FULL-TIME

PROSPECTUS

2014

Useful Info
Welcome 4

contents

Visit Us 6
Quality and Success 8
Ten reasons to choose New College

10

What our students say

12

Choosing New College over 6th Form

14

Our Campus - Your College

16

Calling all parents 18

A word from the Principal

18

For High Flyers 19

Technical Baccalaureate 19
Go places with New College

20

Student life 22
Maximising your potential

24

Focus on Employability

25

College at 14 26
Help when you need it

28

Getting to College 30
Money Matters 31
Course and Jargon buster

32

What sort of courses can I do?

34

Choosing your learning programme

35

Information, Advice and Guidance

36

Applying to New College

37

The Courses
Art, Design and Photography

38

Beauty and Body Treatments

43

Business, Enterprise, Accounting and Law

47

Childcare and Health Care

50

Computing and IT 54
English 57
Foundation Learning 60
Geography and the Environment

62

General Studies 65
Historical Studies 68
Languages 71
Mathematics 74
Media and Film Studies

77

Performing Arts 80
Public Services 85
Religious Studies and Philosophy

87

Science and Psychology

89

Social Sciences 94
Sport and Leisure 97
Travel, Tourism and Hospitality

100

Apprenticeships, Traineeships and Preparation for Work

103

Index and Course List

105

Application form 107

University Education at New College

109

welcome to our
full time prospectus
2014-15
If you want a bright future and the chance to reach your full potential, then New
College is a great place to be - you dont have to stay on at your schools sixth
form. Students come to us from a wide area across Swindon, Wiltshire, Oxfordshire,
Gloucestershire and West Berkshire.
We have all the courses, activities and support to suit YOU. Choose from over 175
first class academic and work-related courses at all levels which will help you to
get to university or your first job. Our students achieve their qualifications and get
good grades - we have some of the best pass results in the area and outstanding
success rates. Youll be taught by highly-qualified and professional staff who have
many years of experience between them. Youll have the opportunity to meet and
engage with employers such as Nationwide, Intel and Zurich through our excellent
business links and employability initiatives.
Weve recently expanded and enhanced our modern building and facilities, giving
us even more teaching space and resources. One of the many highlights is a
Student Zone, including an Enrichment Centre and Student Services and improved
restaurant facilities.
We think youll love the atmosphere and culture here at New College - its friendly,
buzzing and inclusive with lots of opportunities for you to develop. Our students are
fantastic - positive, lively, motivated, hard-working and great at contributing their
time, opinions and efforts both within the classroom and beyond. Were an excellent
stepping stone between school and university or the workplace. Youll be treated
as an adult and encouraged to be independent, but we also have support services
here for you when you need them. Dont just take our word for it! Youll find plenty
of evidence within these pages, including views from current students. Read on and
then come and see for yourself at one of our Open Events.

What next?
New College!

04

visit us
There are plenty of opportunities for you to come and see what life is like here.
You may already have taken part in one of our College Experience events, but we
recommend coming along to an open event.

Open Events
The perfect opportunity to get a feel for the sort of College we are. Come along and
have a look, talk to tutors and students, take a tour and check out our facilities and
excellent learning resources.
Open Day: Saturday 12th October 2013 - 10.00am to 2.00pm
Open Evening A Levels: Wednesday 29th January 2014 - 5.00 to 7.00pm
Open Evening Vocational Courses: Tuesday 25th March 2014 - 5.00 to 7.00pm
Everyone is welcome. Visit our website for details nearer the time.

Campus Tours
If you cant make an open event then why not book a tour of our campus? We can
arrange a tour in term-time at a time to suit you. Parents are welcome, come with
a friend, or a small group! Please book in advance by telephone with the Schools
Liaison Adviser on (01793) 611470 or email: info@newcollege.ac.uk.

Schools Liaison
Look out for our Schools Liaison Team at your school events. We can talk to you
and your parents about opportunities at New College as well as Further Education
in general.

Follow us on Facebook and Twitter

Keep up to date with events and initiatives going on at New College by following us:
www.facebook.com/newcollegeswindon or @newcollswindon on Twitter
For the latest information, including news of other events taking place throughout
the year please check the College website regularly at www.newcollege.ac.uk.
Alternatively if you wish to sign up to our mailing list to stay informed please email
your name, address, postcode and school to stayinformed@newcollege.ac.uk.

Important notice
Every effort has been made to ensure that all information contained in this prospectus is
accurate at the time of going to print (August 2013). New College accepts no responsibility
for omission or errors and reserves the right to make changes, especially to courses and their
content. We cannot accept any liability arising out of any changes.

06

quality and success

Exam and success rates
We pride ourselves on the achievements of our students.

Matrix - a high quality of Information, advice

and guidance (IAG)

New College has one of the largest number of successful

In March 2013, New College was reaccredited with the national

exam entries of any school or college in Wiltshire and

Matrix standard award. This recognises our success in

Gloucestershire. We consistently achieve results that are the

providing excellent and impartial IAG services. This means that

best in the region.

you will receive the best possible advice that suits you and
your needs at every step of the learner journey.

The College has been top of the Governments 16-18

performance league tables in Swindon for 10 of the past 12

The external Matrix Assessor stated,

years.
I was very impressed by the passion, commitment and professional
A Level pass rates. In Summer 2013 our students achieved

integrity of everyone at New College Swindon. There is clearly a

the following:

culture where the IAG mission isnt just a statement on a piece of

98% pass rate for A Levels

paper but is genuinely embraced and believed in by all staff.

100% pass rate in 39 out of 55 subjects

41% A*-B rate on A Levels

A number of key strengths were identified including the

Student Ambassador Scheme and the importance of the

90% of our students achieve 3 or more A Levels or

equivalences*. This is the highest percentage of any

Personal Tutors and the huge part they play in supporting

students.

school or college in Swindon or Cirencester.

What Ofsted say

Our average points per student (APS) for our Top 100

There is a happy, industrious and safe environment

students is 990. This rivals performance in the independent

with enthusiastic, supportive staff and a strong sense of

school sector.

community.

BTEC Diploma pass rates. A 100% pass rate in Summer 2013

Educational and social inclusion is outstanding.

with 29% Distinctions.

Knowledgeable teachers plan lessons well and use a broad
GCSE pass rates. In Summer 2013 our students achieved an

range of activities to enthuse and motivate learners.

overall pass rate of 99.4%.

This is a good college with outstanding features.

Higher Education (H.E.) Success

500+ students went on to university in Summer 2013. This

HARLEY VIVEASH: BRADON forest, PURTON

achieved a*/As at a level in summer 2012; now studying at university of oxford

included top universities such as Nottingham, Cardiff,

At New College, we dont just value student success in terms

Bath, Warwick and Imperial.

of exam achievements. Our Student Star Awards are given for

I decided to apply to Oxbridge because of the encouragement of the New College

commitment, effort, academic achievement, achievement in

teachers and the Villiers Park Scholars Programme.

115+ students won places at Oxford and Cambridge in the

last 12 years.

08

Student Star Awards

music, sport, drama, art, any extra curricula activity or any

contribution to a community initiative.

*Source: DfES 2012 School Performance Tables KS5

10 reasons to choose New College

1. Choice
Our popularity means that we can run over 175 A Level and
vocational programmes, the widest choice in the area. Whilst
we offer 63 different AS/A Levels alone, we also run vocational
courses across a wide choice of subjects. Qualifications
include: AS and A Levels, GCSEs (new and resits), NVQs,
vocational courses, Diplomas and workbased learning such as
Apprenticeships. Whatever your current interests and future
plans, you will find a programme to suit you.

2. Destinations - university and jobs

Over 500 students go on to university each year. The Colleges
Career Advisers or your tutor can help you to choose a career
or university course and advise on the best way to get there.
Representatives from universities and local employers also
visit regularly. A high percentage of our leavers go on to
jobs. The New College Job Shop allows employers to advertise
seasonal, part-time and permanent vacancies for students.

3. Focus on employability
We know its important for our students to develop key
skills that will help them to compete in an increasingly
competitive job market; regardless of whether they are going
on to university or into work straightaway. We offer many
opportunities to engage with employers, through mentoring,
work placement schemes and other initiatives. We also have
links with over 500 businesses through our Business Services
division, Fast Forward. Find out more on Page 25.

4. Outstanding support
Our large Student Services Team is here to provide you with
any advice and support you may need. OFSTED rates the
support and guidance we provide as outstanding especially
the initial assessment process which helps to identify your
needs and to get you on the right programme. Find out more
on page 28.

5. Great facilities
The opening of a new Annexe in September 2011 provided even
more space and great facilities. Find out more on page 16.

6. Great teaching and staff

A key strength is the professionalism and commitment of our
staff across the College; many of whom hold postgraduate
qualifications, masters and doctorates. They follow a
programme of continuing professional development (CPD)
ensuring they are up-to-date with changes in the workplace,

10

to qualifications and to developments in teaching methods.

In 2011 New College was in the Sunday Times 100 Best Places
to Work in the Public/Third Sector List, one of only eight
Further Education Colleges. This is great news for students
as it means they are supported by dedicated and motivated
staff that enjoy their time at work.

7. Equality, Diversity and Inclusion

New College is committed to Equality, Diversity, Inclusion and
Excellence. We want everyone to fulfil their potential and to
have their contributions valued and respected. We seek to
recruit staff and students who are representative of the local
community, promoting equality of opportunity and fostering
good relations. To find out more about equality and diversity
at New College please visit our website or email
equality@newcollege.ac.uk.

8. Opportunities to get involved

Our Student Union (SU) is here to represent you! Visit the
Enrichment Centre to find out more about your student
representatives, and how you can be a part of the Student
Union Team! Lots of events run throughout the year,
from fundraising for charities to end of term parties
and performances; from themed weeks to volunteering
opportunities.

9. High Flyers
Our High Flyers Scheme for gifted and talented students
offers a scholarship scheme, additional qualifications,
special initiatives and Oxbridge and Russell Group university
application, advice and guidance. See page 19 for more
information.

10. Overall student life and experience

Being a student here is about more than getting qualifications.
New College has a friendly, supportive and secure atmosphere
so that you can enjoy the best possible learning experience.
Its also a diverse and exciting place. Youll have more freedom
and independence than at a school - studying here is a
great stepping stone between school and university or the
workplace. You will make new friends, get involved in worthwhile
activities and have a great time! You will also develop great
skills for later life such as organisation, motivation, team
work and communication skills. You can also gain important
life skills through studying short courses such as Personal
Finance or participating in initiatives such as Enterprise
Challenge. We really do offer an unbeatable combination of
teaching excellence, course choice, support and resources
all under one roof!

what our students say

Since my first day I have felt very welcome, all the students and
teachers have been very friendly and helpful - we are all like a big
happy family!
New College has been an excellent experience and provided me
with the opportunity to achieve qualifications for university as well
as learn new skills I can apply in working life.
My time here has been really good. I have been on some amazing
trips and met some great friends. The facilities are great and I love
the freedom.
Im glad I came to New College as its a really positive environment
to be within.
The highlight of my time at college was any time spent in the Art
Department. The staff were incredible, inspiring educators and its
in no small part thanks to their teaching that Ive ended up where
I am today.
My experience at New College has been great, the teachers are
fun and friendly to be around and they have given me a valued
education towards my future.
Ive had good advice and help on what I want to do after College.
I have also had good guidance and help completing my army
application.
New College has a friendly and positive atmosphere. There are so
many opportunities to gain new qualifications.
The History classes I took, as well as my Politics class at New
College definitely made me want to do an American Studies degree
at the University of Maryland.
New College helped me greatly with my options on what to do next
and how to act upon them.
The facilities here are great, such as the Open Learning Centre
and the Enrichment Centre.
I remember my time at New College very fondly. It offered a great
range of courses and the lecturers were incredibly supportive,
particularly with university applications. My time there stood me in
great stead for my career in law.

12

MIKEY STEVENSON: CHURCHFIELDS, SWINDON

EXTENDED DIPLOMA

The amount of confidence and experience I have gained during my time at

New College has been a real life changer. I used to be a struggling student getting
Ds in English and Maths, and with the confidence boost from many teachers and
students I am predicted three A*s.

choosing new college over your schools 6th form

You dont have to stay on at your school
Whilst staying on in the same environment may suit some
students, others prefer the wider choice of courses and

Are there top-rate specialist facilities for me to learn and

be taught in?

opportunities and greater independence that College can

provide. Studying at New College can be a great bridge
between school and university or your first job. We regularly

Do they have special initiatives for gifted and talented

students?

enrol large numbers of students from all schools with sixth

forms in Swindon and the local area and beyond.

Are there opportunities to engage with employers and

develop my employability skills?

We advise you to consider all post-16 options available to you.

Here are some key questions to think about as you explore
and compare your school with other providers:-

Do they offer me impartial information, advice and guidance

about my post-16 study options?

Do they publish results and success rates for every course?

Are there progression opportunities available?

Do they offer a wide range of courses for me to do what I

Do they publish progression and destination statistics to

want to do?
Are there vocational courses on offer?

higher level courses, universities and jobs?

New College Swindon can answer yes to all of these
questions and more. Few schools can match the scope

Can I stay on one site to complete my studies?

Do they have proven quality and experience in teaching at
A Level/Level 3?
If they have a new sixth form and therefore limited
experience of delivering A levels, does their performance
at KS4/GCSEs indicate they will perform well at KS5/A Levels?
Will I be treated more independently than I was when I was
in Key Stage 4?
Can they offer me support services like personal tutors,
counselling, bursaries, chaplaincy, nurses?
Will I be able to get on courses if I dont get high enough
GCSE grades?
Can I do additional courses or qualifications to make my
university application form or CV stand out?

14

and quality of our provision.

Photography Studio with Darkroom

our campus - your college

The photography darkroom is fully equipped with 18 medium

format enlargers and automatic processor. The facilities
include black and white processing equipment and material.

Over the past 28 years New College has provided top quality

Phoenix Theatre

training, education and skills development. We continue to

One of the largest theatres in Swindon, the Phoenix Theatre

invest in new buildings, resources and the best teachers and

boasts a professional lightning rig and control box. The area

learning materials available.

of the auditorium is 300m2 with a maximum seating capacity

of 240. The electrical seating system can be used for large

The studio is equipped with flash and tungsten lighting,

including colorama backdrops.

Information Technology (IT)

We have invested heavily in IT equipment and infrastructure

Sports Centre

over the last three years. We provide access to over 1600

The Sports Centre contains a fitness suite, exercise studio

computers, PCs and Macbooks. Our College-wide computer

and modern sports hall catering for multiple sports on a

network allows you to access your files and the internet. We

sprung floor. The fitness suite has a wide variety of modern

also have one of the most advanced wireless implementations

we have the best facilities, resources and staff to support you

LifeFitness cardiovascular and weight resistance equipment

in the UK. All classrooms have a computer, projector and

in your learning here.

in addition to a large selection of free weights. The Exercise

interactive whiteboards. We also offer a very popular Bring

Studio allows 12 participants to exercise, and can be used for

your own device scheme for staff and students of the

a variety of group exercise classes.

College.

Art and Design, Fashion and Textiles Studios

Accessibility at New College

There are two Fashion and Textiles studios. Specialist

All our buildings and facilities are available to students. We

equipment includes 27 domestic sewing machines, 11 x 8

have resources to improve accessibility, including reserved

shaft looms, three domestic overlockers, two industrial sewing

parking and lifts to all areas of the main building and

Beauty and Body Treatment Salons

machines, one industrial overlocker, and professional print

Sports Centre. We also have an entry on Disabled Go at www.

Sports Centre

and cutting tables. We have a diverse range of equipment and

disabledgo.com. Details can be found in our Accessibility

materials to cope with an extensive range of techniques and

Advice leaflet - please ask for a copy, or view it on our website

processes (embroidery, bead embroidery, appliqu, surface

at www. newcollege.ac.uk.

In 2003 we spent over 20million on an outstanding new

building and modern facilities at Queens Drive, with a further
extension in 2005. Our 10million Annexe opened in September
2011, creating even more space for students and ensuring that

audiences, or adapted to create a large teaching space.

There are also dressing rooms and a scene preparation room.
It is home to numerous College and student productions and
events and hired by professional arts organisations.

Library and extended Open Learning Centre

All New College students and staff can use the Library on

Facilities at New College are outstanding and include:

production of their current ID card and can borrow or use a

Student Zone

wide range of books, DVDs, newspapers, journals and a variety

Phoenix Theatre

of mobile technologies. The Library has 70 study spaces and

Library and extended Open Learning Centre

Virtual Learning Environment
STEM Zone (Science, Technology, Engineering and Maths)

Art and Design, Fashion and Textiles Studios

Recording Studio

networked PCs and is a designated quiet study area. The Open

Learning Centre has an extensive number of PCs, one Apple
Mac and spaces for your own laptop use.

E-learning
The College has a very active Virtual Learning Environment
(VLE), where teachers post their resources, enabling students

Dance Studio

to catch up on work, do revision activities, submit assignments

Modern Restaurant

online or extend their learning with additional materials. The

Lecture Theatre

VLE is also full of student support information, study skills and

Business and Enterprise Zone, including an Employer

other tips to enhance learning, as well as College news items

Zone and Job Club

to keep students informed of events. It can be accessed

Photography Studio with Darkroom

24 hours a day from College, from home, even from mobile

Fitness Suite

devices.

Student Zone

STEM Zone

Our Student Zone includes a student enrichment centre for

There are ten well-equipped and up-to-date science labs in

use between timetabled lessons with Wii and X Box, pool table

the College, including two brand new Physics Labs. We use

and various games. There are plenty of facilities for you to

sophisticated data-logging equipment which allows results

use, and the Enrichment Coordinator and Student Union have

of experiments to be displayed on screen in real time as well

their desks here. The Skills Development Area includes one-to-

as state of the art, modern equipment such as melting-point

one tuition rooms for students requiring Additional Learning

apparatus, waterbaths and colorimeters.

Support, and the Student Zone also has small rooms for
careers guidance, counselling and other support.

Hair and Beauty Treatments Salons

Our purpose-built Hair and Beauty area is fully equipped to
professional standards. It includes a complementary therapy
suite, two beauty salons with individual massage cubicles; a
hairdressing salon and make-up studio both with individual
stations and backwash basins. We use professional salon
products to give a high quality experience for our clients.

16

pattern design, silk screening, collagraphs, mono printing, felt

making, weaving, constructed textiles and dyeing).

Staff
New College combines great facilities with outstanding staff

Dance Studio

who are experienced, knowledgeable, highly qualified and very

There are two dance studios with fully sprung wooden floors

professional - a winning combination! They

and practice mirrors, the perfect location for any dance or

fitness class or activity. Each space is 150m and comfortably

have real-life skills and industry experience

seats 70 for shows.

share good practice

are encouraged to learn and develop too

Restaurant
Our extended restaurant provides a range of refreshments,
breakfasts and lunches across four food outlets. These
include:
C-store: provides a range of sandwiches, wraps, baguettes,
confectionery, hot and cold drinks and stationery
Bowl: offers two hot meal options and a hot dessert
Streat: offers a selection of Grab n Go style hot food and
meals
Natural: offers jacket potatoes with fillings, pasta with sauce,
a salad bar and freshly made smoothies
Aspretto: a coffee bar offering premium teas, coffees, hot
and cold snacks

develop external contacts and bring visitors in to help

broaden your learning
treat students as adults - empowering you to achieve!

calling all parents

a word from the Principal

for high flyers

technical baccalaureate

New College provides students with an inspirational and

For all of us here at New College, the key to our learner student

If you are predicted at least four A grades at GCSE you can join

In April 2013, the Government announced the introduction

supportive learning environment.

success is the delivery of an exceptional student experience

our High Flyers Club. The club includes:

of the Technical Baccalaureate for courses starting in

across all aspects of teaching, learning, social and community

In return, we encourage our students to develop and take

life. The sheer choice and diversity of programmes here is

responsibility for reaching their own goals. In providing an

amazing and it is essential that you make an informed choice

adult environment, we expect a high standard of behaviour,

to suit your needs.

just as if they were at work. In their time at New College

Our great staff and the quality of our teaching and learning

lifes opportunities and challenges.

speaks for itself; we have over 28 years of proven experience

of delivering A Levels and top quality vocational courses with

selected advanced vocational qualifications.

There will be three elements to the Technical Baccalaureate:
1. Level 3 vocational qualification

AQA Baccalaureate - see page 66

Further details on which vocational qualifications will be

included in the Technical Baccalaureate will be announced

Additional expert assistance with your UCAS application

from.

in helping young people make the right college and course

technical training for ambitious and talented students taking

in over 30 subjects

high achievement rates. Theres also a vibrant programme of

events, activities and initiatives which all learners can benefit

We understand just how important parents and carers are

need six or more grade As at GCSE)

Fast track course options - complete A Levels in one year

students will have developed a host of skills to help them face

Our ABC Values are Aspire - Believe - Challenge.

September 2014. This is designed to recognise excellence in

Five AS Level subjects in Year 1 and four A2s in Year 2 (you

by the Government in November 2013, but are currently

undergoing consultation with employers and are likely to

Dedicated one-to-one tutor coaching, including Oxbridge

include:

The chance to apply for one of our High Flyers scholarships

STEM technicians (e.g. lab technicians, IT technicians,

decisions and how confusing the array of choices can

We have fantastic students at the College from all parts

be. You also play a vital role in the students progress and

of Swindon, Wiltshire and surrounding counties - our job is

development and we welcome your co-operation and support

to develop, stretch and challenge our learners to achieve

in helping them get through their programme successfully.

the best they can, in all aspects of life. Getting the right

We encourage your participation in and support for College

qualifications and the right skills are so important in todays

activities - from the early stages of applying, to course

tough global economy, especially for young people. We are

An excellent track record of placing students at Top 20 UK

completion.

continually introducing new courses and exploring initiatives

universities, including Southampton, Bristol, Bath, Warwick,

management, personal services, junior accounting

with employers that will meet learner career and progression

Imperial, Nottingham and Loughborough and 110+

positions)

needs and help them into good jobs and good universities.

New College students have won places at Oxford and

You will be invited to a Partnership Evening early in the first

term. Well keep you up-to-date with progress and produce

various engineering technician roles, construction

Visits to selected University Open days

Cambridge since 2000

termly newsletters about College events, key dates and

We are well aware that we are preparing and helping young

initiatives. You will also get invitations to two Consultation

learners to grow into mature and confident adults who will

Evenings and other events such as a Higher Education briefing

succeed in whatever lies ahead.

session.

professionals)
Service technicians (e.g. retail and hospitality

Creative technicians (e.g. digital media, other media,

creative industries, sport industry, textiles, design)

A programme of High Flyer initiatives e.g. presentations

from graduate employers and former students, competing
in national challenges

2. Level 3 core Mathematics qualification, including AS

Level Mathematics

I look forward to meeting you at one of our Open Days or

We monitor students attendance in each lesson, and will give

Parents Evenings. Please do not hesitate to get in touch with

them - and you - regular updates via our parent portal. If there

me if you have any suggestions or queries.

Opportunity to become involved in Gifted and Talented

initiatives run by the Villiers Park Educational Trust

are any progress issues, we try to deal with students directly

3. Extended Project
This will develop and test students skills in extended writing,
communication, research, and self-discipline and self-

at first, but if necessary, we wont hesitate to contact you. In

The opportunity to participate in the Open Universitys YASS

motivation. New College will provide updated information via

return, wed like to encourage you to stay in touch and to raise

(Young Applicants in Schools Scheme). This gives you the

our website and to vocational applicants when information is

any questions at any time.

chance to get a taste of university study early

confirmed.

As well as joining our Partnership of Support parents can

be involved in many different ways, including becoming a
Governor, giving up their time to run extra-curricular activities
or making donations to assist us in areas such as the provision
of scholarships and bursaries. If you would like to be more
involved please email us on parenthelp@newcollege.ac.uk.

18

go places with New College

Teaching at New College is not always done in
classrooms or labs! Recent study trips or initiatives
that students have taken part in include:
Ancient History & Archaeology: Avebury; British Museum; trip
to Rome; visit from University of Reading Classics Department
Anthropology: Pitt Rivers Museum, Oxford
Art & Design: Florence; Siena; Saatchi Gallery London; National
Knitting and Stitching Show; Victoria and Albert Museum;
Clothes Show Live
Beauty, Hair, Media Make up & Complementary Therapies:
Beauty UK Show, Birmingham; Look Good Feel Better Charity;
Make up Artists Volunteering at Swindon Great Western
Hospital; Comic Relief - Red Hair Day; Distinction Hair and Beauty
Competition; Product Training
Business Studies & Enterprise: Alton Towers marketing
trip; customer service training with Sainsburys; organising
conferences; Enterprise Challenge Days/Dragons Den
Classical Civilisation: Antigone and The Odyssey at Oxford
Playhouse; theatre trip to Women of Troy

Environmental/Applied Science: Bristol Zoo; Pathology

Department at Great Western Hospital
General: Competing in Debating Matters events at local,
regional and national level
Geography: Investigative trips to the River Churn; Cardiff
Bay and local work; visit from the Geography Association
Ambassador
High Flyers: Oxford University study days; mock interviews
History: Imperial War Museum; British Museum; Westminster
Abbey
Health and Social Care: Conference at EuroDisney; Turkey
to explore education and religions; Welcome Museum
London body image; Food and drink convention; Turkey food
and culture

Psychology: GCSE chief examiner visit

Public Services: Volunteering at the Cotswold Water Park;
sailing, canoeing and kayaking on the River Wye; activity
trips to the Forest of Dean and Brecon; visits to the Army,
Navy, RAF and Marines, Police and local crown and magistrate
courts; activity week in Cornwall
Science: Institute of Physics talk; Rutherford Laboratory
Master classes; Visit to Diamond Light Facility; Physics of
Wind Turbines Talk, A Question Of Taste, Bristol; chemistry
trip to Pyrotechnics lecture at Bristol University; Biology
visit to Bristol Zoo with sessions on Classification and Animal
Behaviour; Medical Health package talks from GPs, hospital
doctors and admissions tutors; involvement in HiSparc
project detecting cosmic rays

Sport: University of Gloucestershire Sports Science; Link

Centre - Wall climbing, ice skating; Assist at SEN Wiltshire
Access Event; Wimbledon tour of grounds and museum;
Millennium Stadium Tour; University of Worcester: Basketball
experience; Delta Tennis Centre & Highworth Tennis Club;
Broome Manor Golf & Fitness Centre; County Ground
Athletics track - SEN athletic event
Travel & Tourism: Disneyland Paris; BA Customer Care
Heathrow; Cabin Crew simulator Bournemouth; Bristol Zoo;
Bristol Cabot Circus; Cardiff; London; Theme Parks; Local
visits - STEAM; Marriott Hotel

Mathematics: Inspiration Lectures, Bristol

Music: Christmas and Lenten Concerts at Christchurch (Old
Town); trip to the Royal Opera House (Covent Garden); recital
evenings at the Phoenix Theatre

Early Years: Turkey; Drove Childrens Centre Observation Unit;

Great Western Hospital; visit to @Bristol

Science: Institute of Physics talk; visit from staff at

Cheltenhams GCHQ; Rutherford Laboratory Master classes;
A Question Of Taste, Bristol; STEM Day

English: Othello (Oxford and Chipping Norton); visit to a local

school to investigate language acquisition in children

Languages: Exchange to Quimper, Brittany, France; trip to

Seville, Spain
Performing Arts: Theatre visits including RSC and National
Theatre; visits from students on university drama courses;
visits from professional theatre practitioners; visits to Alvin
Ailey American Dance Theatre at Cardiff Millennium Centre;
Breaking Convention at Bristol; Richard Alston at Wyvern; trip
to Cornwall creating a Dance for Camera

20

21

student life
Being a student at New College is about so much more than

Events

Kenya Trip 2013 - students raised money for a fortnights

getting qualifications. You will have the opportunity to get

Theres always something interesting going on at New College!

volunteering trip to Nakuru in Kenya, undertaking community

involved in enjoyable and worthwhile activities, make new

As well as all of the educational visits and activities run by

work with local children, coaching and building and renovation

friends, develop yourself and have a great time.

departments, we also run a host of activities that you can

work.

Having your say...your student voice

Its really important that you get involved in New College

enjoy. Our Enrichment Coordinator works with students, the

Student Union and New College Staff to set up and organise

Comic Relief - last years activities included wearing fancy

many of these. Highlights from last year include:

dress, selling cakes, leg waxing and more!

life and there are many ways that you can do this. You can
become a member of:

Social Events
New College Has Talent! This popular annual competition

Themed Weeks and Campaigns

The Student Union Exec - the elected President and other

seeks to find the most talented student performers across

These are initiatives run throughout the year designed to

student members look after student issues and provide

the College. Former winners include Jahmene Douglas who

boost your knowledge and understanding, provide advice and

representation on College committees and groups.

came runner up in 2012s X Factor and is now set for a great

guidance and open your mind!

music career.
The SU Crew - support the Exec to organise events for
students in College.

Diversity Week - a celebration of equality and diversity with

Murder Mystery Event - an exciting Who Dunnit?

stalls run by students and visitors.

performance organised and acted by students was a sell-out

The Student Conferences - three events each year gather

event.

student views on a variety of topics to help us improve College

life.

Barclays Money Skills Week - learn about budgeting, saving

and spending and ways to make the best financial decisions. It

All About You Week - taking place in early Autumn, this event

culminates in a Question Time debate with local MPs.

gave new and existing students the chance to sign up for

The Student Ambassadors - these students are interviewed

eXtras courses and activities, meet new friends and have fun!

Green Week - learn about how you can have a positive impact

to be part of a group who support College events such as

The week incorporated a Freshers Fayre and Volunteering Day.

on the environment.

Fun Days - these are all about relaxing and letting your hair

Democracy Week - students host a live debate for local

down and include giant inflatables, BBQs and other activities.

parliamentary or council candidates and also vote for Student

Open Days and Parents Evenings as well as representing

College in local school promotional events.
Your views are very important to us and involvement in these

Union officers in their elections.

groups gives you the opportunity to provide us with feedback.

Raising and Giving (RAG)

You are also likely to be asked to complete questionnaires

Students and staff raise money for a range of charities; the

Anti-Bullying Week - an annual event which promotes

and surveys and take part in quality circles, focus groups and

Colleges official charity is Prospect Hospice and we raised

tolerance and respect.

other initiatives - for example opinion walls. Your views help us

5000 in 2012.
Health Week - students experience a variety of ways to live a

to improve how we meet YOUR needs.

RAG Week - in November, students hold their dedicated

healthy lifestyle with practical activities and information.

Raising and Giving week, with activities such as cake sales,

mini fairgrounds, tug of war and bucket soakings. Charities

Summer Sun Safety Campaign - an end of year event to

benefitting included Help for Heroes, Water Aid, Naomi House,

advise students on how to have a safe and enjoyable summer.

Great Ormond Street Hospital and Children In Need,

22

maximising your potential

focus on employability

New College is committed to providing additional qualifications,

Whether you want to go to university first or travel during a

16-18 Job Club

courses and activities on top of your core programme that

gap year, you will need to get a job eventually. New College is

If you are actively looking for employment whilst taking a

can support your chosen career and enhance your personal,

committed to offering the skills and knowledge to ensure that

course you could benefit from attending this club for a

social and employability skills as well as offering new interests

you stand out from the crowd and are able to secure your

few hours a week. Get the support of experts and use the

and hobbies for you to try.

chosen job.

resources that ensure your CV is up to date; learn to sell your

As employers and university admissions tutors increasingly

Employers are looking for passion, commitment, team work,

strengths; make the vital phone call or write a successful

look for well-rounded individuals with a wide range of

confidence and strong communication skills not just relevant

covering letter with the help of supportive staff.

interests, skills and experience, these activities are more

qualifications and work experience.

skills professionally and give a realistic impression of your

Traineeships

and more valuable and will enhance your CV or university

application. Taking these programmes is a way of making you

We are here to help in a variety of different ways. We have links

This is a new initiative and part of the Apprenticeship family.

stand out from the crowd.

with a variety of businesses, including Capita, Matalan, Boots

The aim of Traineeships is to secure progression to an

and Accord Office Supplies.

Apprenticeship or sustainable job. The maximum time for this

Additional programmes

programme is usually 6 months and it consists of a high quality

These are short qualifications - you must choose and take at

Maximising your potential (see page 24)

least one. They can be delivered by your Personal Tutor as part

Take additional qualifications and skills and develop your

tailored to the individual and English and Maths qualifications

of your tutorial sessions, embedded within your main courses,

personal, social and employability skills to really enhance your

if you have not achieved a Grade C or above at GCSE.

or chosen by you to fit around your timetable.

CV.

Qualifications include:

Employer Experience

Level 1 Internet Safety

Our Employer Engagement Team can offer a range of

Level 1/2 Personal Finance

different experiences linked to local business, employers and

Level 1 Award in Heathy Eating

entrepreneurial opportunities. Have a business mentor; shadow

Level 1/2 Substance Misuse Awareness

a company boss for the day; take part in a Dragons Den style

Level 1/2 Award in Home Cooking

competition judged by real business experts; set up in business

Level 2 Award in Volunteering

via the Young Enterprise Scheme or go out on a long-term work

work placement for 2-6 months; work preparation training

placement.

eXtras

Job Shop

eXtras are optional activities and courses that fit around your

This service can be used by students and employers to ensure

main programme. You can learn new skills or develop those

that the right job is matched to the right person. Gain up-to-

you already have - this is a chance to challenge yourself and

date information and advice on available jobs, both temporary

discover your hidden talents! You dont have to be studying a

You will receive a Maximising Your Potential leaflet containing

and permanent. Prepare for the interview and gain valuable

related area to take them - all you need is enthusiasm and a

all eXtras courses and additional programmes closer to

feedback on your performance.

willingness to do something different.

Enrolment. We run over 100 eXtras courses. Examples include

Whilst most eXtras activities are free, some will incur a tuition

College Production, Debating Matters, Voluntary Service,

Be Employable

Choral Group and Sports Groups.

This is a week long course for those who are keen to get out

fee - even so, they provide great value for money! Combine

and gain a job or an Apprenticeship, but need to brush up on

these with participation in some of the College and Student

Many of our Maximising Your Potential offers also support

a range of skills to become work ready. CV and Letter Writing;

Union provided activities already listed and youll see that

our Employability programmes (see page 25 for details).

Practice Interviews, Dress to Impress are examples of units and

coming to New College really can give you a fantastic student

As well as additional qualifications, our team can arrange

the course also includes input from local employers who know

experience.

business mentors, Dragons Den style competitions for young

the qualifications and skills they are looking for.

entrepreneurs, work shadowing and industry taster. Our Job

Shop can even help you in getting temporary and permanent
employment.

24

25

college at 14
The Government has recently enabled all colleges to recruit
students at the age of 14. There may be many reasons why
studying at College would be best for you.
We have a range of full and part-time course options for 14-16
year olds available at New College including:
GCSEs or AS Levels
Business and Enterprise
Creative and Performing Arts
Childcare
Health and Social Care
Hair and Beauty
Gifted and Talented
Over 80% of our 14-16 year old students continue their studies
with us when they reach 16! We work in collaboration with local
schools and you need the agreement of your school to study
with us you if are under 16. You can apply through your school
for any of these courses using the special application form.
Please dont use the form at the back of this prospectus.

GCSEs and A Levels

You can take some or all of your GCSEs at New College and your
school may include this in your options for Years 10 and 11. Why
not try subjects that are not available at school? Choose from
our range of subjects that covers 175 course areas. You may
even be able to start your AS Levels at 14 - talk to us for more
information.

Gifted and Talented Programme (14-16)

We offer a special range of courses for very able students.
Art and Textiles, Dance, Law, Maths, French, Music Technology,
Science and Web Design are all available in our after-school
programme. To find out more about the courses available,
please phone 01793 611470 and ask for the Pre 16 team.

JOSEPH PRICE: HOME SCHOOLED

software development / web design / extended diploma

My time and experience at New College has been one of adventure and excitement.
Obviously being homeschooled and then going straight into college was a big step
for me, but the staff were incredibly helpful and I would recommend New College to
anyone who has had a different way of learning other than being as state school.

26

help when you need it

We want you to feel fully supported during your time at

Additional Support

Our Careers and Higher Education Advisers

College.

If you have a medical condition, physical or sensory

Your tutor can help you to choose a career or university

impairment, learning differences such as dyslexia, dyspraxia,

course. The Colleges Careers Advisers can provide extra

Our Student Services Team, working alongside your tutor, can

dyscalculia, Autistic Spectrum Condition or any other learning

advice to help you decide your best route into work or

provide advice on a number of support issues to help you to

needs, our Additional Support Team can help you. We provide

university.

succeed. Sources of advice include:

services including one-to-one teaching, support in class,

computer programmes, specialist equipment. We work closely

Exams and Assessments

with other services to make sure your needs are met. Its

Our Exams Team will provide you with information and advice

Your tutor should be the first person you go to for advice on any

important to tell us early on if you had special examination

about your exams and other external assessments along with

issues. He or she will keep you up to date with College matters,

arrangements at school - e.g. use of a laptop or extra time.

your subject lecturers.

cover some important life skill issues in group sessions, help

We can make similar arrangements for you. We have an Aspie

you through the UCAS or job application process, and provide

Group - a forum for students with Autistic Spectrum Disorders,

IMPORTANT - If you are joining New College part way through

advice on overcoming any individual barriers to your success

Non-verbal Learning Deficits and Semantic Pragmatic Deficits,

a qualification e.g. you have completed AS Levels elsewhere,

in College.

which provides training and encourages conversation and

you must see our exams team in your first few weeks to ensure

social interaction. Additional support is available to ALL

your qualifications are correctly combined

Your Tutor

Enrichment Coordinator

students. You can discuss your needs before you start your

We like students to get fully involved in College life. If you want

programme - please let us know on your application form or

Childcare

to get or have any suggestions about how to improve student

at your interview. Our Transition Project Team will help you to

If you have children, there are funds to help you with

life, talk to the Enrichment Coordinator.

make a smooth transition from your current school to New

childcare costs while you are studying at College, depending

College. Project Mentors are available to provide advice and

on your age and circumstances. For more details, please

College Counsellors

guidance to you in your school, or you can visit New College to

contact Student Services. You can receive funds to use any

Counsellors in College are here to help if you have any

get to know the building and facilities. For more information,

registered child minder or nursery. Imagine Co-operative

personal problems that affect your learning. They will listen

contact Sarah Howes (Additional Support Manager) at:

Childcare is an independent purpose-built nursery located

and support you and the service is confidential.

sarah.howes@newcollege.ac.uk

behind New College. It is open from 8:00am to 6:00pm, and

The JustAsk Team

Safeguarding Team

The team provides information, guidance and solutions on

All members of staff have regular safeguarding training. We

a wide range of issues as well as helping you get back on

have a group of staff who have additional training to support

Our Chaplaincy

track with your learning programme - or just being a friendly

students who are concerned about their own safety.

Our multi-faith Chaplaincy Team can support you with

listening ear.

offers flexible childcare for children aged 3 months to school

age. Call 01793 542591 for more information.

information and advice on faith issues and can be a friendly

listening ear at times of personal loss or difficulty. They have
links to local faith communities in Swindon.

Accessibility
All our buildings and facilities are available to students. We
have resources to improve accessibility, including reserved
parking and lifts to all areas of the main building and
Sports Centre. We also have an entry on Disabled Go at www.
disabledgo.com. Details can be found in our Accessibility
Advice leaflet - please ask for a copy. Or view it on our website
at www.newcollege.ac.uk.

28

29

getting to college

money matters

Each year students join us from schools all over Swindon and

BY RAIL: Swindon station is located in the town centre

If you are aged under 19 as of 31/08/2014 and have the

24+ Advanced Learning Loans

Wiltshire, Oxfordshire, Berkshire and Gloucestershire.

and has direct services to London (eastbound) and Bristol

right to live in the UK, the courses within this prospectus are

From the 2013/14 academic year, loans are available for

(westbound). There are also services northwards to Kemble

normally free.

learners in Further Education and training aged 24 and above,

We are located close to the town centre, with buses coming

(for Cirencester), Stroud and Cheltenham and southwards to

direct from all parts of Swindon and surrounding areas. There

Chippenham, Melksham and Trowbridge.

are also frequent services to and from the bus station. Parking

to fund their study at Level 3 and Level 4, including Advanced

If you are aged 19+ as of 31/8/2014 and you meet our funding

and Higher Apprenticeships.

criteria you may be entitled to help with your tuition fees if

on-site is free to everyone, and were linked to cycle networks

BY FOOT: Our main entrance is accessed directly from New

with secure cycle racks on site.

College Drive, off Queens Drive.

you are:

for Higher Education, meaning that individuals will only start to

receiving particular benefits and undertaking funded Level

BY BUS: New College is very well served by public transport.

BY CAR: Road access to New College is from Queens Drive, see

Buses run from the town centre and stop outside the College

map below. For Sat Nav please use postcode SN3 1AH.

at least every 10 minutes. Many bus routes from in and around

The loans work on a similar basis to the current loans system

2 courses to gain skills to move into work

repay loan amounts once they have completed their training

and are earning over 21,000. Loans are only available for
tuition fees and not maintenance purposes.

do not hold a C grade in GCSE Mathematics or English

Swindon either have a stop on Queens Drive just outside

BY BIKE: New College is easily accessed by cycle paths and

the College or connect with the regular services from the

we can provide a local cycle map. We have a large number of

town centre. Discounted monthly travel passes for students

covered cyclehoops and a secure cycle tunnel.

For more detailed information please go to:

under 24 and studying your first full Level 2 qualification

www.gov.uk/advanced-learning-loans

or Entry Level/Level 1 needed as a step to the full Level 2.

Financial Support

aged 16-19 are available for the Swindon area. Services run
frequently from the town centre and surrounding area.

under 24 and studying your first full Level 3 qualification

The Government provides colleges with funds to help

Annual passes also available from Swindon and Wiltshire local

or your first Level 4 qualification without achieving a full

students with financial hardship. Details of support amounts

education authorities.

Level 3.

and eligibility are available from Student Services.

We can advise you about timetables and bus passes. If you

under 24 and receiving particular benefits and studying

live outside Wiltshire you can apply to your County Council

Level 3 funded courses to gain skills to move into work.

for transport support. Where other funding is not available,

New College Student Fund

All students can apply to this fund which is made up from
the Student Resources Contribution. Small grants or loans

we subsidise some students to travel to College through

Learners aged 24 or above, have no entitlements applicable

are available to individuals or groups - perhaps to support a

our Assisted Travel Scheme. For further details email:

but can apply to Student Finance England for a 24+ Advanced

College sports team or to improve student facilities.

studentservicesenquiries@newcollege.ac.uk

Learning Loan for courses at Level 3 or Level 4.

At the time of going to print (August 2013) we are also

Please note that this information is correct as at August 2013

exploring travel options for students who travel in from

and funding eligibility rules may change.

further distances. Further information will be available on this

by November, so please ask at Open Day or check our website

Student Resources Contribution

at www.newcollege.ac.uk/content/bus-travel

We ask all students for 45 per year to contribute towards

resources at New College. This optional contribution directly
benefits all students - in recent years this has helped:
subsidise the cost of College trips for individual students
with financial difficulties
fund additional facilities such as under cover cycle shelters
and outdoor and indoor seating
provide support for students representing the College
in regional and national competitions
fund student Enrichment Centre facilities

31

JB

course & jargon buster

Here is some of the terminology we use to tell you about our

Entry Level, Level 1, Level 2 and Level 3

courses. Wherever you see

The levels of course that you can choose to do at College.

Technical Baccalaureate

Decide which level suits you best (see Choosing Your Learning

Announced in April 2013, this is being designed and aims to

Programme - page 35). You can take courses from more than

recognise excellence in technical training for ambitious

one level.

and talented students taking selected advanced vocational

you can refer back to this page

for an explanation.
Apprenticeships

qualifications. Watch our website for updates.

Earn whilst you learn! If you dont want a full-time College

course and you know what sort of job you want to go into, an

Essential Skills

Apprenticeship could be right for you. You learn the job, get

Also known as Functional Skills. All students can work on

Traineeships

qualified and get paid. (See page 104)

Essential Skills if they need to. They include things that

A new six month programme designed to help learners secure

employers (and the Government and parents!) know are

progression to an Apprenticeship or job as quickly as possible.

Assessment and Qualifications Alliance (AQA), Edexcel,

essential for academic and working life: Practical English;

Oxford Cambridge and RSA Examinations (OCR), NCFE

Practical Maths; IT, Essential Skills will improve your grades,

University Central Application System (UCAS)

The main exam boards for A Levels and GCSEs, as well as some

your career and university prospects.

The organisation that deals with applications to every

university or higher education institution in the UK.

vocational courses (see BTEC and CACHE below).

Foundation Learning
AS/A Levels

This is learning at Entry Level or Level 1 and is a personalised

Unique Learner Number (ULN)

Usually have four units: two for AS Level (Year 1) and two for

programme to help you achieve credits and progress to a

This is your personal 10-digit number that will remain with you

A2 (Year 2). Most students choose four AS Levels in Year 1,

higher level or a job.

throughout your life, so that all your learning experiences,

exam results and qualifications will be linked together. If you

although you can choose three or five depending on your

GCSE results.

InfoSheets
Every subject or course at New College has its own InfoSheet

dont know what it is, please ask your school.

AQA Baccalaureate

which gives you further information, including any specific

Vocational

This is a framework for your subjects that gives you an extra

GCSE grades you need. A number like this - NC690 - gives you

Focuses on a particular job area. Gives you the knowledge

qualification. It includes your A Level study and can enhance

the InfoSheet number (see pages 105 and 106).

and skills necessary to go and work in that job area or train

further. Good if you know what sort of job you want to do.

your university or job application (see page 66).

Learning Programme
Business and Technology Education Council (BTEC)

The complete list of courses and subjects you take at College.

Exam board that specialises in vocational courses. Well known

This is personalised to meet your needs and so is your learning

to employers and universities.

programme.

BTEC First

National Vocational Qualifications (NVQs)

A suite of vocational Level 2 courses, generally consisting of

Qualifications that you get while you are working in a job. Part

Award, Certificate and Diploma (unit credits may vary). You

of an Apprenticeship (see page 104) but also available to all

usually combine them with at least one GCSE or other Level

New College students who have a part-time job - ask your

2 course.

Tutor for details.

BTEC National

Qualifications and Credit Framework (QCF)

A suite of vocational Level 3 courses generally consisting of

This is the system that gives a credit value to every unit of a

Award, Certificate and Diploma (unit credits may vary). You may

qualification you take. Many qualifications have already moved

be able to combine a BTEC National with other AS or A Levels.

to this system and more will follow. You take units and get

Usually has few or no exams - assessment is by coursework.

accredited in bite size chunks. Infosheets will give you details

Council for Awards in Care, Health and Education (CACHE)

of this for each subject and your ULN (see below) will give you

Exam board that specialises in Childcare courses.

your own personal credits for all the qualifications you take.

32

33

what sort of courses can I do?

choosing your learning programme

The table below shows an explanation of each level and the type of qualification that can be gained.

We offer courses from Entry Level and Level 1 (Foundation Learning) to Level 3 (Advanced) and beyond; you can even stay on and

Remember to read the Course and Jargon Buster on page 32 as well!

Level
Entry
(Foundation Learning)
One Year Programme

One
(Foundation Learning)
One year Programme

Two

General Education

do your degree with us!

Vocational

Training / Work-based

Which Level is best for me?

Take a look at your expected (or actual) GCSE grades and compare them with the table below. Dont worry if you are between two
levels - you can apply for courses from both. This table is only a guide to our general entry requirements. It does not cover all the
possibilities - we will advise you at your Guidance Interview.

Functional Skills courses (Mathematics, English, IT)

Personal and Social development
Vocational Taster Qualifications
Functional Skills courses (Mathematics, English, IT)
Personal and Social development
Vocational Taster Qualifications
GCSE grades (D-G)

GCSE grades (A*-C)

You can start...^

Six grade As or A*, in at least three

different subjects

Five AS Levels

BTEC Introductory Certificate

BTEC First Award / Certificate/

Foundation Apprenticeship

Diploma / Specialised Diploma

(Intermediate)

If you have at least...

Three

AS/A Levels (including

BTEC National Award

(Advanced)

Applied subjects). Most

/Certificate/Diploma

students choose four AS

Other Level 3 courses e.g.

Levels in Year 1, although you

Travel & Tourism (OCR Diploma);

can do three or five

Digital Music Production;

Advanced Apprenticeship

Five grade Cs or above in at least

three different subjects, with
two grade Bs

Five grade Cs in at least
three different subjects

Course Level

Four AS Levels
BTEC National plus AS Level(s)
Advanced Specialised Diploma

Level 3
(Advanced)

Three AS Levels (limited choice)

BTEC National
Other Level 3 qualifications
Advanced Apprenticeship

Four grade Ds

Specialised Diploma

BTEC First Diploma

Childcare & Education (CACHE Level 2)
Higher Specialised Diploma

Four

First year of degree or

BTEC Higher National Diploma

OCR Level 2 National Certificate

Higher Apprenticeship

foundation degree
Four GCSEs

Two grade Ds

Level 2
(Intermediate)

The GCSE Programme

Apprenticeship
Some NCFE Level 2 Certificates

Two grade Es

The Art & Design Programme

Foundation Learning Programme

Few or no GCSE passes

Art & Design (AQA Entry Level Certificate)

BTEC Introductory Diploma
Caring for Children (CACHE Foundation Award)
Some NCFE Level 1 Certificates

Entry Level &

Level 1
(Foundation
Learning)

Some OCR Level 1 National Certificates

Physical Education (OCR Entry Level Certificate)
Preparation for Work Programme

34

^ the list of courses in this column is only a guide - there may be other choices.

35

NEW COLLEGE 16-19

INFORMATION, ADVICE & GUIDANCE SERVICES
2013/14

DECISION
MAKING

Schools Liaison Team

Website / Prospectus / Events

Deciding your future is a big step and its important that you
look at all the options available. Here are some useful steps

ENQUIRY
& APPLICATION

Schools Liaison Team

INTERVIEW

Schools Liaison Team

for you to follow:

Step 1
Look through this prospectus and request InfoSheets

for

any courses you are interested in. InfoSheets give you

ENROLMENT /
JOINING

The Whole College

detailed information about each course, its content and entry

requirements. You can obtain InfoSheets online at:
www.newcollege.ac.uk.

INDUCTION
TRANSPORT

Student Services Manager

Personal Tutor
Student Services

Step 2
Visit our Open Day on Saturday October 12th to get a feel
for the College and talk to staff about any courses youre

FINANCE / FEES
ADDITIONAL
SUPPORT

LIBRARY /
OPEN LEARNING
CENTRE / VLE

Student Services Adviser

Customer Service Adviser
Additional Support Manager

interested in. You will have other opportunities to visit the

College: at our A Level Open Evening on 29th January 2014 or
our Vocational Courses Open Evening on 25th March 2014 or
book a Campus Tour.

Step 3
Learning Innovation Resources Manager

Once youve chosen the courses youre interested in, fill in

the application form online, or the printed one at the back of
this prospectus. You can send us your application at any time

IT SUPPORT
HEALTH
& WELFARE

ICT Support Team

during the year. Some courses fill up quickly so you should

apply as soon as possible.

Step 4
We will invite you to attend an interview to discuss your course
choices. Your parents or guardians are welcome to come
along. It will last about 30 minutes. After-school or evening
appointments can be made. We start interviewing from
October onwards so make sure you apply early!

Counsellors / Nurses / Chaplain

Step 5
Once you have had your interview, we will send you an offer

STUDENT VOICE
& GETTING
INVOLVED

Enrichment Co-ordinator
Student Union

letter, which will tell you the entry requirements for your
courses, and give you important enrolment dates.

Step 6
ON COURSE
PROGRESSION

Subject Tutors / Personal Tutors

Student Mentors
Personal Tutors / Liaison Staff / Employability
Employer Engagement Team
Careers and HE Co-ordinator
Jobshop and Jobclub

COMPLAINTS
& QUALITY
EXAMS

36

applying to New College

LEAVING
COLLEGE

Student Attendance Mentors (SAMS)

Quality Manager
Exams Manager

If you accept the place we offer, you will be asked to attend

one of our Enrolment Days at the end of June and we advise
you to keep these days free!

Step 7
Bring your exam results. Meet your tutor and pick up your
timetable in late August/early September.
If you have any other questions about the application process,
please email info@newcollege.ac.uk.

Careers and HE Co-ordinator

Personal Tutors

37

art, design
& photography

freephone: 0808 178 3698

email: admissions@newcollege.ac.uk
www.newcollege.ac.uk

Art and Design

Art, Craft and Design

BTEC Level 2 Certificate, Extended Certificate

and Diploma

AS Level and A Level

An exciting and really practical one-year course designed to

develop your skills in art and design. You cover units in 2D and
3D Visual Language, Graphic Design, Lens-based Technology
and Textiles and Fashion. Work on a final project in the
discipline of your choice.

BTEC Level 3 Certificate/Subsidiary Certificate/

Diploma
This specialist qualification focuses on particular aspects of
employment within the art and design industry. Course work is
completed through units of study as follows:
Fine Art
Graphic Design
Textiles
Printmaking
Contextual Studies
2D and 3D Visual Studies
Keeping to deadlines, team working and building a portfolio
of work all form part of the programme. All work is assessed in
stages spread across the year.

History of Art
AS Level and A Level

Ryan Walklett: Kingsdown, SWINDON

Textiles and Fashion / Drama and Theatre Studies / Art and Design

New College has taught me to be confident in my work, and shown me how to act with
the level of professionalism that is used in industry. It has also helped me to choose
my course at university and shine in interviews.

38

A stimulating combination of analysis, research and theory.

You will need an inquiring mind and the ability to write well.
It complements any of the practical A Level Art subjects.
Develop your analytical and observational skills and apply
them to all visual imagery.

A varied and exciting course where you will be introduced

to a range of stimulating experiences and explore 2D and
3D media processes and techniques in at least two of the
following areas:
Experimental and traditional painting and drawing
Graphic design and illustration
Photography and animation
3D work (sculpture and ceramics)
Textile art
Look forward to studio and off-site work, study trips abroad
and competitions.

Critical and Contextual Studies

OCR Art and Design
AS Level and A Level
Study the work of contemporary and historical artists and
designers and gain a critical awareness of the social, cultural,
historical and economic meanings contained within
art and design work.
Develop skills of critical analysis, covering cultural, historical
and social contexts. Skills of visual analysis will be developed
through practical art work and visits to galleries or exhibitions.
Practical work will take the form of demonstrations and studio
assignments to develop understanding of materials and
techniques.

Studying this course will also:

develop your interest in the study of History of Art
and foster lifelong learning
improve your ability at writing essays
enable you to appreciate some of the important topics
from Classical Greece to the end of the 20th century
(paintings, sculpture and architecture)
No previous knowledge of History of Art is required.

39

Art (Fine Art)

Creative Craft Courses

Photography

AS Level and A Level

NCFE Levels 1, 2 and 3 (Awards and Certificates)

BTEC Level 1

AS Level and A Level

Explore a basic range of photography and learn how to use

your camera creatively. Topics covered will help you to develop
transferable skills and include:

Photography is an exciting subject - a science and an art. It is

a form of artistic expression, and a medium of communication
and social documentation. You will:

Photographic Equipment, Processes and Techniques

Photographic Images for Presentation
Lighting for Photography
Experimental Photographic Images
Creative Camera Techniques
Working Photographic Briefs (using Photoshop)

use the creative controls on a 35mm SLR camera, both film

and digital
digital photography and techniques
process and develop black and white film
use a range of techniques, including lighting, Photoshop
and printing
set up experimental photo-shoots
develop your own ideas

(available as day and evening courses)

Develop and explore your fine art skills. Express yourself in
different ways and experiment with a variety of materials
and techniques, including:
Painting and drawing
3D work and ceramics
Printmaking (silkscreen, block printing, collographs, etching)
Experimental digital manipulation and photography
Mixed media
Contextual studies - looking at the work of other artists
Offsite activities and trips
A practical and creative course in which you will explore
traditional and contemporary ideas about art.

Art and Design

BTEC Foundation Diploma (Level 3 / 4)
(For students who have already completed an A Level programme)
A one-year full-time course for students in A Level Art wishing
to pursue a degree in Art and Design at university. Undertake a
range of art and design specialisms and develop skills in Fine
Art / Life Drawing and 3D, Textile and Fashion Design, Graphic
Design and Illustration, lens-based Imagery and Contextual
Studies.

Graphic Design and Illustration

AS Level and A Level
An exciting and practical subject where you will follow a varied
programme of work looking at all aspects of contemporary
graphic design, including:
Advertising and packaging
Typography
Animation and video
Illustration and computer graphics
Contemporary illustration
Talk to external clients and compete for work where accurate
interpretation, creative ideas and keeping to deadlines will
be vital.

These courses are vocational and allow you to try a new art
and design specialism or enhance your current programme
to build up a portfolio. Heres the opportunity to explore
new areas, experiment and develop new techniques and
demonstrate your creative flair.
Graphic Design (Level 1/2 only) (Evening course)
Explore new techniques and apply them to a national
competition. Winners will receive a prestigious award that will
enhance any portfolio.
Animation (Level 2 only)
Experiment with a range of stop motion techniques, digital
cameras, animation software, model making, drawing,
environments and story-boarding.
Embroidery and Surface Decoration
Explore a range of historical, cultural and contemporary
embroidery techniques and apply them to a live brief or
competition. Final pieces to be shown at the end of year
fashion show and exhibition.
Fashion and Dressmaking
Learn a range of techniques and processes and produce a
fashion garment for the College Fashion Show - great if you
want to pursue a course or a career in Textiles and Fashion.

In this one-year course, develop practical skills and increase

your ability to take competent images.

BTEC Level 2 Diploma

Explore and develop a range of photography for the use and
application of skills within a photographic career. Topics
covered provide an excellent introduction to techniques and
the specialist equipment involved and include:
Photographic Techniques & Applications
Working with Photography Briefs
Studio and Location Photography
Experimental Photography
Creative Camera Techniques
Working with Digital Art and Design Briefs (using Photoshop)

Textile Art
Experiment and then apply a range of textile techniques and
processes and apply them to a live brief or competition. Final
pieces will be involved in the end of year Fashion Show.

In this one-year course you will develop practical skills and

increase your analytical knowledge.

Life Drawing
Working from a life model, realise the human proportions
through a range of techniques in drawing, printmaking
painting and digital applications. Once you have mastered the
human form you will be able to draw anything!

Explore a range of photographic techniques, processes and

equipment. Study Still Photography through making and
investigating. Course content includes:

Print making (Evening course)

Explore a range of printmaking techniques: collographs,
etching, silkscreen and relief printing.
Art and Design
Explore a range of 2-dimensional techniques and processes
to produce artwork.

Study the history and various styles of photography and

how it compares with other visual media.

BTEC Level 3 Extended Diploma

Develop an understanding of photography as a form of
artistic expression and as a medium of communication and
social documentation. Topics include cameras, lenses and
related accessories, lighting and light sources, sensitive
materials, processing, printing and finishing, as well as new
digital technologies and applications. Key features include:
Visual communication
Contextual influences
Professional practice and work-related learning

Extended Project Qualification (EPQ)

Pearson/Edexcel Level 4

GCSE

Use of the camera

Film
Lenses
Lighting
Developing and printing
Techniques of composition
How to present your work
You can choose to work in one or more of these areas: photojournalism, fashion, portraiture, illustration and learn how to
work to a brief, theme or topic.

Ideal for second year students who have already acquired

an understanding of project development. Study a topic
area which extends your learning in your area of study e.g.
photography, media, design etc and gain this additional
qualification which carries up to 70 UCAS points. Find out more
about the EPQ on page 66.

Textiles, Fashion and Accessories

AS Level and A Level

freephone: 0808 178 3698

email: admissions@newcollege.ac.uk
www.newcollege.ac.uk

beauty &
body treatments

If textiles and fashion are your passion, then this practical

and exciting course is for you. Experience a wide range of new
techniques and processes associated with textiles, fashion
and accessory design.
Learn through hands-on activities and workshops exploring
surface decoration, embroidery, machine embroidery,
beadwork, dyeing, appliqu, printmaking, silkscreening,
collographs, monoprinting, relief block printing, sublimation
transfer printing, constructed textiles and fashion, weaving,
knitting, feltmaking, recycled materials and construction of
garments.
Visit Clothes Show Live and the National Knitting and Stitching
exhibition - and take part in the end-of-year Fashion Show
and Exhibitions as well as external competitions and briefs.

alice warburton: commonweal, SWINDON

complementary therapies / business studies

New College has a friendly and positive atmosphere. There are so many opportunities
to gain new qualifications.

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43

Here is your opportunity to develop skills and take

qualifications leading to work in the hair and beauty industry.
Study in a suite of specialist rooms with all the latest
equipment so that you can gain practical skills as well as
develop the underpinning knowledge that is needed to start
work. The varied opportunities on offer are based on the QCF
Award Certificate and Diploma options from Level 1 to Level 3
and include choices such as:
Facial treatments and skincare
Hairdressing
Pedicure and manicure
Massage and complementary therapies
Nail art
Makeup and body art
Kits and uniforms are required for all courses. Practical
assessments will be undertaken in our real working
environment Distinction Salons, and carried out on paying
clients.

An Introduction to the
Hair and Beauty Sector
Level 1 Certificate/Diploma
Learn how to carry out a variety of basic beauty treatments
that you can later develop to practitioner level with this oneyear introductory course. Study units include:
Presenting a professional image in a salon
Hair plaiting and twisting
Providing manicure treatment
Facials and makeup

Beauty Therapy

Hair and Media Make-Up

Complementary Therapies

Level 2 Certificate/Diploma

Level 2 Diploma

Study a wide range of skills to equip you to start a

career in photographic make-up, nail art and dressing hair for
TV, film or theatre.

Gain the knowledge and skills needed to perform a variety

of basic treatments in the complementary therapies sector.
Learn how to carry out a variety of basic complementary
therapy treatments, such as basic reflexology, basic
aromatherapy and basic massage to be used for relaxation
and wellbeing.

Level 2 Certificate/Diploma
For anyone who has taken a Level 1 or 2 qualification or who
is already working in the industry. Learn how to carry out
beauty treatments including skincare, eye enhancements,
nail treatments and application of makeup.
Study units include:

Study units include:

Facial skincare
Manicure treatments
Waxing techniques
Client care and communication

Level 3 Diploma
Study Beauty Therapy at an advanced level, building on the
skills that you developed at Level 2. Completing this course
would allow you to progress into employment, potentially
within a supervisory role. You could specialise in the following
areas:
Facial and body electrotherapy
Massage and hot stones
Epilation
Tanning

The art of dressing hair

The art of photographic make-up
Nail art

Fashion, Theatre and Media

Hair and Make-up Studies
Level 3 Diploma
Media make-up is a rapidly growing profession within the film,
TV, theatre, fashion and photography industries. There
are increasing career opportunities in an ever-challenging
profession that demands high levels of creativity and
expertise. Learn:
Techniques in theatrical makeup
Special effects make-up including casualty, ageing,
character changing, gender changing
Historical make-up techniques
Bald caps and creative hair designs
Health, safety and hygiene

Study units include:

Introduction to clinic services and business awareness
Health, safety and hygiene
Anatomy and physiology
Basic massage techniques
Basic reflexology techniques
Basic aromatherapy

Level 3 Diploma
As the next step after Level 2, study advanced Complementary
Therapies at a professional level and gain the skills required
for progression into employment. Learn the principles that
underpin complementary therapies, such as health and
safety as well as how to carry out a practical treatment in a
variety of areas, such as:
Reflexology
Aromatherapy
Body massage

Gain experience through work on location and involvement

in media productions, and take part in local and national
competitions.

You may also need to study English, Mathematics and ICT in

order to progress to Level 2 courses. This course is available
to pre-16 students over two years.

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45

Hairdressing
NVQ Level 2

freephone: 0808 178 3698

email: admissions@newcollege.ac.uk
www.newcollege.ac.uk

business, enterprise,
accounting & law

Gain the knowledge, understanding and skills to work in the

hairdressing sector. Learn about client consultation skills,
shampooing, cutting and colour techniques.
Study units include:
Health and safety
Shampoo and condition
Cutting techniques
Style and dress hair
Change hair colour
You will be encouraged to find a work placement, and also
take part in local and national competitions.

NVQ Level 3
Gain advanced hairdressing skills to enable you to follow a
specialised route as a hair stylist by learning how to produce
different looks and carry out techniques such as perming.
Study units include:
Creative cutting
Perming effects
Creative styling and dressing hair
Colour correction
Develop industry skills
You will be encouraged to find a practical placement within
a local salon to help you demonstrate your competence,
knowledge and develop industry skills.

emma matthews: kingsdown, SWINDON

business studies /graphics / english lit & lang / travel & Tourism
New College has a welcoming environment and its easy to make new friends
and get to know others. I decided to volunteer in Kenya with the College over the
summer, which is a very worthwhile experience. New College has helped me gain new
experiences and learn new things.

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47

Accounting

Business Studies

Economics

Law and Legal Work

AAT - Certificate Level 2 and 3

Business and Enterprise Skills Level 1

Business (Technical Diploma) Level 2

GCSE

BTEC Specialist Short Course - Level 2

You will study:

A good introduction if you want a career involving the Law

- in the Courts, solicitors offices, the Council, the Police or
Security Services. The emphasis is on learning by doing- you
will be assessed by your written assignments and practical
work. You will find out about a range of issues concerning the
practical application of law in society and the courts:

The industry-standard qualifications for accountancy. Start

at Level 2 if you have not done bookkeeping or accounts
before. This course covers:
receipts and payments
record who is owed money by a business and who
they owe money to
record sales and purchases from invoices and credit notes
double-entry ledger system
simple profit accounts
You will use computers to prepare accounts and you will show
evidence of understanding employment laws and health and
safety at work.

AS Level and A Level

Gives you a thorough grounding in accounting and the use
of financial information to report on and manage a business.
The course covers:
double-entry book-keeping
final accounts of limited companies
using accounting information to make
management decisions
accounts of partnerships
how to read an annual financial report
Accounting is useful in many careers - insurance, banking,
and general management. You will also have the chance to do
a course in SAGE Computerised Accounts.

Financial Studies
ifs School of Finance Certificate - Level 3
How do you choose the right bank account, mortgage or pay
for your first car? What about inflation and interest rates?
Or managing your money at university? Using online materials
from ifs, you study three units:
Introduction to financial services and importance of money
How to manage money in different situations
How to shop effectively and make financial choices
Can lead to a job in insurance, banking and other financial
services - and you can help your family and friends as well!

Focus on three areas critical in the world of business:

enterprise
customer service
employability skills

factors that lead to price changes in markets and why

markets may fail
how the UK economy works
the impact of international factors on the UK

Gain a suitable knowledge base to move into work or progress

to further courses at College. This course requires the
student to undertake 70 hours of work experience.

This is a good course for those seeking to do A Levels in

Economics, Business Studies or Politics.

Applied AS Level and A Level

AS Level and A Level

Applied Business A Level is a valuable vocational qualification

which can be used to gain tariff points for university or
provide access to management training programmes or jobs
within the business sector.

We cant produce enough goods and services for everybody

- we have to choose who gets what! Economics explores how
these choices are made, and covers:

Units include:
Investigating business
People in business
Financial planning and monitoring
Business planning
Marketing strategy
The marketing environment

AS Level and A Level

Find out how Richard Branson made (and keeps) his millions!
From marketing to business strategy, personnel to production,
this subject provides you with everything you need to know
about how businesses work. The course is split into two
modules per year. All modules are externally assessed via
examinations:
Developing a new business
Managing the business
International business
Corporate objectives and strategy

how markets work - what controls oil prices?

market power and European business - why do we
pay more for cars?
inflation, unemployment, growth - how does the UK compare?
economics of the environment - how should
governments protect it?
international trade and the EU
how does the EuroZone crisis impact on the UK economy?

Retail, Enterprise
and Customer Service
We are currently developing courses in these areas to
deliver at Level 2 and 3 from 2014. They will complement
existing courses in this area and will help develop students
employability skills. Please see our website for updates.

Core unit: the English Legal System

Two specialist units that may include the criminal justice
system, consumer law, aspects of law making, wills, civil
procedure, crime and contracts
Study will involve visits, as well as discussions, research,
videos and presentations.

Applied Law Level 3 Certificate

Subsidiary Diploma
An excellent preparation for students who may be considering
law as a career or area for further or higher study. Coursework
based and ideal if you struggle with exams. The emphasis is
on learning through practical scenarios and real life tasks.
The first year of study (leading to the Certificate) covers core
units of the English Legal System including:
dispute solving in the English legal system
understanding law making
aspects of legal liability in crime and tort
In the second year (to achieve the full Subsidiary Diploma) you
will study a further three units.

AS Level and A Level

Law is important to us all - learn how it can help and control
you, and how to change it!
Where does law come from? - Europe? Parliament?
Or just from the past?
Who uses the law? - the police, judges, solicitors,
barristers and their clients
Where is it used? - the courts and how they work
Crimes - from murder to theft
Defences - and excuses!
We use a variety of learning methods, including discussion,
videos, research and presentations.

49

childcare
& health care

freephone: 0808 178 3698

email: admissions@newcollege.ac.uk
www.newcollege.ac.uk

Caring for Children

Childcare

Preparing to work in Childcare

Entry Level 3

BTEC Level 1

Thinking of looking for work in the Childcare Industry? Is

looking after children a possible job for you? Is the Care
Industry a possible job for you?
This course is intended as an introduction to health and
social care/child care. No previous experience is required
and will be useful to those who are unsure which route to
take. Cover topics such as:
Career progression
Communication between children and adults
Role of the carer
Health needs
Books, stories, poems and rhymes of young children
Building confidence, skills and self esteem
Explore the various jobs that are available in the sector.
You will also pick up valuable life skills such as CV writing,
communication, and interview techniques.

Develop your skills in working with and caring for children.

Your study will be based on real, practical situations and your
assignments will be linked to work experience. The main topics
include:
Working in childcare
The role of the carer at mealtimes
Creative activities for children
Communication with children
Personal care in health and social care
You will spend two blocks of two weeks on work experience in
two different places to gain experience of work in different
situations .

Level 2*
Gain a qualification that will enable you to work with children
or young people. Includes:
Child development
Safeguarding
Communication
Supporting childrens play and learning
Equality and inclusion

Level 3*
Want to work with children or young people? Thinking about
a career in primary school or early years teaching? Following
this course will help you achieve that aim. It includes topics
such as:

adam bradford: lydiard park academy, SWINDON

health & social care / photography / functional skills

I love it at New College, the teachers and other students are nice and my course is
very good

50

Supporting childrens play and learning

Promoting communication
Equality and inclusion
Safeguarding
Observation and assessment
Child development
Ensuring childrens health and well-being
Delivering effective teaching and learning
Working with parents and carers
Practical placements will be in local nurseries and schools
enabling you to demonstrate your competence and
knowledge.
*At the time of preparing this prospectus, the precise details of these
two qualifications are not available. If you are keen to follow a Level 2
or Level 3 Childcare course, ask for the up-dated Information Sheet. It
will tell you all you need to know.

Youthwork

Health and Social Care

Level 2 Award / Certificate / Diploma

Preparing to Work in Health & Social Care

& Childcare Entry Level 3

BTEC Extended Certificate

Level 2

Thinking of looking for work in the Health Industry? Is the

Care Industry a possible job for you? Unsure about working
with children? This course is intended as an introduction to
health and social care/child care. No previous experience
is required and will be useful to those who are unsure which
route to take. The course will cover such things as:

A great introduction to health and social care. Learn about

the caring community, including groups and organisations
working with the young, disabled and elderly:

An introductory course in youthwork covering:

Principles of youthwork
Working one-to-one with young people
Safeguarding young people
Developing communication skills with young people
You will be required to undertake a practical placement in
a youth group.

Home Cooking Skills

BTEC Level 1 and Level 2 Award
Gain the knowledge, skills and confidence to enjoy cooking
meals at home. Learn:
Basic cooking skills by following simple recipes
Safe use of kitchen equipment
How to economise when planning meals
How to inspire others by passing on skills and recipes
Basic food hygiene and the importance of passing on information
Learn to cook a wide range of foods including eggs, breakfasts,
simple soups, pasta dishes, basic bread-making, dishes with
mince, fish and chicken, puddings, salad preparation and
baking brownies and cookies. Each recipe will be underpinned
with knowledge about nutrition and the benefits of using
fresh ingredients.

Career progression
Communication between children and adults
Role of the carer
Health needs
Books stories, poems and rhymes of young children
Building confidence, skills and self esteem
It will give you the chance to explore the various jobs that are
available in the sector. At the same time, you will also pick
up valuable life skills such as CV writing, communication and
interview techniques.

Health & Social Care

BTEC Level 1 Certificate - Introduction
to Health & Social Care
Children & Young Peoples Setting
You will develop your skills in working with and caring for
people. Your study will be based on real, practical situations
and your assignments will be linked to work experience. The
main topics include:
Working in health and social care
The role of the carer at mealtimes
Creative activities for children
Communication with adults and children
Personal care in health and social care

Community / individual
Individual needs / ensuring a safe environment
Anatomy and physiology
Cultural diversity
Creative and therapeutic activities
Vocational experience
You will have the opportunity to complete a work placement nursery, primary school, hospital, GP surgery, residential home
or day-care centre.

BTEC Diploma - Level 3

A two-year programme that covers topics from diseases of
the human body to social studies and psychology. Cover
issues that effect a range of groups from babies and children
to older people:
Anatomy and physiology
Social perspectives
Psychological perspectives
Development through the life stages
There are outside speakers, visits and lots of practical classes
and a placement in Year 2. The course can lead to study at
degree level to train as a nurse, social worker physiotherapist
or paramedic.

You will spend two blocks of two weeks on work experience in

two different places to gain experience of work with different
people - one in a nursery, primary school, and one in a hospital,
residential home or day-care centre.

53

computing & IT

freephone: 0808 178 3698

email: admissions@newcollege.ac.uk
www.newcollege.ac.uk

Computing
GCSE
Learn fundamentals and practical programming skills such as
writing:
A mobile phone application
A computer game
A web-based application
The theory element will introduce you to computer
architecture and networking.

AS Level and A Level

A broad introduction to computing which will suit you if you
have good logical reasoning and problem-solving skills.
Learn about:
Computer architecture and computer networks how computers work
Computer networks and the internet
Systems software - operating systems
Data representation - binary and hexadecimal mathematics,
images and sound
Problem solving techniques and algorithm design
Programming, databases and webpage design
Practical programming tasks

ICT Level 2 Qualification

Levels 1 and 2

kerenza clements: kingsdown, SWINDON

computing / use of maths / physics

New College is a great place to meet people and the courses are amazing.

54

Enjoy using computers and want to develop your knowledge

of ICT? A very practical course, using a wide range of software
including:
Graphics
Web authoring
Presentations
Word processing
Databases
Spreadsheets
E-mail
Multimedia (video, sound, etc)
Games design
Ideal if you have not yet achieved 5 A-C grades at GCSE.

55

Games Development
(Creative Media Production)

Software Development
and Web Design

BTEC National Extended Diploma

BTEC National Extended Diploma Level 3

Combines computing with media to provide a specialist workrelated programme. You study media games modelling and
computer programming using visual languages and games
development software. Gain the technical knowledge to
design and build 2D/3D games and simulations. Study:

Interested in practical computing, particularly software

and website development? Get the technical knowledge to
build software applications and gain experience to work in
computing or go into Higher Education. Study includes:

Computer programming concepts

Event driven programming
Computer game platforms and technologies
Object-oriented design for computer games
Computer game design
Working to a brief in the media industries
Flash for computer games
Web animation for interactive media
Sound
Story development
Digital graphics for interactive media

freephone: 0808 178 3698

email: admissions@newcollege.ac.uk
www.newcollege.ac.uk

english

Event-driven and object-orientated programming

Animations and games development
Programming concepts
Hardware
Networks
Systems analysis and design
Website production and management
Client-side customisation of web pages
E-commerce and human-computer interaction
Digital graphics and computers
Major IT project
You do practical projects and assignments based on realistic
workplace situations and activities.

Information Technology (ICT)

AS Level and A Level
ICT is about using technology in our everyday lives. Be a frontrunner in the information age! ICT develops your skills and
shows how businesses use technology to be competitive.
What is information and why is it so valuable?
How can we manage information effectively?
How does a company or organisation use ICT?
Become a proficient user of Microsoft Office and learn how
to use spreadsheet or database software to solve a problem.

rosie free: lydiard park academy, SWINDON

english literature / history / philosophy / classical greek

Ive loved my time at New College, its helped me to grow in confidence to make new
friends and try new courses. Before I came to College I was so shy Id never talk to
anyone new, but being thrown in with such a mixture of people has been a fantastic
experience.

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57

GCSE English at grade C or above (Level 2) is highly

valued by employers.
It is also a requirement for teaching as well as many other
careers and Higher Education courses. If you leave school
without a C in English, you will be required to do a course in
this subject whilst studying at New College.

Essential English
Level 1 and Level 2
English isnt only Shakespeare and stories youll see good
spoken and written communication skills required in every job
advert.
This is a practical, IT-based course that will lead to Functional
English qualifications. An alternative to, or preparation for,
grade C at GCSE English, covering:
Word processing and presentation skills
Letters, e-mails and reports
CVs and job applications

English for Speakers

of Other Languages (ESOL)

GCSE
Develop your ability to write and speak effectively as well as to
listen, read and respond with understanding. You will:
study different styles of English, for different audiences
and purposes, spoken and written
research, discuss, prepare notes, essays and talks
develop your personal and critical responses to a variety
of literary and non-fiction texts both spoken and written

Creative Writing

AS Level and A Level

AS Level and A Level

Get what you want through what you write - and how you
write it. Find out how authors write for different audiences
and purposes and how we communicate in a variety of spoken
forms. Study:

Do you enjoy writing? Can you work to precise deadlines?

Are you interested in script-writing? Or do you enjoy thinking
about scientific matters? Well, this could be the course for
you.

The spoken word - how people really talk and ways

scriptwriters and novelists present this
Writing in different forms and styles - journalism, diaries,
letters, play scripts, autobiographies, documentaries,
advertising, fiction
Wide reading - plays, novels and poetry - from Shakespeare
to the present day, fiction and non-fiction

You can write your own journalism or scripts as well

as stories
You will produce some writing under the pressure of exact
deadlines, just like in a newspaper office
You will have opportunities to work with writers who have
already had their work published
You will investigate what makes good writing and develop
your own critical skills
You will create your own portfolio of writing

Entry Level, Levels 1 and 2

Do you speak a language that is not English as your first
language? Do you need better English to start a college
course, or get a job? A full-time ESOL course can help you!
You could achieve qualifications up to Level 2 - the same level
as a GCSE grade C. Depending on your level of English, each
course includes:
English - speaking, listening and writing
Computing/IT
Mathematics
Depending on your level of English, you may also get the
opportunity to take short courses in subjects such as Sport,
Care or Beauty, to help you decide what you might like to
study in the future.

English Language
AS Level and A Level

English Language

English Language and Literature

Language is everywhere - on banknotes and gravestones,

in song lyrics and football commentaries. What does your
language say about you? Study:
Introduction to language and text analysis
Language and society
Original writing for different purposes and audiences
Language change and language acquisition
Investigation project - your own choice of topic

English Literature
AS Level and A Level
A great subject for an independent reader with a love of
literature.
How does comedy work? You will study a traditional and a
modern play
How are stories written? How do writers create different
responses in their readers? You will look at two novels and
some poetry
What is pastoral fiction? You study a number of different
texts to explore this important aspect of literature
Compile a coursework portfolio with some scope for your
own choice of texts

If you are fascinated by language and curious to know more

about it - this is the subject for you!

Note: with changes scheduled to all GCSE specifications, this

course is currently under review. Either GCSE or IGCSE will
be offered. At your interview, ask to see the up-to-date
Information Sheet.

58

59

foundation learning

freephone: 0808 178 3698

email: admissions@newcollege.ac.uk
www.newcollege.ac.uk

Foundation Learning Programme - Entry Level and Level 1

Need help deciding where to go next? Know what you want
to do but havent got the grades you need to move on?... A
Foundation Learning Programme could be right for you! It will
improve your skills and qualifications to help you further your
education and job prospects.

Entry Level 3 and Level 1

Word processing and presentation skills

Letters, e-mails and reports
CVs and job applications

Your personal programme could lead to Awards, Certificates

or Diplomas and there will be several choices of units to
cluster together such as:
Budgeting
Team work and communication skills
Drug and alcohol awareness
Employability skills
You could study foundation learning as a full-time course for
a year or as shorter part-time units. After this programme you
could move on to:

Ive enjoyed learning in an adult environment with friendly staff, whilst being able to
share personal opinions based on the subjects.

English isnt only Shakespeare and stories youll see good

spoken and written communication skills required in every job
advert.
This is a practical, IT-based course that will lead to Functional
English qualifications. An alternative to, or preparation for,
grade C at GCSE English, covering:

Vocational options
Personal and social development
Functional skills in English, Mathematics and ICT (see below)

ANCIENT HISTORY / ARCHAEOLOGY / FILM

Level 1 and Level 2

Step Up

Your programme will include QCF units and qualifications. A

personalised learning programme is arranged to help you
achieve credits and progress to a higher level. All foundation
learning is made up of:

JAMES WARNER: ST JOHNS, marlborough

Essential English

Apprenticeship (Level 2)
GCSE Programme
Level 2 course
full-time job or further training

Functional Mathematics
Levels 1 and 2
Gain the mathematics skills needed for work, learning and
life. You will learn to use your mathematics skills to tackle real
life problems such as value for money, working out materials
for projects, calculating VAT and finding the cost of booking
a holiday taking into account the currency conversion and
airplane tax.

Functional ICT
Level 2
Studying Functional Skills ICT encourages you to use
technology in ways which make you more effective and
involved as a citizen, and it helps you to operate confidently in
life and work. You will learn how to use ICT systems, Microsoft
software, and problem-solving techniques to help you find
answers to questions based on real-life situations.
You will cover three key skill areas:

60

Using ICT systems

Using ICT to find information
Communicating information using ICT
This is a must do course for everyone!

61

geography
& the environment

freephone: 0808 178 3698

email: admissions@newcollege.ac.uk
www.newcollege.ac.uk

Environmental Studies

Geography

AS Level and A Level

GCSE

Develop your understanding of topical environmental issues

and learn about the planet that you live and depend on - from
holes in the ozone layer to why deserts are expanding! Learn
about:

Develop your communication techniques as well as

geographical and ICT skills in aspects of Geography that
affect us all. Topics include:

the atmosphere and hydrosphere, human energy and water

needs, and pollution
management of the Earth for sustainable exploitation of its
resources, the production and management of waste, and
ways of enhancing the environment
life processes, maintenance of life, ecosystems, populations,
biodiversity, and methods of conservation
You will learn to apply scientific theories and methods to
Green issues.

Water on the land - river landforms, floods and floor

prevention, water supplies
The restless earth - earthquakes, volcanoes, tsunamis and
plate tectonic theory
Challenges of weather and climate - the UK climate, global
climate change, hurricanes
Population change - global population change, ageing
population, migration and population control policies
Urban environments - issues in cities, squatter settlements,
sustainable urban living
Tourism - growth of tourism, positive and negative impacts,
extreme tourism
No previous experience of Geography is needed.

AS Level and A Level

Geography covers the issues that everybody is talking about.
We will all be affected by some of them in our lifetime. This
course covers important topical issues about the natural and
human environments.
Core topics:
Global Population Change - population growth and control,
ageing populations, people in cities
Rivers and Floods - landforms, causes and consequences of
flooding, controlling floods

GEORGINA WACHENUKA: INTERNATIONAL

GEOGRAPHY / ENGLISH / SOCIOLOGY / CHEMISTRY

My experience at New College has been life changing. I have learnt so much and
achieved all my target goals. I hope to go onto University level and study Psychology
and Psychiatry. I love New College because of its diversity, and because of this I have
made plenty of new friends.

62

Optional topics:
Energy Issues - energy sources, environmental impact of
energy use, renewable and sustainable energy
Coastal Environments - landforms, sea level change,
flooding, coastal management
There is some practical fieldwork linked to the topics you
study.

63

Geology
GCSE

freephone: 0808 178 3698

email: admissions@newcollege.ac.uk
www.newcollege.ac.uk

general studies

Why do earthquakes occur where they do? How is gold formed?

What shapes the landscape? How did the dinosaurs become
extinct? If youre intrigued by questions like these then
studying GCSE Geology will help you discover the answers. You
will develop a better understanding of the processes which
have shaped our planet through studying topics such as:
Why earthquakes, volcanoes and tsunamis occur
The formation of rocks, minerals and fossils
The processes which shape and have shaped our landscape
The roles of geoscientists today
No previous experience of Geology is needed.

World Development
AS Level and A Level
Why are some countries so poor? Do the richest countries
exploit the poorest? Can we go on living the way we are
without destroying the environment? Why is there so much
inequality between countries and within countries?
Study these and other issues through two key themes:
Development, resources and global citizenship
Poverty and inequality
An excellent choice to complement your other subjects particularly Geography, Sociology, Government and Politics.
Ideal if you are interested in global current affairs and
environmental issues.

NICOLE LAWSON: WARNEFORD, HIGHWORTH

BUSINESS STUDIES / PSYCHOLOGY / MUSIC TECHNOLOGY

The atmosphere at New College is great- you make so many new friends and there are loads
more people who share the same interests as you.

64

65

AQA Baccalaureate

Extended Project Qualification (EPQ)

AQA - Level 3

AQA or Pearson/Edexcel- Level 3

Keep one step ahead with the AQA Bacc! This programme
recognises your all-round achievements. It combines:

Create a piece of work of your own choosing, possibly related

to your A Levels or your vocational study. EPQ can be a standalone qualification, or part of the AQA Bacc or a Diploma. It is
recognised by UCAS as half an A Level. Examples include:

Academic study - your A Levels

Broader study - do one of: AS General Studies, Critical
Thinking , World Development or Science and Society
Extended Project - see below
Enrichment - may include your part-time job, voluntary work,
clubs and societies
It is an additional qualification, not a replacement for your
A Levels, but it will give you the edge when you apply for
university or employment.

Critical Thinking
AS Level and A Level
Develop your reasoning and logic skills. At AS you will learn
how to:
analyse and criticise written sources to find errors in logic
develop your own reasoning and written skills
question sources, spot assumptions and flaws in reasoning
look at statistical evidence and spot patterns
look at the credibility of sources
At A2 you will learn how to:
evaluate evidence
test hypotheses and prepare ethical arguments
look at decision-making and the use of probability in
assessing consequences
look at knowledge, belief and claims
Critical thinking skills are very useful in many other subject
areas.

66

Art and design exhibition

Investigation or study
Dissertation presenting an argument
Artefact - model or construction
Performance music, drama
Studying for the EPQ develops skills in critical thinking, project
management, report-writing and is great for your UCAS
personal statement or at interviews, as it shows that you are
an independent learner.

Pre-Teaching Award
Level 3 (equivalent to one AS Level)
Are you considering teaching as a career? Gain an
understanding of the requirements as well as the practicalities
of the classroom life. The course includes:
Presentation skills
How children learn
Intellectual and language development
Personal and classroom skills in a school placement
Child protection
Success in this course will put you in a strong position to
apply for teacher training through UCAS.

General Studies
AS Level and A Level
An interesting fast-track course that you can complete in one
year. It covers topics that you might be studying in other
courses, and encourages you to use your own experiences
and present your own viewpoints. Examples of topics include:
Climate change
The business market
Art and public space
Global media
Green values
The impact of IT
Fashion, art , film in society
The influence of political ideologies on individuals
You get valuable study skills advice: how to write persuasively,
argue a case, and interpret graphs and tables. It is available
as a taught course or as a workshop option.

historical studies

freephone: 0808 178 3698

email: admissions@newcollege.ac.uk
www.newcollege.ac.uk

Ancient History

Classical Civilisation

GCSE

AS Level and A Level

Learn about the men and women of Ancient Egypt, Greece

and Rome who have helped to shape the way we see the
world, and whose lives have a strong relevance to the modern
world. Topics include:

From Bronze Age Troy to Athens in the 5th century BC:

birthplace of modern philosophy, politics and science. Study
the period, its culture, customs and beliefs through some of
the most exciting literature in world history! Study:

The Greeks at war Alexander the Great

The rise of Rome - Hannibals invasion and defeat
Women in ancient politics - Agrippina the Younger
and her influence on Roman politics
Ancient societies -through the study of original sources

Homers Odyssey
Aristophanes and Athens
Greek tragedy
Virgils Aeneid

AS Level and A Level

Explore the hidden secrets and mysteries of the Ancient
Romans and Greeks using some of the most amazing works of
history ever written. There are two main areas of study:

jazmin lawless: the ridgeway, WROUGHTON

If you understand the foundations of Western civilisation you

will be better equipped to understand the present.

Latin

Ancient Greece
The Rise of Sparta and Athens
Battles of the Persian and Peloponnesian Wars
Social, political and religious aspects of one of the greatest
world cultures

GCSE

Ancient Rome
The Julio-Claudians and the divine Augustus
Aftermath of civil war with Marc Antony and Cleopatra
The role of the Emperors family, the Senate, soldiers
Invention of Imperial Rome
Society, administration and religious life in Imperial Rome

Latin language and literature - passages from history,

mythology and Roman domestic life
Roman civilisation and the development of the roman
culture in Pompeii and Ostia

The classical world as it was meant to be studied - through

its own language. Reading texts shows you the relationship
between Latin and languages of today.

Discover the development of life and myth in Ancient Rome

like never before! A very useful eXtra if you are taking Ancient
History or Classical Civilisation.

Archaeology

ancient history / archaeology / classical civilisation

Being at New College has allowed me to develop my skills and confidence to prepare
me for the future

68

AS Level and A Level

Learn how to read past human activity from the evidence left
behind and archaeologists records. Examine everyday things:
tools, weapons, jewellery. Study world-famous sites, from
Avebury and Stonehenge to Roman Europe 753BC to AD 410.
Study includes:
fieldwork and excavation techniques
methods used to study artefacts and other remains
field trips to sites and museums
prehistoric origins of religion and ritual
development of ancient civilisations

69

Classical Greek

History - British
and American 20th Century

GCSE
The classical world revolved around the stories and myths
of legends long past. The language was the key to learning
about the culture. Reading texts shows you the relationship
between Classical Greek and the languages of today.
Classical Greek language: passages based on mythology
and Greek domestic life
Classical Greek society and development of democracy,
games and festivals
Discover the development of life and myth in the classical
Greek world in a unique and fascinating way! A very useful
eXtra if you are taking AS Ancient History or Classical
Civilisation.

History
GCSE
Develop your knowledge and understanding of key aspects of
the history of Britain and Europe in the 20th century. Study a
variety of political, social, economic and cultural perspectives
to help you appreciate the diversity of societies and the
experiences of people involved.
Topics studied include:
Peace-making 1918-1919 and the League of Nations
Hitlers foreign policy and the origins of the
Second World War
The Origins of the Cold War 1945-1955
Crises of the Cold War 1955-1970
Weimar Germany, 1919-1929
Hitlers Germany, 1929-1939
From Tsardom to Communism: Russia, 1914-1924
Stalins Dictatorship: USSR, 1924-1941
Studying this course provides an ideal progression to our
modern History A Level courses.

70

AS Level and A Level

freephone: 0808 178 3698

email: admissions@newcollege.ac.uk
www.newcollege.ac.uk

languages

The rise and rise of America as a great power and the decline
of Britain:
The USA 1890 - 1945
Foreign policy and the First World War
The Great Depression and the New Deal
The impact of the Second World War on the USA
The USA and Vietnam 1961 - 1975
Civil Rights in the USA
Britain 1951 2007

History - British
and European 20th Century
AS Level and A Level
Study the history of Germany and Russia in the early twentieth
century as well as modern Britain since World War Two:
Russia and Germany 1871-1914 - the outbreak of
World War One
Anti-semitism and the Holocaust: Germany 1919-45
The making of modern Russia
Britain 1951-2007

History - The Tudors and Stuarts

AS Level and A Level
In England we had the Reformation and the execution of a
king. In Europe there were religious wars and witch-hunts!
Study:

annabel wise: st johns, marlborough

italian / critical & contextual studies / english / applied science

New College has helped me achieve my full potential academically and socially. I have

Reasons for growing intolerance of witches: instability of

religious situation in Europe; fears of minorities
The Thirty Years War: challenges to Habsburg power;
religious divisions
The early Stuarts, Civil War, execution of the King and the
aftermath
Protest and Rebellion in Tudor England 1485 1601
Visit museums and attend conferences to hear leading
historians speak.

enjoyed lots of College activities including Fencing Club and Diversity Week.

71

Our languages classes are delivered by subject

specialists, in digital language labs, and in most cases
supported by foreign language assistants for additional
speaking practice.
We encourage all students to pick up a new language or
to take their existing language skills further. In the global
economy, learning another language isnt just good for you
and your CV, its actually good fun too

GCSE Languages

A and AS Level Languages

Fast-track A level Languages

French, German, Italian, Spanish

An AS in any language is a valid qualification in its own right,

as well as preparation for A2 study. It is useful to be able to
communicate in greater depth on issues you have already
met at GCSE. An A level qualification in any language is highly
regarded and shows that you can communicate in speech
and writing, fluently and accurately, at a high level.

If you have a good knowledge of another language, we can

help you get a qualification at whichever level is appropriate
for you.

Suitable if you already have some knowledge of the language

or if you are really keen on languages. Missed out on a
language qualification at school or want to improve your skills?
Learn about the following topics:

Beginners Languages
Arabic, Greek, Japanese, Mandarin Chinese,
Polish, Portuguese, Russian and Turkish

Lifestyle - health and relationships

Leisure - free time, media, holidays
Environment - home and local area
Work and education - college, jobs, future plans

Latin

Available as evening classes through our part-time course

programme. Other languages for total beginners are also
available in the non-exam evening programme.

The classical world as it was meant to be studied - through its

own language. Reading from texts shows you the relationship
between Latin and languages of today.

FCSE Languages

Latin language and literature - passages from history,

mythology and Roman domestic life
Roman civilisation and the development of the Roman
culture in Pompeii and Ostia

French, German, Italian, Mandarin Chinese

and Spanish
Suitable if youve never done the language before and would
like to learn the basics before going on to a GCSE course. You
will learn about the following topics:
My world meeting people, home life, education
and future plans
Holidays and leisure holidays, travel and accommodation,
leisure
Lifestyle celebrations, health and fitness, food and drink
The young person in society region and environment,
media, work and choices

Discover the development of life and myth in Ancient Rome

like never before! A very useful additional course if you are
taking AS Ancient History or AS Classical Civilisation.

Classical Greek

French, German and Spanish

We currently offer fast-track courses to A level in Arabic,

Mandarin Chinese, Polish, Portuguese, Russian and Turkish.
Please get in touch with our Languages Co-ordinator if youd
like to discuss any other languages.

In these languages the topics you will study at AS Level are:

Media - television, advertising and ICT
Culture - cinema, music and fashion
Lifestyle - sport, health, holidays
Relationships - family, friendships and marriage
At A Level the topics you will study are:
Environment - pollution, energy, global issues
Multicultural society - immigration, integration, racism
Social issues - wealth and poverty, law and order,
science and technology

Italian
The topics covered in AS Italian are:
Youth culture and concerns
Lifestyle - health and fitness
Travel, tourism, environmental issues
Education and employment
At A Level you will cover:
Customs, traditions, beliefs, religions
National and international events
Literature and the arts

GCSE
The classical world revolved around the stories and myths
of legends long past. The language was the key to learning
about the culture. Reading texts shows you the relationship
between Classical Greek and the languages of today.
Classical Greek language: passages based on mythology
and Greek domestic life
Classical Greek society and development of democracy,
games and festivals
Discover the development of life and myth in the classical
Greek world in a unique and fascinating way! A very useful
eXtra if you are taking AS Ancient History or Classical
Civilisation.

73

mathematics

freephone: 0808 178 3698

email: admissions@newcollege.ac.uk
www.newcollege.ac.uk

GCSE Mathematics at grade C or above (Level 2) is highly

valued by employers.
It is a requirement for teaching and many other careers
and Higher Education courses. If you leave school without
a C in Maths, you should aim to achieve at least a Level 2
qualification before you leave New College.

Functional Maths
Levels 1 and 2
Learn the Mathematics skills needed for work, learning and
life. Learn to use your Mathematics skills to tackle real life
problems such as value for money, working out materials for
projects, calculating VAT, and finding the cost of booking a
holiday taking into account the currency conversion, airplane
tax and other relevant topics.

Maths
GCSE - Fast Track
A short, fast-moving revision course aiming at the November
exams. You will normally have just missed a grade C at school
(or college), and score well on a Mathematics department
screening test.

GCSE - 1 Year
Covers the whole GCSE syllabus and runs from September to
June. There are exams in June. You will normally already have
a grade D in Mathematics GCSE to start this course but if you
have a grade C and want/need to improve your grade, you
may study at a higher tier level.

Statistics
GCSE

Data and Money

Foundation Level
Combine the most useful parts of Mathematics with
Information Technology (I.T). You normally need a GCSE grade
E to start this course and you can study two qualifications in
a year. Talk to us for more details.

Develop your skills at analysing and interpreting data:

Collecting data
Drawing statistical diagrams
Calculating averages
Calculating probabilities
The normal distribution
Scatter diagrams (Spearmans Rank Correlation coefficient)

Maths
valran lobo: st josephs catholic college, SWINDON
use of maths / archaeology / classical civilisation

New College is a great experience. I feel a lot more confident with new people and
my lecturers are great. Everyone is so welcoming and friendly and the learning
environment is so much better. My courses are going well and I hope to achieve
a lot during my time here.

74

AS Level and A Level

Mathematics is an entry requirement for a wide variety of
degree courses, and is highly valued by employers. Study:
Pure Mathematics - algebra, calculus and trigonometry
Statistics - probability, estimation and the normal
distribution
Applied Mathematics - using maths to model real world
problems such as projectiles

75

Express and Further Maths

AS Level and A Level

freephone: 0808 178 3698

email: admissions@newcollege.ac.uk
www.newcollege.ac.uk

media & film studies

Our famous double Mathematics course for students with A

or A* at GCSE. Study with other talented students, most of
whom go on to a top university. After A Level Mathematics in
Year 1 (typically at grade A) you have the option of Further
Mathematics (AS or A Level) in Year 2 (100% pass for nine of
the last ten years, with 60% grade As). Features include:
support classes if you need extra help and extension
classes to stretch the most able
a well-structured revision programme
With A Level Mathematics you will earn, on average, 12%
more in your lifetime! A popular choice if you are thinking of
Mathematics, Physics, Computing or Engineering at university.

Use of Maths
AS Level and A Level
This subject relates Maths to the real world:
focus on real-life applications of the quadratic curve
model real-world problems through trigonometric and
exponential functions
use your graphical calculator to draw and interpret a variety
of curves
statistics mean, standard deviation, correlation,
regression and normal distribution
Two AS modules and one A2 module are free-standing
qualifications in their own right. Use of Maths provides useful
support to many A levels including Psychology, Geography
and Computing. However, for a career in Maths, Science or
Engineering you should choose AS Level Maths.

harry cavey: nova hreod, SWINDON

film studies / tv & film

I enjoy studying media at New College and Ive had a good year with other students
and teachers.

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77

BTEC Media Production

Film Studies

Media Studies

Level 2 Creative Media Production

GCSE

GCSE

AS Level and A Level

Develop skills, techniques and personal qualities essential for

a career in a variety of media businesses including:

A first step in analysing and understanding films and the

cinema industry. Study:

Are you curious about your world? Do you want to know more
about peoples views and attitudes and get beneath the
surface of things? Learn how to:

Film
Television
Radio
Graphic design
Photography
Video gaming

The Hollywood film industry

Films made outside Hollywood
Scripting and storyboarding
How films are constructed
Film genre

Deals with a range of media including print, TV, film and radio,
as well as the new technology - to examine the entertainment
and information available and to look at how audiences
respond. Elements include:

Learn about the ways that media products are constructed

and consumed. Explore your creativity through developing
and recording your own productions. Completion of the
course will act as a stepping stone to a Level 3 course in
media production, A Levels or employment.

AS Level and A Level

Level 3 Television and Film Production

Learn the skills needed to work in the Film or Television
industry. Work on a variety of projects and gain experience
of every aspect of film and television production. Studying
for the qualification can lead straight into employment or
progression to Higher Education.
The BTEC Level 3 Diploma in Media Production follows a
television and film pathway, and includes:
Understanding the television and film industries
Film and video editing
Music video production
Advertisement production
Factual programme production
Soundtrack production

78

A wide-ranging exploration of one of the most powerful art

forms of the 21st century! Study:
Analysis of films - camera, sound, editing, mise-en-scne
The film industry, including stars
British film topics
World cinema
Research into the work of a particular filmmaker
Spectatorship and film interpretation

Video production - recording and editing

TV drama and soaps
Film posters
Audiences
Media organisations

Read a film, TV programme, magazine or newspaper

Develop your understanding of the visual, spoken
and written codes used in their design
Produce your own radio play or documentary
Research an area of personal interest in the media
There are also additional courses in video production,
journalism, and radio presentation and production at New
College and Swindon 105.5 Community Radio.

performing arts

freephone: 0808 178 3698

email: admissions@newcollege.ac.uk
www.newcollege.ac.uk

Dance
BTEC Level 1/Level 2 First Award in Performing
Arts (Dance)
Gain an underpinning knowledge of the skills required to
progress in dance performance through regular technique
classes, rehearsal, observation and evaluation. Study a range
of dance styles and refine and develop your technical and
performance skills to broaden your understanding of dance.
You will:
learn how to prepare for a performing arts audition
learn a specific performing or production role and prepare
and produce a performance
develop your technical and performance skills
widen your knowledge of professional dance works:
recreating and evaluating repertoire
hone your ability to interpret and convey a variety of styles
and choreography to an audience
analyse your own strengths within performance and identify
areas for development
learn about safe studio practice
This course will prepare you for continuing your dance studies
at further education. You will have to work hard, enjoy working
as a team but there will be a lot of fun too!

BTEC Level 3 Certificate and Diploma in Dance

john page: farmors, FAIRFORD

tv & film / photography

Venture into the exciting world of dance. Explore the endless

possibilities of this vibrant and creative art form. Develop and
refine your performance skills, showcasing your work in our
dance shows at the Phoenix Theatre. Perform in intimate
studio settings as well as a beautiful beach setting and work
with world-renowned dance artists in our exciting workshop
schedule. Study a range of different dance styles and
take part in a wide range of projects to help broaden your
understanding of the world of dance. Your practical work will
be supported by written evaluations and analysis.

I have made lots of friends and really enjoyed my time at New College so far.

80

You will:
expand your skills as a choreographer
develop your performance skills
widen your knowledge of professional dance works:
recreating works and developing exciting written projects
develop your physical skills in a range of styles that may
include jazz, contemporary, urban and ballet
learn about safe studio practice
This course will prepare you for continuing your dance studies
at higher education.

81

Drama

Music

Digital Music Production

Rockschool - Level 3

BTEC First Award / Certificate in Acting

Level 1/ Level 2

BTEC Level 3 Subsidiary, Diploma and Extended

Diploma in Performance

BTEC First Award and Certificate

Level 1 / Level 2

Study and explore the professional work of the actor

within the performing arts industry and develop your own
performance or acting skills.

Build sets, direct your own plays and learn the time-step. An
enjoyable but demanding course in performing arts.

Here is a great opportunity for you to study and explore

aspects of music essential for a future career in the music
industry. Develop your understanding of music by:

how to prepare for an acting audition

performing and production roles
developing your technical and performance skills
widening your knowledge of professional theatre
analysing your own strengths within performance and
identifying areas for development

perform in a wide range of shows

learn theories of dance, singing and drama
do lighting, sound and design work
learn how the Arts are funded
take part in seminars and group work
find out how you might get work in the business
workshops with prestigious theatre casts and directors
audition preparation for Drama/Dance School
trips to the West End

It also prepares you for any career where communication

skills, the ability to work in a team or deal with the public
are important.

You can really develop and explore your performance skills.

This course has received an outstanding AA classification
from BTEC.

Key elements include:

studying about the music industry

managing a music product
composing in your preferred style
developing your performance skills
Learn about the different organisations and job roles,
explore your own performance skills and develop creativity by
composing music in different styles. Successful completion of
the Level 2 Certificate can lead to AS Music (Level 3)

GCSE
Develops your ability to

AS Level and A Level

An introduction to the fascinating world of drama - from
understanding scripts to performing on stage. You can
develop your performance skills and learn how the work of the
actor contributes to the expression of ideas and dramatic
material. Study:
Analysing and understanding text
Performance
Mounting a production
Live theatre reviews
Devising and adapting drama
Our purpose-built Phoenix Theatre stages numerous
productions, with plenty of opportunities to perform,
supported by staff who have worked in professional theatre.

listen to
perform
compose
appraise
music in a variety of styles - from classical to pop, from Irish
jig to Argentine tango - and take part in as much music-making
in College as possible. Music will remain a life-long interest!

AS Level and A Level

We welcome musicians from a wide range of genres - your
instrumental or vocal work will be well supported. Join our
ensemble or choral group, with plenty of opportunity for
performance and composition work in your preferred style.
Study:

You will be required to work hard and dedicate yourself to

your drama studies, but the course is lots of fun and very
creative!

Performing
Composing and stylistic techniques
Listening
Historical topics - classical and jazz included
Different musical interpretations for your performance
project
You can go on trips to orchestral concerts, operas and ballets,
and visit national and local performance venues.

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Really into music technology? Want to produce digital styles

of music - House, Hip Hop, Electronica, Dubstep? Then this
could be just the course for you.
Using Apple logic software and the latest Apple Mac audio
technology, this one-year course covers both basic and
advanced principles of digital production and covers three
main areas:
Sequencing
Re-mixing
Analysing
Working in our dedicated Music Technology Suite, the
course will lead to a Level 3 Music Practitioners Certificate in
Technology. This course also runs on Saturdays.

Music Technology
AS Level and A Level
Study the history and development of moving image and
popular music styles from the last 100 years and learn how
changes in recording technology have shaped modern music.
Produce music arrangements using the latest recording,
synthesizer, sequencing and sampling techniques. You also
learn:
Sequencing, mixing and post-production
Film music production
How to use a recording studio
To understand and appreciate a wide range of modern
music styles
To research key music producers

Music Academy at New College

This great partnership between New College and The Academy
of Music & Sound (AMS) is now in its fourth year. These
popular courses focus on performance skills and particularly
suit those who love modern rock and pop music.

freephone: 0808 178 3698

email: admissions@newcollege.ac.uk
www.newcollege.ac.uk

public services

BTEC Level 2 Diploma in Music Performance

This one-year music performance course is aimed at guitarists,
singers, bass players and drummers who have been playing
their instrument for a couple of years. If you are competent
on your instrument but keen to progress, perform live every
week and want to include music technology, plus some basic
music theory, this is the course for you.

BTEC Level 3 Diploma and Extended Diploma

in Music Performance
A more complex and detailed version of the Level 2 Diploma.
Targeting the same instruments, classes are more instrumentspecific, i.e. guitarists study with other guitarists and so on.
This primarily practical course will allow you to work on your
instrument technique, performance skills, theory knowledge,
improvisation skills, awareness of the music industry and
recording skills. You will participate in classes on composing
and arranging, sound recording, live band performance,
solo performance, lyric writing, the history of music genres
since 1950, the music industry. Youll also have regular master
classes with top industry session musicians and youll perform
at end of term gigs in a local venue. A brand-new acoustic
guitar/singer/songwriter option was also introduced from
September 2013. Ideal for those who want a career in the
music industry, as it equips you with a broad range of skills
to keep you employable. More than half of our students
progress to degree studies.
Enrolment for both of these courses is at The Academy If you would like to know more or be invited to an AMS presentation
and tour, contact: Steve Leigh, Centre Manager on 01793 644 477 or 07730 677 371 or email:
steve.leigh@academyofmusic.ac.uk

james hUtchinson-amer: THE ridgeway, WROUGHTON

public services

Theres so much variety here, no week has ever been the same on my Public Services
course. I have been a member of the Student Union for a few months now and I have
met so many fun and interesting people.

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85

Public Services
BTEC First Diploma - Level 2

freephone: 0808 178 3698

email: admissions@newcollege.ac.uk
www.newcollege.ac.uk

religious studies
& philosophy

If you are interested in joining one of the Public Services

(Fire, Police, Ambulance or Armed Services) and enjoy working
with others, try this one-year course! Take part in outdoor
activities, carry out research projects and study situations
that affect the public sector. Includes:
visits to military and local authority organisations
(Fire and Police)
camping expeditions, day walks, water sports
self-development projects
research projects
physical fitness sessions
volunteering in community projects

BTEC National Subsidiary Diploma

and Extended Diploma Level 3
Excellent preparation and designed to help you to pursue a
career in one of the uniformed Public Services - the Police,
Fire Service, Ambulance Service, Prison Service, Armed Forces,
Border Services Agency - or Security or Probation Services.
The Extended Diploma is equivalent to three A Levels and
enables you to go on to Higher Education. Key features
include:
in-depth study of a wide range of Public Services
opportunities to find out about jobs in these services
and prepare yourself for entry procedures
regular contact with Public Service workers and visits to
Public Service providers
practical assignments and projects directly related to
the contemporary Public Service scene
outdoor pursuit experience

priya sundhir: dorcan, SWINDON

anthropology / sociology / communication & culture

I love New College, the people are really nice here. I like the atmosphere
and College life.

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87

Philosophy

Religious Studies:
World Religions

AS and A Level
From Socrates to Wittgenstein, from the Big Bang to selfconsciousness - take a broad and stimulating look at
philosophy.
What do we know? - and how do we know it?
Does God exist?
Why is Descartes so important to modern thought?
How can we make sense of the human mind?
Hume: on the limits of Reason and Mind

Religious Studies
GCSE

freephone: 0808 178 3698

email: admissions@newcollege.ac.uk
www.newcollege.ac.uk

AS Level and A Level

science &
psychology

With religion in decline, why do 700 million people around the

world still consider themselves to be religious? What do
different religions teach about God, morality and the meaning
of life? Study the following religions and find out
Buddhism
Who was the Buddha and what did he teach?
Why do Buddhists meditate and how will this help them
find enlightenment?
Judaism
What rituals do Jews follow and why?
What are the different types of Jews and what does each
group believe?

Find out what Christians believe across a wide range of ethical

and philosophical issues. Explore Christian beliefs about God,
life after death, the Bible and the origins of the world. You
will also study a range of ethical dilemmas such as abortion,
sexuality, punishment and the environment. Discover how
Christians believe we should solve these dilemmas and see if
you agree with them.

Religious Studies:
Philosophy and Ethics
AS Level and A Level
Does God exist? If so can we prove it? Can we use evidence
from miracles or the design argument to prove Gods
existence?

melvin chuaga: THE ridgeway, WROUGHTON

applied science

New College has been a great learning experience and has helped me gain the skills
I need for my future.

What about morality? Where do we get our sense of right

and wrong from? How does our morality help us make ethical
decisions on issues such as war and sexuality?
Consider some of the major arguments surrounding
philosophical and ethical issues. A great course if you like to
explore complex arguments and enjoy the cut and thrust of
debate.

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89

Biology

Human Biology

Core Science

Electronics

GCSE

AS Level and A Level

GCSE

AS Level and A Level

Helps you answer questions such as: How do humans respond

to changes inside them and to their environment?, What are
animals and plants built from? and How does exercise affect
the body?

An in-depth course that covers how the body functions: from

the cellular level to whole body physiology. Topics include:

Topics are interesting and relevant, ranging from global

warming to microwave communication. Contains units on:

Electronics is the way the modern world works. Mobile phones,

ipads, washing machines, cars, rockets and PCs all now rely
on it. Study:

Blood circulation and respiration

Human growth, development and disease
Energy, the nervous system and reproduction
Genetics, hormones and ageing

Physics - including energy transfer, electricity and waves

Chemistry - including metals, oil, earth and atmosphere
Biology - including keeping healthy, drug use and abuse,
genetics and evolution

Units are linked to real world situations, for example, health

topics such as infertility, conservation, social issues.

The emphasis throughout is on understanding how science

works.

Main topics include:

Human biology
Evolution and environment
Energy and biomass in the food chain
Cells and inheritance
Group work, research and individual teaching are important,
and practical work includes designing experiments, making
measurements, presenting data and using data to draw
conclusions.

Chemistry

AS Level and A Level

GCSE

Explore advances made in recent biological research such

as the human genome project, GM foods, cloning, embryo
research. Learn about:
Cell structure, enzymes, biological molecules
Human interactions
Exchange and transport in plants and animals
Biodiversity, classification, variation, adaptation
and evolution
Communication, homeostasis and energy
Control, genomes and environment
Discover the science behind the topics constantly in the
news!

Chemistry is vital to understanding our environment and even

our own bodies. Learn about the structure, properties and
interaction of chemicals and study things like water, food and
drugs, energy and chemical changes. Topics include:
Oil and fuels
Changes in Earth and atmosphere
Structures and bonding
Acids, bases and salts

AS Level and A Level

Do you enjoy finding out how things work? Do you often ask:
why does that happen? Chemistry is for you! Main topics
include:
Carbon compounds and their reactions
How chemists predict how far and how fast a reaction will go
Trends and patterns in the Periodic Table
Methods used to identify and find the amounts of
a substance by modern analysis
Environmental issues

Design and Technology

Product Design
AS Level and A Level
Interested in architecture, engineering, or design courses at
university? Then consider Design and Technology!
Working within interesting and challenging contexts, you will
learn to design and make products and to appreciate the
complex relationship between design, materials, manufacture
and marketing. This exciting new course allows you to combine
practical and technological skills with creative thinking. Your
confidence in your own skills will increase as you learn to think
creatively and innovatively to solve problems and at the same
time you will become a discriminating user of products.
Combines well with any other AS/A Level subject, especially
Physics, Mathematics, Electronics or Art.

What makes a digital clock tick

Analogue and digital communications
What logic is
How to program a PIC chip
How to build electronic circuits - e.g. amplifiers, traffic lights
You will combine theory with practical hands-on activities.
Recommended if you are interested in engineering - or if you
simply have an enquiring mind.

Electrical and Electronic

Engineering
BTEC Level 3 Diploma
A vocational course with the emphasis on learning by doing,
Electrical and Electronic Engineering is very important to the
modern workforce. Provides a wide range of units so that you
can focus on your chosen area of interest. Topics and skills
developed include health and safety, mathematics, science,
communications and project planning/implementation all
within the context of relevant industrial examples. You will
complete the course with the skills required to work in a
technical role in the engineering industry or to progress to
study Engineering at a higher level.
Units studied include:
Health and safety in the engineering workplace
Electrical and electronic principles
Engineering project (you can follow your interests
and ideas)
Communications for engineering technicians
Will also develop employability skills such as problem solving
and team working.

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Physics

Psychology

Science in Society

Science

GCSE

GCSE

AS Level and A Level

(Applied Science - Medical Science)

BTEC National Diploma Level 3

Answer those How does it work? and Why does this happen?
questions. Explore topics such as

Find out what Psychology is about. An introduction to the

main topics:

If you like to know why things happen, youll find Science in

Society a fascinating course. You will unearth information on
a diverse range of issues; topics include:

Medical Physics
Electricity
Radioactivity
The basics of energy, forces, electricity and waves
through practical experiments and demonstrations.

Memory - how can we improve our memory for the exam?

Origins of gender identity - male or female?
Stereotyping - why dont we like everybody?
Research methods
Non-verbal communication - what does your posture say
about you?

AS Level and A Level

AS Level and A Level

For future Physicists and Engineers:

Psychology is the science of human behaviour. It can help you

understand yourself and others. You will study:

Forces in action
Work and energy
Waves and quantum behaviour
Electric current, resistance and DC circuits
Newtons Laws and momentum
Thermal physics
Medical imaging
Modelling the universe

Memory - how it works and why it sometimes doesnt

Obedience to authority, conformity and the effects of being
observed
Child development and the effects of parenting
Mental health and mental illness
How psychologists help to investigate crime
Research methods
Covers the many ways in which Psychologists explain human
behaviour, and you will take part in class practicals.

Applied Science
AS Level and A Level
Find out about how science is used in the world around us
and in industry and laboratories. You will answer questions
such as:
What do scientists do at work?
How do you find banned substances in an athletes urine?
How do we measure cardio-vascular fitness?

Infectious Diseases and Medicines

Evolution
The Universe
Climate Change
You will gain a greater understanding of nature and scientific
issues. Suitable for all students, the course will help you
develop essential skills needed for employment or university
and compliments most course programmes.

This wide-ranging vocational science course prepares you for

a career as a science technician or for an HND or degree in
Science. Topics include:
Fundamentals of science
Working in the science industry
Scientific investigation
Scientific practical techniques
Physiology of human body systems
Microbiological techniques
Genetics and genetic engineering
Practical chemical analysis
Medical physics techniques
Electronics for science technicians

Principles of Science

You can study an A Level alongside this course.

BTEC First Award

Medical and Health

Study Programme

Find out how the science you learn is used in the world around
us. You will explore what scientists do in their working lives,
and the science they use, as well as explore current science
issues through presentations and discussions. Equivalent to
one GCSE. Units include:
Chemistry and our earth
Energy and our universe
Biology and our environment

BTEC Level 3 Diploma

If you are interested in a career in Medicine or Health - doctor
or dentist, vet or more - then mention your career choice and
interest at your liaison interview. When you arrive at College,
you will join a specialist tutor group for budding health
professionals. Benefits include:
help to choose the right subjects to study
meet and share information and goals
opportunities to go to conferences relevant to your
chosen career e.g. Medlink
hospital placements and voluntary service
specialist guidance on your UCAS application
opportunities to meet successful applicants
from previous years

You will have plenty of opportunity to design and carry out

practical investigations and experiments, and there is a
mixture of coursework and exams - so it is ideal for students
who suffer from exam nerves.

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social sciences

freephone: 0808 178 3698

email: admissions@newcollege.ac.uk
www.newcollege.ac.uk

Anthropology

Government and Politics

AS Level and A Level

AS Level and A Level

Anthropology is the study of what it means to be human in the

diverse societies across the world. Gain a better understanding
and awareness of current debates surrounding citizenship,
diversity and multiculturalism in the UK and beyond. Question
fundamental aspects of human life and develop your own
skills of critical enquiry. Topics include:

Change and challenges in politics - President Obama, global

recession, coalition government in Britain. An exciting time to
study politics! If you enjoy Mock the Week and Have I Got
News for You you can find out more about the following:

Human rights
Globalisation
Ethnic conflict and violence
Communication and Culture

Communication and Culture

Parliament and politicians

Power - who really has it?
Do we have an elective dictatorship?
Pressure groups, voting, people power
Controversial political issues - MPs expenses, collapse
of the banking system, tuition fees
Britain and Europe - a European superstate?
Visits to Westminster and student conferences
Great if you enjoy discussion - for budding journalists, lawyers
and politicians!

AS Level and A Level

Communication is vital - it is about the process of interaction
and socialisation, and how we learn about our culture. Learn
about how people communicate in a great variety of ways,
including:

janki sheth: dorcan, SWINDON

law / economics / english language / it

New College has definitely provided me with a lot of help and guidance for applying

communication through printed texts

personal communication - body language, verbal
communication
exploring high culture, mass culture and subcultures
designing your own project - produce a leaflet for an
organisation
cultural communication - the internet, TV, newspapers,
fashion

to Oxbridge. I am also part of the Student Union here and I organised an event in aid
of Prospect Hospice. After College I wish to go to university to further my studies and
gain a degree.

94

95

Psychology

Sociology

GCSE

GCSE

Find out what Psychology is about. An introduction to the

main topics:

Study human society and social groups and how social

structures affect our individual behaviour. Explore social
issues such as the gap between rich and poor or the rising
crime rate. Main topics are:

Memory - how can we improve our memory for the exam?

Origins of gender identity - male or female?
Stereotyping - why dont we like everybody?
Research methods
Non-verbal communication - what does your posture
say about you?

Reflect on your own experiences living in a complex world.

Psychology is the science of human behaviour. It can help

you understand yourself and others. You will study:

AS Level and A Level

Covers the many ways in which Psychologists explain human

behaviour, and you will take part in class practicals.

sport & leisure

Family
Education
Deviance and social control
Work

AS Level and A Level

Memory - how it works and why it sometimes doesnt

Obedience to authority, conformity and the effects of being
observed
Child development and the effects of parenting
Mental health and mental illness
How psychologists help to investigate crime
Research methods

freephone: 0808 178 3698

email: admissions@newcollege.ac.uk
www.newcollege.ac.uk

How does society influence our behaviour and ideas? Where

do our beliefs and daily routines come from? You will study:
How youth cultures form and develop
Gangs at school how they affect educational achievement
Research tools used by sociologists
New religious movements, sects and cults
Why moral panics emerge over juvenile delinquency
or drug use
Famous sociologists and their theories on society
The family

rebecca pour: commonweal, SWINDON

english Lit & lang / drama / sociology / law

I have enjoyed studying Law as you get to understand different aspects of how
todays law had come across and adventure into different cases. I have also
faced my fear of confidence through studying Drama. This let me look at life in so
many different ways, allowing me to understand in depth, others lives and their
interpretations of society.

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97

Physical Education

Sport

Sport and Exercise Sciences

Football Coaching Course

AS Level and A Level

BTEC Level 2

BTEC National Sport and Exercise Science

Subsidiary and Extended Diploma Level 3

Level 3

Explore physical education and sport through an investigation

of sports participation and performance. For practical work,
you can demonstrate ability either as a performer, a coach or
as an official within a sport. The theoretical element covers
current topics in sport such as:

Want to work in the sports industry? Enjoy learning about

sport? This one-year course is for you! Learn about:

Anatomical, physiological and psychological aspects

of sport and physical education
Factors affecting participation in sport
Health and exercise
Nutrition
Information-processing and skill acquisition
Opportunities for participation
Analysis and evaluation of performance

Fitness testing and training

Practical sport
Anatomy and physiology for sport
Injury in sport
Planning and leading sports activities
Nutrition for sports performances
Exercise and fitness instruction
A good mix of practical sport and theory. Take part in fitness
and coaching sessions as well as producing coursework
assignments.

Studying allows you to:

BTEC National Level 3

Focus on a single physical activity throughout

Experience and develop an interest in a variety of roles
(performer, official, coach)
Build on your previous experience of Key Stage 4 and GCSE
and enhance knowledge and understanding
Evaluate and discuss contemporary developments in sport
(new technology, ergogenic aids, sport-specific
rehabilitation)

Keen to study and work within sport? Whether youre an active

sportsperson or an enthusiastic follower, this is the course
for you. Study a wide range of topics over the one / two years
including:

Sport and Leisure

BTEC Level 1 Sport and Active Leisure
Want to work in the sport and leisure industry?
Covers the theory of sport:
Taking part in sport
Assisting at a sport or active leisure event
Improving own fitness
Risks and hazards in sport and active leisure
How the body works
Leading in a sport and active leisure activity
Working in sport and active leisure
Job opportunities in sport and active leisure
Sport and active leisure group project
Planning own fitness programme.
A keen interest in sport and fitness is needed.

98

sports coaching
fitness testing
sports development
leadership in sport
current issues in sport
practical sports study.
Trips are also a feature of the course: visit places such as the
Millennium Stadium and taking part in outdoor activities.

Whether youre an elite athlete or a recreational exerciser,

learn the how and why of physical activity. Covers all you
need for further study related to the subject:
Sport and exercise nutrition
Research methods
Sport and exercise psychology
Anatomy for sport and leisure
Physiology for sport and exercise
Sports injuries
Sport massage
We have a Fitness Suite and Sports Hall, with CV and resistance
machines, dynamometers and computer programmes
analysing all aspects of sport and exercise science, to assist
in completion of coursework assignments.

Working in Sport & Leisure

Level 1 and 2
Are you thinking of working in the sport and leisure industry?
Gain a range of qualifications that will help you reach that
goal. Designed to provide sport assistants with essential
background knowledge which will enable you to develop
your skills. You will also learn about coaching, exercise and
healthy lifestyle, the leisure industry and what it means to be
a fitness instructor.
The year-long course consist of a series of nationally
recognised, stand alone qualifications at both Levels 1 and 2.
They include:
Level 1 Award in the Principles of Coaching Sport
Level 1 Award in Fitness instructing
Level 2 Award in improving personal exercise, health
and nutrition
Level 2 Certificate in leisure operations.

This course will suit the keen footballer who wishes to pursue
a career in this field.
You will study a one-year academic vocational course at Level
3 (equivalent to one full A level) that is focused on football,
and, alongside your academic studies, you can gain coaching
and refereeing qualifications in football.
It includes visits to football stadiums and will involve
interaction with STFC scholars.

Football, Basketball
and Netball Academies
Elite performers join our successful sports academies,
supported by the Wiltshire Football Association, Wiltshire
Wolves Basketball Club and the Wiltshire Netball Association.
Key features include:
Wiltshire Premier League champions, County champions,
South and South West of England champions
FA Charter Club Standard
Highly qualified and experienced coaches
Fits easily with full-time academic programme.
Visit www.newcollege.ac.uk/sportsacademies for
more details

travel, tourism
& hospitality

freephone: 0808 178 3698

email: admissions@newcollege.ac.uk
www.newcollege.ac.uk

Resort Representative

Travel and Tourism

NCFE Level 2 Award

BTEC First Diploma - Level 2

This is a great introduction to the role and duties of a resort

representative. Successful completion guarantees interviews
with Thomas Cook, so if you are thinking about working in the
tourism sector, this may well be a course for you.

Gain a broad knowledge of the travel and tourism sector

and develop some of the skills required by the industry.
Assessment is by coursework and the main units of study
include:

Introduction to Cabin Crew

Investigating the travel and tourism sector

Understanding customer service
Understanding the nature and effects of world travel

NCFE Level 2 Award

There will be visits to local and regional businesses and

attractions and the opportunity to participate in an overseas
fieldwork residential course.

Get an introduction to the duties of cabin crew, successful

completion guarantees interviews with Monarch Airlines and
BMI (British Midland) providing you also meet the essential
criteria specified by each airline.

BTEC Subsidiary Diploma and National Diploma

Level 3
This one or two-year course offers the opportunity to develop
a wide range of skills and gain knowledge of the travel and
tourism industry. Assessment is by coursework and the main
units of study include:
Investigating the travel and tourism industry
The business of travel and tourism
The UK as a destination
Customer service in travel and tourism
There will be visits to local and regional businesses and
attractions and the opportunity to participate in an overseas
fieldwork residential course.

AS Level and A Level

kate ward: dorcan TECHNOLOGY COLLEGE, SWINDON

resort rep / extended diploma in dance

Whether you want to work in the Travel and Tourism industry,

progress to university or just learn more about the world
around you choose this enjoyable and very successful
course. Assessment is by coursework and exams. Topics
include:-

I have enjoyed doing the Extended Diploma in Dance at New College. After I leave I will
carry on my training in Dance and I hope to study in London.

100

Marketing
Customer service
Travel destinations
Impacts of tourism
Visits and field trips are a feature of the course: Cardiff,
London, local facilities and a residential field trip abroad.

101

Hospitality
BTEC Extended Certificate/Diploma Level 2

freephone: 0808 178 3698

email: admissions@newcollege.ac.uk
www.newcollege.ac.uk

A specialist work-related qualification which gives you the

knowledge, skills and understanding that you need for future
employment or further study in higher education.

apprenticeships,
traineeships &
preparation for work

Units include:
The hospitality industry
Products and services within the hospitality industry
Core aspects of service provision
You will be encouraged to arrange industry-related work
experience around your studies and participate in trips,
including one to the annual Hotelympia exhibition.

BTEC Subsidiary Diploma and National

Diploma Level 3
Designed to equip you with the knowledge and understanding
required to work within the hospitality industry or to progress
to higher education. Assessment is by coursework and you will
study approximately six units each year. Core units include:
Front office operations
Event organisation
Financial control
Marketing
Visits to hospitality providers and exhibitions will be a feature
of the course, and there will also be an opportunity to take
part in an overseas study tour.

lewis nicholls: pewsey vale, PEWSEY

film & tv production / art

Ive really enjoyed my time at New College. Ive made lots of new friends and enjoyed
my courses.

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index & course list

Apprenticeships
Are you currently employed or know what sort of job you want
to go in to? Do you want to earn a wage while you learn the job
and get qualified? If you can answer yes to these questions
then an Apprenticeship could be right for you!
If you are not already in a job, from the moment you decide
you want to do an Apprenticeship you should be actively
looking for an employer to help support your Apprenticeship
programme.
What do I get with an Apprenticeship?
A technical qualification relevant to your job e.g. a BTEC
Functional Skills in English, Mathematics and ICT
Occupational competence qualification that you gain
on the job
Job satisfaction
Knowledge of employee rights and responsibilities
Personal learning and thinking skills
An income!
Apprenticeships are available through New College at three
levels; Level 2 (Intermediate Apprenticeship), Level 3 (Advanced
Apprenticeship) and Level 4 (Higher Apprenticeship).

How do I become an Apprentice?

Start with a full time job in your chosen career path, with
an employer who allows you to be released to spend time
studying. The College will provide an Assessor/Tutor to work
with you and your employer to aid the smooth running of your
training and help you achieve your qualification. Ideally you
should have five good GCSE grades including Mathematics
and English at grade C.

Traineeships

INFOSHEET
SUBJECT PAGE
114
Drama (AS/A Level)
82
646
Economics (GCSE) 49
116
Economics (AS/A Level)
49
485
Electrical and Electronic Engineering (BTEC Level 3)
91
117
Electronics (AS/A Level)
91
620
English Language (GCSE)
58
119
English Language (AS/A Level)
58
118
English Language & Literature (AS/A Level)
59
120
English Literature (AS/A Level)
59
121
Environmental Studies (AS/A Level)
63
500
ESOL (English for Speakers of Other Languages)
58
961
Essential English (Levels 1&2)
58&61
826
Extended Project Qualification (AQA Level 3)
66
414
Fashion, Theatre and Media Hair and Makeup Studies 45
635
Film Studies (GCSE)
78
122
Film Studies (AS/A Level)
78
821
Financial Studies (ifs Level 3)
48
804
Football Academy
99
401
Football Coaching (Level 3)
99
707
Foundation Learning (Step Up) (Entry Level and Level 1) 61
629
French (GCSE)
72
123
French (AS/A Level)
73
962
Functional ICT (Level 1&2)
61
963
Functional Maths (Level 2)
61&75
417
Games Development (BTEC Level 3)
56
124
General Studies (AS/A Level)
67
642
Geography (GCSE)
63
125
Geography (AS/A Level)
63
650
Geology 64&92
637
German (GCSE)
72
126
German (AS/A Level)
73
127
Government & Politics (AS/A Level)
95
165
Graphic Design &Illustration (AS/A Level)
40
645
Greek (Classical) (GCSE)
70
729
Hair & Beauty (Introduction to the Sector) (Level 1)
44
280
Hair& Media Make-up (Level 2)
44
315
Hairdressing (NVQ Level 2)
46
488
Hairdressing (NVQ Level 3)
46
717 & 718
Health & Social Care (Entry Level)
53
457
Health & Social Care (BTEC Level 1)
53
312
Health & Social Care (BTEC Level 2)
53
426
Health & Social Care (BTEC Level 3)
53
104 History of Art (AS/A Level)
39
162 History of Art (Critical & Contextual Studies) (AS/A Level)
39
651
History (Ancient) (GCSE)
69

Code

Infosheet Request

Name
Address

Postcode
School
email

I would like to be kept informed of other events and initiatives

Course Title

Please list below the sheets you would like

in your information pack.

This is a new initiative designed to help learners secure

progression to an Apprenticeship or sustainable job as quickly
as possible. The maximum time for this programme is around
6 months and it consists of a high quality work placement for
2-6 months; work preparation training tailored to your needs
and English and Mathematics qualifications if you have not
achieved a Grade C or above at GCSE.

If there are any courses that you would like to do

which are NOT in our Course List, please add them
here:
...............................................................................................

Accountancy (AAT) - working in an accountancy firm or

within a company finance department
Business and Administration - including general office work
in companies, local government and other organisations
Childcare - this could include working in playgroups,
nurseries, pre-school, schools and crches
Customer Service - working in an office, call centre, on
reception, dealing directly with the public
Health and Social Care - work as a health care assistant,
or a home care assistant, lab technicians
IT Use - working in computer support
Retail - working in a department store, a shop , a supermarket
or a retail outlet
Hospitality - working in coffee shops, bars, pubs or front of
house in restaurants
Supporting Teaching and Learning - working in schools and
colleges

For more details of any Apprenticeship that you are

interested in, please ask for the InfoSheets
(see page 104).
Alternatively, if you want to know more, or if the one you want
to do is not listed please contact us at
apprenticeships@newcollege.ac.uk

INFOSHEET
SUBJECT PAGE
100
Accounting (AS/A Level)
48
782
Accounting AAT (Level 2)
48
829
Accounting AAT (Level 3)
48
161
Anthropology (AS/A Level)
95
419
Applied Science (Medical) (BTEC Level 3)
93
102
Archaeology (AS/A Level)
69
480
Art & Design Foundation Diploma (Levels 3&4)
40
476
Art & Design (BTEC Level 2)
39
428
Art & Design (BTEC Level 3)
39
154
Art, Craft & Design (AS/A Level)
39
103
Art - Fine Art (AS/A Level)
40
820
Baccalaureate (AQA Level 3)
66
870
Basketball Academy
99
880
Beauty Therapy (Level 2)
44
881
Beauty Therapy (Level 3)
44
625
Biology (GCSE) 90
105
Biology (AS/A Level)
90
106
Biology (Human) (AS/A Level)
90
725
Business and Enterprise Skills (Level 1)
48
765
Business (Technical Diploma) (Level 2)
48
151
Business Studies (AS/A Level)
48
163
Business Studies (Applied) (AS/A Level)
48
780
Cabin Crew (NCFE Level 2)
101
607
Chemistry (GCSE)
90
108
Chemistry (AS/A Level)
90
717 & 718
Childcare - Caring for Children (Entry Level)
51
703
Childcare (Level 1)
51
758
Childcare (Level 2)
51
811
Childcare (Level 3)
51
109
Classical Civilisation (AS/A Level)
69
110
Communication & Culture) (AS/A Level)
95
885
Complementary Therapies (Level 2)
45
320
Complementary Therapies (Level 3)
45
111
Computing (AS/A Level)
55
647
Computing (GCSE) 55
699
Creative Crafts (Levels 1,2&3)
40
166
Creative Writing (AS/A Level)
59
112
Critical Thinking (AS/A Level)
66
435
Dance (BTEC Level 1&2)
81
416
Dance (BTEC Level 3)
81
704&760
Data & Money (Levels 1&2)
75
190
Design & Technology: Product Design (AS/A Level)
91
899
Digital Music Production (Level 3) Rockschool
83
Drama (Levels 1,2&3) 82

...............................................................................................

What Apprenticeships can I do?

Management - working as a manager in a company, local

government or other organisations
Housing - working as a housing assistant in a company
or for local government
Cleaning & Environmental Services - working as a cleaner,
window cleaner, industrial cleaner, passenger transport
cleaner, caretaker, carpet and flooring cleaner or street
cleaning operative
Facilities Management - working as a trainee or assistant
facilities manager or a team leader in building maintenance,
catering, cleaner or reception and security facilities role
Warehousing working in a warehouse or distribution
centre as a warehouse operative
Laboratory Technician working as a technician
in an educational , industrial or medical settings
Dental Nursing Working as a dental nurse

You can get InfoSheets on all our courses from our website: www.newcollege.ac.uk, by emailing info@newcollege.ac.uk,
or you can use the tear-off slip below.

INFOSHEET
SUBJECT PAGE
641
History GCSE 69
101 History (Ancient) (AS/A Level)
70
128 History (British & AMERICAN 20th C)( AS/A Level)
69
129 History (British & European 20th C) (AS/A Level)
70
130 History (Tudors & Stuarts) (AS/A Level)
70
470
Home Cooking Skills (BTEC Level 1)
52
471
Home Cooking Skills (BTEC Level 2)
52
314
Hospitality (BTEC Level 2)
102
445
Hospitality (BTEC Level 3)
102
131
Information Technology (AS/A Level)
56
311
ICT Level 2 Qualification (Level 1&2)
55
612
Italian (GCSE) 72
157
Italian (AS/A Level)
73
191
Languages (A Level Fast Track)
73
721
Languages (FCSE Level 1)
72
636
Latin (GCSE) 69&72
412
Law & Legal Work (BTEC Level 2)
49
427
Law (Applied) (Level 3)
49
132
Law (AS/A Level)
49
622
Maths (GCSE) 75
133
Maths (AS/A Level)
75
134
Maths (Express) (AS/A Level)
76
135
Maths (Further) (AS/A Level )
76
136
Maths (Use of Maths) (AS/A Level)
76
440
Media Production (BTEC Level 2)
78
455
Media Production (Television& Film Production) (BTEC Level 3) 78
615
Media Studies (GCSE)
79
137
Media (AS/A Level)
79
816
Medical & Health Studies Programme (BTEC Level 3)
93
613
Music (GCSE) 83
138
Music (AS/A Level)
83
487
Music (BTEC Levels 1&2)
83
139
Music Technology (AS/A Level)
83
460
Music Academy (BTEC Level 2)
84
461
Music Academy (BTEC Level 3)
84
806
Netball Academy
99
404
Performance (Levels 1&2)
82
405
Performance (BTEC Level 3)
82
140
Philosophy (AS/A Level)
88
616
Photography (GCSE)
41
432
Photography (BTEC Level 1)
41
433
Photography (BTEC Level 2)
41
413
Photography (BTEC Level 3)
41
141
Photography (AS/A Level)
41
617
Physics (GCSE)
92
142
Physics (AS/A Level)
92
148
Physical Education (AS/A Level)
98
813
Pre-Teaching Award
66
486
Principles of Science (BTEC Level 2)
93
632
Psychology (GCSE)
92&96
144
Psychology (AS/A Level)
92&96

INFOSHEET
SUBJECT PAGE
407
Public Services (BTEC Level 2)
86
406
Public Services (BTEC Level 3)
86
634
Religious Studies (GCSE)
88
145
Religious Studies (Philosophy & Ethics) (AS/A Level)
88
189
Religious Studies (World Religions ) (AS/A Level)
88
781
Resort Representative (NCFE Level 2)
101
633
Science (Core) (GCSE)
91
419
Science (Medical ) (BTEC Level 3)
93
205
Science (Applied) (AS/A Level)
92
165
Science in Society (AS/A Level)
93
618
Sociology (GCSE)
96
146
Sociology (AS/A Level)
96
400
Software Development & Web Design (BTEC Level 3)
56
619
Spanish (GCSE)
72
147
Spanish (AS/A Level)
73
411
Sport (BTEC Level 2)
98
410
Sport (BTEC Level 3)
98
408
Sport & Exercise Sciences (BTEC Level 3)
99
409
Sport & Leisure (BTEC Level 1)
98
624
Statistics (GCSE)
75
707
Step Up (Entry level 3 & Level 1)
61
149
Textiles, Fashion & Accessories (AS/A Level)
42
479
Travel & Tourism (Level 2)
101
446
Travel & Tourism (Level 3)
101
206
Tourism (AS/A Level)

101
325
Working in Sport & Leisure (Levels 1&2)
99
150
World Development (AS/A Level)
64
88
Youthwork (Level 2)
52

Apprenticeships & Traineeships

104

900
What are apprenticeships?
909 Accounting
923 Bookkeeping
902
Business & Administration
903 Childcare
925
Cleaning & Environmental Services
904
Customer Service

Dental Nursing
926
Facilities Management
911
Health & Social Care
914 Hospitality
915 Housing
907
IT User

Laboratory Technician
916 Management
908 Retail
921 Security
917
Supporting Teaching & Learning
912 Warehousing

application form

OFFICE USE ONLY

Date received
Admission no.

Please return to: School Liaison Team, New College, New College Drive, Swindon, Wilts. SN3 1AH
If you prefer, you can apply using the electronic Application Form on the website: www.newcollege.ac.uk

1. Your Personal Details

Title:

First Names:

Surname:

Postcode:

Address:

Home Tel:

Mobile:

E-mail:
Date of Birth:

Gender:

Male

Female

Name of Parent/Guardian (if under 18):

Present School:

School Tutor Group:

Unique Learner Number *:

Previous School (if over 16):

Have you studied at New College before?

Yes

No

Have you been living in the EU/EEA for the last 3 years?

Yes

No

If No, when did you enter the EU/EEA?

Nationality:

* see Jargon Buster on page 32. If you dont know your ULN, leave this box blank.

2. Courses or Subjects you wish to take at New College

Your choice does not commit you in any way - we will discuss the options at your interview.

Course Title

NC Code*

Course Title

*See Course List on pages 99 and 100

3. Your Qualifications
Please list all the qualifications which you are taking, or have already taken. Give the type of examination (GCSE etc). Write in your expected grade
(EG) for each (ask your tutor or subject teachers if necessary) or your actual grade (AG).

Subject

Exam

EG

AG

Subject

Exam

EG

AG

No

Stamp
Needed

4. Home Endorsement

(To be completed by your Parent(s) or Guardian(s) if you are under 18).

Your son/daughter will be invited to an interview. You are welcome to attend if you wish. If you have any comments on his/her application, please use the
space below:

Admissions
FREEPOST SN 2025
New College
Swindon, Wilts
SN3 2XR

Most interviews take place during College hours (9.00am 4.00pm). Please tick one box only:

We are happy with an interview during College hours

We would like an after-school interview (4.00-5.30pm)

We need an evening interview (5.30-7.30pm)
I have checked this application and give my support
Parent/Guardian Signature: Date:
If you would like to be kept informed of New College initiatives and events by email or post please tick the box.
Email:

5. Careers Guidance Information

University Education
at New College

If you have any ideas for the job or career you would like in the future, please write them

6. Personal Statement
If you would like to give any further information about your interests, activities or responsibilities, please use the space below:

Before you know it, it will be time to start thinking about what to do once youve finished
your College course. For many, this means going to a university for a degree. But you
might not actually need to go anywhere!

New College offers:

7. How did you hear about New College?

Please tick more than one box if appropriate:
Pre-16 Course

Friend or Relative

College Experience Day

Library/Community Centre

Foundation Degrees

Early Years

Careers Guidance

Show/Event (please state which)

Press Advert (please state which)

Education Studies for Teaching Assistants

Open Evening

Billboard

Other Website

Health and Social Care Practice

Email

Other

New College Website

Professional Photography

8. Additional Information

Higher Nationals (HNDs/HNCs)

If there are things that make learning hard for you, or might hold back your progress, we would like you to tell us about them. We will do all we can to provide
the advice and guidance you need. We also encourage you to allow us to inform key members of staff, such as your tutors and members of the Student
Services team, about your additional needs.

Applied Biology

Do you consider that you have a disability

Computing

Yes

No

Do you need additional support with your chosen course(s)

Yes

No

If you have answered yes, please tell us below, by ticking one box, how you would like to give us the extra information we need:


I would like to talk to a member of the Additional Support Team.

I would like to fill in and return a form before my course begins.

I would like you to send a form to the person named below so that they can fill it in and return it to you.
Please send a form to:

Yes

No

Do you need help with your English?

Early Years
Graphic Design
Health and Social Care
Health and Social Care Management
Sports Coaching

Name: Address:

Is English your first language?

Business and Enterprise

Yes

No

Textiles
Uniformed Public Services

9. New College is committed to Equality, Diversity, Inclusion and Excellence

Honours Degree

Our College enables all its members to fulfil their potential and to have their contributions equally valued and respected. We seek to recruit staff and students
who represent the diversity of our local community, promoting equality of opportunity and encouraging good relations between people of different groups.
Please tick the box that describes your ethnic background. Ethnic background describes how we think of ourselves, for example, our skin colour, language,
culture, ancestry or family history. Ethnic background is not the same as nationality or country of birth. This information is confidential and will be used for
statistical purposes, not as part of your application. If you have any questions, please ask.

Applied Computing BSc (Hons)

Ethnic Origins (please tick one box)

Certificate in English language teaching to adults (CELTA)

White
31 English/Welsh/Scottish/
Northern Irish/British
32 Irish
33 Gypsy or Irish Traveller
34 Any Other White background

Mixed/Multiple Ethnic Group

35 White and Black Caribbean
36 White and Black African
37 White and Asian
38 Any Other Mixed/
multiple ethnic background

Asian/Asian British
39 Indian
40 Pakistani
41 Bangladeshi
42 Chinese
43 Any other Asian background

Black/African/Caribbean/
Black British
44 African
45 Caribbean
46 Any other Black/African/
Caribbean background

AAT Diploma in Accountancy Level 3 and Level 4

Certificate in Teaching in the Lifelong Learning Sector
Diploma in Teaching in the Lifelong Learning Sector
Preparing to Teach in the Lifelong Learning Sector
ILM Level 3 Award in First Line Management
ILM Level 5 NVQ Diploma in Management
NEBOSH National Certificate in Occupational Health and Safety

Other

47 Arab

Professional Qualifications

98 Any other ethnic group

99 Not known/not provided

Pick up our Higher Education Prospectus

at Reception or call Dawn Hardy on

10. Convictions Statement

Please indicate that you have no unspent criminal convictions. A Yes answer does not
automatically exclude your application, but we will ask you for details at your Guidance Interview.
Do you have an unspent criminal conviction?

Yes

No

11. Confirmation of Application by Student

I agree that New College may exchange information with my school, the police or other agencies in order to check my suitability for certain
courses. To the best of my knowledge, the information I have provided is accurate.
Signature Date:

0808 178 3874

Open Day: ALL FULL-TIME COURSES

Saturday 12th October 2013 - 10.00am to 2.00pm

Open Evening: A LEVELS

Wednesday 29th January 2014 - 5.00pm to 7.00pm

Open Evening: Vocational Courses

Tuesday 25th March 2014 - 5.00pm to 7.00pm

www.newcollege.ac.uk
New College Drive, Swindon, SN3 1AH. Tel: 01793 611470
When you have finished with the Prospectus please recycle it. Designed by Billy Bingham: billy.bingham@newcollege.ac.uk. Printed by Citrus Creative: www.citrusdesign.co.uk