EPQ – Extended Project Qualification

What is an EPQ?

An Extended Project Qualification (EPQ) is an independent research project that students complete in Sixth Form. It’s a Level 3 qualification that’s equivalent to half an A-Level. Exam board: Pearson (Edexcel)

How does the course work?

EPQ runs from October in Year 12 through the year and wraps up by October half term in Year 13, where students submit their work and give a presentation on their findings.

What does it involve?

Students choose a topic and conduct their own research
Students produce a written report, such as an essay or investigation
Students may also create an artifact, such as a piece of artwork or musical composition
Students present their work to their peers
Students keep a reflective log of their project

What’s the purpose?

The EPQ demonstrates a student’s ability to work independently and think critically
It helps students develop skills that are useful for university work
It can help students become more attractive to universities

How is it assessed?

Students are assigned a supervisor to help with their project
Teachers assess the project and provide a grade
An exam board moderates the teachers’ marks (Edexcel)

Students are required to choose a topic area and develop a title which does not currently have a definite answer but may have various alternative views on it/possible answers. The idea is that students research the question fully and structure and write an extended essay (dissertation) which examines the question in depth and comes to an evidence based conclusion.

During their journey they develop many skills such as researching (skim, scan, summarise), critical thinking, evaluation of evidence reliability, independence, time management, referencing and presentation.

The EPQ is great for students who are already very well organised, motivated, passionate about their subjects and keen to develop their skills. It is worth half an A Level (28 UCAS points), so can strengthen applications.

BTEC Creative Digital Media

Teachers of Media Studies

Mr D Kaye
Mr J Sharp (Joint Curriculum Leader)
Mr C Wall (Joint Curriculum Leader)

Reasons to Study BTEC Media

The Level 3 Vocational BTEC Media Course is rooted in industry practice. You will develop your creative, technical, and organisational skills to prepare you for the workplace. You will evidence this through a series of units that will develop and test your independence skills.

Our Vision for Media Studies

The Media is powerful. It is persuasive in shaping the views of society. SJB students will learn to interrogate what has become so easily consumed in the media landscape. We aim to equip the students with essential 21st century skills and knowledge – media literacy, creativity, critical thinking, and employability.

Career Paths

Media Production
Film Production
Journalism
Presenting
Editorial
Marketing
Advertising
Teaching
Copy writing
Event management

Outline of Course

Chemistry

Teachers of Science

Miss K Heeley
Mr M Lenton
Miss V J Sears
Miss L McMahon
Mr R Beaumont

Reasons to Study Chemistry

Aside from the huge range of career opportunities that studying chemistry opens up, you learn how to be objective, analytical, methodical, and in turn solve your own questions that you have about the world around you.

Our Vision for Chemistry

Students at SJB study Chemistry as it helps our understanding of the world around us. Everything we know about the universe, from how trees reproduce to what an atom is made up of, is the result of scientific research and experiment. Human progress throughout history has largely rested on advances in science. From our knowledge of gravity to cutting-edge medicines, students of Science have shaped our modern world. All of these advances can trace their origin back to individuals learning about science as students. That’s why it is in all our interests to promote Science as a subject at SJB; it ensures the next wave of progress in all of the fields that affect our daily lives.

Career Paths

Chemistry opens the doors to a huge range of degree courses and career paths including:

Chemistry
Biochemistry
Medicine
Dentistry
Veterinary science
Pharmacology
Pharmacy
Chemical engineering
Forensics
Civil Service
Law (Patent and General)
Industrial research
Chemistry Teaching
Science Journalism

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Outline of Course

National Extended Certificate Sport

Teachers of PE

Miss R Jeppeson (Curriculum Leader)
Mr C Black
Mr D Newman
Mr E Green
Miss H Peterkin
Mr J Hacker
Miss L Hockin
Mrs M Shaw
Mr T Birch

Reasons to Study BTEC PE

Studying BTEC PE develops your understanding of a subject that many students are often passionate about. It allows you to explore the relationship between elite performance, physiology, psychology and biomechanics as well as media and business. You will also be able to apply much of what you have learned to human health and wellbeing. The course is a mixture of both coursework and exams that are taken throughout the 2 years.

Our Vision for PE

Students at SJB study PE to guide & inspire them to maintain optimum health & fitness for the rest of their lives. They will develop physical literacy & experience positive feelings around physical activity, building confidence in their bodies. PE develops a range of life skills including leadership, teamwork & a resilience to physical & mental challenges. For many students, physical education will be a source of great passion & can foster a curiosity in the limits of human health & performance.

Career Paths

Sports Coaching
Sports Nutrition
Sports Therapy
PE teaching
Leisure Industry
Sports Development
Police Force
Armed Forces
Personal Training

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Outline of Course

All students will be able to take part in physical activity during their key skills time. Students have the opportunity to extend their study of Physical Education by following A-Level or BTEC Sport courses.

Qualification: BTEC
Exam Board: Edexcel
Coursework: 33%
Exam: 67%
Exam Structure: 2 x 2hour exam papers sat in the summer of Year 13
Link to specification: Pearson BTEC Level 3 National Diploma in Sport

Course Overview:

Assessment:
4 units over 2 years:

Unit 1: Anatomy and Physiology (Exam)
Unit 2: Fitness Training and Programming for Health Sport and Well-being (Exam)
Unit 3: Professional Development in the Sports Industry (Marked Internally)
Unit 5: Application of Fitness Testing (Marked Internally)

Unit 1: Anatomy and Physiology (Exam) (Year 1)
What’s assessed

Skeletal System
Muscular System
Respiratory System
Cardiovascular System
Energy Systems

How it’s assessed

Written exam: 1hour 30mins
Total: 80 marks
33% of BTEC Sport

Unit 2: Fitness Training and Programming for Health Sport and Well-being (Exam) (Year 2)
What’s assessed
Students will be prepared for a scenario based exam. They will be able to take in 4 pages of pre-prepared notes to assist them with this exam

Section A – Examine Lifestyle Factors and their Effect on Health and Well-Being
Section B – Understanding the Screening Process for Training Programming
Section C – Understand Programme-Related Nutritional Needs
Section D – Examine Training Methods for Different Components of Fitness
Section E – Understand Training Programme Design

How it’s assessed

Written exam: 2hours 30mins
Total: 60 marks
33% of BTEC Sport

Unit 3: Professional Development in the Sports Industry (Marked Internally) (Year 2)
What’s assessed

Learning Aim A – Understand the Career and Job Opportunities in the Sports Industry
Learning Aim B – Explore Own Skills Using a Skills Audit to Inform a Career Development Action Plan
Learning Aim C – Undertake a Recruitment Activity to Demonstrate the Processes that Can Lead to a Successful Job Offer in a Selected Pathway

How it’s assessed

Internal assessment, external moderation
17% of BTEC Sport

Unit 5: Application of Fitness Testing (Marked Internally) (Year 1)
What’s assessed

Learning Aim A – Understand the Principles of Fitness Testing
Learning Aim B – Explore Fitness Testing for Different Components of Fitness
Learning Aim C – Undertake Evaluation and Feedback if Fitness Tests Results

How it’s assessed

Internal assessment, external moderation
17% of BTEC Sport

What we are looking for:

Students who have a genuine interest in Sport
Students who currently take part in Sport
Students who enjoy being challenged by a mixture of practical and theory tasks

BTEC Pearson Level 3 National Extended Certificate in Business

Teachers of Business & Economics

Mrs B Donovan
Mr D Hodges
Mr D Kelly
Mrs H Phillips (Curriculum Leader)

Reasons to Study BTEC Business

This is a great course if you want to start your own business, or work for another business as an employee. Most of our students go on to University or apprenticeships, and the style of study really benefits students who are nervous in exams, or who are highly organised and like to work at their own pace.

Our Vision for Business & Economics

Students at SJB study Business and Economics to improve their commercial awareness, enhance their strategic thinking and develop a greater understanding of the global business environment and how to influence it.

Career Paths

Marketing

Human Resource Management

Customer service representative

Hospitality

Retail Management

Travel and Tourism

Banking

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Outline of Course

AAQ Level 3 Human Biology

Teachers of Science

Miss L Cook (Curriculum Leader)
Miss K Atherton
Mr J Jiagge-Takyi
Miss M Townend
Mrs C Jukes (i/c AAQ Human Biology)
Mrs V Barclay
Miss S Clark

Course Overview

Human Biology is a captivating subject that explores the complexities of the human body, from cellular mechanisms to entire physiological systems. This course provides insights into anatomy, physiology, health, disease, genetics, and biotechnology, making it ideal for students eager to understand the science behind human life.

Reasons to Study BTEC Applied Science:

This is the course for you if you want to study Human Biology in depth and learn more about the world of physiology and medicine. If you like a mixture of practical scientific experiments and self-paced written work then AAQ Human Biology would suit you.

Why Study Human Biology?

In-Depth Understanding: Delve into the structure and function of the human body, learning how various systems interact and maintain health
Career Foundations: Build a solid foundation for careers in healthcare, medical research, biotechnology, and related fields.
Skill Development: Enhance analytical, research, and practical laboratory skills essential for higher education and professional success.

Who Should Choose Human Biology?

Students with a keen interest in the human body and its functions.
Individuals aiming for careers in medicine, healthcare, biomedical research, or related fields.
Learners who enjoy a mix of theoretical study and hands-on practical work.

Our Vision for Science:

Students at SJB study science as it helps our understanding of the world around us. Everything we know about the universe, from how trees reproduce to what an atom is made up of, is the result of scientific research and experiment. Human progress throughout history has largely rested on advances in science. From our knowledge of gravity to cutting-edge medicines, students of Science have shaped our modern world. All of these advances can trace their origin back to individuals learning about science as students. That’s why it is in all our interests to promote Science as a subject at SJB; it ensures the next wave of progress in all of the fields that affect our daily lives.

Career Paths:

Completing the Human Biology AAQ can lead to further studies and careers in:

Medicine and Surgery
Nursing and Midwifery
Physiotherapy
Biomedical Sciences
Nutrition and Dietetics
Biotechnology

Course Structure and Assessment:

Qualification: AAQ in Human Biology (Extended Certificate H149)

Exam Board: OCR

Coursework: 60% Non examined units (coursework)

Practical assignments and research projects are an integral part of the course.

Students undertake real-world investigations that allow them to apply their knowledge in laboratory settings, demonstrating research and analytical skills.

Exam: 40% (2 unit exams)

F170 – Fundamentals of Human Biology

F171 – Health and Disease

These assess theoretical knowledge and understanding of human biology concepts.

Students are tested on modules covering topics like the structure and function of cells, the respiratory and circulatory systems, and biotechnological advancements.

This blend of exams and coursework ensures students are well-rounded in both theoretical knowledge and practical competencies.

Link to specification: https://www.ocr.org.uk/qualifications/alternative-academic-qualifications/human-biology-level-3-h049-h149/#extended-certificate

Course Overview:

F170: Fundamentals of human biology (exam)

In this unit you will learn about the key topics that are important in human biology. Topics include:

Human cells and tissues
Human physiology
Key organs and systems concepts in endocrinology, neurobiology and reproduction
Basics of microbiology

F171: Health and disease (exam)

In this unit you will learn about the intriguing and challenging nature of diseases and disorders. Topics include:

Causes and effects of diseases and disorders
Curative management and preventative therapies
The role of immunology
Techniques for diagnosis and monitoring
Reporting, research and confidentiality

F172: Genetics (non examined assignment)

In this unit you will learn about DNA, cell division and inheritance. Topics include:

Fundamentals of genetics
Mode of inheritance
Genetic counselling and genetic testing
Gene therapy and genetic engineering

F173: Biomedical techniques (non examined assignment)

In this unit you will plan and carry out an investigation using a variety of laboratory techniques. Topics include:

What biomedical science is
Diagnostic techniques: cells and microscopy
Diagnostic techniques: biological molecules
Planning a clinical investigation
Report writing

And then two further non examined assignment from the following:

F174: Nutrition and metabolism
F175: Human reproduction
F176: The brain
F177: Drug development

This qualification further develops independence and confidence in communication, research, presentation, and study skills, transferable to both higher education and the workplace.

Travel & Tourism

Teachers of Travel & Tourism

Dr T Bellis (Curriculum Leader)
Ms B Mombo
Mrs L Kenny

Reasons to Study BTEC Travel & Tourism

BTEC Travel and Tourism is a great course for you if you have a passion for exploring different places and are interested in a future career in the travel and tourism industry whether that might be working for an airline, working as an adventure tour guide or as a sustainable tourism officer for example. The course is 68% exam and 32% coursework so this can be an advantage to students who benefit from ongoing assessment. We study at depth the UK and global travel and tourism industry, visitor attractions, the principles of marketing and trends in travel. You will learn oral presentation skills and will practice how to research and write reports and articles that form your coursework. This subject complements Business Studies and Geography with many of the concepts learnt in these subjects being developed further in BTEC Travel and Tourism.

Our Vision for Travel & Tourism

Students at SJB study Travel and Tourism in order to gain an in-depth understanding of the nature, scale and factors affecting this globally important industry. Students learn how to find, produce, analyse, present and evaluate a range of primary and secondary data sources to develop their critical analysis of this industry and how it can best move towards a more sustainable future. Students also develop a range of transferable soft skills including team work and verbal presentation skills that are vital tools increasing employability.

Career Paths

Travel Agent
Airline Staff
Journalist
Marketing
Customer Service Representative
Tour Guide
Tourism Management
Tourism Development
Event Management
Travel Writer
Resort Management
Conservation Manager
Ecotourism Officer
Sustainable Tourism Officer
Digital Marketing
Travel Consultant
Transport Logistics
Market researcher
Conference Co-ordinator
Business Travel Co-ordinator
Brand Manager
Hospitality Manager

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Outline of Course

Qualification: BTEC Level 3 National Extended Certificate in Travel and Tourism
Exam Board: Edexcel
Coursework: 42%
Exam: 58%
Exam Structure: 1 X 90 minute examination (sat in January of Year 12) and 1 x 3 hour examination sat in January of Year 13. This is based on a Pre-release element and 6 hours monitored research time to produce notes that can be taken into support students in the examination
Link to Specification: Pearson BTEC National Extended Certificate in Travel and Tourism (Level 3)

Course Overview

In Year 12 students’ study:

Unit 1: The World of Travel and Tourism. This unit introduces students to the nature, scale and factors affecting the travel and tourism industry. Students are assessed via an externally assessed examination in the January of Year 12 (90 minutes).

Unit 9: Visitor Attractions. In this unit students’ study 2 contrasting visitor attractions at depth to investigate the nature, role and appeal of visitor attractions; how they meet the diverse expectations of visitors and how they measure their success and respond to competition. This unit is assessed through 3 internally assessed assignments.

In Year 13 students’ study:

Unit 2: Global Destinations. This unit enables students to locate and understand the features and appeal of global destinations. Students learn how to evaluate different travel itineraries to best meet different customers’ needs and they evaluate consumer trends that influence the changing popularity of global destinations. This unit is assessed via an externally set 3 hour examination. Students are given pre-release materials to study for this examination and conduct 6 hours of monitored research that can be taken into the examination.

Unit 3: Principles of Marketing in Travel and Tourism. In this unit students produce a report that evaluates the interrelationships of marketing and customer service and the importance of the 4Ps in marketing theory. They then put this theory into practice analyzing the marketing approaches of 2 contrasting travel organisations. They also get the opportunity to conduct primary and secondary research to identify a new travel product or service and produce a promotional campaign for this that also evaluates how well this campaign meets its objectives. This unit is assessed through 4 internally assessed assignments.

Sociology

Teachers of Sociology

Mrs R Davis
Mrs K Green
Mrs L Skeldon

Reasons to Study Sociology

In Sociology, students critically analyse theories and research on the structure of society and the impact this has on human behaviour. You will develop skills that are applicable to a variety of university courses, such as critical and analytical thinking, written fluency, social awareness, information gathering and interpretation. Explore what Feminists, Marxists and other Sociological perspectives think about identity, culture, media influence, inequality, crime and globalisation. If you enjoy discussions, formulating arguments and are good at written skill then this could be the course for you!

Our Vision for Sociology

Students at SJB study Sociology to develop an inquisitive mind and a critical approach to understanding the world around them. They appreciate and celebrate diversity, leading to a feeling of security in their own identity. Our students assess society as it is and explore how they can be a force for change.

Career paths

Criminal justice e.g. Probation & Parole; Police & Corrections
International/cross cultural e.g. International Relations/Foreign Affairs; International Business
Sociological practice/ human service e.g. Vocational Counselling; Rehabilitation; Recreation; Health Services
Business/industry e.g. Management; Accounting; Finance & Investment; Personnel; Marketing
Social action/social change e.g. Community Organization; Religious Work; Political Advocacy

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Outline of Course

D&T: Product Design

Teachers of D&T: Product Design

Mr C Mander
Mrs L Ray (Curriculum Leader)

Reasons to Study D&T: Product Design

Design and Technology: Product Design provides you with a range of opportunities to demonstrate your passion for design as well as allowing your creative and making abilities to flourish. Students will gain a range of skills such as project management, independence, decision making, creativity and problem solving which will suit a wide range of careers.

Our Vision for D&T: Product Design

Students at SJB study Design and Technology: Product Design to become individuals who are equipped with the skills, understanding and responsibility for shaping the world for future generations. Curiosity, creativity, adaptability, independence, and problem solving underpin everything we do.

Career Paths

This A level provides a broad qualification for a wide variety of careers. Some obvious ones include:

Product Design
Manufacturing
Engineering: civil, mechanical, applied, aeronautical, electronics
Environment: architecture, interior design, landscape design
Graphic Design: packaging, publication
Marketing and Advertising
Material science
Media

There are many past students who have successfully gained A*-B in D&T in recent years and gone on to do apprenticeships with TFL and Rolls Royce or degrees in the following:

Medicine, Languages
Business Studies. Foundation courses
Product/Industrial Design

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Key Stage 5

Politics

Teachers of Politics

Mr C Thomas
Mr L Petrie

Reasons to Study Politics

Politics provides you with a wide array of skills that are highly valued by universities and employers alike such as critical thinking and the ability to communicate an argument effectively both verbally and through your written work. It also provides you with a greater understanding of the world around you which is invaluable as you enter the wider world and start to vote. If you are interested in current affairs, or just want to better understand the choices made by our governments today, then this is the A-Level for you!

Career Paths

Civil Service
Public relations
Business development manager
Diplomat
Charity
Journalist
Market researcher
Stockbroker

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