LIFE IN THE SIXTH FORM!!
Welcome!
As sixth form students we would like to take the opportunity to tell you about the Sixth Form at the International School Seychelles. As you will see, apart from the courses, it has much to offer us as students, catering for our varying needs in terms of range of subjects, interests and responsibilities. It also provides us with resources and support in making decisions about our future.
School is a place where we get our education, not just an academic one but one that enables us to be strong confident individuals, contributing positively to our community. Our school achieves this by providing a friendly and supportive atmosphere and environment.
In the sixth form it can be said that the atmosphere is even better. The courses are challenging, (which goes without saying) but we also have the opportunity to try out new experiences and take on a number of responsibilities, As young adults at the school we feel we are in the midst of the best years of our school lives!!
Read on…
INTRODUCTION TO THE AS / A2 PROGRAMMES
Significant changes to the post -16 curriculum, often referred to as ‘Curriculum 2000’ took effect in the United Kingdom in September 2000, with the introduction of the new AS (Advanced Subsidiary), A2 and A levels. The purpose of the reforms was to:
What are the AS / A2 /A level qualifications?
The AS (Advanced Subsidiary): is a qualification forming the first unit of study of the A2 level, it is intended to be more ‘accessible’ both in terms of its content and assessment, representing the first half of the full A level. It has also been designed as, and is recognised as, a separate qualification.
The A2: is the second unit of study and contributes to the full A level. It is more demanding and assessed to a higher level. The A2 is not a qualification in its own right.
An A level is awarded only after candidates have successfully completed the AS and A2 units of the chosen subject.
These initiatives provide a flexible system, allowing the opportunity for a broader curriculum and greater choice without sacrificing depth or reducing the standard of the GCE A level. At the International School it means that we can offer a broad range of educational packages, tailored to suit individual needs, for students from a diverse range of educational backgrounds through:
Thus, students can follow courses in a range of subjects at varying levels.
Can this flexible programme generate sufficient points for entry to a University / Institute of Higher Education?
In line with changes to post- 16 courses, Universities in UK were encouraged to review their admissions procedure and introduce the UCAS tariff to replace the previous points system which only covered the GCE A level. The points in that system (A level, A=10, B=8, C=6, D=4, E=2) did not accurately reflect the relative values of the levels of achievement. A new tariff system was introduced:
|
A level Grade |
AS Grade |
Points |
|
A |
|
120 |
|
B |
|
100 |
|
C |
|
80 |
|
D |
A |
60 |
|
E |
B |
50 |
|
|
C |
40 |
|
|
D |
30 |
|
|
E |
20 |
The following are some of the most important principles on which the tariff works:
Please note that there is no obligation for Higher Education Institutions to use the tariff system when making offers. There is no reason why a tariff offer could be made to one applicant and a grade offer to another applicant for the same course.
UCAS Entry Profiles (formally known as Admissions Criteria Profiles) are web- based sources of information for prospective applicants to Institutions of Higher Education giving details such as:
What the students have to say about the new qualifications.……
Students who have completed the AS / A2 courses offered by the International School Seychelles have met the entrance requirements of Universities around the world, the most popular being UK and Australia
“At first I was not sure as I was hoping to drop some of the subjects, but over time I realised it was a good opportunity to rethink and realise my strengths and weaknesses. My career choice is quite different to the one I held three years ago! So I am for it”
“The new system is much better as it allows a broader choice of subjects which is essential, especially if we do not know the specific area of study at university. At the same time it provides the opportunity to specialise if that is our choice. We hope to study one of the Sciences at University, but have really welcomed the opportunity to study Art & Design and English to AS level. We need to be independent, multi-skilled citizens of the 21st Century”
“My worry was always whether the new qualifications would get me into university in Australia as the universities there were very familiar with the old system of A levels. I needn’t have worried as I am off to start the new semester in Australia with three of my classmates. I am apprehensive but happy!”
“I really enjoyed being able to pursue Physics and Chemistry as well as English and Art. The sciences are for enjoyment and Art because that is what I want to do when I finish school. Great. It suits my needs”
“It’s really good because it still leaves a lot of doors open for career options. Some people know what they want to do when they get into the Sixth Form and some don’t, so this is a good opportunity to explore all the possibilities. When I started Sixth Form I wanted to do Sciences, but with time I soon realised that I wanted to go into Design. Because I had the choice to study Art it meant that I could take that route.”
THE SIXTH FORM PROGRAMME
Students can join the sixth form programme in September or January following the completion of the IGCSE / O level or equivalent examinations. To qualify, all students should have a minimum of 5 higher passes (grade B and above) at that level.
In some cases it may be necessary for students to sit additional tests at the school to determine suitability for a course. Each student has the opportunity to design and agree his or her individual programme in consultation with the subject teacher and the Head of Sixth Form.
Students are encouraged to initially select four subjects for study, this can be modified later once the levels and dates of examination entries are determined. If students do not wish to study a subject to the full Advanced level there is an opportunity to ‘drop’ this subject. However, students are encouraged to be mindful of the entry requirements of Universities or Institutions of Higher Education.
Most of our students continue with three subjects up to the full Advanced level and at times some follow more, depending on their strengths and outcome at AS Level.
IELTS AND SATS
The School now offers the IELTS (International English Language Testing System) examination in Seychelles in collaboration with IDP Mauritius. The school is also currently being established as a SAT test Centre.
This means that students do not have to travel overseas to take these tests which are required for entry to universities in many countries.
COURSE ENTRY REQUIREMENTS
The International School Seychelles provides the opportunity for students to design their own educational packages broadly based on ability, interest and final career destination through guidance from the various subject teachers. The final level of qualification is dependent upon the student’s commitment and progress with the agreement of the subject teacher.
These are the subjects offered at the International School:
All the above subjects are taught in small groups by subject specialists and in specialist rooms. Most of the sessions are taught during the two sessions of the school day, however some are taught during a third session running from 2.30 – 4.30 pm.
Off Site ProvisionThere is off site provision for all the students in the Sixth Form, plus additional ones for the students who are taught during the third session. These times are negotiated between the parents, student and the Head of Sixth form. The provision is to provide the students an opportunity to support their independence and time management.
Access to information:
To support their learning, all students have access to the school library which receives a number of weekly periodicals including The Economist, New Scientist and Newsweek, the electronic library which holds a number of CD Roms (Subject and university based) as well as access to the internet for research purposes. In addition students have access to information pertaining to courses offered by universities around the world.
Further information regarding the A level programme is available from Mrs N Kennedy, Head of Sixth Form.
Accommodation:
Both Year 12 and 13 have separate air conditioned study rooms equipped with a computer, printer and coffee making facilities. Individual lockers ensures tidiness and security at all times. Notice boards provide ample space for important information as well as posters and photographs which make the room ours! It provides privacy and space to carry out private study tasks and complete assignments. In year 13 this is really necessary as the finals approach! The rooms join onto a large ‘silent study’ room for those moments when we really need it! It also has 10 computers for completing coursework and research tasks
Positions of Responsibility:
We have a Head Boy and Head Girl elected by the student body, in collaboration with the staff. They have a range of responsibilities ranging from representing the school at various functions to ensuring that the tuck shop line is in order! A new Head Boy and Girl are elected each academic year.
The Student Council is a body of students who discuss issues raised by other students / tutor groups in the school under the watchful eye of Mrs Dooley or Mrs Kennedy. Many of the suggestions put forward by the students are now in place.
The council provides an effective communication channel between the students, teachers and the management of the school.
The Senior students also use this as a platform to organise the annual School prom
The school operates a prefect system and each student in the Sixth Form is a prefect with a specific duty to perform on a weekly basis. This includes supervision at break and lunch times, assisting teachers on duty, helping out in the electronic library and generally being watchful over the younger students. This provides the perfect opportunity to interact with students and staff.
Each student in year 12 has to dedicate one session a week to being involved in the ASSIST programme. During the session, the student works with teachers and students from the Junior and Early Childhood Sections assisting with various activities. These activities include: reading, playing, helping with Maths, swimming and IT. The ASSIST programme is rewarding and fun. Every individual has to take responsibility knowing that others are depending on it. It is a great learning experience and we get to know other teachers and younger students
EXTRA CURRICULAR ACTIVITIES:
There is plenty of opportunity to participate in a range of activities offered on and off site
Students can join the year 10 and 11 PE sessions during the day. Some make use of off-site time by attending a gym or playing a game of squash. The range of sports on offer include; swimming, diving, volleyball, football, squash, golf and tennis. Sixth form students are always involved in National Sports Competitions and act as stewards during the school sports days and swimming galas.
These are either subject based or ones that fall in the interest / hobby category and include : Chess Club, Art Club, French Club, Science Club, IT Club, Film Club, Drama Club and many more.
The most popular is the Drama Club which involves students of all ages participating in drama and writer’s workshops. It is great fun and many of the students have been involved up front and behind the scenes of various Drama productions, including Grease and The Royal Hunt of the Sun.
In addition to the above opportunities we are always heavily involved in the various PTA fund raising events like the Christmas parties, Summer fayres and the end of year Achievement Evening.
We are always invited to join a range of activities/ talks by various organisations and Ministries. In the past these have included:
Diving: Environment Day, AWARE Project, Monitoring of Coral around Mahe,
Health: AIDS workshops and exhibitions, Drink Driving, Drug awareness.
There are also trips ..local and overseas!
We frequently welcome visitors from various institutions to deliver presentations on further study and opportunities all around the globe.
Subject Choices & Syllabus Outlines
ART AND DESIGN ADVANCED LEVEL
Advanced level Art and Design is offered at both AS and A2 (full Advanced) level.
The course is a fine art course, with the emphasis on painting, drawing, photography and three dimensional work.
The parallel focus for the course is the development of original personal responses to stimuli set by the teaching staff. These stimuli will normally be thematic, in other words students will explore a theme or topic, investigate artistic possibilities and, through development and experimentation, create work to a high standard of technical finish.
For students taking AS, the final assessments will normally be taken in the November of year 13, with students extending their activities to A2, taking assessments in the following May/June series.
The majority of students taking this subject secure grade A (based on the figures for the last five years). A number of them proceed to study fine art at colleges and universities overseas following the completion of their sixth form programme and the school has an excellent record in terms of securing admission at some of the best art colleges in the world.
There are 2 components for AS art, 2 more for A2, thus totalling 4 components for the full Advanced level.
Components 1 and 2 comprise the AS award and are described below:
COMPONENT ONE:
A timed test of 15 hours. Students receive an examination paper six weeks in advance of the examination and prepare studies which can be taken into the examination room. The three day examination provides the opportunity for students to respond to ONE question on the examination paper. They have a choice of ‘open’ thematic questions as well as more restricted ones (eg still life, figure poses, etc).
The final submission to Cambridge comprises the finished examination piece plus four A1 sheets of preparatory studies.
COMPONENT TWO:
A completed coursework piece plus FOUR sheets (A1) of supporting work. This piece will normally be in the best project outcome from the first four terms of study. It will feature experimentation and risk-taking and can be more interpretative and explorative that the second A2 coursework component, which needs to showcase technical skill.
Components 3 and 4 comprise the A2 award and are described below;
COMPONENT THREE:
A completed coursework piece, plus TEN sheets (A1) of supporting work, plus a workbook of notes, studies, etc.
This component emphasizes technical proficiency but also needs to be driven by original and creative thinking.
Clearly it involves a massive amount of work, the bulk of which is completed between November and May.
COMPONENT FOUR:
A related study; normally an illustrated essay of about 3500 words. This should reflect some of the critical studies work of the students and make links between his or her work and work made by other artists from a range of times, places and cultures.
The above components are ‘weighted’. In other words, some are worth more than others. For AS component one is worth 60%, component two is worth 40%. For A2 component three is worth 60% and component four is worth 40%.
In Advanced level Art and Design lessons, a student can expect the following:
If you would like further information on any aspect of the course, please see Mr Kennedy or Mr Nourrice.
BIOLOGY ADVANCED LEVEL
The syllabus has been constructed around a common core. The subject content of the Core, A2 and Applications syllabuses is presented as learning outcomes. The examination will assess the candidate’s knowledge and understanding of these.
AS Level candidates will study and be assessed on the first eleven section, A to K.
A Level candidates will study and be assessed on all sections, A to P
A Cell Structure
B Biological Molecules
C Enzymes
D Cell Membranes and Transport
E Cell and Nuclear Division
F Genetic Control
G Transport
H Gas Exchange
I Infectious Disease
J Immunity
K Ecology
L Energy and respiration
M Photosynthesis
N Regulation and Control
O Inheritance and Change and Gene Technology
P Selection and Evolution
2. The Applications of Biology syllabus: A Level candidate will study the following:
1 Biodiversity and Conservation
2 Biotechnology
3 Gene Technology
4 Crop Plants
5 Aspects of Human reproduction.
The syllabus aims to provide a worthwhile educational experience for all students, whether or not they go on to study Biology beyond this level, and in particular, it enables them to acquire sufficient understanding and knowledge to become confident individuals in a technological world, able to take or develop an informed interest in matters of a scientific nature.
ASSESSMENT:
AS candidates are required to enter for Papers 1, 2, and 31.
A2 candidates are required to enter for Papers 4and 5.
A level candidates are required to enter for Papers 1, 2, 31, 4 and 5.
| PAPER | TYPE OF PAPER | DURATION | MARKS | WEIGHTING | WEIGHTING |
| AS Level | A2 Level | ||||
| 1 | Multiple Choice | 1 hr | 40 | 31% | 15% |
| 2 | AS Structured Questions | 1 hr 15 mins | 60 | 46% | 23% |
| 31 | Advanced Practical Skills | 2 hrs | 40 | 23% | 12% |
| 4 | A2 Structured Questions | 1 hr 45 mins | 100 | 38% | |
| 5 | Planning, Analysis, Evaluation | 1 hr 15 mins | 30 | 12% |
Further information regarding the A level Biology programme is available from
Mrs Kennedy.
CHEMISTRY ADVANCED LEVEL
The new syllabus is designed to give greater flexibility both to teachers and to candidates. It places greater emphasis on the understanding and application of scientific concepts and principles and less emphasis on factual material whilst still giving a thorough introduction to the study of Chemistry.
After having covered the first section of the syllabus, students can then sit their AS Chemistry exam. With a satisfactory grade, they can then to on to study further core materials and a new section called Applied Chemistry for the A2 part.
AS/A2 Core Syllabus:
Physical Chemistry
- Atoms, Molecules and Stoichiometry
- Atomic Structure
- Chemical Bonding
- States of Matter
- Chemical Energetics
- Electrochemistry
- Equilibria
- Reaction Kinetics
Inorganic Chemistry
- The Periodic Table and Chemical Periodicity
- Group 2
- Group 4
- An Introduction to the Chemistry of Transition Elements
- Nitrogen and Sulphur
Organic Chemistry
- Introductory Topics
- Hydrocarbons
- Halogen Derivatives
- Hydroxy Compounds
- Carbonyl Compounds
- Carboxylic Acids and Derivatives
- Nitrogen Compounds
- Polymerisation
A2 only
Applications of Chemistry
- The Chemistry of Life
- Applications of Analytical Chemistry
- Design and Materials
Besides the theoretical aspect of the course, students are given intensive practical exposure in order for them to better understand topics covered and be well prepared to cope with the practical aspect of the exams.ASSESSMENT;
AS candidates are required to enter for Papers 1, 2 and 31.
A2 candidates are required to enter for Papers 4 and 5 after having done well in the AS exams.
| PAPER | TYPE OF PAPER | DURATION | MARKS | WEIGHTING | WEIGHTING |
| AS Level | A2 Level | ||||
| 1 | Multiple Choice | 1 hr | 40 | 31% | 15% |
| 2 | AS Structured Questions | 1 hr 15 mins | 60 | 46% | 23% |
| 31 | Advanced Practical Skills | 2 hrs | 40 | 23% | 12% |
| 4 | A2 Structured Questions | 1 hr 45 mins | 100 | 38% | |
| 5 | Planning, Analysis, Evaluation | 1 hr 15 mins | 30 | 12% |
Further information regarding the AS/A2 Chemistry programme is available from Mr Lespoir.
COMPUTING ADVANCED LEVEL
What Sort of Person Would Enjoy the Course?
The course is focussed around understanding exactly what goes on inside a computer, looking at how computers can be put to good use, and learning how to write computer programs. So, you will need to be the sort of person who…
The course is a good mix of theory (much of which is interesting!) and practical. In fact 33% of your final mark will come from practical projects that will take many weeks or months to complete.
The AS Course and the Full A-Level Course
How Will You Be Assessed?
Assessment is by means of two units (1-2) for AS and four units (1-4) for the full A-Level.
| AS Only | Full A-Level | ||
| Paper 1 | Theory Exam | 75% | 37.5% |
| Paper 2 | Programming Project | 25% | 12.5% |
| Paper 3 | Theory Exam | - | 30% |
| Paper 4 | Computing Project | - | 20% |
What Are the Course Assessment Components?
Paper 1 – Written Theory Paper (2½ hours)
Compulsory questions on topics from AS syllabus
Paper 2 – Computer Programming Project.
This project examines knowledge and understanding as well as skills. The programming project is intended to allow you to demonstrate your competence in the skills of program design, development, testing and documentation.
Paper 3 – Written Theory Paper (2 hours)
Compulsory questions on topics from A2 syllabus:
Paper 4 – Computing Project
This major project assesses your ability to develop a computer-based solution to a real life problem requiring the skills of analysis, design, development, testing, implementation and evaluation. The project is a substantial piece of work requiring analysis and design over an extended period of time, which is organised, evaluated and presented in a report.
For more information see Mr Fellows.
ECONOMICS ADVANCED LEVEL
This course is designed to provide a basis of factual knowledge of economics through the teaching of economic theory and its application.
Students will develop a facility for self-expression through text and diagrams. They will explore key economic texts and additional specific sources of data, for example publications and internet sites. They will discuss the changing economic structure of the world, with reference to both micro and macro economics, and will analyse economic data.
Students taking this subject need to have a sound mathematical facility, as well as good time management skills. They need to be able to demonstrate knowledge and understanding of specific content, interpret economic information in verbal, numerical and graphical form, and explain and analyse economic issues and arguments. They also have to evaluate information and distinguish facts from hypothetical statements and value judgements.
Finally, students need to be able to organise, present and communicate economic ideas and informed judgements in a clear, logical and appropriate form.
Economics covers many topics; here are just some of them. If you find the idea of these interesting then economics may be one of the subjects that you consider taking;
ENGLISH ADVANCED LEVEL
In the 6th Form advanced level courses are offered:
In Year 12 students sit Paper 3, Poetry and Prose, and Paper 4, Drama.
In Year 13 students sit Paper 5, Shakespeare and Other pre-20th Century Authors, and Paper 7 which is an unseen critical appreciation paper.
Each exam paper is 2 hours long and students have a choice from 2 questions on each of the 2 texts they have studied.
The papers are sat as a closed book exam.
Further information regarding the A level English programme is available from Ms Barnes.
FOREIGN LANGUAGE FRENCH
French is taught as a foreign language at AS and A2 level.
Throughout the course students are taught to understand the spoken and written forms of French from a variety of sources, such as magazines, newspapers, official documents and imaginative writing.
They learn to communicate confidently and clearly and to understand the spoken language in a range of contexts such as radio news items, broadcast short stories, announcements, studio discussions and recorded talks. They re taught to exchange views and opinions in French and to sustain a conversation.
They learn to acquire a sound base of the skills of listening, speaking and writing and in so doing, they are able to manipulate French accurately and in ways which show a capacity to choose appropriate examples of lexis and forms of expression..
They develop insights into the culture of countries where French is spoken and they acquire an understanding of native and non-native speakers of French, when in conversation, when interviewed and when reacting to argument and debate.
Every student has access to a text book and a dictionary, which can be used in class for individual study purposes. However, it is advisable o purchase a dictionary for homework purposes.
In years 12 and 13 students work through Pyramide AS and Pyramide A2, recently published books for Advanced level French. These books are made up of 12 units, all of which are of a contemporary nature and lead to a stimulating and interesting debate and discussion about life in general, especially that of the youth.
It is a course which is primarily communicative in its philosophy but it does not neglect the structure building blocks of language that require specific attention. Throughout the course, the exercises and activities gradually move the student from highly structured to open-ended, more creative or practical tasks. Students are encouraged to produce interpretative and evaluative responses as well as purely factual ones.
The course also provides cassettes which contain a variety of listening material, including off-air recordings and songs. There is a number of open-ended activities for each item which gives a focus for the listening and which stimulates individuals reflection.
ASSESSMENT:
At the end of the AS course students take an examination which comprises three components:
Component 1: Speaking (30%) 20 mins
Component 2: Reading & Writing (50%) 1h 45 mins
Component 3: Essay Writing (20%) 1h 30
Component 1 is conducted and marked internally by the teacher. Each test is recorded on tape and sent to Cambridge to be moderated. In the other components the work is marked externally by Cambridge examiners.
Components 1, 2, 3 are common to the A2 programme. In addition, there is component 4, for which students have to study 4 books (from a selection of 8 books). The eight books are set by Cambridge. The choice of texts changes every two years.
Component 4: Texts (2h 30 m) 30%.
In the exam: Candidates are expected to answer 3 questions in the target language on 3 different texts (3 x 25 marks). They have to write 500-600 words for each of their questions.
Examiners look for candidate’s ability to communicate effectively and for detailed knowledge understanding of the text.
Further information regarding the A level French programme is available from Ms Tirant.
GEOGRAPHY ADVANCED LEVEL
The programme prepares students to sit examination at the end of the Year 12 at Advanced Subsidiary (AS) level and at the end of Year 13 at Advanced level (A2). The choice of taking AS or A2 papers depends upon the delivery level achieved by the students during the two year course and their plans for future studies in the subject.
The course aims to support students in the development of:
The course also aims to:-
Continuous assessment takes place during the two year course to find out the ability level reached by students in four areas of competence within the subject –
- Knowledge
- Understanding and Application
- Skills and Enquiry
- Evaluation and Decision-Making.
ASSESSMENT:
At the end of the first year AS level students take a 3-hour paper.
While AS level students will take a 3-hour paper – Paper 1
For Paper 1 which is split into three sections, the core topics of the following will be assessed:
*At the end of the second year advanced level course students take two 1½ hour papers – paper 2 and paper 3 (50%).
For Papers 2 and 3 which are separate papers with 15 minutes break in between for the examination, the following advanced options are assessed:
Paper 2 Advanced Physical Options.
Paper 3 Advanced Human Options
For each topic students are encouraged to cover specific case studies from various sources as they are expected to show an appreciation of different situations involved by reference to appropriate examples in real life on various themes.
Further information regarding the A level Geography programme is available from Mrs Payet.
HISTORY ADVANCED LEVEL
In the Sixth Form we currently offer AS History in Year 12; requiring the candidates to sit a 3-hour paper on International History, 1945-91.
The areas covered are:
For the examination, the candidates are required to undertake a source based study the Development of the United Nations, 1945 – 91, for which they will prepare, as part of the course.
In Year 13, the students sit A2 History, examined by a-3 hour paper, Paper 5 ‘The History of the USA, 1840 – 68’.
The topics covered are:
In the examination the candidates are required to have prepared for a source based study: The Road to Secession and Live War, 1846 -61.
Further information regarding the A level History programme is available from Ms Diane Tzovanis.
MATHEMATICS ADVANCED LEVEL
“The universe cannot be read until we have learnt the language and become familiar with the characters in which it is written. It is written in mathematical language, and the letters are triangles, circles and other geometrical figures, without which means it is humanly impossible to comprehend a single word.” Galileo Galilea (1564 – 1642)
Introduction
Mathematics at A-level is very different to that which you will have met at IGCSE. The main difference being the detail in which you will have to write down solutions. Topics which you previously met as separate items (geometry, trigonometry, algebra) merge together to form a unified subject. Algebra is a key item for the course. You should be able to handle algebraic expressions with confidence to succeed in the course.
Entry requirement
Grade B (or higher) at the IGCSE Extended level (or equivalent).
Course structure
The first year of the course begins at the end of year 11 and continues into year 12. This will lead to the award of the Advanced Supplementary (AS) level which is widely regarded as being equivalent to half an A-level. Some students may only wish to take the first year of the course leading to the award of the AS level.
For students intending to complete the full A-level, the second year of the course will begin directly after the AS level exams have been taken in May and continue through to year 13.
The course is divided into the following modules:
P1 Pure Mathematics 1 (Year 11/12, 75 marks)
Quadratics, functions, coordinate geometry, circular measure, trigonometry, vectors, series and calculus.
P2 Pure Mathematics 2 (Year 12/13, 50 marks)
This can NOT be used towards a full A level, but only used to obtain an AS level.
Algebra, logarithmic and exponential functions, trigonometry, calculus and numerical solutions of equations.
P3 Pure Mathematics 3 (Year 12/13, 75 marks)
P2 topics plus vectors, differential equations, complex numbers and more advanced topics in calculus.
S1 Statistics 1 (Year 12 or 13, 50 marks)
Representation of data, permutations and combinations, probability, discrete random variables and the normal distribution.
M1 Mechanics 1 (Year 13 or 12, 50 marks)
AS Level combinations
| Compulsory | Options | Note |
| P1 | M1 | M1 and S1 are presented in alternate years.Cannot be used to obtain a full A level. |
| S1 | ||
| P2 |
A Level Combinations
| Compulsory | Option | Carried forward | or retake | Note |
| P3 | S1 | P1 + M1 | P1 + M1 | M1 and S1 are presented in alternate years |
| M1 | P1 + S1 | P1 + S1 |
Additional A Level Combinations
| Compulsory | Option | Carried forward | or retake | Note |
| P3 | M2 | P1 + M1 | P1 + M1 | You should check with JR if the timetable will allow these. |
| S2 | P1 + S2 | P1 + S2 |
Late entrants to the course
Students can join the course later (up until the end of November, start December). However, you will need to attend a bridging course which will run during term 2 in addition to the usual timetabled lessons, to complete the work missed.
| Sept | Oct | Nov | Dec | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | |
| Year 11 | P1 | P1 | ||||||||||
| Year 12 | P1 | P1 | P1 | P1 | M1/S1 | M1/S1 | M1/S1 | M1/S1 | AS | P3 | P3 | |
| Year 13 | P3 | P3 | P3 | P3 | S1/M1 | S1/M1 | S1/M1 | S1/M1 | A |
Further information regarding the A level Mathematics programme is available from Mr Richards.
PHYSICS ADVANCED LEVEL
The As and A2 Advanced courses test students’ knowledge and understanding, ability to handle, apply and evaluate information and their experimental skills.
The topics covered at AS are:
Kinematics
Dynamics
Work Forces, Energy and Power
Phases of matter
Deformation of solids
Waves
Superposition
Electric fields
Current Electricity
DC Circuits
Nuclear Physics
The topics covered at A2 are:
Motion in a circle
Gravitational field
Ideal Gases
Temperature
Thermal Properties of Matter
Oscillations
Electric field (non uniform)
Capacitance
Magnetic Fields
Electromagnetism
Electromagnetic Induction
Alternating Currents
Charged Particles
Quantum Physics
Nuclear Physics
Gathering and Communicating Information
ASSESSMENT:
| PAPER | TYPE OF PAPER | DURATION | MARKS | WEIGHTING | WEIGHTING |
| AS Level | A2 Level | ||||
| 1 | Multiple Choice | 1 hr | 40 | 31% | 15% |
| 2 | AS Structured Questions | 1 hr 15 mins | 60 | 46% | 23% |
| 31 | Advanced Practical Skills | 2 hrs | 40 | 23% | 12% |
| 4 | A2 Structured Questions | 1 hr 45 mins | 100 | 38% | |
| 5 | Planning, Analysis, Evaluation | 1 hr 15 mins | 30 | 12% |
Further information regarding the A level Biology programme is available from
Mr Alex McLaren.
University Information – WHAT NEXT?
Gruelling as some aspects of applying to university can be, (such as filling in hundreds of forms), the experience is fantastic in that it finally brings to closure 13 years of school life with the focus being your aims for the future becoming a reality. This is it…it’s about going out there and doing what YOU want to do; and the reality of this new found independence is refreshing.
The school also provides a wide variety of prospectuses and internet access. And advice flows from all corners….
Choosing a university is one of the most important and crucial choices one will have to make in life. It will shape the future of the individual who embarks on the journey. The process involves lots of research using a range of resources. The school offers a huge stock of prospectuses (up to date) from universities in USA, UK, Australia, Canada and Europe though many can now be found on the internet. Numerous one to one meetings with Mrs Kennedy follow to discuss final choices and courses. Close guidance is offered when filling in application forms, writing student statements, making contact via e mails and requesting information. The list is endless.
In addition, we have information sessions for parents and students, lectures and presentations by the British Council and representatives from the other countries encouraging us to apply. The school has established close links with the Ministry of Education as many students apply for scholarships. Seychellois students are eligible for government scholarships. We also sit for the IELTS tests in year 13 : a pre requisite to entry to many universities.
Confusing and bewildering as some of it may be, the support and help offered by staff is amazing, and their experience is something to definitely rely on. In our case the Head of Sixth Form Mrs Kennedy, is the instrumental force in making it all possible through her endless encouragement, organisation and hard work.
Once the process is over it is time to concentrate on examinations and keep ones fingers crossed and wait for the offers to arrive. Make sure you are ready to give it your all, it’s a long process that challenges your faith in yourself, but once you’ve embarked on this journey, you’ll never want to look back!
Students from the International school are currently embarked on a number of courses at universities and Institutions of Higher Education all around the world.
THE FUTURE AWAITS……….
