Transition

The transition from year 11 GCSE student to sixth form student represents a new era and it should feel like an exciting time.

However, it is important to acknowledge that, academically, the step up from GCSEs to A levels and BTEC level 3 courses is a big one It’s therefore really important that students joining the sixth form are well prepared for the courses they undertake and ready to take on the challenge of level 3 study. This is why we provide transition work for every individual who is successful in securing a place in the sixth form.

For each A level and BTEC course and enrichment qualification there is a transition pack, consisting of key course information, together with a series of preparatory tasks for completion by year 12 enrolment in September.

The tasks in each transition pack are designed to give those joining the sixth form an initial taste of topics and concepts that will be explored and studied during term 1. More importantly, completion of the tasks helps to make progress from day one in sixth form and ease the transition from year 11 to year 12.

If you have secured a place in sixth form, you can download the transition packs for the courses you’ve applied for below. Alternatively, if you would prefer a paper copy of the relevant packs, you will be given one during sixth form summer induction day, or you can contact Mr Grimes here who can arrange for the packs to be sent out to you.

Transition work must be completed to the best of your ability and brought with you to year 12 enrolment.

From above of crop female coworkers making sketches with pencils on paper while working on project and sitting at wooden table

Something to Read

The Twisted Genius of Salvador Dalí – Artland Magazine

https://www.theguardian.com/artanddesign/dali

Something to Watch/Listen

Something to Write

From your reading and initial research into the work of Salvador Dali, you are to explain through written annotation who is Salvador Dali and discuss his artwork in a short essay or piece of descriptive writing. All art A Level endorsements require you to research a range of artists and designers which inform your own artwork. This has to be recorded through in depth written responses and investigations.

To complete this written analysis you must ensure you use key art terms and advanced language. You need to explore the artwork produced and a brief history about the artist. You can choose to describe key pieces of artwork and personally comment on what you believe the artwork is about.

Art Graphics Transition Pack Download

Art Textiles Transition Pack Download

Fine Art Transition Pack 1 Download

Close-up of a scientist examining samples under a microscope in a lab setting.

Something to Read

The Jekyll and Hyde Nature of Antibodies

Something to Watch/Listen

Something to Write

Write a factfile about one autoimmune disorder.
Include:

Structure of an antibody (in general)
Symptoms
What is being attacked
Any potential causes / triggers
Treatments

Biology Transition Pack Download

A detailed close-up of hands writing in a notebook with a black pen.

Something to Read

Specification – BTEC National Diploma in Business

Something to Watch/Listen

BTEC Business (Level 3 Nationals) Unit 3 – Personal and Business Finance – YouTube

Something to Write

Mike is hoping to expand Palindrone quickly. Its current machinery is becoming outdated and the business needs to update its technology to remain competitive.

The cost of a new machine is £40 000 and Mike is wondering how to fund this purchase.

He has two options to choose from. Option 1 Lease a new machine. Leasing a machine will cost £1000 per month. This cost includes any repair costs. The lease is for a minimum of two years. It can be cancelled after this point if two months’ notice is given. An extra £1500 fee must be paid for ending the lease early. The leasing company will deliver and install the machine.

Option 2 Purchase a new machine using a loan with a variable rate of interest over five years. The loan repayment will be initially £800 per month. The loan will be secured against the business premises. The delivery and installation of the machine will cost an extra £1200. Mike will also have to pay for any repairs once the machine’s three-year guarantee ends. (f) Evaluate whether Mike should lease (Option 1) or use a loan (Option 2) to obtain the machine.

BTEC Business Transition Pack Download

Something to Read

Something to Watch/Listen

Something to Write

Business A Level Transition Pack Download

Close-up of blue liquid in test tubes for chemistry experiments in a laboratory setting.

Something to Read

Something to Watch/Listen

Something to Write

Chemistry Transition Pack 1 Download

Close-up view of books on a sunlit library shelf, illustrating warmth and knowledge.

Something to Read

Homeric hymn to DEMETER

Something to Watch/Listen

Something to Write

Explain in two paragraphs, why Greek religion was important to the Athenian people. Think about how it allowed them to worship and praise the Gods, think about the Parthenon. Also consider how it brought the people together, especially through the festival to honour Athena, the Panathenaia. Use the evidence from what you have read and what you have watched to help you create your two paragraphs.

Classics Transition Pack Download

A contemporary office desk featuring a dual monitor setup with stylish lighting, ideal for tech enthusiasts.

Something to Read

Something to Watch/Listen

Something to Write

Computer Science Transition Pack Download

Forensic expert examining evidence with tools at a crime scene investigation outdoors.

Something to Read

Behind the knife crime statistics: understanding children who carry weapons | Youth Endowment Fund

Something to Watch/Listen

Idris Elba: Our Knife Crime Crisis – BBC iPlayer

Something to Write

Who is responsible for an increase in knife crime and how can this be dealt with? Write a brief report (approx. 300-500 words) to address this. With regards to who is responsible, you can make reference to the Government, education and/or specific individuals.

Criminology Transition Pack Download

A stack of classic novels including works by McEwan, Athill, McGregor, and Tolkien.

Something to Read

Read – Sherlock Holmes – The Adventures of Speckled Band – look for typical crime elements within the text.

Something to Watch/Listen

Watch Death on The Nile – (Kenneth Branagh 2022 version) – Available on Disney. Can be paid for on other streaming services. – An introduction to Crime Fiction.