Your Timetable
Core Programme
Core activities are taken alongside your chosen subjects. These are:
Preparation for Working Life
As an integral part of the tutorial programme students on Level 3 programmes will gain a certificate in Preparation for Working Life. You will explore and debate contemporary issues related to life, the world of work and opportunities beyond sixth form. Key areas include: Healthy Lifestyles, The Changing World of Work, Economic and Financial Management and Personal Awareness. The tutorial programme will be tailored to the student's academic level of study.
Personal Safety Awareness
Students on Level 2 programmes will gain a certificate in Personal Safety Awareness. This qualification is designed to raise awareness of everyday situations that may affect your personal safety. Content includes: Skills in Handling Conflict Situations, Ways of Minimising Risks and Developing Safety Routines. Assessment is by short written activities throughout the course and a multiple choice test.
Careers Module
Level 1 students will follow a careers education programme in tutor periods which aids progression to Level 2 studies or employment. As part of the programme you will conduct a skills audit, gain interview experience, and write a C.V.
Additional Learning Support
The College has a dedicated team who provide additional learning support. For more information see the Learning Support page or if you have any concerns about specific requirements please contact Marion Welton, Manager for Additional Learning Support, via reception.
Spiritual Journey Programme
Spiritual Journey is a programme of weekly discussions carefully guided by experienced theologians. The programme is designed to meet the needs of all students. Each programme covers a range of issues reflecting the programme title. You are encouraged to discuss and evaluate ideas, treating one another with respect. The programme is compulsory for full time students. The main aim of the course is to develop the whole person, and in so doing develop the spiritual dimension within each individual. The course does not equate the spiritual with any particular religious tradition but the Catholic Christian tradition is the main tradition referred to throughout the programme.
Tutorial Support
See the Student Support page for more details on Tutorial Support at St Brendan's.
Key Skills
All students will be given the opportunity to develop and accredit communication Key Skills. This should help you to develop your research, oral and written skills.
Honours Programme
Students have the opportunity to apply for a place on the Honours Programme, designed to meet the needs of the individual. The programme runs from your first autumn term in College and will provide you with support from specialist tutors.
The Honours Programme will extend study for the more able student. The emphasis on analytical work and debate will enable students to apply these skills to other subjects, often increasing grades as a result. A visit to the annual Your Future in Europe Conference in Paris also forms part of this programme.
As a student on the Honours Programme you will:
- undertake a programme of study of five AS levels or equivalent in the first year including an AS Critical Thinking
- undertake a programme of study of four or equivalent (in exceptional cases more) A2s in the second year
- be encouraged to study an appropriate Extended Project Qualification (EPQ) in your second year
- be monitored for progress, which must meet very high standards of attendance, effort and achievement
- be prepared by a specialist team, including the Principal, for interview and application to the most appropriate universities
- receive personal guidance and support from a specialist tutor or tutors
- undertake relevant extracurricular activity to strengthen your profile and C.V.
- be encouraged to develop specific interests and aptitudes beyond the basic requirements of the syllabus
Entry Requirements
- a proven record of ability with high predicted scores at GCSE or equivalent
- an exemplary attendance and punctuality record
- achieved a good score on performance tests
- demonstrated your suitability at interview
Achievement
Along with achievement at A Levels in other subjects you will gain an AS Level in Critical Thinking. You will also have the opportunity to gain a further qualification in the second year by taking part in the Extended Project Qualification and possibly the AQA Baccalaureate which combines the above elements with personal development in other areas such as community work or the Duke of Edinburgh Award scheme.
Progression
The Honours Programme, is designed to stretch and challenge the more able students. It provides an ideal basis for those wishing to go onto Higher Education by improving knowledge, initiative, independence and time management skills.
Acceptance onto the Programme
Because places on the Honours Programme are limited, entry will be based upon the criteria given above. The College is aware that students develop their potential at different rates, and therefore students who demonstrate outstanding progress and ability will be able to join the programme at a later date, provided there is room on the programme. To be considered please indicate your interest on the application form.
Extended Project
Please see the online course list and our Extended Project course page for details on the Extended Project Qualification at St Brendan's.