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Sixth Form Centre

Sixth Form Centre

Inspiring and challenging A Levels in a specialist Sixth Form Centre

You will usually choose three or four AS subjects in your first year, sitting exams for these at the end of the year and gaining AS standalone qualifications. You can then progress to the second year by enrolling onto the A Level, usually taking three subjects, although the most able learners are able to study four A Level subjects. If you have successfully completed four AS subjects, you have a choice as to which three subjects you will study in the second year. At the end of the second year you sit your A Level exams.

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A Levels and BTECs at Harlow College

Art A Level

Art A Level

Explore a range of media, processes and techniques. You will also explore images, artefacts and resources that relate to art from the past and present, both European and non-European. You will demonstrate your response to this art though practical and critical activities that show your understanding of different styles, genres and traditions. You will explore drawing using a variety of methods and media.

Biology AS/A Level

Biology AS/A Level

Biology is a good supporting subject for many other career paths, and is respected academically by universities for entry to a variety of degree courses. Biology can lead to a wide range of careers such as Medicine, Veterinary, Pharmaceutical, Environmental and Conservation work, teaching, cosmetic industries, food technology, and forensic science.

Business AS/A Level

Business AS/A Level

This course covers a wide range of business topics, provides a broad overview of how business works and will increase your knowledge and understanding of the modern business world. Topics covered include: business classifications; objectives and influences; business functions; finance; cash flow and insolvency; strategic management; marketing management and managing teams.

Chemistry AS/A Level

Chemistry AS/A Level

A Level Chemistry builds upon the knowledge gained at GCSE but explores it much further. It is a demanding and hugely rewarding subject that encourages deep learning and develops higher-order skills. This course covers a wide range of chemistry topics that build from the basics of formulae writing, calculating chemical quantities and atomic structure. We examine the application of these core principles, in the context of intermediate bonding and the effects of intermolecular forces and redox reactions, organic chemistry, equilibria, transition metals and organic nitrogen chemistry. This conceptual learning is underpinned by practical skills.

Computer Science AS/A Level

Computer Science AS/A Level

This course is intended to give students a technical grounding in the main aspects of computer systems: hardware, software, communications, and data. The development of programming concepts and skills is a central theme of the course. In addition, the impact of computers within society are also examined.

Economics AS/A Level

Economics AS/A Level

You will apply economic theory to support the analysis of current economic problems and issues. Students are encouraged to appreciate the interrelationships between microeconomics and macroeconomics. Economics is a highly regarded academic subject and students who study A Level Economics can progress to HE to further their studies in Economics or related disciplines.

English Language AS/A Level

English Language AS/A Level

This qualification builds upon what students have learnt already from GCSE looking specifically at genre, context, audience and purpose.

There are opportunities for students to demonstrate their engagement with language use in the real world, both written and spoken, including attitudes to current language debates regarding gender, power and technology.

This course will give students practical “tools” for the workplace, or higher education, and to become independent, critical readers and analysers of language use in the 21^st century.

English Literature A Level

English Literature A Level

If you love reading literature and want to understand how world-famous writers have crafted their work, then this course is perfect for you. We examine a range of plays, poetry and prose texts in depth, debate interpretations and discover new and interesting meanings. We explore the social, political, historical and cultural contexts and examine how language can offer a variety of meanings. The texts that are chosen for study are connected through a mainstream literary genre. The focus for Paper 1 is the universal theme of ‘Love Through the Ages’, and for Paper 2, ‘Texts in Shared Contexts’ – how does an author create, and an audience interpret, a text according to time and place.

Environmental Science AS/A Level

Environmental Science AS/A Level

The A Level Environmental Science course is designed to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of environmental issues and the scientific principles that underpin them. By exploring a diverse range of topics, students will gain the knowledge and skills necessary to analyse and address the complex challenges facing our planet today.

Geography AS/A Level

Geography AS/A Level

This subject combines aspects of human and physical geography. Students will look at how landscapes are formed and shaped, and begin to understand the value and vulnerability of the resources the Earth provides. Alongside this students will learn about how and why patterns in human settlement and migration have changed over the years, alongside aspects of social change such as rebranding and development of areas and consumerism patterns.

History AS/A Level

History AS/A Level

Henry Ford said that "History is more or less bunk". The aim of this History course is to develop your analytical skills through the interpretation and evaluation of evidence, so that you can judge for yourself. You will be challenged to make judgements on controversial issues and you'll gain an understanding of significant political, social, economic and religious events. History at Harlow College has been designed to offer a balanced and wide range of units from different time periods and countries that meet the interests of our learners.

Law AS/A Level

Law AS/A Level

The AS law course is the first year of a two year A Level Law qualification. While it is a stand-alone qualification, the majority of students will progress to the second year of law. The qualification is designed to develop knowledge and skills for the further study of law and related subjects, such as business. Learners will develop their knowledge of the law in England, and an awareness of law in a European and global context. The course will enable learners to know and understand the changing nature of law.

Law Handbook

Mathematics AS/A Level

Mathematics AS/A Level

The study of mathematics is intellectually challenging and forms the basis of many scientific disciplines. This course covers a variety of mathematics subjects, the specifics of which depend on the units completed.

Media Studies AS/A Level

Media Studies AS/A Level

The OCR AS Level Media Studies course is a comprehensive and engaging exploration of the multifaceted world of media. It is designed to provide students with a deep understanding of media in all its forms, from television and film to magazines, newspapers, and digital platforms. Throughout the course, students delve into key concepts such as media language, representation, audience, and institutions. They critically analyse media products, uncovering the techniques used to convey messages and shape perceptions. Additionally, the course places a strong emphasis on the social, cultural, and political contexts that influence media content and production. Students are encouraged to think critically, collaborate, and develop media literacy skills that are essential in our media-saturated society. The OCR AS Level Media Studies course equips students with the knowledge and analytical tools to navigate the ever-evolving media landscape and to become informed and critical consumers and producers of media content.

Photography A Level

Photography A Level

The OCR A Level Photography course is a comprehensive and engaging program designed to cultivate students' artistic and technical skills in photography. This course explores various aspects of photography, including historical developments, contemporary practices, and critical analysis. Students delve into a wide range of photographic genres, such as portrait, landscape, documentary, and experimental photography, allowing them to develop a diverse portfolio of work. The course emphasises the importance of creativity, visual storytelling, and critical thinking. Throughout the curriculum, students are encouraged to develop a deep understanding of photography's cultural, social, and ethical dimensions. Assessment includes both practical coursework, written components and a final creative final assessment, fostering a well-rounded appreciation for the art and science of photography.

Physics AS/A Level

Physics AS/A Level

Everything can be explained using physics. From the formation of stars and galaxies, to the behaviour of atoms, and even how guitar amplifiers work, all involve an understanding of physics.

This course will give you a thorough understanding on how the principles of physics can be used to describe the world around us, using both a theoretical and experimental approach. As mathematics is the language of physics, emphasis will be placed on developing mathematical models that can be used to not only explain the physics but provide verification of experimental results.

Politics AS/A Level

Politics AS/A Level

Using a wide variety of teaching and learning styles, including teacher input, discussions and activities, you'll have a chance to study the politics of the UK, political theory and comparative politics. The course will enable you to develop an understanding of the local, national, international and global dimensions of political activity.

Students benefit from a trip to Parliament, The Supreme Court and attend conferences and lecturers by guest speakers.

Psychology AS/A Level

Psychology AS/A Level

Psychology is the scientific study of mind and behaviour. Psychologists attempt to understand human beings through careful research, which allows them to present an explanation of why people think and behave in the ways they do. A Level Psychology encourages you to think like a scientist and provides an understanding of a wide range of human behaviour.

Sociology AS/A Level

Sociology AS/A Level

Studying sociology will give you an understanding of the social world around you and can lead to a varied and exciting career in areas such as criminal justice, youth work or even in public relations. A wide range of teaching and learning techniques are be used, including discussions, essay writing and presentations.