Academic Programme
Making Your Choice
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Mar 12, 2007 - 2:14:16 AM

There are three guidelines which ought to kept in mind when selecting subjects.

Sixth Formers should have some ability in the subject as well as some interest in it.

• If IB is chosen, a strong C in English, Languages, Science and Mathematics is required. 
• Ideally, the subjects chosen should, as far as is possible, support each other.
• If you are thinking of going on to University you should be aware that there are often particular qualifications or combinations of subjects required for particular degree courses.

The Sixth Form prospectus contains descriptions of all the subjects available at Warminster written by the relevant Heads of Department. The aim of these is to give some idea of what it is like to follow those subjects at A Level and if it might be interesting and stimulating. In nearly every subject the approach in the Sixth Form is very different from what you have been used to at GCSE and in many cases the content is markedly different as well. You should nevertheless use your knowledge of the corresponding GCSE course to help you make up your mind. Courses in the IB for which no prior study is required include Spanish ab initio, Economics, History and Social and Cultural Anthropology.

Preparation for Higher Education and Careers Advice

In recent years, nearly all of our Upper Sixth students have moved into Higher Education on leaving Warminster School. The Careers Education programme at Warminster is well-established and offers excellent support to our students, whether they intend to go on to Higher Education or wish to start a career immediately upon leaving School.

Presentations on University and other Higher Education programmes are offered to students and parents during the Spring Term of the Lower Sixth. Many students will have completed the "Course finder" Scheme by this stage, and will have received their comprehensive personal report detailing their interests and aptitudes. This also includes a detailed list of courses at Higher Education establishments which might appeal to the student. At the start of the Upper Sixth, planning for University application is helped through a series of one-to-one interviews with the Head of Sixth Form, Tutors and the Careers Department.

Pupils have unlimited access to the well-stocked Careers Room, which has good computer facilities providing a number of interactive Careers and Higher Education Course databases. Students may make appointments to see the Careers staff from the School at any time during their two years in the Sixth Form.