The philosophy underlying the A level courses at Malvern is to provide breadth in the first year of the Sixth Form whilst preserving the ability to specialise in the second year.

There are two components to each A level: Advanced Subsidiary (AS) units which represent 50% of the A level will, in most subjects, be taken at Malvern at the end of the Lower Sixth, and A2 units which account for the other 50% and will be taken at the end of the Upper Sixth.

At Malvern you will be able to choose four ASs in the first year of the Sixth Form (one from each block), continuing in most cases with three A2s to greater depth in the second year. We operate a system of open choice for AS levels. This means that we only allocate subject blocks once choices have been made. Those currently at Malvern will make their choices at the end of February and the blocks will be allocated by early March. Those entering the Sixth Form will, of course, have their preferred choices considered alongside those of pupils currently at Malvern but no choices can be guaranteed until early March. Experience has shown that using this system, rather than announcing the blocks in advance, enables a larger number of pupils from both groups to be given their first choice.

As a guide, the subject blocks for September 2007 were:

Block 1
Economics**
English
Geography
History
Physics

Block 2
Economics**
Spanish
German
Religious Studies
Business Studies**
Biology
Latin
History of Art

Block 3
Business Studies**
Chemistry
Politics
French
Design & Technology
Physical Education
Drama & Theatre Studies

Block 4
Mathematics
Mathematics and Further Mathematics
English Literature
Classical Civilisation

Art, Greek, Music and Music Technology will be placed in Blocks according to demand.

Notes:
1. In accordance with our policy as stated above, none of these Blocks can be absolutely guaranteed.
2.  **Business Studies and Economics cannot be chosen together

We invite A level candidates to give their four chosen AS subjects (with a reserve if they wish).


KEY SKILLS

Higher Education and the world of work both require well rounded individuals. Malvern has pioneered a Sixth Form Key Skills course which all A level students undertake. It involves developing skills in Communication, Application of Number and Information Technology, the aim being to prepare the student as thoroughly as possible for life beyond the Sixth Form.

The Key Skills are taught in specific Key Skills lessons, during which students undertake a series of topics, examples of which include “Healthy Eating”, “Student Finance”, “Preparation for Higher Education” and “Health Education”. Our intention is to give every assistance in developing interpersonal and technical skills, as well as intellectual skills.



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