Chesterton Sixth Form
Our Courses

Ancient History A-Level

Dive into the origins of Western civilisation by analysing the power dynamics, brutal conflicts, and cultural shifts of ancient Greece and Rome. This course uses original sources to investigate the rise of the first emperors and the legendary societies of Sparta and Athens.

Key Learning Outcomes:

  • Critical Analysis: Learn to evaluate ancient inscriptions, coins, and the writings of historical figures like Herodotus and Plutarch.
  • Political Insight: Explore the fall of the Roman Republic and the complex social systems of the Greek city-states during the Persian and Peloponnesian Wars.
  • Enriched Perspective: Benefit from immersive opportunities, including overseas trips to Italy or Greece and an optional crash course in Classical Greek.

Entry Requirements: Grade 6 in GCSE History

Art and Design A-Level

A truly personalised course that allows students to build on their unique artistic strengths across a broad range of disciplines. Students transition from a foundational exploration of various media to a specialized pathway supported by expert one-to-one tuition.

Key Learning Outcomes:

  • Technical Mastery: Develop advanced skills in drawing, painting, printmaking, sculpture, and lens-based image-making through hands-on workshops.
  • Creative Resilience: Build a professional portfolio by taking creative risks and engaging in group critiques to refine personal themes and concepts.
  • Contextual Understanding: Gain a deep theoretical knowledge of art history and contemporary practice, supplemented by life drawing and exhibition visits.

Entry Requirements: Grade 6 in any Art and Design GCSE

Biology A-Level

Explore the intricate beauty of life itself, from the microscopic building blocks of organisms to the complex interactions within global ecosystems. This course integrates rigorous theory with hands-on exploration, connecting students to the rich scientific history and research industry of the local area.

Key Learning Outcomes:

  • Scientific Inquiry: Develop a deep understanding of how organisms function and evolve through experimentation, practical workshops, and field studies.
  • Ethical Literacy: Gain the ability to debate and analyze how society makes critical decisions regarding scientific, moral, and environmental issues.
  • Future Problem Solving: Learn to propose biological solutions for global challenges, supported by a curriculum that emphasises the “story of science” and its impact on the economy.

Entry Requirements: Grade 7-7 in Combined Science or Grade 7 in Biology

Chemistry A-Level

Explore a fundamental science that touches every aspect of our existence, from the air we breathe to life-saving technologies. This course places students at the forefront of discovery, using chemical principles to address global challenges like hunger, disease, and pollution.

Key Learning Outcomes:

  • Advanced Synthesis: Master the skills to plan and execute complex synthetic and analytical experiments, working with both organic and physical chemistry modules.
  • Analytical Problem-Solving: Develop the ability to analyze intricate data sets and draw logical conclusions to solve real-world chemical puzzles.
  • Innovative Thinking: Investigate the foundations of the periodic table and energy to invent new compounds or find creative applications for existing materials.

Entry Requirements: Grade 7-7 in Combined Science or Grade 7 in Chemistry

Classical Civilisation A-Level

Embark on an odyssey through the mythical lands and cultural landscapes of the ancient world. This wide-ranging course explores the literature, art, and philosophy of Greece and Rome, requiring no knowledge of ancient languages as all texts are studied in translation.

Key Learning Outcomes:

  • Epic Literary Analysis: Examine the Odyssey and the Aeneid to debate timeless concepts such as masculinity, heroism, and the nature of the divine.
  • Artistic Literacy: Learn to “read” Greek sculpture and vase painting, gaining a foundational understanding of the development of Western art.
  • Philosophical Inquiry: Use ancient poetry and philosophy to analyze ethics, love, and human relationships, connecting ancient thought to modern cultural discourse.

Entry Requirements: Grade 6 in GCSE History or English (Literature/Language)

Classical Greek A-Level

Become an expert linguist and critical thinker by mastering the language of Socrates and Homer. This course bridges the gap between GCSE and fluency, allowing students to engage directly with original Greek texts that explore the nature of love, heroism, and the human condition.

Key Learning Outcomes:

  • Linguistic Fluency: Build advanced confidence in reading and translating unseen Greek poetry and prose from original historical sources.
  • Philosophical Debate: Conduct an in-depth study of Plato’s Symposium, analysing ancient conversations on ethics and the power of “Eros.”
  • Epic Literary Study: Unpick the complexities of Homer’s Odyssey to understand the true ancient Greek definition of a hero and the struggles of his return to Ithaca.

Entry Requirements: Grade 6 in GCSE Greek or Classical Civilisation

Computer Science A-Level

Overview: Designed for those with an inquisitive mindset, this course delves deep into the underpinnings of modern technology. You will explore how hardware and software evolve to meet global demands while developing the high-level analytical skills required by the modern professional world.

Key Learning Outcomes:

  • Systems Architecture: Understand the inner workings of computer systems, from data storage and database design to how the internet is engineered for the modern user experience.
  • Algorithmic Thinking: Master a professional approach to coding by focusing on efficiency, logic, and structure-developing the exact skills expected by major software companies.
  • Project Development: Apply your knowledge to a significant independent programming project, following industry-standard cycles of research, decomposition, testing, and evaluation.

Entry Requirements: Grade 6 in GCSE Computer Science and Grade 6 in GCSE Maths

Performing Arts (Musical Theatre) RSL Level 3 Diploma

Step into the spotlight with this pre-professional training programme designed to mirror the high standards of the performing arts industry. Equivalent to two A-Levels, this course develops “triple threat” performers through rigorous technical training, employer engagement, and high-profile performance opportunities.

Key Learning Outcomes:

  • Technical Versatility: Master essential industry skills including audition techniques, vocal methods for both acting and music, and ensemble dance performance.
  • Professional Practice: Work directly to industry briefs and engage with celebrated professionals, from West End stars to Golden Globe-winning actors.
  • Creative Producing: Beyond performing, students develop the emotional intelligence and analytical skills required to devise, choreograph, and understand the wider performing arts economy.

Entry Requirements: Audition required; GCSE Drama (Grade 6+) or BTEC Merit preferred.

Criminology Applied Diploma

Explore the complex world of crime, justice, and the human mind. This course combines elements of psychology, law, and sociology to investigate why people commit crimes, how society perceives them, and which approaches to rehabilitation and policy-making actually work.

Key Learning Outcomes:

  • Criminal Analysis: Develop a deep understanding of different types of crime and analyze how societal perceptions influence everything from media coverage to official policy.
  • Advocacy and Change: Learn how to plan and execute campaigns for change, focusing on under-reported crimes and the legal frameworks that govern the justice system.
  • System Review: Critically evaluate the justice of verdicts in real-world criminal cases and explore the interplay between social disorder and criminal behaviour.

Entry Requirements: Grade 6 in a GCSE Humanities subject

Drama and Theatre A-Level

A three-part programme of pre-professional theatrical training that empowers you to adopt the mindset of a director, actor, designer, and writer. This course balances practical exploration with critical analysis, aiming to nurture individual artists within a dedicated, professional-standard company.

Key Learning Outcomes:

  • Collaborative Devising: Create original performance pieces inspired by key stimuli and the techniques of world-renowned practitioners like Peter Brook or Frantic Assembly.
  • Performance Excellence: Refine your craft through the study of diverse texts – from Sophocles to Caryl Churchill-culminating in assessed group performances, monologues, or design projects.
  • Industry Engagement: Gain unique access to masterclasses with professionals like Rosamund Pike and Ian Rickson, alongside opportunities to perform at the Edinburgh Fringe and National Theatre Connections.

Entry Requirements: Grade 6 in GCSE Drama preferred (or relevant experience in performance/humanities).

Economics A-Level

Economics is far more than just numbers; it is the social, financial, and cultural study of how the world allocates scarce resources. This course explores the interrelationships between individual decisions (microeconomics) and the “big picture” of national and global systems (macroeconomics).

Key Learning Outcomes:

  • Microeconomic Analysis: Investigate how markets operate, why they occasionally fail, and how individual choices impact the distribution of income and wealth.
  • Global Macroeconomics: Gain a comprehensive understanding of the international economy, including the influence of financial markets, monetary policy, and government fiscal strategies.
  • Analytical Problem-Solving: Develop the ability to evaluate real-world case studies and propose solutions to economic problems facing individuals, firms, and governments today.

Entry Requirements: Grade 6 in GCSE Maths and Grade 6 in Geography or History

English Language A-Level

Explore the mechanics of communication and how language functions as a living, evolving entity. This course goes beyond grammar to investigate how social factors like gender, age, and power influence the way we speak and write, while also tracing the historical journey of the English language.

Key Learning Outcomes:

  • Linguistic Analysis: Master the tools to deconstruct a vast range of texts—from classic literature to modern tweets—uncovering how context and audience shape meaning.
  • Sociolinguistic Insight: Examine the variations of English across different regions and media, and study the fascinating process of how children acquire language.
  • Independent Research: Conduct an original linguistic investigation into a topic of your choice, applying academic theories to real-world data to produce a professional-standard research project.

Entry Requirements: Grade 6 in GCSE English Language or Literature

English Literature A-Level

Designed for those passionate about the power of storytelling, this course explores a diverse range of poetry, prose, and drama. You will move beyond the plot to analyze how culture, history, and philosophy shape narratives, developing a more nuanced and empathetic understanding of the world.

Key Learning Outcomes:

  • Comparative Criticism: Master the ability to connect themes across different eras, comparing classic pre-1900 works like Shakespeare and Chaucer with modern dystopian and speculative fiction.
  • Independent Interpretation: Develop your unique literary voice through non-exam assessments, with options for close reading or re-creative writing tasks accompanied by scholarly commentary.
  • Contextual Evaluation: Examine how monumental shifts in society – from the Victorian era to the post-apocalyptic visions of the 21st century – influence literary movements and authorial intent.

Entry Requirements: Grade 6 in GCSE English Language or Literature

Environmental Science A-Level

Take a practical, multi-disciplinary approach to the three core sciences by examining the Earth’s systems and the impact of human activity. This course focuses on using experimental techniques and field research to predict environmental change and find ways to halt or reverse damage to our planet.

Key Learning Outcomes:

  • Systems Interrelationship: Gain a deep understanding of how geographical and biological components interact to maintain the delicate balance of the Earth’s atmosphere and biosphere.
  • Applied Research: Master a variety of experimental and field-study techniques to gather data, measure current pollution levels, and evaluate environmental evidence.
  • Sustainability Strategy: Explore biological and energy resources to develop sustainable solutions for agriculture, forestry, and architecture in the face of global challenges.

Entry Requirements: Grade 6-6 in two GCSE Sciences and Grade 6 in GCSE Maths

Extended Project Qualification (EPQ)

The EPQ is an exciting opportunity to move beyond the standard curriculum and dive deep into a subject you are truly passionate about. With the support of a dedicated tutor, you will manage a professional-style research project that bridges the gap between A-Level study and the independent demands of university.

Key Learning Outcomes:

  • Project Management: Master the core skills of project design, from initial planning and decision-making to final synthesis and evaluation.
  • Specialised Research: Develop advanced critical thinking and data-gathering techniques to produce a high-level dissertation, performance, or physical artefact.
  • Academic Independence: Build the self-reliance and “e-confidence” required to use new technologies and academic resources to support your personal career aspirations.

Entry Requirements: Not Applicable

Film Studies A-Level

You will never look at a screen the same way again. This course takes you on an exciting journey through 11 vital examples of cinema – from Hollywood blockbusters to silent film movements – combining academic analysis with a hands-on, practical approach to filmmaking.

Key Learning Outcomes:

  • Cinematic Literacy: Master the history and “language” of film, exploring how directors use cinematography, lighting, and sound to inspire emotional and reflective responses.
  • Production Skills: Move from spectator to creator by getting behind the camera to write, direct, and edit your own original short film production.
  • Critical Frameworks: Dive into complex theories such as Auteur theory and Spectatorship while studying iconic works like Inception, Vertigo, and Pulp Fiction.

Entry Requirements: Grade 6 in GCSE English (and Film Studies, if taken)

French A-Level

Securing your place as a global citizen, this course offers an exciting challenge that blends advanced linguistic mastery with a deep exploration of the Francophone world. You will refine your skills alongside native speakers, engaging with the social, political, and artistic issues that shape modern French-speaking societies.

Key Learning Outcomes:

  • Analytical Communication: Develop the ability to discuss and negotiate complex topics in French, from the changing nature of the family to the impact of information technology and “cinema as the seventh art.”
  • Literary and Cinematic Critique: Conduct in-depth studies of significant cultural works, including the film La Haine and the contemporary novel No et moi, while mastering the art of the critical essay.
  • Independent Research: In your second year, undertake a personalized research project on a specific aspect of French culture or society that aligns with your individual interests and career aspirations.

Entry Requirements: Grade 6 in GCSE French

Geography A-Level

Geography serves as a vital bridge between the sciences and the humanities, helping you make sense of a rapidly changing world. This hands-on, forward-looking subject challenges you to internalise complex global processes – from the mechanics of plate tectonics to the nuances of urban evolution and global governance.

Key Learning Outcomes:

  • Environmental Mastery: Explore the physical world through the study of water and carbon cycles, coastal landscapes, and natural hazards such as volcanoes, earthquakes, and wildfires.
  • Socio-Political Insight: Analyse human environments by investigating global systems, contemporary urban challenges, and the ways in which people adapt to and mitigate climate change.
  • Primary Research: Conduct an extensive, independent fieldwork investigation (3,000–4,000 words) where you collect and analyze original data on a geographical issue of your choice.

Entry Requirements: Grade 6 in GCSE Geography

German A-Level

Mastering German connects you to the world’s fourth-largest economy and the powerhouse of European engineering. This course moves beyond basic communication, immersing you in the rich history, politics, and artistic culture of the German-speaking world while developing the high-level research and critical thinking skills prized by global employers.

Key Learning Outcomes:

  • Sociopolitical Analysis: Explore contemporary issues such as the digital world, youth culture, and the consequences of German re-unification, while debating themes of immigration and integration.
  • Cultural Competence: Deepen your understanding of German-speaking societies through the study of literary texts and influential films, alongside the artistic life of cities like Berlin.
  • Advanced Communication: Master complex grammatical structures and idiomatic language to achieve professional-standard fluency in listening, reading, and persuasive writing.

Entry Requirements: Grade 6 in GCSE German (or bilingual/near-native standard)

History A-Level

History at Chesterton is a global journey that looks far beyond British shores to understand the historical currents shaping our world today. This course is built on lively debate and academic rigour, challenging students to solve complex puzzles and engage with the diverse cultures, empires, and revolutions that define the human story.

Key Learning Outcomes:

  • Global Perspective: Explore under-represented histories, from the sophisticated art and governance of West African Kingdoms (1400–1800) to the dramatic shift from Tsarist autocracy to the Soviet Union in Russia.
  • Critical Source Analysis: Investigate the “Making of England” by analysing original Anglo-Saxon and Viking sources to understand how leaders like Alfred the Great survived existential threats.
  • Independent Scholarship: Conduct a personalised research project on a topic of your choice, developing the advanced writing, debating, and investigative skills highly prized by top universities and law firms.

Entry Requirements: Grade 6 in GCSE History

Latin A-Level

Unlock the linguistic keys to one of history’s most influential civilizations. This course transitions you from GCSE basics to reading unadapted Roman prose and poetry, allowing you to engage directly with the scandals, legal battles, and intimate romances that defined life in ancient Rome.

Key Learning Outcomes:

  • Advanced Philology: Build high-level confidence and fluency in reading unseen Latin, while securing a deep technical grasp of complex grammar and syntax.
  • Forensic Oratory: Conduct an in-depth study of Cicero’s powerful polemics, specifically his defence of Cluentius, to analyse the art of persuasion and the Roman legal system.
  • Lyric Poetry: Explore the tender, cheeky, and often heartbreaking love poetry of Catullus, gaining a personal perspective on how the Romans navigated the trials of ancient romance.

Entry Requirements: Grade 6 in GCSE Latin

Mathematics A-Level

Mathematics is the universal language used to decode the cosmos and navigate our technological world. Beyond mere calculation, this course is a “heady mixture” of abstract exploration and practical problem-solving, providing the logical framework essential for science, finance, and big data.

Key Learning Outcomes:

  • Pure Mathematics: Master the core principles of the subject, extending GCSE topics into exciting new territory such as Calculus (Differentiation and Integration), Trigonometry, and formal Proof.
  • Mechanical Modelling: Apply mathematical theory to the physical world to understand motion and change, investigating the forces, moments, and kinematics that govern everything from a cricket ball’s flight to engineering structures.
  • Statistical Analysis: Learn to interpret “big data” and handle uncertainty. You will use probability and hypothesis testing to make sense of the world, whether calculating pension accrual or analysing cookie-to-chip ratios.

Entry Requirements: Grade 7 in GCSE Mathematics

Core Mathematics (Level 3 Mathematical Studies)

Core Maths is the practical answer for students who aren’t taking a full A-Level in Mathematics but want to maintain their competitive edge. This course focuses on the “maths of real life,” providing the essential statistical and analytical tools needed to excel in subjects like Geography, Psychology, and Biology, as well as in future employment.

Key Learning Outcomes:

  • Financial Literacy: Master the complexities of personal finance, including interest rates, taxation, and investments, to make informed real-world decisions.
  • Data Critique: Develop a “critical eye” for how mathematical information is presented in the media, learning to interpret and challenge data found in newspaper articles and reports.
  • Applied Problem Solving: Use ICT and advanced statistical techniques to investigate and present solutions to real-life challenges, bridging the gap between GCSE theory and professional practice.
  • Qualification: Level 3 Diploma (Worth half an A-Level in UCAS points)

Entry Requirements: Grade 6 in GCSE Mathematics

Further Mathematics A-Level

Further Mathematics is an elite qualification designed for students who want to explore the deepest reaches of mathematical theory. It is taken alongside A-Level Mathematics and acts as a vital bridge to university degrees in Engineering, Physics, and Computer Science, introducing “imaginary” concepts that underpin modern technology and theoretical science.

Key Learning Outcomes:

  • Advanced Pure Theory: Venture into the abstract world of Complex Numbers, Matrices, and Hyperbolic Functions. You will master the language of Differential Equations and Number Theory to solve problems that standard Mathematics cannot touch.
  • Applied Specialism: Deepen your expertise in either Mechanics (exploring momentum and energy), Statistics (discrete distributions), or Decision Mathematics (focusing on algorithms and critical path analysis).
  • High-Level Modelling: Develop the independent study skills required to model mechanical systems and complex data sets at a professional and academic standard.

Entry Requirements: Grade 8 in GCSE Mathematics and a strong overall GCSE profile.

Music A-Level

Music at Chesterton is an inspiring blend of creative expression, technical precision, and academic analysis. Whether you are a classical virtuoso, a jazz enthusiast, or an aspiring music producer, this course allows you to tailor your studies to your unique artistic identity while gaining a prestigious qualification valued by top-tier universities.

Key Learning Outcomes:

  • Performance Excellence: Develop a professional-standard recital (minimum 10 minutes) on your chosen instrument, voice, or via music production. You will receive support for specialist lessons and perform in renowned venues like St John’s College Chapel.
  • Compositional Flair: Create two original works—one to a specific brief and one “free” composition—totalling at least 4.5 minutes. You can utilize traditional notation or modern Digital Audio Workstations (DAWs) like Logic Pro.
  • Musical Analysis: Master the “Western Classical Tradition” (1650–1910) alongside diverse optional areas such as Music for Media (film/video games), Pop, Jazz, or Contemporary Art Music.
  • Flexible Pathways: Students can choose a Traditional Pathway, a Technology Pathway (using MIDI and sequencing), or a hybrid of both to suit their career goals.

Entry Requirements: Grade 6 in GCSE Music OR Grade 5 in an instrument/voice and Music Theory. (Must be at least Grade 5 standard at the start of the course).

Photography A-Level

Plunge into a truly personalised course that balances technical mastery with artistic risk-taking. Whether your passion lies in the tactile chemistry of the darkroom or the cutting-edge potential of digital film and video, you will be nurtured to produce meaningful work that expresses themes and issues important to you.

Key Learning Outcomes:

  • Technical Versatility: Master three distinct disciplines: traditional film-based photography (including darkroom processing), digital photography, and moving image/video production.
  • Personal Investigation: Develop a substantial portfolio (60% of your grade) that charts your research, experiments with media, and culminates in a resolved, personal outcome supported by a written study.
  • Contextual Depth: Build a theoretical understanding of lens-based art forms, drawing inspiration from history and contemporary practitioners through group critiques, exhibition visits, and location-based shoots.

Entry Requirements: Grade 6 in any Art and Design GCSE (e.g., Fine Art, Textiles, or Photography)

Physical Education A-Level

If you’ve ever wondered what separates an amateur from an elite athlete, this course provides the answers. Physical Education at Chesterton is a high-octane mix of scientific theory and practical mastery, exploring how the human body and mind work in tandem to achieve peak performance in a multi-billion pound global industry.

Key Learning Outcomes:

  • Scientific Foundations: Delve into exercise physiology, biomechanics, and applied anatomy to understand the “how” and “why” of physical movement and human outperformance.
  • Psychological Edge: Study skill acquisition and sports psychology to see how personality, motivation, and mental fortitude dictate success on the field.
  • Socio-Cultural Analysis: Examine the ethical landscape of modern sport, including the impact of performance-enhancing drugs, the commercialisation of the industry, and how technology is redefining the game.
  • Performance & Analysis: Specialise in a sport as either a performer or a coach, using your academic knowledge to evaluate and improve individual performance through a detailed non-exam assessment.

Entry Requirements: Grade 6 in GCSE Physical Education (if taken)

Physics A-Level

Physics is more than a subject; it is a fundamental training for your brain to think beyond boundaries. By stretching your imagination to contemplate the nature of time and matter itself, you will develop a logical, mathematical framework to describe the phenomena of the entire universe.

Key Learning Outcomes:

  • Foundational Mechanics: Master the principles of kinematics and the Newtonian world, learning to model the forces and motions that govern our everyday physical reality.
  • Particle Physics & Cosmology: Explore the cutting edge of human knowledge, from the subatomic building blocks of matter to the origins of the universe and the evolution of the stars.
  • Applied Science: Investigate practical developments in fields such as Medical Physics and Astrophysics, discovering how theoretical models are used to save lives and explore the deep reaches of space.
  • Evolution of Theory: Critically analyze how scientific models have evolved over time, questioning how we know what we know and how our understanding of the physical universe continues to improve.

Entry Requirements: Grade 7-7 in GCSE Combined Science OR Grade 7 in GCSE Physics, plus Grade 7 in GCSE Maths.

Politics A-Level

Politics is the “bones of our society” – the institutions that govern our lives and the theories that underpin our beliefs. Whether you are a budding activist or completely new to the subject, this fast-paced course empowers you to go beyond the headlines, sharpening your critical mind and preparing you to become an engaged, active citizen.

Key Learning Outcomes:

  • Comparative Governance: Develop a sophisticated understanding of how the UK government functions and compare it directly with the US system, examining the power of the Prime Minister versus the President.
  • Ideological Exploration: Dive into the “isms” that shape the world, including Liberalism, Conservatism, Feminism, Ecologism, and Anarchism, while challenging your own values within the bigger picture.
  • Civil Rights & Justice: Analyse how judicial systems and Supreme Courts in both the UK and USA protect and uphold human rights in an age of constant change.
  • Active Engagement: Bring the subject to life by questioning local MPs, participating in mock elections, and visiting the Houses of Parliament to see where national debate happens.

Entry Requirements: Grade 6 in GCSE English, plus a Grade 6 in Geography, History, or Politics (if taken).

Psychology A-Level

Psychology is the scientific study of the mind and its influence on human behaviour. If you have an enquiring mind that questions why people conform, whether prison truly changes a criminal, or how your earliest childhood experiences shape your adult self, this course provides the empirical tools to find the answers.

Key Learning Outcomes:

  • Foundations of the Mind: Explore core concepts in social influence, memory, and human attachment. You will investigate why we obey authority and how our cognitive processes store and retrieve information.
  • Clinical & Forensic Insight: In your second year, delve into psychopathology (including schizophrenia) and forensic psychology to understand the origins of “abnormal” and criminal behaviour.
  • Biological & Developmental Perspectives: Study biopsychology to see how the brain functions as a physical organ, alongside debates such as nature vs. nurture and the psychology of gender.
  • Research Mastery: Gain hands-on experience by designing, carrying out, and analysing your own psychological research, mastering the statistical and ethical requirements of the field.

Entry Requirements: Grade 6 in GCSE Maths or a Science, and Grade 6 in GCSE English.

Religious Studies A-Level

This intellectually rigorous course offers a deep dive into the three pillars of human thought: religion, philosophy, and ethics. You will move beyond simple belief to explore the “why” behind existence, challenging your own perspectives through the study of ancient Greek influences, modern secularism, and the moral dilemmas of the 21st century.

Key Learning Outcomes:

  • Philosophical Inquiry: Engage with the “Problem of Evil,” the nature of the soul, and classic arguments for the existence of God, using reason and observation to evaluate religious experience.
  • Ethical Frameworks: Apply complex theories—like Utilitarianism, Kantian Ethics, and Natural Moral Law—to modern crises in business, euthanasia, and sexual ethics.
  • Theological Development: Systematically study Christian thought, from the works of Augustine to contemporary challenges like Marx, gender theology, and religious pluralism.
  • Critical Argumentation: Master the art of the academic essay, learning to refine original philosophical texts and participate in high-level debates on meta-ethics and the nature of God.

Entry Requirements: Grade 6 in GCSE English

Sociology A-Level

Sociology at Chesterton is for students who want to move beyond the surface of the news to understand the hidden structures of our world. By adopting a “hands-on” approach to research, you will explore what makes society function – and, more importantly, what makes it dysfunctional – developing a critical respect for social diversity and the power of social action.

Key Learning Outcomes:

  • Social Identity & Culture: Examine the fundamental building blocks of life, including the changing nature of families, youth subcultures, and the powerful influence of social media on our self-image.
  • Analysis of Inequality: Research the root causes of social disparities, investigating how class, race, and gender create unequal outcomes in education, employment, and the domestic sphere.
  • Crime & Deviance: Delve into the “who” and “why” of criminal behavior, exploring the effectiveness of the justice system and visiting locations like the Cambridge Crown Court to see sociology in action.
  • Research Methodology: Master the tools of the trade by conducting your own sociological research, learning to interpret complex data sets and construct persuasive, evidence-based arguments.

Entry Requirements: Grade 6 in GCSE Sociology (if taken).

Spanish A-Level

Spanish is the second most widely spoken language in the world, with over 560 million speakers across 21 countries. At Chesterton, you won’t just study the mechanics of grammar and vocabulary; you will dive into the daily lives, regional identities, and vibrant cultures of the Hispanic world, developing the “intercultural confidence” prized by global employers.

Key Learning Outcomes:

  • Societal Exploration: Analyse modern and traditional values across Spain and South America, covering critical contemporary issues such as cyberspace, equal rights, immigration, and integration.
  • Political & Artistic Culture: Explore Hispanic music, regional identities, and the impact of youth activism and popular movements on modern political life.
  • Literary & Cinematic Analysis: Bring the language to life through the study of a specific film and novel (such as La Casa de Bernarda Alba or Volver), using them as windows into Spanish-speaking societies.
  • Advanced Communication: Master the four core skills – listening, reading, speaking, and writing – culminating in an independent research project and presentation on a topic of your choice.

Entry Requirements: Grade 6 in GCSE Spanish (or bilingual/near-native standard).