Most students will be doing 3 linear A level courses plus EPQ, CeFS, core maths or the BTEC/CTEC equivalent, during Year 12. They will also be able to follow enrichment activities. Students will pick something from each of the 4 blocks. The precise make up of each student’s courses and timetable will be finally decided in light of GCSE results and in discussion with the Director Sixth Form. To start A level or Level 3 BTEC courses students will need the appropriate Attainment 8 score from their GCSEs including grade 5 for both GCSE English and Maths. (Students with grade 4 will also be considered but their course choice will be more limited.) If the A level is a subject taken at GCSE the student should have a 5 or more in that subject. For Maths and Science A levels students will need a grade 7. To start a BTEC course along with the appropriate Attainment 8 score from GSCE students will also need an aptitude for coursework.
Level 3 BTEC and A Levels
- Art, Craft & Design
- Biology
- Business Studies
- Business BTEC (Extended Diploma)
- Certificate in Financial Studies (CeFS, 1 year course)
- Chemistry
- Computer Science
- Core Maths (1 year course)
- Drama and Theatre Studies
- Economics
- English Literature
- Extended Project Qualification (EPQ, 1 year course)
- History
- Mathematics
- Media Studies
- Physical Education
- Physics
- Politics
- Psychology
- Religious Studies (Philosophy)
- Sociology
Enrichment Subjects offered at JRCS
Subjects that are currently on offer in the enrichment block at Jo Richardson are:
- Duke of Edinburgh Silver or Gold Award – opportunity to advance skills already gained on expeditions for the Bronze Award. Those that have not done a Bronze should see Miss Montague if interested.
- University and Apprenticeship Advice, Guidance and Support – we provide time and expertise to support students as they research and plan for their post 18 options. With partners in elite universities we support students to explore their options and maximise their potential to follow their chosen path.
- Enterprise – an opportunity to create, plan and run a business.
- Sport/ Fitness activities – either individually or as a group, students can organise sporting activities either on school site (in agreement with the PE Department) or at a Leisure Centre. There are football, basketball, 10 pin bowling and table tennis competitions.
- Department Volunteering – students can assist a department by supporting a lesson, club on a weekly basis. They may wish to also help out at Open Evenings.
- Library Volunteering – similar to department volunteering but based in the library. Students would have particular responsibility in helping to develop the new Careers Library section.
- Volunteering outside School – students may already be involved in volunteering outside of school – this can count towards their enrichment hours. Students may wish to develop their volunteering to help the community and can gain help from staff to do this.
- First Give – working with others to raise money for local charities and bid for funding from Jack Petchey.
SPANGLE (Student Participation & kNowledge Gaining Learning Experiences) programme
Our SPANGLE programme focuses on developing the character of our students (character is key) to ensure they are well-rounded individuals that have the capacity to think critically, understand the local context and the wider context of the society they live in. The programme mirrors the JRCS ACHIEVE principles with the aim to promote success for all in their future pathways. This is achieved through a 2-hour programme each week.
In Year 12 the following themes will be covered;
- Transition from GCSE to Level 3
- Mindset for Level 3 students
- RSE
- Community and Social Action
- Life skills
- Health and Safety
- HSB
- RS
- Mental Health & Well-being
- Careers and future pathway preparation
In Year 13, the following themes will be covered;
- Careers and future-proofing (pathways, destinations, CV writing)
- UCAS, apprenticeship and job applications
- University student finance
- RSE
- Mental health & Well-being
- RS
The spangle programme may be adapted to respond to local and global events in order to educate and raise student awareness.