A Level
A Level
Cambridge International AS and A Levels are internationally benchmarked qualifications providing excellent preparation for university education. They are taken in over 125 countries. Cambridge International AS and A Level qualifications are widely recognised and valued by universities and employers alike. Some US universities give up to a year’s credit as a result. Every year, thousands of Cambridge International A-Level students gain places at good universities worldwide – including the UK, USA, Canada, Hong Kong, Korea, New Zealand and Australia.
The A-Level course is designed to be taught over two years and builds on the knowledge and skills developed at IGCSE. At the end of Grade 11 students take AS Level examinations, which assess the first half of the course, and in May/June of Grade 12 they take the remaining examinations. Examinations are set and marked by external examiners from Cambridge and therefore provide rigorous and reliable results. Students receive a Grade from A*-E. Most students study 3-4 subjects at A Level. Top universities require students to achieve AAB- A*AA at A Level.
A Levels are advanced level courses that require a high-level of subject knowledge. The majority of our A-Level teachers have a degree in the A-Level subject they offer. The availability of A-Level subjects depends on teachers with the required qualifications.
Our current Grade 12 students (class of 2016) will be the last cohort only able to study AS Levels. Future cohorts will be able to continue to A Level in Grade 12. A Level courses currently available:
Mathematics
Students study four subject areas within this course: Pure Maths 1, Pure Maths 3, Mechanics and Statistics.
Assessment: 4 x written examinations (2 in Grade 11, 2 in Grade 12)
Biology
Students build on knowledge from IGCSE and cover a range of human, plant and animal biology topics in depth. They also develop their practical skills to a high level.
Assessment: Grade 11: 2 x written examination, 1 practical examination, Grade 12: 2 x written examinations
Chemistry
Students build on organic and inorganic topics from IGCSE. They are also expected to use advanced mathematical calculations and develop advanced laboratory skills.
Assessment: Grade 11: 2 x written examination, 1 practical examination, Grade 12: 2 x written examinations
Physics
The course places emphasis on the understanding of concepts and the application of physics ideas in novel contexts as well as on the acquisition of knowledge. The course encourages creative thinking and problem-solving skills.
Assessment: Grade 11: 2 x written examination, 1 practical examination, Grade 12: 2 x written examinations
History
Students focus on European history from the 18th- 20th centuries. They are required to make connections between historical events and share their own interpretations. They also analyse primary and secondary sources.
Assessment: Grade 11: 2x written examinations, Grade 12: 2 x written examinations
Geography
Students study topics in both human and physical geography. They study specific case studies in order to deepen their understanding.
Assessment: Grade 11: 1 written examination (3 hours), Grade 12: 2 x written examinations
Economics
Students are introduced to economic models and concepts. They are required to interpret statistical data and apply economic ideas.
Assessment: Grade 11: 2 x written examinations, Grade 12: 2 x written examinations
English Literature
Students study drama, prose and poetry from a range of eras and literary traditions. They develop their analysis and extended writing skills.
Assessment: Grade 11: 2 x written examinations, Grade 12: 2 x written examinations
Thinking Skills
Students are changed to use logic and problem solving skills to solve mathematical problems as well as analysing argument and evidence in order to critically evaluate what they read.
Assessment: Grade 11: 2 x written examinations, Grade 12: 2 x written examinations
Global Perspectives
Students learn to think critically and form independent opinions about a range of current affairs. They also develop their research, presentation and team work skills.
Assessment: Grade 11: 1 x written examination, 1 research essay, 1 presentation, Grade 12: extended project