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Sixth Form Subjects
French, German & Spanish |
ENTRY INTO THE SIXTH FORM Girls at Francis Holland are usually able to move automatically into the Sixth Form after GCSEs. Candidates from other schools are assessed on reports from their schools, written tests and interview providing they too have obtained a minimum of 6 GCSE passes at A*-B. Those with lower grades are likely to find the sixth form course challenging. Both internal and external candidates may compete for Sixth Form Scholarships. These exams take place in November each year.
CHANGES IN THE 16-19 EXAMINATIONS CURRICULUM A number of changes in the 16-19 curriculum were introduced in
September 2000. No longer do sixth formers simply choose 3 or 4
A Level subjects on which they are examined at the end of a two
year course. The introduction of a modular system of assessment
in certain subjects, some years ago, gave students the opportunity
to achieve something towards their A Level at an earlier stage,
by examination of part of the course during the LVI year. The most
recent changes have increased the breadth of sixth form examination
study, increased the opportunity of assessment at an earlier stage
and also allowed for the choice of subjects to be taken at full
A Level standard to be made later. All A Level syllabuses (now called specifications) consist of six
assessment units, each covering 15 -20% of the A Level course. The
first three of these units are at LVI standard and may be examined
at the end of the LVI year to achieve an AS (Advanced Subsidiary).
The remaining three units are at full A Level standard and are called
A2 units. Each unit (module) will be separately certified, with
an AS grade being awarded after completion of the first three units.
The three AS units together count for half of the full A Level.
Any unit may be retaken.
THE SIXTH FORM CURRICULUM AT FRANCIS HOLLAND - a summary
We shall continue to offer the flexibility of subject combinations and small teaching groups, which have always been the hallmark of our Sixth Form. The school provides a wide choice of A/AS Level subjects, including Economics, Psychology, Theatre Studies and History of Art, which are not offered further down the school. Further details of individual subjects are set out later on in this prospectus. Some universities are keen for pupils to take a fourth AS subject which contrasts with the three subjects they will take at A. At Francis Holland we give girls full and careful advice but leave the final choice to them. Every effort is made to accommodate their choices.
The Broader Curriculum As well as studying for A' or AS Level in their chosen subjects, Sixth Formers have a full programme of complementary studies. They are offered an 'Enrichment' course in Critical Thinking, Ethics and topical issues. In the LVI there is a varied General Studies programme and a weekly Personal Social and Health Education (PSHE) period, to both of which outside speakers often contribute. Enrichment The course is derived from the belief, expressed by Socrates, that
an unexamined life is not worth living and the awareness that thinking
is a skill. Philosophical, artistic and literary landmarks from
the 18th century to the present day are introduced and discussed
in relation to each other in the first two terms. General Studies During the Lower VI year a double period is allocated to General Studies. The General Studies programme aims to cover many aspects of current affairs, politics, the arts and sciences which may not otherwise be covered in the four subjects which the girls may be studying at AS level. The sessions take a variety of forms including quizzes and questionnaires, debates and seminars, internal and external speakers and outside visits to museums, galleries and public buildings. Some sessions are also directed towards careers including Gap Year experiences, talks from professionals and how to conduct interviews. Physical Education One afternoon a week is devoted to Physical Education, in which all Sixth Formers participate. The girls choose from a wide range of available options during the year, which include squash, tennis, netball, hockey, rowing, step aerobics, volleyball, jazz dance, ice skating, gym programme, rock climbing, golf, cricket and many other activities. The girls are also encouraged to represent the school and play in the sports teams. Games kit comprises of a plain navy tracksuit and a plain white short sleeved T-shirt.
The Colvile Sixth Form Centre The Sixth Form is housed in the Morison Wing, which was recently completely refurbished. Dedicated facilities for the Sixth Form include two spacious common rooms with adjoining kitchens and a private study room with individual workspaces and I.T. resources. The building also contains Sixth Form teaching rooms, the Anderson Library, a galleried workspace and the Careers Room.
Life in the Sixth Form Sixth Formers develop a close relationship with the Head of Sixth Form, their tutor and teaching staff and, because our Sixth Form is relatively small, they are able to receive a great deal of individual attention. At the same time, they are given more independence and freedom than younger girls, to prepare them for the transition to university or college life. Morning and afternoon registration is compulsory and girls remain in school during the day, but are free to go out at lunchtime and sometimes in the afternoon by arrangement. Sixth Formers do not wear uniform.
Allocated Study and Home Study Girls should spend 5 hours per week homework/extra study per AS subject and 6 hours at A2. An average of 4-5 periods on sixth form timetables are designated as allocated study. These lessons must be spent in the library or sixth form study room. Using study time in school to good effect is thus essential.
Careers and Higher Education Guidance The Careers Room is conveniently situated in the Morison Wing and comprises a well stocked Careers Library with video and Information Technology facilities, and an interview room. The library contains prospectuses and other reference material, including the school's own 'Guide to Applying to Higher Education' tailored to the needs of our own Sixth Formers, as well as a selection of videos. The UCAS website and all UK university websites may be accessed through the school's own website. Sixth Formers are introduced to the choices in Higher Education and to the UCAS system early on in the Lower VI year. They and their parents attend a 'Higher Education Evening', where they are further briefed on courses and application procedures. They are offered an aptitude test to help to identify suitable options and they receive personal guidance through a series of interviews. The Lower VI PSHE programme incorporates sessions on completing the UCAS form, applying to Oxbridge and the GAP Year. Sixth Formers are encouraged to attend university Open Days and are required to give a written report afterwards. During the Upper VI year, Sixth Formers are given further individual help with their decision making and with completion of the UCAS form. The PSHE programme covers interview techniques, preparing for life at university and student finance. Former pupils are invited into school to talk about their own experiences. Girls have at least one 'mock' interview. The school is a member of the Independent Schools' Careers Organisation (ISCO), through which we can arrange for girls to have individual interviews with careers specialists and to attend careers experience courses. Usually all our Sixth Formers proceed to Higher Education. Girls also receive assistance with applying to Art Foundation courses and vocational training. Please see the list of destinations of our recent leavers at the back of this prospectus. The school has a full-time professional Chartered Librarian who can help in a variety of ways; by providing access to information contained within the library itself and also further afield by suggesting other libraries and institutions that might be of help. The Library is fully computerised, each pupil having her own tickets. Senior girls may borrow four books for two weeks, but this rule is flexible in the Sixth Form. To help members of the sixth form there are 'Reserve Shelves ' in the Study room which hold heavily used texts. They are for use in the library only, but again flexibility is the keyword and books may be borrowed on short loan, at the discretion of the Librarian. Subject specific induction courses are held in all A level subjects at the beginning of Lower Sixth to acquaint new members of the school with the library and the services it offers, but also as a reminder to everyone. There are computers in the Library and Study Room so that word processing and Internet access are available at all times. The Librarian is happy to help with any research that is required. Sixth Formers are encouraged to study in the library, which is open all day, or in their own study room in the Sixth Form block. Computing We support learning in all the A Level subjects by providing computing facilities with support staff help from 8.00 am onwards each day. Much use is made of our internet connection which is available from almost all the machines throughout the school buildings. The large computer room is used by classes during the day and there are extra machines available for visitors to use and support provided throughout the day. All our machines use the standard software packages: Microsoft Word, Microsoft Excel, Internet Explorer and Adobe Photoshop. Additional software includes Serif Page Plus and Drawing programme. The CD collection includes multiple licences for Grolier and Encarta. A network typing tutor called Mavis Beacon is particularly useful for girls who will have A Level projects to type. Girls apply to university using UCAS on-line.
Responsibilities in the School Apart from the Head Girl and the Deputy, other Sixth Formers have an important role as House Captains, Games Captain, Task Force Coordinators, and Prefects for Charities, Liaison with the Junior School, Debating, Drama, the Library, Art, Music and Science, MFL, Economics and others. The editorial committee for the school magazine is made up of Sixth Formers and there is also a Common Room Committee. Sixth Formers are attached to younger forms from the youngest class in the Junior School through to Year 11. They assist with form administration, form assemblies and outings and with generally maintaining the well ordered ethos of the school.
Debating The Sixth Form are expected to lead at least one school debate each year and they are encouraged to attend debates led by younger forms. They have the opportunity to enter both local and national debating competitions.
Drama Sixth Formers have an important role in drama within the school. In the Lower Sixth, they continue to have the opportunity to participate in whole school activities such as the Play Competition, where a group can elect to work together to produce a scene or act from a play of their choice, and the School Play, where leads are often chosen from the Sixth Form. Lighting, costume, make-up and back stage production teams are also made up of and often led by Sixth Formers. Students of Theatre Studies are involved in additional productions throughout the year.
Duke of Edinburgh Award Scheme Sixth Formers have the opportunity to work towards the Bronze or Silver Duke of Edinburgh Award. Expeditions are organised in the Autumn and Summer Terms. Training is provided for the service part of the award. If you are interested in the Silver or Gold Award girls are encouraged to join the Westminster or the Kensington & Chelsea Award Centres. Mrs Margetson has full details.
The Mini-Enterprise Scheme The Mini-Enterprise Scheme is run in conjunction with our local branch of NatWest Bank. Groups of Lower Sixth Formers set up and run a small business, marketing a product or service of their choice. Products have ranged from jewellery and scarves to chocolate truffles and biscuits. Groups have produced and sold the programme for the school play and organised a very successful fashion show. Each member of the group is expected to have a specific role, for example, managing director, marketing manager or finance director, and to have clear responsibilities. The NatWest partner will guide the group through the stages of the activity either by visiting the school or by inviting students to go into the branch. Enterprises are usually wound up at the beginning of the Spring Term and the NatWest partner issues certificates to successful participants. This is especially useful experience for those considering careers in Business and Management.
Sports Sixth Formers encouraged to play for school and House sports teams in hockey, netball, swimming and tennis. The Physical Education department welcomes help with coaching younger girls. Sixth Formers may also assist with Junior School swimming lessons in the Summer Term.
Helping in the Junior School The teachers of younger forms in the Junior school welcome regular help from Sixth Form girls. This help is generally with reading, but it may be with Mathematics or other subjects. This is particularly useful experience for those considering teaching or other careers with children. Girls always find it rewarding and enjoyable.
Music Sixth Formers may take instrumental music lessons and singing lessons. We rely on them to take a lead in the choir and orchestra and they often take solo parts in concerts and church services. |
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