Class sizes are small; fifteen students is usually the maximum number of students in a class, and individual support for every girl is guaranteed.
So prepare to follow your academic passions here at Roedean…
A Levels
Sixth Form
We offer at least 23 different A Level subjects to choose from, in a learning environment that encourages you to take academic risks and achieve fantastic results, all rooted in a positive and collaborative setting.
A Level Subjects
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STEM Subjects
Biology
Biology will help you appreciate how society makes decisions about scientific issues and how the Sciences contribute to the world we live in. You will develop essential knowledge and understanding of different areas of Biology and how they relate to each other.
BTEC Sport Extended Certificate
BTEC Sport is a course which combines a variety of methods of learning, using both theoretical and practical teaching. The sport and fitness industry is always moving and changing, making it essential for learners to have the drive and resilience to adapt. At all stages of their academic career, the practical base of a BTEC in Sport will help learners excel as team players, coaches and leaders of the future.This course is equivalent to one A Level and is assessed with a Pass, Merit, Distinction and Distinction* criteria. These are then assigned UCAS points when applying for University in the same way as A Levels.
Chemistry
Chemistry makes sense of the material world. It develops curiosity, problem solving abilities, practical competency, independent thinking, numeracy and the confidence to take academic risks. Chemistry gives you knowledge and skills which are transferable to many areas. Universities and employers look very favourably on success in A Level Chemistry, as they value it as evidence that a candidate possesses a range of useful skills.
Computer Science
Our A Level Computer Science qualification helps you understand the core academic principles of computer science. Classroom learning is transferred into creating real-world systems through the creation of an independent programming project relevant to the modern and ever-changing world of technology. You will develop a technical understanding and ability to apply the fundamental concepts of computer science, including abstraction, decomposition, logic, algorithms, and data representation. Creativity is important when applying computational thinking principles to a problem. Programming is a fundamentally creative skill –whether it is used to create a search algorithm, build an app or design a website.
Mathematics & Further Mathematics
Mathematics aims to foster rational thinking and develop an appreciation for the beauty of the natural world. We promote intellectual curiosity and equip you with the skills needed to be critical observers and problem-solvers. Mathematical ability is one of the most highly-prized assets for a wide variety of university courses and careers. Proof, discussion, discovery and investigation are all skills that you will develop, enabling you to approach other subjects with greater analytical skills.
Physics
Physics encompasses the study of the universe from the largest galaxies to the smallest subatomic particles and is crucial to acquiring a true understanding of the world around us and how the laws of nature shape it. Physicists are problem–solvers and their skills are invaluable in every area of our lives. From engineering and technological advance, to medicine and even the Arts, there is no area untouched by Physics.
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Business, Economics and Enterprise Subjects
Business
Business is about debating and decision-making in a business context and, as such, it develops invaluable skills whatever you want to do next. The course is designed to encourage a critical understanding of organisations, the markets they serve and the process of adding value. You will investigate real businesses and the global and changing world in which they operate. You will learn the practicalities, such as the numbers behind the business, and why some succeed when others fail.
Economics
Economics is a fascinating, skill-based, highly-regarded subject where you will gain a deep, cohesive insight into the ever-changing, modern world around you. It will help you understand, judge and find solutions to national and international issues and events; explain and evaluate what influences our lives; gain in-depth, critical knowledge into the strategies, successes and failures of businesses; and assess for yourself government policies.
-
Society Subjects
Chinese (Cantonese/Mandarin)
This course is offered to native speakers only. It caters to those with a deep understanding and fluency in the specified language. Students will have one compulsory lesson every Wednesday afternoon.
Classical Civilisation
Classical Civilisation introduces you to concepts that make you re-evaluate your life and the world. Studying the Classical World is an introduction to people, philosophy, art, language, history, literature, politics and established ways of life. Ancient Greeks and Romans controlled the Mediterranean world for centuries. The Athenians invented democracy, Alexander the Great’s soldiers left modern descendants in Iraq, Iran, Pakistan and Afghanistan, while the Romans changed city life in Western Europe forever. Their literature, art and beliefs influenced almost every aspect of modern culture. You will gain an invaluable understanding of the origins of modern politics, culture and the way the world works today.
English Literature
English Literature will introduce you to move beyond the limitations of GCSE and discover more challenging texts. These open up discussion of issues that challenge society, both at the time of writing and today, including racism, relationships, mental health, pressures on the individual from consumer-capitalist ideology and social judgement. The course allows you more space to be critical of what you read, seeing texts not as final works of genius but as reflective of the time and individual psychology that produced them, and bringing your own ideas to the table for discussion.
French
Learning languages bridges social and cultural barriers and builds self–confidence and resilience. You can improve the functionality of your brain by challenging it to recognise, negotiate meaning and communicate. Languages are an asset to cognitive development and help you to multitask, problem- solve, and improve your memory. The latest research shows that 75% of employers want language skills, and the principal demand is still for dominant European languages like French.
Geography
We inhabit Planet Earth, so it is essential to know about how it operates: the processes, systems, and interactions between the natural and human environments, and how we can conserve what was taken for granted. Geography’s scope is wide, encompassing both the geophysical forces that created our landscape and the human forces that have shaped our societies. Geography has been named by the Russell Group of universities as a key facilitating subject and provides a broad range of transferable skills.
German
German is regarded as an academic discipline, making it highly esteemed at the A-level stage and recognised by universities. Employers also highly value the open-mindedness and cultural awareness cultivated through language studies. While linguists naturally gravitate towards careers in translation, interpretation, the Foreign Office, and the Diplomatic Service, German proficiency also opens doors in sectors such as finance, banking, medicine, and law.
History
The historian David Thomson said that the study of History is the best liberal education that a student can have today. The subject not only provides a context for your own life, but also helps you to develop an understanding of the world into which you have grown up and delivers a set of invaluable transferable skills. At a time of growing fundamentalism and intolerance, the study of History will enable you to view complex problems objectively, thus promoting tolerance, the ability to see different sides of disputes and more understanding of the complexity of world events.
Latin
Latin enables you to develop your linguistic skills and introduces you to some of the best literature ever created. In addition, the subject will train you rigorously in valuable key skills, including analysis, logic, communication, and literary and historical skills.
Media Studies
Media Studies is an exciting and ever-changing subject that responds to development in media practice and requires students to analyse texts and design, understand debates surrounding regulatory practice (such as censorship, film classification, and press regulation), and make and promote media texts while evaluating and reflecting on their own practice.
Philosophy
Philosophy is a diverse and fascinating subject which allows you the chance to explore the history of ideas and challenge your own conceptions of the world. We often don’t realise how applicable philosophical theory is to our own lives but this course allows us to consider the implications of the big questions that we didn’t even realise we could ask. With a focus on the contemporary ideas in each of the four subject areas below, you will get a chance to explore your own ideas and, most importantly, push the limits of your own critical thinking.
Politics
Politics explores how power is distributed and exercised in modern society. This course will develop your understanding of how political structures and processes work. Political scientists seek to analyse both the causes and consequences of political outcomes that shape our everyday lives. By studying Politics, you will be better equipped to make sense of current affairs and reach your own evidence-based conclusions.
Psychology
Psychology will give you a broad introduction to the study of human behaviour in all its manifestations. Among the key skills you will gain are: thinking critically; assessing the validity/reliability of evidence; recognising different perspectives; researching independently; data analysis; evaluating arguments; and understanding and noticing cognitive biases.
Religious Studies
Do we have a soul that is separate from our body? Is it always morally right to make people happy? How feminist is the Bible? If these sorts of question interest you and if you enjoy arguing, exploring and discussing, Religious Studies is a subject unlike any other and unlike what most people expect. The subject will lead to you to think deeply about right and wrong, it will give you a deeper understanding of the way religion and society influences each other.
Spanish
Spanish is a global language, and it is the second most widely spoken language in the world. Studying languages like Spanish encourage you to embrace diversity, to become more versatile, tolerant and able to negotiate. Speaking more than one language also boosts cognitive development. As well as building self–confidence and resilience, Spanish will help you develop critical thinking, creativity and independence.
Russian
No doubt, having proficiency in Russian stands as a distinctive asset on any CV or job application. Its reputation for difficulty, perhaps more than it truly is, works in favor of those who undertake the challenge. If you’re someone with a logical mindset and an inclination for code-breaking, learning the Russian alphabet, especially in the initial stages, can be a rewarding experience. You’ll be pleasantly surprised at how quickly you can become proficient in writing in the Cyrillic alphabet.
-
Creative and Performing Arts Subjects
3D Design
Three-dimensional design involves using creativity and practical skills to create functional and aesthetically pleasing products, objects and built environments.
Art, Photography & Textiles
Studying Art helps you to develop practical, subject-specific skills, the ability to analyse first-hand sources, research skills and develop ideas, alongside essay writing and independent study skills. We pride ourselves on the breadth of study on offer, within a small department, that allows you to tailor your A Level Art experience towards a broad range of Higher Education courses and exciting creative careers.
Dance
Students will experience practical training and the academic study of classical and contemporary dramatic art forms. This will not only improve their acting and design skills, but will also enable students to wholly appreciate the cultural significance of drama in today’s society. Drama is essentially concerned with the human condition and, as such, covers a broad range of topics and issues, forges connections with many other subjects and helps you gain invaluable life skills.
Foundation Art, Design & Media BTec
The Foundation Year will only be accessible to students who have successfully completed a one year Art A Level to a high standard. This Level 3 award will give you direct access to a range of BA courses. The aim of the Foundation Year is to develop your independent enquiry into a subject of your choice. You will engage in a range of creative and explorative activities, before focusing on developing work tailored to create an appropriate portfolio for the degree for which you wish to apply.
History of Art
History of Art is the study of art from across the world, and from the ancient to the present day. History of Art covers virtually every aspect of human history and experience. This is because it looks at works of art not just as objects, but as a way of understanding the world, and the societies in which they were created.
Music
Music is both technically and academically demanding, but also extremely rewarding. It is a natural choice for students who are competent on their instruments and wish to gain a deeper musical and historical perspective. Music is constantly evolving, inspiring creativity and expression, and you will have the opportunity to broaden your musical experience and knowledge and to hone your practical and creative musical skills to a high level. You will also develop performance and presentation skills.
Theatre Studies
Theatre Studies involves practical training and the academic study of classical and contemporary dramatic art forms. This will not only improve your acting and design skills but will also enable you to fully appreciate the cultural significance of drama in today’s society. Drama is essentially concerned with the human condition and, as such, covers a broad range of topics and issues, forges connections with many other subjects and helps you gain invaluable life skills.
Please note: A Level subjects will be offered conditional upon pupil numbers
Pathways Programme
Underpinning the Sixth Form experience at Roedean is our Pathways Programme. The aim of the Sixth Form Pathways is to extend your knowledge and understanding beyond the curriculum in one of four areas in a way that is exciting, relevant to career pathways and/or the development of skills. Each Pathway is bespoke and complements your choice of A Levels.
STEM Subjects
Biology
Biology will help you appreciate how society makes decisions about scientific issues and how the Sciences contribute to the world we live in. You will develop essential knowledge and understanding of different areas of Biology and how they relate to each other.
BTEC Sport Extended Certificate
BTEC Sport is a course which combines a variety of methods of learning, using both theoretical and practical teaching. The sport and fitness industry is always moving and changing, making it essential for learners to have the drive and resilience to adapt. At all stages of their academic career, the practical base of a BTEC in Sport will help learners excel as team players, coaches and leaders of the future.This course is equivalent to one A Level and is assessed with a Pass, Merit, Distinction and Distinction* criteria. These are then assigned UCAS points when applying for University in the same way as A Levels.
Chemistry
Chemistry makes sense of the material world. It develops curiosity, problem solving abilities, practical competency, independent thinking, numeracy and the confidence to take academic risks. Chemistry gives you knowledge and skills which are transferable to many areas. Universities and employers look very favourably on success in A Level Chemistry, as they value it as evidence that a candidate possesses a range of useful skills.
Computer Science
Our A Level Computer Science qualification helps you understand the core academic principles of computer science. Classroom learning is transferred into creating real-world systems through the creation of an independent programming project relevant to the modern and ever-changing world of technology. You will develop a technical understanding and ability to apply the fundamental concepts of computer science, including abstraction, decomposition, logic, algorithms, and data representation. Creativity is important when applying computational thinking principles to a problem. Programming is a fundamentally creative skill –whether it is used to create a search algorithm, build an app or design a website.
Mathematics & Further Mathematics
Mathematics aims to foster rational thinking and develop an appreciation for the beauty of the natural world. We promote intellectual curiosity and equip you with the skills needed to be critical observers and problem-solvers. Mathematical ability is one of the most highly-prized assets for a wide variety of university courses and careers. Proof, discussion, discovery and investigation are all skills that you will develop, enabling you to approach other subjects with greater analytical skills.
Physics
Physics encompasses the study of the universe from the largest galaxies to the smallest subatomic particles and is crucial to acquiring a true understanding of the world around us and how the laws of nature shape it. Physicists are problem–solvers and their skills are invaluable in every area of our lives. From engineering and technological advance, to medicine and even the Arts, there is no area untouched by Physics.
Business, Economics and Enterprise Subjects
Business
Business is about debating and decision-making in a business context and, as such, it develops invaluable skills whatever you want to do next. The course is designed to encourage a critical understanding of organisations, the markets they serve and the process of adding value. You will investigate real businesses and the global and changing world in which they operate. You will learn the practicalities, such as the numbers behind the business, and why some succeed when others fail.
Economics
Economics is a fascinating, skill-based, highly-regarded subject where you will gain a deep, cohesive insight into the ever-changing, modern world around you. It will help you understand, judge and find solutions to national and international issues and events; explain and evaluate what influences our lives; gain in-depth, critical knowledge into the strategies, successes and failures of businesses; and assess for yourself government policies.
Society Subjects
Chinese (Cantonese/Mandarin)
This course is offered to native speakers only. It caters to those with a deep understanding and fluency in the specified language. Students will have one compulsory lesson every Wednesday afternoon.
Classical Civilisation
Classical Civilisation introduces you to concepts that make you re-evaluate your life and the world. Studying the Classical World is an introduction to people, philosophy, art, language, history, literature, politics and established ways of life. Ancient Greeks and Romans controlled the Mediterranean world for centuries. The Athenians invented democracy, Alexander the Great’s soldiers left modern descendants in Iraq, Iran, Pakistan and Afghanistan, while the Romans changed city life in Western Europe forever. Their literature, art and beliefs influenced almost every aspect of modern culture. You will gain an invaluable understanding of the origins of modern politics, culture and the way the world works today.
English Literature
English Literature will introduce you to move beyond the limitations of GCSE and discover more challenging texts. These open up discussion of issues that challenge society, both at the time of writing and today, including racism, relationships, mental health, pressures on the individual from consumer-capitalist ideology and social judgement. The course allows you more space to be critical of what you read, seeing texts not as final works of genius but as reflective of the time and individual psychology that produced them, and bringing your own ideas to the table for discussion.
French
Learning languages bridges social and cultural barriers and builds self–confidence and resilience. You can improve the functionality of your brain by challenging it to recognise, negotiate meaning and communicate. Languages are an asset to cognitive development and help you to multitask, problem- solve, and improve your memory. The latest research shows that 75% of employers want language skills, and the principal demand is still for dominant European languages like French.
Geography
We inhabit Planet Earth, so it is essential to know about how it operates: the processes, systems, and interactions between the natural and human environments, and how we can conserve what was taken for granted. Geography’s scope is wide, encompassing both the geophysical forces that created our landscape and the human forces that have shaped our societies. Geography has been named by the Russell Group of universities as a key facilitating subject and provides a broad range of transferable skills.
German
German is regarded as an academic discipline, making it highly esteemed at the A-level stage and recognised by universities. Employers also highly value the open-mindedness and cultural awareness cultivated through language studies. While linguists naturally gravitate towards careers in translation, interpretation, the Foreign Office, and the Diplomatic Service, German proficiency also opens doors in sectors such as finance, banking, medicine, and law.
History
The historian David Thomson said that the study of History is the best liberal education that a student can have today. The subject not only provides a context for your own life, but also helps you to develop an understanding of the world into which you have grown up and delivers a set of invaluable transferable skills. At a time of growing fundamentalism and intolerance, the study of History will enable you to view complex problems objectively, thus promoting tolerance, the ability to see different sides of disputes and more understanding of the complexity of world events.
Latin
Latin enables you to develop your linguistic skills and introduces you to some of the best literature ever created. In addition, the subject will train you rigorously in valuable key skills, including analysis, logic, communication, and literary and historical skills.
Media Studies
Media Studies is an exciting and ever-changing subject that responds to development in media practice and requires students to analyse texts and design, understand debates surrounding regulatory practice (such as censorship, film classification, and press regulation), and make and promote media texts while evaluating and reflecting on their own practice.
Philosophy
Philosophy is a diverse and fascinating subject which allows you the chance to explore the history of ideas and challenge your own conceptions of the world. We often don’t realise how applicable philosophical theory is to our own lives but this course allows us to consider the implications of the big questions that we didn’t even realise we could ask. With a focus on the contemporary ideas in each of the four subject areas below, you will get a chance to explore your own ideas and, most importantly, push the limits of your own critical thinking.
Politics
Politics explores how power is distributed and exercised in modern society. This course will develop your understanding of how political structures and processes work. Political scientists seek to analyse both the causes and consequences of political outcomes that shape our everyday lives. By studying Politics, you will be better equipped to make sense of current affairs and reach your own evidence-based conclusions.
Psychology
Psychology will give you a broad introduction to the study of human behaviour in all its manifestations. Among the key skills you will gain are: thinking critically; assessing the validity/reliability of evidence; recognising different perspectives; researching independently; data analysis; evaluating arguments; and understanding and noticing cognitive biases.
Religious Studies
Do we have a soul that is separate from our body? Is it always morally right to make people happy? How feminist is the Bible? If these sorts of question interest you and if you enjoy arguing, exploring and discussing, Religious Studies is a subject unlike any other and unlike what most people expect. The subject will lead to you to think deeply about right and wrong, it will give you a deeper understanding of the way religion and society influences each other.
Spanish
Spanish is a global language, and it is the second most widely spoken language in the world. Studying languages like Spanish encourage you to embrace diversity, to become more versatile, tolerant and able to negotiate. Speaking more than one language also boosts cognitive development. As well as building self–confidence and resilience, Spanish will help you develop critical thinking, creativity and independence.
Russian
No doubt, having proficiency in Russian stands as a distinctive asset on any CV or job application. Its reputation for difficulty, perhaps more than it truly is, works in favor of those who undertake the challenge. If you’re someone with a logical mindset and an inclination for code-breaking, learning the Russian alphabet, especially in the initial stages, can be a rewarding experience. You’ll be pleasantly surprised at how quickly you can become proficient in writing in the Cyrillic alphabet.
Creative and Performing Arts Subjects
3D Design
Three-dimensional design involves using creativity and practical skills to create functional and aesthetically pleasing products, objects and built environments.
Art, Photography & Textiles
Studying Art helps you to develop practical, subject-specific skills, the ability to analyse first-hand sources, research skills and develop ideas, alongside essay writing and independent study skills. We pride ourselves on the breadth of study on offer, within a small department, that allows you to tailor your A Level Art experience towards a broad range of Higher Education courses and exciting creative careers.
Dance
Students will experience practical training and the academic study of classical and contemporary dramatic art forms. This will not only improve their acting and design skills, but will also enable students to wholly appreciate the cultural significance of drama in today’s society. Drama is essentially concerned with the human condition and, as such, covers a broad range of topics and issues, forges connections with many other subjects and helps you gain invaluable life skills.
Foundation Art, Design & Media BTec
The Foundation Year will only be accessible to students who have successfully completed a one year Art A Level to a high standard. This Level 3 award will give you direct access to a range of BA courses. The aim of the Foundation Year is to develop your independent enquiry into a subject of your choice. You will engage in a range of creative and explorative activities, before focusing on developing work tailored to create an appropriate portfolio for the degree for which you wish to apply.
History of Art
History of Art is the study of art from across the world, and from the ancient to the present day. History of Art covers virtually every aspect of human history and experience. This is because it looks at works of art not just as objects, but as a way of understanding the world, and the societies in which they were created.
Music
Music is both technically and academically demanding, but also extremely rewarding. It is a natural choice for students who are competent on their instruments and wish to gain a deeper musical and historical perspective. Music is constantly evolving, inspiring creativity and expression, and you will have the opportunity to broaden your musical experience and knowledge and to hone your practical and creative musical skills to a high level. You will also develop performance and presentation skills.
Theatre Studies
Theatre Studies involves practical training and the academic study of classical and contemporary dramatic art forms. This will not only improve your acting and design skills but will also enable you to fully appreciate the cultural significance of drama in today’s society. Drama is essentially concerned with the human condition and, as such, covers a broad range of topics and issues, forges connections with many other subjects and helps you gain invaluable life skills.
Please note: A Level subjects will be offered conditional upon pupil numbers
Pathways Programme
Underpinning the Sixth Form experience at Roedean is our Pathways Programme. The aim of the Sixth Form Pathways is to extend your knowledge and understanding beyond the curriculum in one of four areas in a way that is exciting, relevant to career pathways and/or the development of skills. Each Pathway is bespoke and complements your choice of A Levels.
