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  • Further Mathematics

    A Level Further Mathematics add to basket Awarding Body Hours Per Week UCAS Points Pass Rates Campus Level Edexcel 4.5 A* = 56 100% Filton 3 100% A* - C If you are looking to study A-Levels please apply for up to three subjects. Simply add each course to your basket or visit our Apply section . Summary Do you have a real passion for Mathematics? Are you thinking about a career or a degree in Mathematics, engineering, the physical sciences, or computing? Do you want to use your ability in Maths to obtain a fourth subject to help distinguish yourself to employers and universities? If the answer to any of these questions is ‘yes,’ then Further Mathematics is the subject for you! A Level Further Mathematics is taken as a fourth subject, alongside A Level Mathematics. You will choose two other subjects to complete your study programme. Further Mathematics develops and hones the skills learnt in A level Mathematics. Further Mathematics is studied from the Edexcel board. You will sit the AS exams at the end of the first year and then progress to the A Level in the second year which has four exam papers. Entry Requirements A minimum of five GCSEs at grade 4 and above, including English Language and a grade 8 in GCSE Maths. Learners taking Further Mathematics must also study A Level Mathematics. Further Mathematics can only be studied as a fourth subject. Course Content You will learn a combination of Core Pure Maths, Further Statistics and Further Mechanics in both years further developing your skills and knowledge in key areas of maths. Year 1 1. ‘Core Pure Maths’: You will construct proofs using mathematical induction, deal with complex numbers and develop the use of Argand diagrams. You will use matrices to represent transformations and further develop your use and understanding of algebra, calculus, and vectors. 2. ‘Further Statistics’: You will develop further skills in discrete probability distributions and explore Poisson and binomial distributions. You will extend ideas of hypothesis testing and use of Chi Squared Test. 3. ‘Further Mechanics’: You will explore principles such as momentum and impulse, develop an understanding of kinetic and potential energy and the principle of conservation of mechanical energy. You will additionally investigate elastic collisions in one dimension through direct impact of elastic spheres. Year 2 1. ‘Core Pure Maths’: You will further develop your skills with algebra including the Maclaurin series and evaluating improper integrals whilst extending your skills in calculus by differentiating inverse trigonometric functions and developing further skills for integration. 2. ‘Further Statistics’: You will build on your knowledge from the previous year and explore geometric and negative binomial distributions, hypothesis testing and the central limit theorem. You will also explore the use of probability generating functions of the negative binominal, geometric, binomial and Poisson distributions. 3. ‘Further Mechanics’: This unit will also build on your knowledge of mechanics from the previous year with a further focus on momentum as a vector, elastic strings and springs. You will also explore elastic collisions in two dimensions and how kinetic energy is lost through impact. Progression Routes Further Mathematics is an ideal subject to take if you are looking for a career in maths, the sciences or engineering. A useful subject combination to take includes Maths, Further Maths, Physics, and another subject as similar themes are studied in both subjects. Learners who take Further Maths often have the entry criteria for university study lowered. Some of the most interesting and well-paid careers revolve around Maths. Careers in finance, medicine, business, and engineering are all open to you with a background in Maths, as are careers in technology – Maths being at the very core of all new technological developments. This makes Maths a natural fit for you to take alongside subjects such as the Sciences or Business and Economics. Additional Learning Opportunities If you study Further Mathematics, you can benefit from our maths mentor programme where older learners and dedicated maths mentors help to support and guide newer learners in the Sixth Form. When you reach the second year you can also become a mentor yourself helping to further build a UCAS application. The maths department also run a drop-in maths clinic twice a week for you to obtain bespoke support and guidance with your mathematical problems. You will also get the opportunity to enter for the Senior UK Maths Challenge and some of our learner's progress to the British Mathematical Olympiad. We support those who wish to study Maths or a Maths related subject at Oxford, Cambridge or at Russell Group universities, and you can get bespoke support with your application through our Honours Programme. You could take part in one of the problem-solving courses at Bath/Bristol University or engage with university academics and employers in our STEM@Lunch and SGS Sixth Talks series. "SGS Sixth was an amazing experience for me. My teachers were always on hand to help with any of my problems and ensure I achieved my maximum potential." Previous Student Student Support Our Team Find out more about our outstanding staff and departments, dedicated to providing you with outstanding learning and support. Careers Advice Academies

  • Chemistry

    A Level Chemistry add to basket Awarding Body Hours Per Week UCAS Points Pass Rates Campus Level OCR 4.5 A* = 56 90% Filton 3 If you are looking to study A-Levels please apply for up to three subjects. Simply add each course to your basket or visit our Apply section . Summary Are you interested in a career in healthcare, engineering, energy, or consumer products? Have you wondered what makes up the world around us and how these interact with each other and with us? Are you interested in research, experimentation and developing problem solving and analytical skills? If the answer to any of these questions is yes, then Chemistry is the subject for you! Chemistry is the study of matter: what are substances made of, how they interact and what role they play in living organisms and other processes. Chemistry is all around us, from the air that we breathe, to the food we eat and the clothes that we wear. It develops analytical and evaluative skills gained from practical experiments and exploration of theories. This subject is taught on the OCR exam board. You will sit the A Level exams at the end of your second year. There are three exams and you will also need to complete a minimum of 12 practical activities over the course of the A Level. Entry Requirements A minimum of five GCSEs at grade 4 and above, including English Language. A grade 6 in GCSE Maths plus a grade 7 in GCSE Chemistry or 7-7 in GCSE Combined Science. We will accept learners with a grade 6 in GCSE Maths and GCSE Chemistry or 6-6 GCSE Combined Science if they pass an entrance assessment. Course Content Year 1 In the first year you will study four units. 1. ‘Development of practical skills in chemistry’: This unit develops the practical and fundamental skills to be successful in chemistry. You will be shown how to solve problems in a practical context, how to use different apparatus and equipment and how to analyse and evaluate results. 2. ‘Foundations in chemistry’: In this unit you will explore the basics of chemistry, such as atomic structure and relative masses, the formulae of ionic compounds, interaction between acids and bases, different types of bonding and how they affect the physical properties of substances. 3. ‘Periodic table and energy’: This unit examines inorganic and physical chemistry and how energy use works in everyday life and industrial processes and the relationship of this to sustainability. You will explore the periodic table and how it is structured and why, you will examine Group 2 metals and redox reactions, look at the halogen elements and develop skills in qualitative analysis and physical chemistry including enthalpy changes, reaction rates and chemical equilibrium. 4. ‘Core organic chemistry’: The last unit of the first year introduces organic chemistry and its application to everyday life. The unit also provides you with a knowledge of the important chemical ideas that underpin the study of organic chemistry, such as nomenclature and formulae representation, functional groups, organic reactions and isomerism, aliphatic hydrocarbons, alcohols and haloalkanes. The unit will also develop practical skills and analytical techniques to provide evidence of structural features in molecules. Year 2 In the second year you will study two units: 5. ‘Physical chemistry and transition elements’: This unit explore further the study of energy, reaction rates and equilibria, and the periodic table. You will look at rate equations, orders of reaction and equilibrium constants. You will also examine lattice enthalpy and Born-Haber cycles as well as entropy, free energy, electrochemical cells and transition elements. 6. ‘Organic chemistry and analysis’: The last unit further develops understanding of organic chemistry, exploring aromatic compounds, carboxylic acids and esters, nitrogen-based compounds and polymers. You will also further develop your analytical and practical skills in synthesising liquid and solid organic compounds. Progression Routes Studying Chemistry will allow you to progress onto a variety of routes. Combining Chemistry with other sciences, such as Biology and Physics allows you to apply for Medicine and healthcare related courses. Combining Chemistry with Applied Science, or Forensic Science allows you to focus your skills for real-world laboratory-based employment options. A combination of Geography and Chemistry also opens opportunities for Geology and earth sciences-based careers and degrees. Additional Learning Opportunities Learners studying Chemistry are encouraged to join either our Science Academy or Medical Academy based on your career direction. In these academies you will further develop the skills and learning in these subjects to really make your UCAS application stand out to universities. You also have the opportunity to take part in our regular STEM@Lunch talks where various academies come in and speak on a variety of different science-based topics. In addition, you will also be able to spend a day doing practical work in ChemLabs at Bristol University, using their bespoke advanced equipment and apparatus. "SGS Sixth was an amazing experience for me. My teachers were always on hand to help with any of my problems and ensure I achieved my maximum potential." Previous Student Student Support Our Team Find out more about our outstanding staff and departments, dedicated to providing you with outstanding learning and support. Careers Advice Academies

  • Politics

    A Level Politics add to basket Awarding Body Hours Per Week UCAS Points Pass Rates Campus Level Edexcel 4.5 A* = 56 91% Filton 3 73% A*-C If you are looking to study A-Levels please apply for up to three subjects. Simply add each course to your basket or visit our Apply section . Apply now for 2025/2026, simply add the course to your basket to start the enrolment process. Summary Are you interested in how our country works, what different political parties stand for and how relations with different countries operate? Do you know what the difference between a written and unwritten constitution is and how this explains some of the political turmoil in the United Kingdom in recent years? Would you like to know more about how to make your voice heard over the fundamental issues of our times; such as climate change or equality? Are you interested in a career in the civil service, law, or journalism? If the answer to any of these questions is ‘yes,’ then Politics is the subject for you! A Level Politics is the study of the structures of government and the concepts behind it. Over the two year A Level you will gain a thorough understanding of how our government works, the make-up of our country, elections and what each political party believes in and the principles they seek to introduce. You will also gain an understanding of politics on the international stage and how problems and issues are discussed and dealt with in different ways. You will also explore theory and thinkers behind key political ideology including Liberalism, Conservatism, Socialism and Feminism. This A Level is taught from the EDEXCEL board over two years. You will sit three papers at the end of your second year and the subject is fully exam assessed. Entry Requirements A minimum of five GCSEs at grade 4 and above, including Maths. A grade 5 or above in English Language. Course Content Year 1 In the first year you will study two units. 1. ‘UK Politics’: In this unit you will gain an understanding of what democracy is and what systems we use in the United Kingdom for both direct and representative democracy. You will look at the extension of voting rights and how human rights have been developed. You will gain an understanding of the different political parties and their beliefs in the United Kingdom. You will examine referendums and our voting systems and analyse their strengths and weaknesses. Lastly you will look at how voting behaviour is influenced by the media and critically evaluate what happened in the last three general elections. 2. ‘UK Government’: This unit focuses on the structures of government in the United Kingdom and explores the nature of the unwritten constitution, how Parliament works, the powers of the executive and the relationship between the two. It also explores other institutions such as the Supreme Court and analyses where sovereignty in the UK political system lies. You will gain a thorough understanding of the make-up of the UK Political system and processes for making laws. Year 2 In the second year you will study two more units. 3. ‘Comparative Global Politics’: This unit explores the global political system. You will study globalisation and the role of the state in a global economy as well as global governance institutions, such as the United Nations, International Monetary Fund and World Trade Organisation. You will also look at key issues such as human rights, environmental concerns, and regionalism before finally looking at issues in international relations and power blocs. 4. ‘Core and Non-core Political Ideologies’: In this unit you will look at the key concepts and ideas behind the main political ideologies in the United Kingdom of Liberalism, Conservatism and Socialism. You will explore how these concepts have evolved over time and who the key thinkers in these ideologies are. You will also study the ideology of feminism in the same manner to explore how this ideology has developed and changed over time. Progression Routes Studying politics is useful for a range of careers that require an understanding of the political structures in our country and worldwide. This includes journalism, the civil service, work in the charity sector, academia or in business. Many subjects are good combinations for Politics, including History and Law due to the obvious similarities in content, Geography due to the global politics unit and sections on issues and debates. English Language and Literature are also good subjects, due to the focus on essay writing and constructing arguments. Economics and Philosophy are also useful subjects, especially if you wish to go onto to do a PPE based course at university. Additional Learning Opportunities There are many opportunities to extend your learning outside the classroom for Politics. This includes a trip to Parliament to see the seat of our democracy. We have also previously held a husting in the Sixth Form for candidates for the Filton and Bradley Stoke constituency in the general election. Politics learners may find it useful to join our Social Academy which organises cultural awareness and political events throughout the year and would benefit from membership of our Legal, Sociology or History Academies. "SGS Sixth was an amazing experience for me. My teachers were always on hand to help with any of my problems and ensure I achieved my maximum potential." Student Support Our Team Find out more about our outstanding staff and departments, dedicated to providing you with outstanding learning and support. Careers Advice Academies

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Blog Posts (16)

  • SGS Sixth celebrates another year of impressive A Level and BTEC results

    SGS Sixth in Bristol has once again achieved an impressive set of A Level results, with 75% of our learners attaining grades A*-C. The college's drive to improve the lives of young people living in our communities along with the dedication from our staff to deliver excellent teaching and learning has meant that results at the Sixth Form have improved once again. Some notable accomplishments were seen in Maths (70.6% A*/A), Psychology (77.5%A*-B) and Biology (89.5% A*-C) with A*’s being achieved in Biology, Criminology, Economics, Further Mathematics, History, Maths, Psychology, Physical Education and Sociology. The overall pass rates were also strong, with (97.3%) achieving their full qualifications. There was also excellent performance in our BTEC courses all students achieving passing grade profiles and 60% of learners achieving Distinction and Distinction star profiles. Behind these figures lie the remarkable stories of individual achievements against back drops of ill-health and barriers to learning.  The achievements accomplished by each learner demonstrates not only their academic ability, commitment and ambition but also reflects the outstanding guidance and support provided by the teachers within the Sixth Form and the wider college including our wellbeing and study support teams. As these students step forward to embrace their academic futures, many are poised to enter some of the country's most prestigious universities to study the likes of Medicine and Law. Alongside Higher Education destinations, several of our learners have secured degree apprenticeships through Ernest Young, PWC and Balfour Beatty.   A Level learner Isaac Lee, is celebrating today after receiving an A* in Maths, an A in Further Maths and an A in Economics. He is now off to the University of Bristol to study Economics. He said: “I am very happy with my grades. I would really like to become a financial advisor and this is the first step in my journey.”   Another A Level learner, Ahmed Elhjaje is elated today after learning he has been accepted to the University of the West of England to study Sociology. Ahmed today received a B in Sociology, an A in Philosophy and an B in Law. He commented: “I have been stressing out so much but I am so happy. The teachers have been amazing and I don’t think I could have done it without them.  I can’t wait to start University and the next steps in my journey.”   SGS Sixth is more than just grades and percentages; it's a place where individual talent is nurtured, and students are allowed to pursue a wide range of extracurricular activities, including over 30 Academies and access to professional-level sports facilities. This academic year, our learners have had the opportunity to play high levels of sport alongside their studies as well as engage in academies such as SAGE and Mastercard classes, Science, Creative Writing, STEM lecture from local partners including the NHS Blood and Transplant Service. Head of SGS Sixth (Pastoral), Gary Parsons, commented,  "Our student's achievements are a testament to their hard work and perseverance, as well as the tireless efforts of our teachers. SGS Sixth takes immense pride in providing a nurturing environment enabling students to flourish academically and personally as well as providing opportunities to explore avenues of interest through our academies programme."   Head of SGS Sixth (Academic), Becky Riddell said “ I am delighted with the achievements of each and every one of our learners, the grades they have achieved and the distance each learner has travelled is testament to their hard work, dedication and commitment to their studies at SGS. We wish each and every one, the best, on their future travels and endeavours. It is important to acknowledge our fantastic curriculum teachers and wider support teams, including our Heads of Year and wellbeing team, who have contributed to the academic success through their 121s, consistent and unwavering support and their extensive and exceptional subject expertise and pastoral care. Without them, we wouldn’t be where we are today.” SGS Sixth continues to welcome student applications and has an impressive range of academic, technical and vocational qualifications to meet the student’s needs. To apply via the late applicant advice and guidance sessions, please visit  www.sgscol.ac.uk  for further details. The first A-Level Open Day for 2024-25 is the 26th of September from 5:30pm-8pm.

  • SGS Sixth learners shortlisted for Bristol Young Heroes Awards

    We are extremely proud to announce that two of our learners, Rowan Graham and Mollie Williams have been shortlisted as finalists for the Bristol Young Heroes Awards. These awards aim to shine a light on those who have overcome difficult circumstances, made a difference to the lives of others, or achieved something extraordinary. Rowan is a finalist for the Sports Hero Award due to his achievements in Taekwondo. He has combined being a two-time world champion alongside achieving his GCSEs and A Levels at SGS Sixth. Molly is a finalist for the Superhero Award for her work with the Teenage Cancer Trust and her aspirations to continue her studies. The award ceremony will be taking place on the 5th July with Evie Hemmings who nominated Rowan and Chelsey Price who nominated Mollie attending a nominees reception at City Hall in Bristol on the 14th May. We wish Rowan and Mollie the very best of luck! at the awards ceremony and are extremely proud of them both.

  • SGS Sixth learners attend UCAS Discovery Event

    On the 23rd April all of our Year 1 learners were given the opportunity to attend a UCAS Discovery Event in Newport, Wales. Around 200 of our learners attended and were able to speak to a range of different universities, apprenticeship providers in addition to listening to talks about all aspects of the UCAS process with UCAS advisors. This marks the first stage for our Year 1 learners on thinking about their future plans. They were able to ask lots of questions about the differences between studying in a city versus an out-of-town campus, what it is like studying at a Russell Group university, and find out which universities specialise in specific subjects. They were also able to speak to apprenticeship providers as well for alternative routes after Sixth Form. Over the next few months in the Sixth Form, Year 1 learners will continue their journey to formulate their future plans with help identifying which universities or apprenticeships they would like to apply for, support with creating a UCAS account and help with constructing personal statements.

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