 1919-63
• The Changing Nature of Warfare 1792-1945

UCAS points   

A* – 56   

A – 48   

B – 40   

C – 32   

D – 24   

E – 16

Mathematics

A Level

Pearson Edexcel

Overview

Mathematics A Level will appeal to pupils who appreciate the beauty and elegance of higher level algebra alongside the practical, real-life problem-solving aspect of Statistics and Mechanics.

This is a two year course comprising two thirds Pure Mathematics, and one third Statistics and Mechanics. There are three overarching themes across the whole of the course;

• Mathematical argument and proof
• Mathematical problem solving
• Mathematical modelling.

To study Mathematics A Level, you will need a minimum of Grade 6 at GCSE.

The logical thinking, problem-solving and decision-making skills you learn while studying a mathematics degree are highly valued by employers across many job sectors.

Approach to learning

Pupils are taught in small groups to ensure support is given to every pupil. Technology is used within the course to make solving complex calculations easier. Real life data is used in Statistics. In Mechanics we model motion using springs, trucks and projectiles.

Assessment is through examination, and pupils are coached in effective exam techniques.

A closer look

The Pure Mathematics content begins where GCSE left off, making the transition to studying at the higher level comparatively straightforward.

The modules within the course include:

• Algebra and Functions
• Equations and Inequalities
• Graph Sketching
• Exponentials and Logarithms
• Calculus
• Data Presentation and Interpretation
• Probability and Statistical Distributions and Hypothesis Testing
• Kinematics and Forces

UCAS points   

A* – 56   

A – 48   

B – 40   

C – 32   

D – 24   

E – 16

Further Mathematics 

A Level

Pearson Edexcel

Key Aspects

Further Mathematics A Level will appeal to pupils who appreciate the beauty and elegance of higher level algebra and wish to extend their knowledge beyond Mathematics A Level.

It should be noted that students who wish to study Mathematics at degree level will find they are more likely to receive an offer if they are also studying Further Mathematics A Level, despite the fact that the majority of universities do not stipulate Further Maths in their offer

The logical thinking, problem-solving and decision-making skills you learn while studying a mathematics qualification are highly valued by employers across many job sectors. Studies in Mathematics could lead to careers as an Actuary, Astronomer, Chartered Accountant, Investment Analyst and many more.

To study Further Mathematics A Level, you will need to have chosen Mathematics A Level as one of your options, and you will need a minimum of Grade 7 at GCSE.

Approach to learning

Pupils are taught in small groups which means more attention and support can be provided to each pupil. Within the course there is a focus on the use of technology, in particular the use of graphic calculators. Pupils quickly discover for themselves how technology makes solving complex calculations easy.

A closer look

Most of the Pure Core topics are an extension of the Mathematics A Level topics, so parallel delivery of the two A Levels is designed to cover prerequisites in the Further Mathematics. Modules within the course include:

• Further Pure Core 1
• Statistics 1
• Mechanics 1 
• Decision 1

In Year 13, pupils can either take their chosen module to the second level, or choose to take an option in a different area. 

UCAS points   

A* – 56   

A – 48   

B – 40   

C – 32  

D – 24   

E – 16

Bredon School Certificate

Mechanical Engineering and Maintenance

Qualification overview

If you wish to pursue a career within Mechanical Engineering this is the course for you. Offered exclusively at Bredon School, the Mechanical Engineering and Maintenance Course provides a strong foundation for Engineering careers.  

This vocational course has been developed to provide a wide range of practical engineering experiences who have a real interest in pursuing a career in mechanical engineering.

Approach to learning

The course involves a range of practical engineering experiences. This is a Bredon School internally accredited course with practical assignments.

Alongside practical tasks, the course also includes projects, tests and exercises to ensure all pupils expand their knowledge.

A closer look

The modules within the course include:

• Understand basic and advanced hand and machine tools and their operation
• Understand the Health and Safety
• Understand how to operate in a safe manner
• Understand how to care for, maintain and repair machines, tools and equipment used in the engineering and agriculture industry.

UCAS points

N/A

Photography

A Level 

OCR

Qualification Overview

Pupils who have an interest in Photography and wish to develop their photography skills will find this the ideal course. A Level Photography develops camera skills, photographic composition skills and production techniques. The course also teaches the origins of photography and the changes throughout history. Holding Art & Design GCSE is an advantage.

This course will be of particular interest to those intending to present a portfolio at interview for work in the art and design field, or for entry onto an Art College Foundation course, Higher BTEC course in Art and Design or a creative career.

Projects will be developed to give pupils the opportunity to develop as a photographer.

Approach to learning

Pupils will develop their photographic skills to the next level. The A Level course allows for continuation of bespoke projects showcasing individual skills and interests. Each unit of the course encourages experimenting and developing these ideas in different ways. 

A Closer Look

The AS Level requires two projects, one to be completed in an exam. The full A Level includes a coursework project, a personal study (including essay), and an exam. Each unit requires a different focus and theme, challenging pupils to experiment and develop as a Photographer further. Projects will take the form of sketchbooks showing evidence for the four assessment objectives. 

UCAS Points

A* – 56

A –  48

B – 40

C – 32

D – 24

E – 16

Physics

A Level

AQA

Qualification Overview

This course is ideal for pupils who wish to understand the universe and answer the big questions.

Physicists look for the hidden laws which explain why all matter and energy exists, where it comes from and how it behaves the way it does. Physics is ever changing and developing, and this A Level course reflects the nature of physics. 

The course is taught using content which is relevant to daily life to ensure it remains engaging and useful.

A Level Physics is highly respected and can assist with further education and employment.

Approach to Learning

Practical work is included throughout the course to secure learning. Independent investigation is encouraged in the Sixth Form Science Laboratory. The course uses a mixture of teaching resources including specialist dyslexia techniques to ensure pupils achieve their best. 

The course is assessed through examination and practical study. Pupils are supported by teachers in exam techniques.

A Closer Look

Units of study include:

• Particle Physics
• Quantum physics
• Waves
• Mechanics and Electricity
• Thermal Physics
• Nuclear physics
• Fields and Astrophysics

UCAS points   

A* – 56  

A – 48   

B – 40   

C – 32   

D – 24   

E – 16

Principles of Live Quarry Shooting

Level 2 Certificate

City and Guilds

Qualification Overview

This course is for pupils who have an interest in traditional country shooting or wish to work as a gamekeeper.

Throughout this course pupils will develop a basic understanding of traditional country shooting. Pupils will also study topics such as game and wildlife identification, law and behaviour and shoot management.

This course is suitable for pupils who wish to pursue careers within gamekeeping, land management or game conservation. 

Our Shooting Range provides the perfect setting for this course, providing many opportunities for practical experience.

The course is suitable for pupils who have had no previous experience of shooting,

Approach to learning

This is a practical course which ensures pupils have a basic understanding of shooting and its related activities as a countryside sport. 

Assessment is a combination of coursework and an external examination. Pupils will be supported with exam preparation and techniques.

A closer look

The modules within the course include:

• Different types of shotgun and the different uses 
• Care and maintenance of shotguns 
• Law and conduct in all country shooting scenarios
• Principles of game and rough shooting
• Bird and animal identification
• Use of gundogs
• Habitat conservation and pest and predator issues.

UCAS points

N/A

Religious Studies

A Level

Eduqas

Overview

This course is ideal for pupils who wish to consider humanity’s oldest questions.

This qualification encourages pupils to develop an appreciation and understanding of religious thought and the impact on individuals, communities and societies. The qualification does this through an enquiring, critical and reflective approach to the study of religion.

A Level Religious Studies allows exploration of issues concerning morality and philosophy, as well as the development of religious beliefs through history, and the impact of religious issues on contemporary society.

Many pupils go on to study subjects like Sociology, Psychology, Anthropology, Politics, English Literature. Students of Religious Studies have continued on to successful careers in many fields, including law, education, business, social work, medicine, administration and the media.

Approach to learning. 

This course is suitable for any pupil with a keen interest in the subject. Pupils do not have to have studied at GCSE to understand and appreciate the course.

Assessment is through examination, and pupils are coached in effective exam techniques.

A closer look.

The course consists of three components with an exam in each. The components consist of:

• A study of one religion, from a choice of six; Christianity, Islam, Judaism, Buddhism, Hinduism, Sikhism.
• Philosophy of religion, covering such things as the arguments for and against the existence of God.
• Religion and ethics, developing a critical understanding of such concepts as utilitarianism. 

UCAS points   

A* – 56   

A – 48   

B – 40   

C – 32   

D – 24   

E – 16

Site Carpentry

Level 2

City and Guilds

Qualification overview

This vocational City and Guilds qualification will provide you with the opportunity to learn, develop and practise the skills required for an Apprenticeship, employment or further progression in carpentry study. 

Approach to Learning

This is a practical course which is housed in our dedicated onsite facility (being developed Summer 2023).  By nature, this is a very practical course that involves using fixed and transportable tools and machinery. 

A closer look

In this qualification you will learn to:

• Carry out first fix flooring and roofing
• Carry out second fixing operations
• Carry out first fix roofing and stairs
• Carry out second fixing double doors and mouldings
• Set up and use fixed and transportable machinery

UCAS points   – N/A

Sport and Physical Activity

Level 3 Certificate 

NCFE 

Qualification overview: 

This is a fantastic course for anyone with a passion for sport .For pupils who enjoy physical education, this qualification will provide the opportunity to build knowledge and develop skills which will support in progression to university or even securing a job in sport. 

Pupils will learn about many aspects of sport, particularly thinking about how exercise and physical activity contribute to a healthy lifestyle. Time will be spent discovering career opportunities across the sports and outdoor sectors.

This course could open-up possible career choices within Teaching and Education, Health Sciences, Sports Coaching, Personal Training, Sports Management, and Sports Journalism.

Bredon’s rural setting provides plenty of opportunities for a wide variety of sports and physical activities.

Approach to learning

This course is completely coursework based. Grades will be achieved based on the ability to demonstrate knowledge of the subject area. 

Coursework can include: written assignments, practical tasks, group discussions or in class assessments.

Teachers will assist with support and preparation for written assignments.

A closer look

Units within this qualification include:

• Exercise, health and lifestyle 
• Preparing for a career in sport and physical activity

The remaining units are selected based on the pupil’s strengths and interests. Previous units have included sports coaching, outdoor education, sports leadership, sports coaching, applied anatomy and sports psychology. 

UCAS Points:

– Distinction*: 56 

– Distinction: 48 

– Merit: 32 

– Pass: 16

BTEC Tech Award in Travel and Tourism

Level 2

BTEC

Overview

If pupils are interested in traveling, hospitality and tourism this is the ideal course. This course is designed to give you a comprehensive understanding of the travel industry.

The Travel and Tourism sector has increased dramatically and this course can provide a number of opportunities for your future studies. 

Pupils go onto careers within many industries including: Travel and Tourism, Events and Business sectors. Travel and Tourism allows pupils to develop many skills such as business skills, self management skills, interpersonal skills, customer service skills and communication skills. 

Approach to Learning

This is a vocational qualification that uses work based scenarios throughout.  External trips are taken to tourist organisations and regional destinations.  Assessments are mainly coursework based with one external examination taken.

A closer look

The modules within this course explore:

• the aims of travel and tourism organisations
• how different organisations work together and types of travel and tourism,
• the features that make destinations appealing to visitors and different travel routes 
• how organisations use market research to identify travel and tourism trends, and customer needs and preferences, and selection of products and services and planning a holiday to meet customer needs and preferences 
•  factors that may influence global travel and tourism, and how travel and tourism organisations and destinations respond to these factors

UCAS points   

N/A

Introductory Certificate in Uniformed Services

Level 3

NCFE

Qualification Overview

Are you interested in Uniformed Services?  Would you like to develop skills that will make you even more employable and stand out from the crowd?  If the answer is ‘Yes’, this is the qualification for you.

This qualification aims to provide you with general knowledge and interpersonal skills to aid your recruitment into the uniformed services. Uniformed Services include an amazing range of roles, these include, Army Officer, Firefighter, Forensic Investigator, Police Officer, to name but a few.

This qualification provides you with an introduction to the career opportunities in the uniformed services as well as providing optional units to enhance your knowledge and skills.

Approach to Learning

Practical work is the main approach to learning.  For example, improving physical fitness through activities, developing your leadership skills in problem solving games and carrying out navigation exercises in a remote location,

The course is assessed through coursework only.

A Closer Look

Mandatory unit: Prepare for a career in a chosen uniformed service 

Choose 2 optional units from:

• Develop aspects of physical fitness for entry to the uniformed services
• Develop leadership skills 
• Equality, diversity and inclusion
• Values and standards 
• Mental and physical wellbeing  
• Carry out map reading and navigation across open country  
• Telecommunications in the uniformed services  
• Understand conflict management and personal protection  
• Understanding discipline in the uniformed services  
• UK legal systems and uniformed services  
• Crime scene investigation  
• Security procedures in the uniformed services 

UCAS points   

Distinction*: 28 

Distinction: 24 

Merit: 16 

Pass: 8