English Language and Literature

• Exam Board: AQA
• Entry Requirements: Grade 6 in English Literature and English Language

 

English Language and Literature encourages students to explore the relationships that exist between the producer of a text and the receiver. We will consider aspects of language analysis and theory to help us unpick the finer details of what each writer does, how they do it and why they do it. 

During this course students will read widely and independently with set texts including a range of multi-modal texts, prose, poetry and drama. They will also have the opportunity to practice their creative writing skills using a set text as the inspiration for their writing.

English Language and Literature is a highly regarded A Level that can take students forward to almost any course of study. It is an essential choice for students considering an English degree but would be a good option for students considering Humanities subjects, languages or Law. It could lead onto many careers such as Law, Journalism, Teaching, Business Management and Publishing.

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Maths

• Exam Board: Edexcel
• Entry Requirements: At least a Grade 7 in GCSE mathematics

 

A-level mathematics is for students who enjoy maths and want to extend their learning.  There are three different sections to the course: Pure, Statistics and Mechanics. The Pure element focuses on the key concepts of mathematics. It builds upon previous GCSE knowledge to introduce you to higher level maths, such as integration and differentiation. Some statistics has been seen in GCSE, but now we will introduce new concepts, such as hypothesis testing and regression, used in science, business and many other careers. The mechanics component explores the relationship between maths and physics. You will investigate the maths involved in balancing forces and measuring particle dynamics, amongst other topics.A-level maths is a highly regarded A-level. Whilst it is challenging, you will obtain employability skills such as problem solving and abstract thinking, that are highly sought after and can lead to better career opportunities.

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Art, Craft and Design

• Exam Board: AQA
• Entry Requirements: Grade 5 in Art and Design.

 

A level Art, Craft and Design is for post 16 learners who are creative and practical learners who have already enjoyed and been successful in Art. This qualification extends and develops students practical abilities and contextual understanding of art and design. 

Students explore and experience a broad range of traditional and new media, processes and techniques appropriate to the chosen area of study in the field of art. Responses to this will be shown through practical and critical activities which demonstrate the students’ understanding of different styles, genres and traditions. This qualification supports the exciting creative pathway to progress to higher education or employment. Studying Art offers a wide range of employment opportunities to further pursue an artistic journey. This includes education, art therapy, working in hospitals. Previous students have continued their studies in fashion, illustration, Fine Art, Interior design, computer and digital art and many more.  

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Biology

• Exam Board: OCR
• Entry Requirements: Grade 77 in GCSE Combined Science or grade 7 in GCSE Biology coupled with at least a grade 6 in Mathematics

 

Biology is a fascinating subject, the study of which will see you learn about the natural world and all the living things within it. Gaining an A-level in this subject opens up a vast range of opportunities for both university degrees and career options, many of which can take you all around the world. Biologists use their knowledge in a variety to different ways such as to try to stop the spread of disease, track down natural resources, improve public health, animal care and conservation and work out the true impacts of things like pollution. Studying Biology helps students to develop their research, problem solving, organisation and analytical skills. There is a content-led approach to course delivery and the teaching of practical skills is fully integrated with the theoretical units. Biology A-Level is a well-respected qualification.

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Business Studies

• Exam Board: OCR
• Entry Requirements: Level 2 Merit or above in Retail Business OR a grade 4 or above in GCSE Business, plus grade 4 in English and Maths

 

Our Level 3 Cambridge Technicals in Business qualification is designed to help our students to achieve their potential and progress to the next stage of their lives, whether that’s higher education, an apprenticeship or employment. We have designed refreshing and exciting content that is up to date, engaging, fit for purpose and suitable for the needs of our students. An extensive range of units such as the business environment, customers and communication, marketing and market research, and international business.

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Chemistry

• Exam board: OCR
• Entry Requirements: Grade 77 in GCSE Combined Science or grade 7 in GCSE Chemistry coupled with at least a grade 6 in Mathematics

 

Chemistry plays a role in almost every action on earth, and in every object we touch. Chemical scientists are leading research on the world’s most pressing concerns, including challenges around human health, climate change, and energy. A-level Chemistry is an engaging course that requires learners to draw on their knowledge and understanding of fundamental Scientific concepts. The specification is relevant to real world experiences and there is a content-led approach to course delivery. Teaching of practical skills is integrated with the theoretical units. Chemistry A-Level is a highly valued qualification and a good grade in this subject demonstrates an ability to effectively apply scientific methodology in addition to mathematical, practical and problem-solving skills. Chemistry A-Level is essential for many higher education courses including Medicine, Chemical Engineering, Dentistry, Food Science, Materials Science, Pharmacology and Veterinary Science but is also an academic qualification favoured by Russell Group of Universities, satisfying the entry requirements for a range of unrelated degree courses.

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Computer Science

• Exam Board: OCR
• Entry Requirements: Grade 6 in Computer Science

 

Our A Level Computer Science qualification splits learning into three section: Computer Fundamentals, Programming Techniques and Logical Methods, and a Programming Project.

A natural progression from GCSE (9–1) Computer Science, it provides the perfect springboard for students looking at specialising in a computing-based career.

Within the course, students study a range of theory topics, which include the principles and understanding linked to programming, topics such as hardware and software, networks, systems development life cycles and implications of computer use.

It enables teachers to tailor the qualification to match the requirements of students and has an open source ethos allowing you to use any programming language that meets the needs of the course.Through the creation of a programming project, students will have the opportunity to create a substantial piece of software using modern design methods and, guided by teachers, they will look to display their skills and talents.

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Digital Media

• Exam Board: OCR
• Entry Requirements: Level 2 Merit or above at iMedia

 

Our Level 3 Cambridge Technicals in Digital Media qualification is designed to help our students to achieve their potential and progress to the next stage of their lives, whether that’s Higher Education, an Apprenticeship or employment.

We have designed refreshing and exciting content that’s up to date, engaging, fit for purpose and suitable for the needs of our students.An extensive range of units such as Media products and audiences, Pre-production and planning, Social media and globalisation, Advertising and building your own Media portfolio.

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Drama and Theatre

• Exam Board: Edexcel
• Entry Requirements: Grade 5 in GCSE Drama, Grade 5 in English Literature or English Language

 

A-Level Drama and Theatre is for creative post 16 learners who have been successful in drama and have a keen interest in theatre. The course combines theatre theory and practice, assessing engagement with play texts, devising, and practical skills as an actor or designer. 

Students will perform both devised and scripted performances, conduct research, and apply practitioner methods and styles to their practical work.   Students will also study and practically explore two key texts, one contemporary and one traditional, which form a final written exam along with a live theatre evaluation.

Throughout this programme students gain experience and opportunities through their work with other practitioners and theatre companies through practical workshops and live theatre visits.  

This course supports the development of transferable skills including; communication and confidence in public speaking, building rapport and developing positive relationships through teamwork, negotiation, and time management.  

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EPQ

• Exam Board: AQA
• Entry Requirements: None

 

Universities have voiced specific concerns about new students starting courses with either limited academic independence or a lack of detailed knowledge and interest in their chosen subject; this is why many now welcome applicants who have completed the EPQ. The EPQ gives students the opportunity to explore a topic of interest in greater depth whether by writing an extended report or producing an artefact which can range from designing a website to completing a sculpture. Since its introduction, Weavers Academy students have enjoyed success at above national average year on year; as well as this students have placed great value in how well this qualification has prepared them not only for the demands of university study but also as an opportunity to study a topic of interest in greater depth. Whilst largely undertaken by Year 13 students, Year 12 students who have a particular interest are welcome to engage with the project during their first year. Further to this, the EPQ forms an integral part of the Academy’s Realising Opportunities Programme. Further details are available in the Widening Participation section of the prospectus.

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Graphic Communication

• Exam Board: OCR
• Entry Requirements: Grade 5 in Art and Design/Textiles/Photography

 

An exciting opportunity to study Graphic communication. This course is for A level students who are practical learners that have an interest in the creative industry of advertisement, design and photography.   

Students will research and experiment with new techniques. They will develop areas of study including image and typography, illustration, advertising, packaging, editorial design and experimental imagery. 

Students will explore relevant images, text, design and resources relating to Graphic Communicaton. 

Students will learn traditional methods such as drawing, printing and digital techniques to produce graphic images. 

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Geography

• Exam Board: AQA
• Entry Requirements: Grade 6 in GCSE Geography and grade 5 in Maths

 

Geography will excite your minds, challenge perceptions and stimulate your investigative and analytical skills.

Building on knowledge from GCSE the A-level focusses on our environment and the way that humans interact with it. From hazards to population, geography will engage your thought process.

The NEA (coursework) is an extended investigation into a geographical topic of your choice. There are four days of compulsory fieldwork that have taken students to the coast and cities on previous occasions.

All of this will help you provide your students with the knowledge, skills and enthusiasm sought by higher education and employers.

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Health and Social Care

• Exam Board: Edexcel
• Entry Requirements: Level 2 Merit or above in BTEC Tech Award Health & Social Care

 

If you are interested in people, wish to pursue a career in the care industry, or any future careers involving interacting with others, this might just be the course for you. 

Anyone who has studied health and social care at Level 2 will already have a basic understanding of the topics we will consider.  We build on the skills you have learnt, preparing you for university study, apprenticeships or directly into the world of work.  

If you haven’t studied HSC before, it is not a barrier to entry into this one A level equivalent course.You will be assessed by both coursework and examinations, so be prepared for hard but rewarding work throughout your two year programme of study. 

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History

• Exam Board: OCR
• Entry Requirements: Grade 6 in History GCSE or English

 

At Key Stage 5, our objective is to both cultivate and sustain students’ ardor for history while elevating their understanding of history as an evolving and multifaceted academic discipline. Our curriculum’s subject matter has been meticulously curated to fortify their profound contextual comprehension of pivotal historical transformations and contemporary issues, encompassing three rigorous areas of study:

• Britain 1930 – 1997
• The Cold War in Asia 1945 – 1993
• The Viking Age c. 790 – 1066.

Furthermore, students will undertake an individualized coursework endeavor centered on a historical topic of their selection, affording them the opportunity for scholarly exploration and analysis.

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Languages

• Exam Board: AQA
• Entry Requirements: Grade 6 in GCSE French/ Spanish

 

Choosing an A-level language will not disappoint you. This fascinating subject will provide you with skills and qualifications that are incredibly important tools to have, at the end will also open your world to a range of career possibilities while you have fun in the meantime.  

A-level languages build upon your existing knowledge gained at GCSE, with around four hours of lesson time a week dedicated to learning your language and independent study time, this is a fast-paced environment with noticeable improvements. The topics that you’ll cover are really varied so you not only greatly improve your language speaking ability, use of grammar, different tenses, and know more vocabulary – but you’ll also learn about culture, history, literature, society, the environment and lifestyle.

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Medical Science

• Exam Board: Eduqas
• Entry Requirements: Grade 5 in Combined or Triple Science 

 

The Level 3 Applied Diploma in Medical Science is for post 16 learners who have already enjoyed and been successful in science. The main purpose of the qualification is to provide learners with the knowledge, understanding and skills in key scientific principles to support progress to higher education or employment in areas of Medical Science, such as job roles in physiological sciences or clinical laboratory services. The qualification covers the key topic areas of health, physiology and disease, as well as providing the opportunity to study the areas of pharmacology, physiological measurement, clinical testing and medical research.

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Music

• Exam Board: RSL
• Entry Requirements: 6 or Merit grade and above in Music or Music Tech

 

The Level 3 Music course is for post 16 learners who have enjoyed their work in music or music technology. The main focus of the course is to provide learners with specialised skills, knowledge and understanding for their chosen interest and future education or career.  The units covered in this qualification are specific to you and your interests, and not dependant on what the rest of the class are doing.

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Photography

• Exam Board: OCR
• Entry Requirements: Grade 5 in Art and Design/  Textiles/ photography  

 

A level Photography builds on the knowledge and skills students have studied in Art, photography, textiles and media. This exciting course explores skills and understanding through a range of photographic media developing awareness of both historical and contemporary photographers relating to traditional and digital photography. 

Students will research and experiment with new techniques. They will develop areas of study including Portraiture, Moving image, Animation, Still life photography, Commercial photography and Landscape photography. 

Throughout this programme students gain experience and opportunities with other practitioners and universities, entering competitions and exhibitions. Students have continued their studies in gaming, further education photography, film and media and many more.

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Physics

• Exam Board: OCR
• Entry Requirements: Grade 77 in GCSE Combined Science or grade 7 in GCSE Physics coupled with at least a grade 6 in Mathematics

 

Physics explores the rules which govern our universe. At A-Level it builds on work students will have met at GCSE, but will introduce new concepts, ideas and techniques which are fundamental to understanding the world around us. Everything from the ultimate fate of the universe (astrophysics) to what happens on the smallest possible scales (quantum mechanics) is covered in the course. The techniques learned are applied to the real world throughout, including for X-Rays and PET scans work in hospitals and the dynamics of planets orbiting stars. Studying physics strengthens quantitative reasoning and problem-solving skills that are valuable in areas beyond physics. Students who study physics or engineering physics are prepared to work on forefront ideas in science and technology, in academia, the government, or the private sector. Physics A-Level is a well-respected qualification. There is a content-led approach to course delivery and the teaching of practical skills is fully integrated with the theoretical units.

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Psychology

• Exam Board: AQA
• Entry Requirements: Grade 5 in English, maths and science

 

Psychology as a subject aims to give students an understanding of human behaviour and how knowledge is gained. Over the two-year course, students will develop a broad knowledge and understanding of the core areas of psychology. In the first year, students will cover Cognitive and Developmental Psychology, Approaches in Psychology, Social Influence; as well as explanations for and treatments of psychopathology. Psychology research methods are studied in as a separate topic but also in conjunction with each topic area.In the second year of the course focuses further on the evaluation and analysis of theories and wider attempts to explain human behaviour. A selection of optional units are available and consequently, course delivery can be shaped by consensus of interest by the students. Psychology students at Weavers are currently studying Aggression, Relationships and Schizophrenia as their year 2 options.

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Sociology

• Exam Board: AQA
• Entry Requirements: Grade 5 English

 

Sociology offers you the engaging opportunity to gain knowledge and understanding of sociological thought and methods, as you study society and patterns of human relationships, including how and why these change over time.

There will be a focus on ‘looking beyond the obvious’ to explain why people make the choices they do.  In doing so, you will consider different explanations for peoples’ behaviour and learn how to evaluate these.  

Sociology provides a strong foundation for further study of a range of academic subjects at degree level, as what you learn can be applied to all aspects of society and it develops a variety of academic skills, especially thinking critically about the world. It has particular relevance for those careers which focus on developing an understanding of who we are and why we do the things we do, ranging from law, to social work, to teaching.

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Sport

• Exam Board: Edexcel
• Entry Requirements: Merit or above at GCSE will guarantee entry

 

The Level 3 BTEC Sport course is for post-16 students who have already enjoyed and completed with success, the BTEC Level 2 course. The main purpose of the qualification is to provide learners with the knowledge, understanding and skills to support progress to higher education or employment in areas within the sports industry. Such as job roles in sport science, nutrition, sports coaching and development or sport psychology.  The qualification covers the key topic areas of Anatomy and Physiology, Sports Leadership, Sports Psychology and application of fitness testing, as well as providing the opportunity to study sports leadership. 
Students study what makes a good leader, the different capacities of this role, and the leadership skills and techniques necessary when leading activities in different roles.

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Textiles

• Exam Board: AQA
• Entry Requirements: Grade 5 in Art and Design/    Textiles 

 

A level Art Textiles is for post 16 students who are creative and practical learners that have already enjoyed and been successful in Art, Textiles or Photography at GCSE. 

Students will develop their creativity and skills through a variety of practical activities that explores a range of textile media, processes and techniques. Students will examine both traditional and contemporary media as well as investigating artists and designers in response to their practical work. 

Areas of study include Fashion textiles, Costume design, Digital design, Printed and dyed materials, Constructed textiles, Interior design. Previous students have continued their studies in theatre design, Contour fashion, interior design and many more.

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