ARTS & LANGUAGES
ARTS & LANGUAGES
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Neston High Sixth Form has a strong reputation for inspiring students through a wide range of enriching and creative extracurricular opportunities, both in the UK and abroad, helping them reach their full potential. Our enthusiastic staff are dedicated to developing your skills, knowledge, and passion for the subject. If you're looking to be inspired, this is the place for you!
FINE ART
FINE ART
The Fine Art course at Neston is designed to challenge students to be independent creative thinkers who are prepared to take creative risks and expand their knowledge and skills with materials, processes and techniques. There is a strong emphasis on experimentation and exploration of the properties of media. For the first year, you will be guided through an investigation and taught how to respond to themes and the works of other artists and designers in order to produce individual outcomes. There is a strong emphasis on drawing and painting from primary sources and this will suit candidates who can show initiative and an ability to engage in a creative dialogue. For the second year, students will carry out an investigation in response to a broad starting point, linked to a visit, documenting their creative journey through appropriate use of selected media. Practical work will be supported by written notes which should be insightful and reflective. This is an exciting, dynamic course which encourages individuality.
Awarding Body: AQA
Course Coordinator:
Miss Thomas
thomash@nestonhigh.com
SUBJECT ENTRY REQUIREMENTS
SUBJECT ENTRY REQUIREMENTS
Grade 6 in a creative GCSE subject. Good drawing skills essential
GRAPHIC DESIGN
GRAPHIC DESIGN
The Graphic Design course at Neston encourages students to develop original, creative solutions to a range of design briefs. The aim is to develop skills in a range of traditional and digital media in order to create innovative responses. There is a strong emphasis on communicating intentions through the effective presentation of research and ideas, demonstrating how the work of others has influenced the design process. The first year of the course is designed to enable students to develop their graphical skills with a wide range of media, exploring innovative approaches to recording information and presenting responses. The investigation of other practitioners underpins the creative process and students are taught how to balance analytical and personal written responses as well as reflect on their own progress as they work through a brief. In year 13 there is an expectation that students will develop their own design brief linked to a visit. They will document their investigation through design sheets or sketchbooks, supported by appropriate annotation. Student who choose this option enjoy working in a wide range of materials and relish the opportunity of exploring graphical communication. They should be able to demonstrate innovation when responding to the constraints of a given or self-directed brief.
Awarding Body: AQA
Course Coordinator:
Miss Thomas
SUBJECT ENTRY REQUIREMENTS
SUBJECT ENTRY REQUIREMENTS
Grade 6 in a creative GCSE subject. Ability to use creative software such as Photoshop will be an advantage
PHOTOGRAPHY
PHOTOGRAPHY
The Photography course at Neston has its roots in the creative aspects of digital art. Students who choose this course have a keen eye for composition and enjoy investigating a range of practical and digital techniques in order to develop unique responses which can be three as well as two dimensional. During the first year you will be guided through an investigation with a strong emphasis on developing analytical as well as creative skills. You will be taught how to improve, edit and manipulate photographic responses in Photoshop in order to successfully respond to a given brief.
During the second year, students will carry out and investigation of their own devising in response to a visit. They will document their investigation photographically using methods and approaches that they consider to the most appropriate. The course is suited to individuals who are self -motivated and inquisitive. Successful candidates are organised and systematic but must also be able to take creative risks and push boundaries in their response to the work of others. This course is good for those interested in media and the creative industry.
Awarding Body: AQA
Course Coordinator:
Miss Thomas
SUBJECT ENTRY REQUIREMENTS
SUBJECT ENTRY REQUIREMENTS
Grade 6 in a creative GCSE subject. Must be able to analyse and evaluate own and others work by effective annotation
TEXTILES
TEXTILES
The Textiles course at Neston has a strong emphasis on individuality and innovation. Students who take this subject have a love of Fashion and Textiles and are keen to develop their skills with hand and machine sewing techniques .The first year offers students an opportunity to cover a wide range of fabric manipulation and mixed media techniques as well as exploring surface pattern. During year 12 they will also learn how to effectively collate research and respond with insight to the work of other practitioners. There is a strong emphasis on experimentation including traditional and contemporary techniques. In Year 13 the students will develop their own line of investigation linked to a visit. This is designed to challenge them and to encourage them to be innovative in their handling of materials processes and techniques. Coursework is supported by written annotation which will be insightful and reflective as the creative journey is under way. Students who choose this are well organised individuals who are keen to demonstrate their creative flair.
Awarding Body: AQA
Course Coordinator:
Miss Thomas
SUBJECT ENTRY REQUIREMENTS
SUBJECT ENTRY REQUIREMENTS
Grade 6 in a creative GCSE subject. Previous textiles experience an advantage
DRAMA
DRAMA
A-level Drama and Theatre at Neston High School provides a hands-on approach to drama, allowing students to engage deeply with the art form. They explore how ideas and meaning are communicated to audiences through various theatrical choices in form, style, and convention. Students develop creativity and independence through the creation and performance of their own drama pieces, becoming effective theatre makers.
The course emphasizes the relationship between theory and practice, covering a range of theatrical styles and exploring the historical, social, and cultural contexts that influence theatre. Students also analyze live theatre productions, applying this analysis to their practical work, fostering both independent thought and informed decision-making.
This approach helps students build a solid foundation in both the creative and analytical aspects of drama.
SUBJECT ENTRY REQUIREMENTS
SUBJECT ENTRY REQUIREMENTS
GCSE English Language or English Literature - Grade 6
ENGLISH LINGUISTICS
ENGLISH LINGUISTICS
This course offers a comprehensive introduction to the study of the English language, exploring its many forms, contexts, and practical applications through a range of engaging and diverse texts. Designed to build on the skills acquired at GCSE level, it provides a clear and structured path for students to further develop their linguistic and analytical abilities while preparing for the challenges of higher education or the professional world.
Throughout the course, students will cultivate key skills such as critical reading, where they will evaluate and interpret various texts; data analysis, where they’ll examine linguistic trends and patterns; and the ability to construct and sustain complex arguments. In addition, students will refine a variety of writing techniques, learning how to adapt their style and tone to suit different purposes and audiences.
By the end of the course, students will have developed advanced communication and analytical skills, preparing them for higher education and careers in fields such as education, journalism, media, and marketing.
Awarding Body: AQA
Course Coordinator:
Mr Smith
SUBJECT ENTRY REQUIREMENTS
SUBJECT ENTRY REQUIREMENTS
GCSE English Language or English Literature - Grade 6
ENGLISH LITERATURE
ENGLISH LITERATURE
The English Literature is a relevant, engaging and up-to-date course that approaches the reading and study of literature through the lens of genre and theory. It encourages students to undertake independent study of a range of texts within a shared context extending students’ experience and appreciation of literature. The course offers a clear progression from GCSE and allows students to build on the skills and knowledge already gained and prepare for their next steps.
The variety of assessment styles used allows students to develop a wide range of skills, such as the ability to read critically, analyse, evaluate and undertake independent research which are valuable for both further study and future employment.
Awarding Body: AQA
Course Coordinator:
Mr Smith
SUBJECT ENTRY REQUIREMENTS
SUBJECT ENTRY REQUIREMENTS
GCSE English Language or English Literature - Grade 6
MEDIA STUDIES
MEDIA STUDIES
There is no doubt that the media play a central role in contemporary culture, society and politics. They shape our perceptions of the world through the representations, ideas and points of view they offer and have real relevance and importance in our lives today. Media Studies is highly valued as the industries employ large numbers of people worldwide and generate significant global profit which can only increase due to its integral role in modern life. Students study a wide range of rich and stimulating media which offer opportunities for detailed analysis of how the media communicate meanings in a variety of forms and develop an understanding of the dynamic relationships between media products, media industries and audiences. The A level course develops knowledge and understanding of the transnational nature of the media, considering the effect of different national contexts on representations in media products, the global reach of media industries, and the targeting of audiences on a national and global scale. As part of the studies, current students are taking part in a trip to London to visit the Harry Potter Studios and take in a West End Show!
Awarding Body: Eduqas
Course Coordinator:
Mrs Whitehouse
SUBJECT ENTRY REQUIREMENTS
SUBJECT ENTRY REQUIREMENTS
GCSE English Language or English Literature Grade 5. Art and/or ICT skills preferable
FRENCH
FRENCH
The A-level French curriculum builds on the knowledge, understanding and skills gained at GCSE with a focus on language, culture and society. It fosters a range of transferable skills including communication, critical thinking, research skills and creativity, which are valuable to the individual and society. The content is suitable for students who wish to progress to employment or further study, including a modern languages degree. In Year 12 we concentrate on current trends in society and the artistic culture of the country. In year 13 these themes are further explored along with political trends within the country. The courses naturally extend the knowledge and skills that students will have acquired at GCSE, not only in terms of grammar, vocabulary and spoken fluency, but also in terms of developing an appreciation of the deeper nature of the language and country, a consideration which goes hand in hand with the study of social, historical, literary and cultural aspects. Cultural awareness and linguistic fluency are further enhanced by analysis of a work of literature, a film, and the opportunity to visit Paris.
Awarding Body: AQA
Course Coordinator:
Mr Weston
SUBJECT ENTRY REQUIREMENTS
SUBJECT ENTRY REQUIREMENTS
GCSE French Grade 5
GERMAN
GERMAN
Building on the knowledge, understanding and skills gained at GCSE, the A Level German course focuses on how German-speaking society has been shaped socially and culturally and how it continues to change. In the first year of the course, aspects of social context are studied, together with aspects of the artistic life of German-speaking countries. In the second year, further aspects of the social background are covered, alongside the German political landscape, both in relation to Germany itself and its place in Europe. Students will develop their knowledge and understanding of themes relating to the culture and society of countries where German is spoken, and their language skills. They will do this by using authentic spoken and written sources in German. Cultural awareness and linguistic fluency are further enhanced by analysis of a work of literature, a film, and the opportunity to visit Berlin.
Awarding Body: AQA
Course Coordinator:
Mr Weston
SUBJECT ENTRY REQUIREMENTS
SUBJECT ENTRY REQUIREMENTS
GCSE German Grade 5
SPANISH
SPANISH
Spanish is a popular choice at A Level at Neston High. Students study technological and social change, and consider the multicultural nature of Hispanic society. They also study highlights of Hispanic artistic culture, including a focus on Spanish regional identity and the cultural heritage of past civilisations, along with aspects of the diverse political landscape of the Hispanic world. Throughout their studies, students learn the language in the context of Hispanic countries and issues and influences which have shaped them. Students will study texts and film and will have the opportunity to carry out independent research on an area of their choice. Assessment tasks are varied and cover listening, speaking, reading and writing skills. The courses naturally extend the knowledge and skills that students will have acquired at GCSE, not only in terms of grammar, vocabulary and spoken fluency, but also in terms of developing an appreciation of the deeper nature of the language, a consideration which goes hand in hand with the study of social, historical, literary and cultural aspects. There is an opportunity to visit Madrid, and we fully support applications to a wide range of higher education institutions, including Oxbridge.
Awarding Body: AQA
Course Coordinator:
Mr Weston
SUBJECT ENTRY REQUIREMENTS
SUBJECT ENTRY REQUIREMENTS
GCSE Spanish Grade 5
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