Teachers of Physics
- Miss H Dare
- Mr M Woodhams
- Mr S Young
- Mr D Riding
Reasons to Study Physics
Studying Physics takes you right across the Universe – from the smallest fundamental particles right up to the formation of the stars and galaxies! During the course you have the opportunity to delve deeper into the how and whys of the Universe, exploring them using observations, practical experiments, mathematical analysis, and discussions. Physics is vital for going on to study a range of subjects, such as Engineering, Physics, even Architecture, but the key skills learnt during a Physics A-Level can be applied to almost any degree or career in the future.
Our Vision for Physics
Students at SJB study Physics 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
Physics opens the doors to a huge range of degree courses and career paths including:
- Accountancy
- Banking
- Biotechnology
- Civil Service
- Computing
- Electronics
- Engineering
- Environmental Research
- Industrial Physicist
- Industrial Research
- Law (Patent and General)
- Management Consultancy
- Medical Physics
- Physics Teaching
- Science Journalism
Outline of Course
Qualification: A Level Physics
Exam Board: OCR
Coursework: 0%
Exam: 100%
Exam Structure:
Modelling Physics Paper – 2hr 15mins
Exploring Physics Paper – 2hr 15mins
Unified Physics Paper – 1hr 30mins
Link to specification: A Level Specification Physics A H556
Course Overview:
Module 1 – Development of practical skills in physics
- 1.1 Practical skills assessed in a written examination
- 1.2 Practical skills assessed in the practical endorsement
Module 2 – Foundations of physics
- 2.1 Physical quantities and units
- 2.2 Making measurements and analysing data
- 2.3 Nature of quantities
Module 3 – Forces and motion
- 3.1 Motion
- 3.2 Forces in action
- 3.3 Work, energy and power
- 3.4 Materials
- 3.5 Newton’s laws of motion and momentum
Module 4 – Electrons, waves and photons
- 4.1 Charge and current
- 4.2 Energy, power and resistance
- 4.3 Electrical circuits
- 4.4 Waves
- 4.5 Quantum physics
Module 5 – Newtonian world and astrophysics
- 5.1 Thermal physics
- 5.2 Circular motion
- 5.3 Oscillations
- 5.4 Gravitational fields
- 5.5 Astrophysics and cosmology
Module 6 – Particles and medical physics
- 6.1 Capacitors
- 6.2 Electric fields
- 6.3 Electromagnetism
- 6.4 Nuclear and particle physics
- 6.5 Medical imaging
PE
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 PE
Studying A-Level PE 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. Studying A-Level PE is great fun and will prepare you for a wide range of University courses or career pathways.
Our Vision for PE
Career paths
- Sports Coaching
- Sports Scientist
- Sports Nutritionalist
- Sports Therapist
- PE Teaching
- Physiotherapist
- Leisure Industry
- Sports Development
- Sports Psychologist
- Armed Forces
- Personal Trainer
Outline of Course
Exam Board: AQA
Coursework: 30%
Exam: 70%
Exam Structure: 2 x 2hour exam papers sat in the summer of Year 13
Link to specification: A-LEVEL Physical Education (7582)
Course Overview:
Assessment:
2 Components:
- 70% theory
- 30% Practical performance broken down into:
- 15% will be based on students assessed in the role of player/performer or coach
- 15% will be analysis and evaluation of performance.
Paper 1: Factors affecting participation in physical activity and sport
What’s assessed
- Section A – Applied anatomy and physiology (35 marks)
- Section B – Skill acquisition (35 marks)
- Section C – Sport and society (35 marks)
How it’s assessed
- Written exam: 2 hours
- Total: 105 marks
- 35% of A-level
Paper 2: Factors affecting optimal performance in physical activity and sport
What’s assessed
- Section A – Exercise physiology and biomechanics (35 marks)
- Section B – Sports psychology (35 marks)
- Section C –Sport and society and technology in sport (35 marks)
How it’s assessed
- Written exam: 2 hours
- Total: 105 marks
- 35% of A-level
Practical performance in physical activity and sport
What’s assessed
- Students are assessed as a player/performer or coach in the full sided version of one activity (15%)
- Coursework: Written analysis and evaluation of performance supported by a breakdown of causes and corrections for the highlighted weakness (15%)
How it’s assessed
- Internal assessment, external moderation
- Total: 90 marks
- 30% of A-level
Theory Units Breakdown: (for more information see the specification link)
- Factors affecting participation in physical activity and sport
- Skill acquisition
- Sport and society
- Factors affecting optimal performance in physical activity and sport
- Biomechanical movement
- Sport psychology
- Sport and society and the role of technology in physical activity and sport
What we are looking for:
- Students who have a genuine interest in sport
- Students who currently take part in sport
- Students who are curious about the limits of human performance
- Preferred level 6 at GCSE
Photography
Teachers of Photography
- Mr J Sharp (Curriculum Leader)
Reasons to Study Photography
Photography A Level is a highly creative course offering a hands-on practical experience every lesson. The course is 100% coursework, developing your skills in camera techniques, composition, both still and moving digital image, studio and location lighting and postproduction image manipulation. You will develop a contextual understanding of creative processes within the creative industry to inspire and influence your own personal investigations. Photography A Level develops a wide range of artistic skills, analytical and critical thinking and problem-solving skills which will be useful at university and future careers. By the end of the course, you will have produced a professional portfolio of photographs, presentations and written analysis.
Career Paths
Often students will follow up the Photography ‘A’ Level with a Foundation course in Art and Design or go for direct entry to University.
Photography will assist students in applying to Arts and Media courses.
Photography can lead to a number of career areas:
- Fashion or advertising photography
- Sports photography
- Photojournalism
- Fine art photography
- Forensic/medical photography
- Film and television
- Graphic design
- Animation
- Photographic processing and printing
- Web Design
Outline of Course
Exam Board: Eduqas
Personal Investigation: 60%
Consists of two parts:
- Practical project based on themes and subject matter of personal significance.
- An extended written element of 1000 words minimum, which may contain images and texts and must clearly relate to practical work using an appropriate working vocabulary and specialist terminology.
Externally Set Assignment: 40%
Externally Set Assignment Structure: Preparatory period commencing on or from 1 February (of Year 13). Students select one starting point from a series of visual or written stimuli to inspire and inform their own work. The preparatory period concludes with 15 hours of supervised time where students produce a final outcome/s.
Link to specification:
A Level Art and Design | Eduqas
A level specification template (eduqas.co.uk)
Course Overview:
x12 50 minute lessons a fortnight.
Students complete a range of workshops and projects, learning how to use a digital SLR camera and editing skills. This will develop their photography and postproduction in preparation for their personal investigation, externally set assignment and build their portfolio for progression onto higher education study.
Philosophy & Ethics
Teachers of Philosophy & Ethics
- Mr J Budzynski-Seymour (Curriculum Leader)
- Miss G Rejman
- Mr J Haselden
Reasons to Study Philosophy & Ethics
Studying Philosophy and Ethics offers an interesting and intellectually challenging A level. Within lessons you will consider questions and issues that will concern you throughout your adult life. Questions like does our life have purpose, and how should we live? The skills developed are widely transferable for the 21st century including discussion and debate, logical arguments, and critical evaluation. If you have always thought Philosophy and Ethics may be for you, take the jump, you’ll love it!
Our Vision for Philosophy & Ethics
Career Paths
- Law
- Medicine
- Teaching
- Journalism
- Charity and Humanitarian Aid Work
Outline of Course
Exam Board: OCR
Exam: 100%
Exam Structure: 3 x 2hr exam papers sat in the summer of Year 13
Link to specification: A Level Specification Religious Studies (H573)
Philosophy
- Ancient philosophical influences
- arguments about the existence or non-existence of God
- the nature and impact of religious experience
- the challenge for religious belief of the problem of evil
- the nature of the soul, mind and body
- the possibility of life after death
- ideas about the nature of God
- issues in religious language.
Ethics
- Normative ethical theories
- The application of ethical theory to two contemporary issues of importance (e.g. abortion, euthanasia)
- Ethical language and thought
- Debates surrounding conscience and freewill
- Influences of Christianity on ethical theories.
Development of Christian thought
- Religious beliefs, values and teachings, and how they vary historically and in the contemporary world.
- Sources of religious wisdom and authority.
- Practices which shape and express religious identity.
- Significant social and historical developments in theology and religious thought.
- Key themes related to the relationship between religion and society.
Music
Teachers of Music
- Mr L Ali
- Miss P Cantwell (Curriculum Leader)
- Mr M McKenna
Reasons to Study Music
The Music A Level course develops practical skills in performing and composing alongside a deeper understanding of the history, theory and analytical side of music. An appreciation for and knowledge of how and why popular and classical music was written will be explored and developed along with the opportunity to listen and study a wide variety of music.
Our Vision for Music
Career Paths
- Performing
- Composing
- Arts Admin
- Teaching
- Music therapy
- Academia
- Conducting
- Any graduate scheme
Key Stage 5
Exam Board: Edquas
Coursework: 60%
Exam: 40%.
Exam Structure: 1 listening exam of 2 hours 15 minutes
Link to specification: WJEC Eduqas GCE A LEVEL in MUSIC
Course Overview:
Component 1: Performing 35% (Coursework)
A performance of a minimum of three pieces. At least one of these pieces must be as a soloist. The other pieces may be either as a soloist or as part of an ensemble or a combination of both.
One piece must reflect the musical characteristics of one area of study. At least one other piece must reflect the musical characteristics of one other, different area of study.
Component 2: Composing 25% (Coursework)
Two compositions:
- Must reflect the musical techniques and conventions associated with the Western Classical Tradition and be in response to a brief set by WJEC. Learners will have a choice of four set briefs, released during the first week of September in the academic year in which the assessment is to be taken.
- Free composition.
Component 3: Appraising
The appraising exam is approximately 2 hours 15 minutes and includes a variety of genres to study. An interest and open-minded approach to all styles of music is necessary.
- Area of study A: The Western Classical Tradition (The Development of the Symphony 1750-1900) including two set works.
- Symphony No. 104 in D major, ‘London’: Haydn
- Symphony No. 4 in A major, ‘Italian’: Mendelssohn
- Area of study D: Jazz
- Area of study E: Into the Twentieth Century including two set works
- Trio for Oboe, Bassoon and Piano, Movement II: Poulenc
- Three Nocturnes, Number 1, Nuages: Debussy
Spanish
Teachers of Spanish
- Mr R Czepukojc (Curriculum Leader)
- Miss K Grundy (Head of Spanish)
- Mrs S Arfield
- Miss S Saltari
- Mrs V Earl
Reasons to Study Spanish
Studying an MFL at A Level gives you so much more than just learning the language. You study multiple different subjects all in one, through your study of a film, a novel, the culture, politics and social trends in society. If you’re passionate about languages, while also wanting to take a subject which provides you with many transferable skills for now and beyond, this is the course for you.
Our Vision for Spanish
Career Paths
Learning a language can open the doors to a large variety of university degrees and career opportunities, including:
- Journalism
- Advertising and publishing
- Law and politics
- Banking
- Education
- Medicine
- Engineering
- Scientific Research
- Travel and tourism
- Management
- International business
- Translation, interpreting and subtitling
- Sales and marketing
- Speech therapy
Languages are greatly valued by top universities and recruiters for the breadth of skills gained.
Outline of Course
Exam Board: Edexcel
Exam: 100%
Exam Structure:
- Paper 1: Listening, reading and translation into English (40%)
- Paper 2: Written response to works and translation in Spanish (30%)
- Paper 3: Speaking (30%)
Link to specification:
Spanish: A Level Spanish
Course Overview:
Students learn about a wide range of topics related to the Target Language society, while also developing their understanding and application of the language and grammar. Topics include:
- Changes in society
- Political and artistic culture
- A film study
- Immigration and multicultural society
- A key historical period
- A novel study
- An independent research project
Studying a language at A Level, enables students to gain a variety of skills:
- Ability to think on your feet
- Ability to develop intelligent and intellectual ideas without prompting
- Critical and analytical skills
- Communicating with others
- Debating skills
- Confidence in speaking
- Presenting information and opinions
- Inquisitiveness
- Research skills
- Independent learning skills
- Grammatical understanding
- Cultural awareness
Italian
Teachers of Italian
- Mr R Czepukojc (Curriculum Leader)
- Miss S Saltari (Head of Italian)
- Miss E Mackay
- Miss A Ellis
- Miss K Grundy
Reasons to Study Italian
Studying an MFL at A Level gives you so much more than just learning the language. You study multiple different subjects all in one, through your study of a film, a novel, the culture, politics and social trends in society. If you’re passionate about languages, while also wanting to take a subject which provides you with many transferable skills for now and beyond, this is the course for you.
Our Vision for Italian
Career Paths
Learning a language can open the doors to a large variety of university degrees and career opportunities, including:
- Journalism
- Advertising and publishing
- Law and politics
- Banking
- Education
- Medicine
- Engineering
- Scientific Research
- Travel and tourism
- Management
- International business
- Translation, interpreting and subtitling
- Sales and marketing
- Speech therapy
Languages are greatly valued by top universities and recruiters for the breadth of skills gained.
Outline of Course
Exam Board: Edexcel
Exam: 100%
Exam Structure:
- Paper 1: Listening, reading and translation into English (40%)
- Paper 2: Written response to works and translation in Italian (30%)
- Paper 3: Speaking (30%)
Link to specification:
Italian: A Level Italian
Course Overview:
Students learn about a wide range of topics related to the Target Language society, while also developing their understanding and application of the language and grammar. Topics include:
- Changes in society
- Political and artistic culture
- A film study
- Immigration and multicultural society
- A key historical period
- A novel study
- An independent research project
Studying a language at A Level, enables students to gain a variety of skills:
- Ability to think on your feet
- Ability to develop intelligent and intellectual ideas without prompting
- Critical and analytical skills
- Communicating with others
- Debating skills
- Confidence in speaking
- Presenting information and opinions
- Inquisitiveness
- Research skills
- Independent learning skills
- Grammatical understanding
- Cultural awareness
French
Teachers of French
- Mr R Czepukojc (Curriculum Leader)
- Mrs V Earl (Head of French)
- Miss A Ellis
- Miss J Licence
Reasons to Study French
Studying an MFL at A Level gives you so much more than just learning the language. You study multiple different subjects all in one, through your study of a film, a novel, the culture, politics and social trends in society. If you’re passionate about languages, while also wanting to take a subject which provides you with many transferable skills for now and beyond, this is the course for you.
Our Vision for French
Career Paths
Learning a language can open the doors to a large variety of university degrees and career opportunities, including:
- Journalism
- Advertising and publishing
- Law and politics
- Banking
- Education
- Medicine
- Engineering
- Scientific Research
- Travel and tourism
- Management
- International business
- Translation, interpreting and subtitling
- Sales and marketing
- Speech therapy
Languages are greatly valued by top universities and recruiters for the breadth of skills gained.
Outline of Course
Exam Board: Edexcel
Exam: 100%
Exam Structure:
- Paper 1: Listening, reading and translation into English (40%)
- Paper 2: Written response to works and translation in French (30%)
- Paper 3: Speaking (30%)
Link to specification:
French: A Level French
Course Overview:
Students learn about a wide range of topics related to the Target Language society, while also developing their understanding and application of the language and grammar. Topics include:
- Changes in society
- Political and artistic culture
- A film study
- Immigration and multicultural society
- A key historical period
- A novel study
- An independent research project
Studying a language at A Level, enables students to gain a variety of skills:
- Ability to think on your feet
- Ability to develop intelligent and intellectual ideas without prompting
- Critical and analytical skills
- Communicating with others
- Debating skills
- Confidence in speaking
- Presenting information and opinions
- Inquisitiveness
- Research skills
- Independent learning skills
- Grammatical understanding
- Cultural awareness
Media Studies
Teachers of Media Studies
- Mr C Wall (Curriculum Leader)
- Mr D Kaye
- Mr J Sharp
Reasons to Study Media Studies
Studying A Level Media will develop your knowledge and analysis of a wide range of media texts; these will be studied in depth to mature your critical thinking skills and will give you the opportunity to grow in terms of your independence. In addition, the course will advance your organisational, creative and technical skills as you commit to the shaping and construction of your own media products.
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
Exam Board: Eduqas
Coursework: Cross-Media Production: Non-exam assessment = 30% of qualification. Students develop creative ideas in relation to a set brief from the exam board. They will construct their own media products such as a film marketing campaign, music video package, or the opening to a TV drama with linked web pages.
Exam: 2 written exams at the end of year 13
Exam Structure:
- 1. Component 1 Exam: Media Products, Industries and Audiences: Written examination: 2 hours 15 minutes = 35% of qualification
- 2. Component 2 Exam: Media Forms and Products in Depth: Written examination: 2 hours 30 minutes = 35% of qualification
Course Overview:
A Level students study a wide range of past and present media texts selected by the exam board. Students will also study a range of unseen media texts selected by the school. They will explore and will learn how to analyse and evaluate the media texts in relation to 4 areas: representation, media language, industry and audience. Students will focus on applying a wide range of complex media theories to support their analysis and evaluation in the form of essay writing. They will develop and refine their practical skills (lighting, camera, sound and editing) during a series of in-depth workshops to support the construction of their own products for Component 3.
Link to specification: A Level Media Studies Specification
Mathematics
Teachers of Maths
- Mrs T Booth (Curriculum Leader)
- A Alvarez
- M Daniels
- E Dolan
- A Dwyer
- M Goggin
- L Hort
- V Lally
- J McNeil
- S Petri
- S Reeve
- S Rowan
- B Shepherd
- K Stansfield
- I Turner
Reasons to Study Maths
Maths is one of the most popular and well-respected A Levels, providing skills and knowledge that will support and complement many other A Level subjects. Aside from the content itself, which includes a broad range of pure maths, mechanics and statistics topics, studying maths will develop your problem solving, analysis and reasoning – which are hugely desirable and transferable skills. If you have a good understanding and enjoyment of mathematical concepts and are considering other subjects with mathematical elements, A Level maths is an excellent choice.
Our Vision for Maths
- Develop their passion for problem-solving and nurture a love and enjoyment of the subject. From properties of shapes to advanced trigonometry, maths is fun and inclusive for all.
- Equip them to be numerically literate for an ever-changing world where mathematics underpins world systems through a universal language.
- Learn important skills, such as critical and logical thinking, that are crucial and applicable to all areas of life. Whether our students go on to be a stage designer or an astronaut; the skills that students develop through studying maths will equip them for wider society.
Career Paths
Possible degree courses using this subject could include:
- Business Studies
- Computing and Engineering
- Economics
- Geography
- Medicine
- Mathematics (obviously!)
- Psychology
- Sciences
Outline of Course
Exam Board: Edexcel
Exam: 100%
Exam Structure:
- 3 x 2 hr exam papers sat in the summer of Year 13
- All calculator papers
- 2/3of the assessment is Pure
- 1/3of the assessment is Applied: Statistics and Mechanics
Link to specification: Pearson Edexcel AS and A level Mathematics (2017) | Pearson qualifications
Course Overview:
Pure mathematics, worth two thirds of the A Level, comprising:
- algebra (functions, logarithms and calculus),
- geometry (trigonometric identities and equations) and
- modelling (the application of pure mathematics in real world contexts).
Applied mathematics, worth one third of the A Level, comprising:
- Statistics (data collection and analysis, statistical distributions including probability and hypothesis testing) and
- Mechanics (the study of motion and equilibrium, including forces and moments).
St John the Baptist School - Elmbridge Lane - Woking - Surrey - GU22 9AL
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