Sixth Form

Sixth Form
In the Sixth Form EAL lessons are fitted around a pupil’s individual timetable. The programme includes induction, assessment and examination preparation necessary for university entrance or further training. Most EAL pupils take IELTS (International English Language Testing System) at the end of their Lower Sixth year, with the expectation that they achieve their desired university’s minimum English language standards or at least a Band 6.5 in each skill area before they leave Bethany. At least one practice examination task is completed each week which could include: a reading paper, a writing task, a listening script or a practice speaking exam.

For university entry from September 2011, UCAS points will be awarded for the CAE (Certificate in Advanced English) at Grade A and the CPE (Certificate of Proficiency in English) at Grades A – C, and there is an opportunity for international pupils to work towards either one of those exams.

Entry Requirements:
These are a guide only. All prospective international pupils must take an entrance test consisting of: reading, grammar and vocabulary exercises, a writing task and a mathematics test.

Year Group IELTS Equivalent on Entry CEFR*
7/8 3.5 A2/B1
9/10 4.5 B2
Sixth Form 5.5 B2

ethany Sixth Formers benefit from a wide range of choice in courses, small teaching groups and careful tutoring.

The progress of each Sixth Former is closely monitored by their individual Tutor.  Full written reports are sent to parents twice each term and tutors guide their tutees through university entry procedures.

A levels

All subjects offer AS and A2 courses and so it is possible to continue with any course through to a full A level.

Double A level in Applied Business

This course is accepted by universities and employers as equivalent to two A levels.  At Bethany it is usually taken by students in combination with other A level and has proved to be a successful route to Business related degrees at university.  The course is modular with assessment through examination and course work.  All Applied Business students take part in the Young Enterprise Scheme.

BTEC National Award in Sport

This course is accepted by universities and employers and carries the same weighting as one A level.  The National Award offers a specialist qualification that focuses on a similar programme of study to the A level.  However, the BTEC’s strength is that all units are coursework based.  Students are expected to complete six units over the two year programme of study.  The grading system is Pass, Merit and Distinction with 120 UCAS points for Distinction (equivalent to an A at A level) and 40 UCAS points for a pass (equivalent to an E at A level).

BTEC National Award in Music Performance

This course carries the same weighting as one A level and the grading system is the same as for Sport above. All units carry equal weighting.  Music BTEC is widely recognised as an important stepping stone for those wishing to go on to performance based courses.