Do you want to work on your critical analysis, evaluation and reflection skills? Have you always had an interest that you would like to explore more? Do you want to develop your independent study skills to stand out at university? If the answers to any of these questions are ‘yes,’ then the EPQ is the fourth subject for you! The EPQ is recognised by many universities and employers and is worth half an A Level. Many universities make lower A Level offers to learners who have undertaken the EPQ. The subject is focused around the creation of a Production Log and Assessment Record that you complete over the course of the qualification. You will need to undertake a research project that is handed in to your supervisor and complete a presentation about your research to you present to an audience. L3 Extended Project Qualification (EPQ) add to basket Awarding Body Hours Per Week UCAS Points Pass Rates Campus Level AQA 4.5 Up to 28 93% Filton 3 This website is on the move! Please head to www.sgscol.ac.uk to discover and apply for our range of offerings. Summary Do you want to work on your critical analysis, evaluation and reflection skills? Have you always had an interest that you would like to explore more? Do you want to develop your independent study skills to stand out at university? If the answers to any of these questions are ‘yes,’ then the EPQ is the fourth subject for you! The EPQ is recognised by many universities and employers and is worth half an A Level. Many universities make lower A Level offers to learners who have undertaken the EPQ. The subject is focused around the creation of a Production Log and Assessment Record that you complete over the course of the qualification. You will need to undertake a research project that is handed in to your supervisor and complete a presentation about your research to you present to an audience. Entry Requirements To undertake the EPQ in your first year you should have a grade profile of grade 7s and above. The EPQ is taken as a fourth subject choice alongside your other subjects. Course Content The EPQ is studied over one year in addition to your three subject choices. You will undertake the following over the course of the year: 1. Identify and choose an area of interest that you would like to explore deeper. 2. Draft a title and aim for your project and discuss this with your project supervisor. 3. Plan, research and carry out the project. Learn and develop the skills you need to be able to project 4. Deliver a presentation around your topic to a non-specialist audience. 5. Provide evidence of your project development and keep a production log before final submission to your supervisor. The skills you will develop on the EPQ include: Research skills - The ability to search for and identify suitable sources of information for your chosen topic area. Project skills - Being able to develop skills and techniques for the safe execution of your project including ethical considerations, research methodology and writing techniques. ICT skills - You will develop skills around the production and development of your project and its presentation. Project Management skills - Including time, resource and task management skills. Writing and referencing skills and the prevention of plagiarism. Presentation skills - Building the confidence to develop and present your findings to an audience. Progression Routes The EPQ can help prepare you for the independent study skills you need to be able to thrive at university. It works similar to how a dissertation is undertaken at university and helps prepare you with the study and research skills to thrive on a range of subjects from the Sciences to Humanities, Creative and Professional subjects. Additional Learning Opportunities The EPQ is an additional qualification offered to learners and as a fourth subject choice, those taking it will not need to choose a Sixth Form Academy. The EPQ develops a range of skills and attributes with those who take it including project and time management skills, research and writing skills and ICT and presentation skills. "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

Are you curious about how the world works? Do you have an interest in a range of subjects from chemistry, mathematics, astronomy, or biology? Are you interested in pursuing a career in a STEM industry such as Healthcare, engineering, computing, or maths? Are you interested in undertaking practical experiments to back-up your learning of knowledge in the classroom? If the answer to any of these questions is ‘yes’, then Physics is the subject for you! Physics is the study of the fundamental mathematical relationships that govern natural phenomena and the application of these relationships. You will gain a set of incredibly useful skills that make you attractive to a wide range of employers from engineering and manufacturing, computer programming, the construction and aerospace industries, medicine, and academia. If you take Physics, you must also study A Level Mathematics alongside to help develop your mathematical reasoning skills. A Level Physics is a two-year programme and is taught on the OCR A specification. At the end of the second year, you will sit a full A Level exam. There are three papers for the final A Level as well as a practical endorsement qualification that shows you have completed a series of practical experiments throughout your studies. A Level Physics add to basket Awarding Body Hours Per Week UCAS Points Pass Rates Campus Level OCR 4.5 A* = 56 90% Filton 3 This website is on the move! Please head to www.sgscol.ac.uk to discover and apply for our range of offerings. Summary Are you curious about how the world works? Do you have an interest in a range of subjects from chemistry, mathematics, astronomy, or biology? Are you interested in pursuing a career in a STEM industry such as Healthcare, engineering, computing, or maths? Are you interested in undertaking practical experiments to back-up your learning of knowledge in the classroom? If the answer to any of these questions is ‘yes’, then Physics is the subject for you! Physics is the study of the fundamental mathematical relationships that govern natural phenomena and the application of these relationships. You will gain a set of incredibly useful skills that make you attractive to a wide range of employers from engineering and manufacturing, computer programming, the construction and aerospace industries, medicine, and academia. If you take Physics, you must also study A Level Mathematics alongside to help develop your mathematical reasoning skills. A Level Physics is a two-year programme and is taught on the OCR A specification. At the end of the second year, you will sit a full A Level exam. There are three papers for the final A Level as well as a practical endorsement qualification that shows you have completed a series of practical experiments throughout your studies. Entry Requirements A minimum of five GCSEs at grade 4 and above, including English Language. A grade 7 in GCSE Maths or above, and a grade 7 in GCSE Physics or 7-7 in GCSE Combined Science or above. We will accept you with a grade 6 in GCSE Maths and a grade 6 in GCSE Physics or GCSE Combined Science if you pass an entrance assessment. If you take A Level Physics must also study A Level Maths alongside Course Content Year 1 In the first year you will study four key units. 1. 'Development of Practical Skills in Physics’: In this unit you will develop your skills and abilities for experimental methods to analyse empirical data. You will learn how to plan, implement, analyse, and evaluate experiments and gain an understanding of how a range of apparatus and techniques can be used. 2. ‘Foundations of physics’: This unit introduces you to the important conventions and ideas that are present in the world of physics. You will gain an understanding of S.I. units, how to take measurements, and how scalar and vectors quantities operate. This will provide you with a fundamental understanding of the basics of physics from which the rest of your learning will develop. 3. ‘Forces and motion’: This unit will introduce you to the principles behind forces and motion and how to model these using mathematics. You will develop your skills in kinematics, linear motion and projectile motion whilst also exploring how forces operate in motion by looking at dynamics, equilibrium density and pressure. You will take this knowledge to then explore potential and kinetic energy, power, materials and Newtonian laws of motion and momentum further. 4. ‘Electrons, waves, and photons’: This unit will introduce key ideas of quantum physics. You will gain an appreciation of what electrons are how they behave in electrical circuits and a basic understanding of the properties of waves and the different forms of waves from electromagnetic, superposition and stationary waves. Lastly you will also learn about photons, the photoelectric effect and wave-particle duality. Year 2 5. ‘Newtonian world and astrophysics’: In this unit you will learn about the impact that Newtonian mechanics has on physics. From exploring the microscopic motion of atoms, to understanding macroscopic quantities such as pressure and temperature, to predicting the motion of planets and distant galaxies; Newtonian laws help explain these. You will learn about thermal physics, circular motion, oscillations, gravitational fields, and astrophysics. 6. ‘Particles and medical physics’: This unit focuses on the role particles and physics has in the medical industry. You will learn about the role of capacitors and their properties, electrical fields and Coulomb’s law and electromagnetism, including the application of Lenz’s law and Faraday’s law. You will also learn about Nuclear and particle physics and their applications to medical imaging. 7. ‘Practical Endorsement’: Throughout your studies you will undertake 12 assessed practical activities. These are there to show you have demonstrated competence in the range of skills and techniques required in Physics. Progression Routes Physics is an essential subject for a range of different careers. Combining Physics with different combinations of other subjects help provide direction for these. Due to the mathematical content of physics, all learners undertaking this A Level must also study A Level Mathematics. Adding Biology or Chemistry to Physics allows you to specialise in the Sciences for a range of medical careers. Combining Physics with Maths, Further Maths and Chemistry provides the foundation for a focus on engineering or electronics. Additional Learning Opportunities There is a range of opportunities to extend your learning whilst studying Physics. You could join our Medical or Science academies to further extend your understanding and develop your skills in the subjects. Physics learners also can take part in our regular ‘STEM@Lunch’ talks series. This includes regular talks from academics and employers. "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

Are you curious about what makes people behave the way they do? Do you want to know how your childhood affected you? Would like to know what causes people to develop mental illnesses like schizophrenia and depression? If the answer to any of these questions is ‘yes,’ then Psychology is the course for you! Psychology is the scientific study of the mind and human behaviour. It relates to why people think in certain ways, how experiences affect you and how groups and individuals behave. It has some overlaps with humanities such as Sociology and sciences such as Biology. Psychologists observe behaviour and then develop theories which try to explain why we do what we do. These theories are then tested through research which might involve laboratory experiments, interviews, or observations in the field. You will find out about these theories and learn how to carry out and evaluate psychological studies through the A Level. A Level Psychology is taught on the AQA board specification. In the second year you will sit three two-hour exams which assess the content taught in both years to achieve the full A Level qualification. A Level Psychology add to basket Awarding Body Hours Per Week UCAS Points Pass Rates Campus Level AQA 4.5 A* = 56 100% Filton 3 93% A* - C This website is on the move! Please head to www.sgscol.ac.uk to discover and apply for our range of offerings. Summary Are you curious about what makes people behave the way they do? Do you want to know how your childhood affected you? Would like to know what causes people to develop mental illnesses like schizophrenia and depression? If the answer to any of these questions is ‘yes,’ then Psychology is the course for you! Psychology is the scientific study of the mind and human behaviour. It relates to why people think in certain ways, how experiences affect you and how groups and individuals behave. It has some overlaps with humanities such as Sociology and sciences such as Biology. Psychologists observe behaviour and then develop theories which try to explain why we do what we do. These theories are then tested through research which might involve laboratory experiments, interviews, or observations in the field. You will find out about these theories and learn how to carry out and evaluate psychological studies through the A Level. A Level Psychology is taught on the AQA board specification. In the second year you will sit three two-hour exams which assess the content taught in both years to achieve the full A Level qualification. Entry Requirements A minimum of five GCSEs at grade 4 and above, including Maths. A grade 5 in GCSE English Language and GCSE English Literature. A grade 5 in any GCSE Science or GCSE Psychology (if taken). We recommend learners studying Psychology also consider choosing Core Maths as a fourth subject to continue their development in mathematical development. Course Content Over the two year A Level you will study the following units. You will study some of the topics in the units in the first year before covering further topics in the second year. 1. ‘Introductory topics in Psychology’: In this unit you will study several distinct strands which are backed up with practical research activities where you design, carry out, analyse, and interpret data. You will look at social influence and why people are obedient, exploring research and experiments by Zimbardo and Milgram. You will look at memory and how our brains process information into short and long-term memory through different models and examine how to improve the accuracy of memory. You will examine how attachments are formed in both humans and animals and what influences these special bonds that we form. You will explore Psychopathology which involves studying phobias, depression, and obsessive-compulsive disorder and what causes these mental illnesses whilst also exploring how they can be treated. 2. ‘Psychology in context’: This unit examines psychological concepts, theories and research studies including a focus on research methods and ethical issues. You will examine the origins of Psychology as well as exploring the different perspectives psychologists take when explaining and investigating human behaviour. You will also look at Biopsychology which explores the science of the nervous system and how it functions, for example, exploring the psychological processes that underpin the stress response. There is also a large focus on research methods which involves undertaking a series of practical investigations on how psychologists support the theories they propose. 3. ‘Issues and options in Psychology’: This unit focuses on several distinct strands in psychology in greater depth. You will explore some of the issues and debates in Psychology which include gender and culture bias, free will and determinism, the nature-nurture debate, and the ethical implications of research studies. You will examine relationships including how evolution shapes what characteristics we look for in those to whom we are attracted to. You will also look at the symptoms and explanations for Schizophrenia as well as the treatments for it. Lastly you will look at forensic psychology and look in greater depth at what causes people to commit crime and what techniques psychologists use to catch criminals and rehabilitate them. Progression Routes With an A Level in Psychology, you can then take courses in Higher Education which will qualify you to work in areas such as clinical psychology; child psychology; forensic psychology; education; market research; prisons; counselling; advertising; personnel; and many other areas. Combing psychology with Art may allow you to focus on an art therapy route, whilst combining psychology with sociology, law or criminology prepares learners for a career as a criminologist. Another useful combination is Psychology with the sciences to further delve into how the human body works. Psychology is a rapidly growing field and psychology students are in demand in many careers as they have many useful skills. Psychology teaches you to: think logically and critically, be able to approach problems from different angles, argue a case effectively, handle basic statistical problems and to think scientifically. Additional Learning Opportunities Psychology students have lots of opportunities to help consolidate your wider understanding of the subject. There is an annual trip to the Glenside Psychiatric Museum in Bristol where you will learn in greater depth about the history of Psychiatry. In addition, psychologists can attend the Psychology Academy, where you will learn about careers in Psychology in greater depth. There is also the Legal Academy which looks at criminal cases and offenders in greater depth or the Medical and Science Academies which take the scientific studies of the subject further. Psychology learners also benefit from many of the speakers we have in the Sixth Form talks programme where you will have the chance to attend talks relevant to the subject. "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

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.

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.

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.