Subject Choices

Art

Art washes away from the soul the dust of everyday life" - Pablo Picasso

Exam board: AQA

Who is this suitable for?

A-level Art focuses on developing students' artistic skills and creativity. It is suitable for students who have a strong interest in art and are considering pursuing further education or a career in the arts.

It is important to note that A-level Art can be demanding and time-consuming, requiring a significant commitment to coursework and projects. Students should carefully consider their interests and goals when deciding whether to pursue A-level Art.

Where can it lead?

A-level Art is a foundation that can open doors to various pathways, but additional education and specialized training may be required to excel in specific careers. It can lead to careers in Art Therapy, Gallery and Museum Careers, Illustration and Comics, Graphic Design and Fashion Design.

Which other course(s) does this combine well with?

• Computer Science
• Economics
• English Literature
• French
• Latin
• Mathematics/Further Mathematics
• Biology
• Chemistry
• Psychology
• Spanish

 

Biology

It is not the strongest of the species that survives, nor the most intelligent, bit the one most responsive to change." - Charles Darwin

Exam board: AQA

Who is this suitable for?

A Level Biology is an exciting and intellectually stimulating course with a fantastic mix of different specialisms; botany, zoology, genetics, immunology, biochemistry, physiology and much more. If you are a talented biologist who wishes to study the subject to a far greater level of complexity and wish to pursue the sciences at higher education, then A Level Biology may be the subject for you. Biology is now a linear A- level so you will study a two-year course which will result in an award of an A level in Biology.

Where can it lead?

Developing your understanding of living organisms, from single-cells to human beings themselves, has a variety of practical applications. Whether you intend to become the next neurosurgeon or are interested in Biochemistry, Psychology, Physiotherapy or even veterinary science, then taking the first step is to study A Level Biology.

Which other course(s) does this combine well with?

• Art
• Chemistry
• Computer Science
• French
• Geography
• Latin
• Mathematics
• Physics
• Psychology
• Sociology
• Spanish

 

Chemistry

But still try for who knows what is possible!" - Michael Faraday

Exam board: AQA

Who is this suitable for?

Everything you see around you involves Chemistry in some way. Knowledge of Chemistry will give you a greater understanding of the world we live in. Chemistry is the study of substances, what they are made of, how they interact and what role they play in living things and the environment. You will develop a toolkit of reactions that will allow you to make the substances you need. Chemistry will allow you to identify unknown compounds and synthesise new chemicals whilst finding solution to problems that plague our world. Chemistry A-level is conceptually challenging and requires the ability to recall key factual knowledge, however there is now a greater emphasis in showing a deeper understanding of the subject and practical techniques.

Where can it lead?

To study medical, veterinary or pharmacological sciences, or chemical engineering at university, you must have A-level Chemistry. Other courses in engineering and sciences also welcome this subject. Increasingly scientists are finding themselves working in fields which involve all of the scientific disciplines. Chemistry graduates possess adaptability and an analytical cast of minds which makes them attractive to a very broad spectrum of employers.

Which other course(s) does this combine well with?

• Biology
• Computer Science
• Economics
• French
• Geography
• Latin
• Mathematics/Further Mathematics
• Physics
• Psychology
• Spanish

 

Classical Civilisation

What Classics has always is just teach how to think."
- Charles Darwin

Exam board: OCR

Who is this suitable for?

Classical Civilisation involves the study of Ancient Greece and Rome in its broadest sense, looking at the history, politics, philosophy and literature that became the foundation of Western Civilisation from the Ancient Greeks through to the present day. It is about where we come from and who we are, and is the basis of our ideas of law, constitution, myth, poetry and theatre, indeed all of our philosophical reflection.

If you are looking to apply to university, Classical Civilisation can be extremely useful. You not only acquire specific Classical knowledge, but also important transferable skills such as analysing sources and developing independent, critical and evaluative approaches. If you are interested in learning to formulate and support an argument and develop a valuable understanding of cultures very different to your own then this course is ideal. It will encourage you to think outside the box about what you want to do with the rest of your life, and expands your academic boundaries. It’s the Swiss Army Knife of subjects, and it is suitable for anyone who enjoys history and literature, or is just naturally intellectually curious.

Where can it lead?

Classical Civilisation is highly valued by universities as it is a challenging, academically rigorous subject and also fosters skills which are valued by employers. It is listed as a preferred A-Level by many top universities including Cambridge and UCL.

Classicists can be found in a range of fields such - not just teaching and museum/ library work. Other areas include law, journalism, politics and administration.

Which other course(s) does this combine well with?

• English Literature
• French
• Geography
• History
• Latin
• Spanish

 

Computer Science

Sometimes it is the people no one can imagine anything of who do the things no one can imagine." - Alan Turing

Exam board: AQA

Who is this suitable for?

Students who are naturally curious about computers, software, hardware, and emerging technologies will find Computer Science intriguing. Computer Science often involves breaking down complex problems into smaller, solvable parts. If you enjoy problem- solving and logical thinking, this subject may be a good fit. While not as math-intensive as some other subjects, Computer Science does require a reasonable level of mathematical aptitude, especially in areas like algorithms and data structures. Computer Science coursework often involves independent learning and problem- solving. Being self-motivated and willing to explore concepts beyond the classroom can be advantageous.

Where can it lead?

A-Level Computer Science provides a solid foundation for various career paths in the tech industry. The specific career you choose will depend on your interests, skills, and the level of education and specialization you pursue after completing your A-Levels. It is highly sought after in a wide variety of fields including the security services, banking, engineering and teaching, as well as fields such as scientific research, aeronautical engineering, game development and design, car manufacturing, robotics, AI, space exploration and cyber security.

Which other course(s) does this combine well with?

• Economics
• French
• Mathematics/Further Mathematics
• Physics
• Spanish

 

Economics

A society that puts quality before feedom will get neither. A society that puts freedom before quality will get a high degree of both." - Milton Friedman

Exam board: Edexcel

Who is this suitable for?

Economics involves analysing data, identifying trends, and making informed decisions based on economic principles. If you have a curiosity about topics like inflation, unemployment, taxation, international trade, economic development, and their impact on society, economics can be a rewarding subject. It involves explaining complex economic concepts and theories in a clear and concise manner. Strong communication skills, both in writing and verbally are required. While A-Level Economics doesn't require advanced mathematics, it does involve some quantitative analysis. A good grasp of basic math concepts is beneficial.

Where can it lead?

Economics can lead to a wide range of educational and career opportunities, as it equips students with valuable skills in economic analysis, critical thinking, and decision-making. Many students who study Economics at A-Level choose to continue their studies with a bachelor's degree.

Typical careers for A-Level ecomics include:

• economist
• charted accountant
• investment analyst
• management consultant
• civil servant

Which other course(s) does this combine well with?

• Computer Science
• Economics
• French
• Geography
• History
• Mathematics/Further Mathematics
• Politics
• Psychology
• Sociology
• Spanish

 

English Literature

The more that you read, the more things you will know. The more that you learn, the more place you'll go." - Dr Seuss

Exam board: AQA

Who is this suitable for?

We read to understand the world we live in. The study of literature at A-Level is a lively and an invigorating experience involving discussion, debate and high-powered thinking. As this course progresses you will become more confident and develop your individual opinions and ideas. You will explore human experience and discover different worlds through engaging with a wide range of literature: novels, short stories, poetry and drama.

Where can it lead?

English Literature is a highly regarded and sought-after academic subject by universities and employers as it enables access to a wide range of skills and degree courses. You may choose to go on to study English Literature as a single honours subject or in combination with a related subject such as Media, Journalism or Theatre Studies. Students who opt for A Level English Literature pursue varied careers in fields such as law, finance and management, engineering, social and medical sciences, arts, consultancy, publishing, politics, and the creative industries.

Which other course(s) does this combine well with?​

• Art
• Classical Civilisation
• French
• History
• Latin
• Psychology
• Sociology
• Spanish

French

Language shapes the way we think, and determines what we can think about." - Benjamin Lee Wharf

Exam board: AQA

Who is this suitable for?

The A-level French course will offer you the opportunity to study authentic materials from a wide range of sources such as newspapers, magazines, internet articles and TV and news videos. Through studying French, you will develop your linguistic abilities such as reading and listening comprehension and translation as well as your general research skills of a topic of your choice. You will learn to give a critical response to a work of literature and a film in the form of an essay and will cover all the main aspects of the grammar of the French language. If you enjoy looking for links and patterns in language, solving problems and making informed deductions about the form and meaning of words, and if you want to study a course in which you can explore aspects of history, politics, all while developing confident fluency in French, you will love learning A-level French.

Where can it lead?

Britain’s involvement with other countries has led to an ever-increasing demand for graduates with practical language skills. French is known as a ‘facilitating subject’ and so the best universities are always looking for students who have taken a language at A-Level. Language skills are in demand and there are many professions where languages are a necessary skill; in Finance, Law, Marketing, Technology, International Relations, International and Business Management.

Which other course(s) does this combine well with?​

• Economics
• English Literature
• Geography
• History
• Latin
• Politics
• Psychology
• Sociology
• Spanish

 

Geography

The study of geography is about more than just memorizing places on a map. It's about understanding the complexity of our world, appreciating the diversity of cultures that exist across continents." - Barack Obama

Exam boad: Edexcel

Who is this suitable for?

At A Level, you will continue to study a combination of human and physical geography, supplemented with a significant fieldwork project to further develop skills and a deeper understanding of the world. This is a complex and a dynamic subject. There is plenty of room for discussion and extended research which will help you become an independent thinker and learner.

Where can it lead?

Geography graduates are seen as employable due to their combination of transferable skills. It is also likely that geography graduates are taking up graduate roles that may appear more loosely related to the subject. Nearly one- fifth find work in business, finance and human resources, and more than 10% go into marketing, public relations and sales. Slightly more are employed in clerical work, while more and more are going into education, engineering and building.

Which other course(s) does this combine well with?

• Biology
• Chemistry
• Economics
• French
• History
• Latin
• Mathematics/Futher Mathematics
• Physics
• Politics
• Sociology
• Spanish

 

History

Success is walking from failure to failure with no loss of enthusiasm." - Winston Churchill

Exam board: AQA

Who is this suitable for?

History may be about the past, but it is a key subject which helps to understand the rapidly changing world in which we live in today. History teaches us to explore the possibilities of change. Through History, you will learn to appreciate and weigh up different points of view, examine the impact of decisions and explore an individual’s motivations. Studying history is ideal if you are interested in analysing, debating and discussing the causes of particular historical events and assessing the impact of the past upon present situations and they may impact the future.

Where can it lead?

History is a widely respected academic subject. The analytical and communicative skills developed in history are a key to success in today’s challenging and competitive work environment. Historians are very well prepared to work in careers which demand analytical skills and the ability make measured judgements. It can support entry to careers such as Journalism, Law, Finance, Research, Policy Development, Local and Central Government and Medicine.

Which other course(s) does this combine well with?

• Biology
• Classical Civilisation
• Economics
• English Literature
• French
• Geography
• Mathematics
• Politics
• Psychology
• Sociology
• Spanish

 

Latin

Latin allows you to adore words, take them apart, and find out where they came from." - Dr Seuss

Exam board: OCR

Who is this suitable for?

Latin is suitable for students who have a passion for Classics, Languages, Literature and History. Much of the English language stems from Latin. These origins go beyond vocabulary and include grammatical rules, too.

Latin may not be a requirement for most careers or university courses, but it can be an enriching and intellectually stimulating for those who have a genuine interest in the classical world and its languages. It is a highly respected subject in the eyes of universities and employers.

Where can it lead?

A-Level Latin can lead to various educational and career opportunities, although it is often pursued by students with a specific interest in classics, classical languages, or related fields.

A common path for A-Level Latin graduates is to pursue a bachelor's degree in classics, classical studies, or classical languages. These programs delve deeper into the classical world, including Latin and Greek languages, literature, history, and culture.

Latin is valuable for students interested in archaeology, as it provides access to classical texts and inscriptions found on archaeological sites. A background in Latin can enhance your understanding of ancient civilizations.

Latin proficiency can be an asset for working in museums, cultural heritage organizations, or libraries that focus on classical antiquity.

Which other course(s) does this combine well with?

• Classical Civilisation
• English Literature
• French
• History
• Mathematics
• Spanish

 

Mathematics

It is not knowledge, but the act of learning, not possession but the act of getting there, which grants the greatest enjoyment!" - Carl Friedrich Gauss

Who is this suitable for?

Mathematics can stimulate moments of pleasure and wonder, when you solve a problem for the first time, discover a more elegant solution, or notice hidden connections. The Maths A level course provides you with the essential tools required to study and understand abstract ideas in a wide range of contexts. Alongside Pure Mathematics, you will also study Mechanics, building on Newtonian ideas of motion and forces, and Statistics, which enables you to understand and interpret the real world through data analysis.

Where can it lead?

Mathematics will help you gain entry to many other subjects and pursue lots of different careers.

Maths supports subjects such as Physics, Chemistry, Engineering, IT, Economics, Psychology, Business and Biology.

Maths graduates go into careers such as Accounting, Medicine, Engineering, Forensic Pathology, Finance, Consultancy, Games Development and Scientific Research. The combination of a skills shortage and a growing need for maths skills means more employers are on the lookout for maths graduates.

Which other course(s) does this combine well with?

• Biology
• Chemistry
• Computer Science
• Economics
• French
• Further Mathematics
• Latin
• Psychology
• Physics
• Spanish

 

Further Mathematics

Artists realise that mathematicians have a way of looking at the world that can make them see things differently." - Marcus du Sautoy

Exam board: Edexcel

Who is this suitable for?

Further maths is a challenging and yet an exciting A-Level which has to be taken alongside A-Level mathematics. It allows you to deepen your knowledge of pure maths and refine previously learnt techniques whilst introducing new concepts such as matrices, complex numbers, hyperbolic functions, polar coordinates and differential equations.

Where can it lead?

Studying further maths helps you develop skills in logical thinking and statistical/strategic knowledge, all of which are valued by Universities and employers. Degrees which are normally linked to mathematics include; economics, medicine, engineering, accountancy and psychology.

Which other course(s) does this combine well with?

• Biology
• Chemistry
• Computer Science
• Economics
• Mathematics
• Psychology
• Physics

 

Physical Education

Physical fitness is not only one of the most important keys to a healthy body, it is the dynamic and creative intellectual activity." - John F Kennedy

Exam board: AQA

Who is this suitable for?

Physical Education is an academic subject, highly regarded by many universities. Anyone who has an enthusiastic interest in sport and is a keen participant or performer will enjoy the challenges that A Level Physical Education will present.

Where can it lead?

Supporting over 600,000 jobs in the UK, sport is a huge industry and this fast- growing sector now ranks among the top 15 mainstream activities in the economy hence there are more jobs to pursue than ever before.

Students can go on to work at the cutting edge of elite sport, supporting top athletes as sports scientists, sports psychologists, strength and conditioning coaches, sports therapists, coaches and in many other roles. On the other hand, students may opt to pursue a career in teaching, community coaching or working within the health sector. Opportunities in sport today are exciting and vast.

Which other course(s) does this combine well with?

• Biology
• Chemistry
• Economics
• French
• Geography
• Mathematics
• Physical Education
• Physics
• Psychology
• Sociology
• Spanish

 

Physics

One never notices what has been done; one can only see what remains to be done." - Marie Curie

Exam board: OCR (A)

Who is this suitable for?

Physics is a fascinating and rewarding subject for those of you with an inquiring mind. It is also the basis on which all forms of technology are built. Being the central science, it is the study of nature at its most fundamental level. Broadly speaking, it is really the study of all that is non-living (with Chemistry technically being a large branch of Physics). The course seeks to promote sound understanding and application of physical concepts along with self- reliance in tackling independent tasks, both theoretical and practical.

Where can it lead?

Physics A Level can lead to studying this subject at higher education in its own right, but it is also commonly studied by those wishing to go on to engineering courses, medical courses, architecture or degrees in other science areas and it is a widely accepted qualification for any area which requires numeracy or logical thought. Physics is well integrated with knowledge of other sciences such as chemistry, geology and mathematics and is an excellent choice if you are interested in pursuing a career in maths or finance or even if you just want your CV to stand out.

Which other course(s) does this combine well with?

• Biology
• Chemistry
• Computer Science
• Economics
• French
• Geography
• Mathematics/Further Mathematics
• Physical Education
• Spanish

 

Politics

The care of human life and happiness, and not their destruction, is the first and only object of good government." - Thomas Jefferson

Exam board: Edexcel

Who is this suitable for?

Politics is an academic A Level which especially complements History and other humanities related subjects. Politics is particularly likely to suit students who have an interest in the world around them and want to know more about the society they live in, how it works and how it could work. Politics is the way in which a society or a group manages different views, conflicts and disagreements. We look at these aspects through studies of UK and global politics, examining the political structures and issues of debate both in the UK and around the world. You will develop research and communication skills through a balanced handling of political questions, an interest in citizenship, an up-to-date knowledge of current affairs and an understanding of the political ideas that have shaped the world.

Where can it lead?

Politics students go on to study a wide variety of subjects at university. It provides an ideal basis for careers in Journalism, Law, Research, Policy Development, Local and Central Government as well as Politics.

Which other course(s) does this combine

• Economics
• English Literature
• French
• Geography
• History
• Mathematics
• Psychology
• Sociology
• Spanish

 

Psychology

"If the only tool you have is a hammer, you tend to see every problem as a nail." - Abraham Maslow

Exam board: AQA

Who is this suitable for?

Psychology is the scientific study of the mind and behaviour. You will gain experience about people’s behaviour through scientific theory, research skills, critical writing as well as mathematical evaluation. This stimulating subject combines fascinating content with a rigorous and scientific approach to investigation. This course offers an engaging and effective introduction to Psychology. You will learn the fundamentals of this subject and develop skills valued by higher education and employers, including critical analysis, independent thinking and research skills.

Where can it lead?

Psychology is a popular degree at university and due to the applied nature of the subject it can enhance prospects in many different careers such as public relations, human resources, marketing and nursing. Qualified Psychologists also follow careers in Counselling, Education, Forensic Science and Health.

Which other course(s) does this combine well with?

• Biology
• Chemistry
• English Literature
• French
• Geography
• Mathematics/Further Mathematics
• Physics
• Sociology
• Spanish

 

Sociology

My students often ask me, 'What is sociology?' And I tell them, 'It's the study of the way in which human beings are shaped by things that they don't see." - Sam Richards

Exam board: OCR

Who is this suitable for?

Sociology delves into human behavior, group dynamics, and the impact of social structures on individual lives. It explores social inequalities, discrimination, and social justice issues. It also addresses global issues, such as migration, globalization, and cultural diversity. If you are naturally curious about how society works, how people interact, and the causes of social phenomena, A- Level Sociology can be a great fit.

If you have a passion for advocating for human rights, social justice, and equality, A-Level Sociology can provide a strong foundation for understanding and addressing social issues.

Where can it lead?

A-Level Sociology can lead to a variety of educational and career opportunities, as it equips students with valuable skills in critical thinking, research, analysis, and an understanding of complex social dynamics. It may not be a strict requirement for many careers, but it provides a valuable foundation and perspective on social issues, which can be advantageous in various fields such as social work, counseling, psychology, politics, journalism and law.

Which other course(s) does this combine well with?

• Economics
• English Literature
• French
• Geography
• History
• Mathematics
• Politics
• Psychology
• Spanish

Spanish

Nunca renuncies a un sueño por el tiempo que se requiere para lograrlo. El tiempo pasará de todas formas." - Earl Nightingale

Exam board: AQA

Who is this suitable for?

Studying Spanish is more than learning a language to go on holiday. It is linked to the understanding of societies, cultures and the economy. In other words, it will help you to understand the world you live in. This course offers you the opportunity to become competent in the language but, equally as important, it will provide you with skills that employers look for: critical thinking and problem solving, excellent memory capacity, a global outlook, intercultural competence, a great team player. A-Level Spanish offers you the opportunity to study authentic materials from a wide range of sources such as newspapers, magazines, internet articles and TV and news videos. You will develop your linguistic abilities such as reading and listening comprehension and translation.

Where can it lead?

There are many misconceptions about where studying a language might take you. Some people think that the only jobs available to you if you study Spanish will be teaching, translating or interpreting. In our global society the study of a modern language can lead to an improvement in employment prospects in a wide variety of careers, both in this country and abroad.

Which other course(s) does this combine well with?

• Economics
• English Literature
• French
• Geography
• History
• Latin
• Politics
• Psychology
• Sociology