Course Options
Combinations of Subjects Available
With Newry High School pupils entering Year 13 can study the following options or a combination of these options:-
Option 1 | 4 AS | 16 GCSE points |
Option 2 | 3 AS | 12 GCSE points |
Option 3 | 1 x 12 Unit A Level(Health & Social Care) | 6 GCSE Points |
Option 4 | 2 AS | 6 GCSE Points |
GCSE points are awarded as follows:
A*= 5 A = 4 B = 3 C* = 3 C = 1
Pupils must have at least a Garde C, but preferably an A*, A or B in the subjects to be studied at AS Level. It is desireable that GCSE grades include English Language and Mathematics -one at Gard C or above and the other at Grade D or above.
Non-Academic Criteria
Acceptable Attendance, behavioural and punctuality record.
Any Student who choses to study two AS subjects only will be required to do additional work experience or voluntary work as deemed appropriate.
Choosing your subjects
- Most pupils will be asked to choose three A-Levels. For some studying a fourth subject to at least AS Level is both appropriate and beneficial.
- Breath in the Sixth Form curriculum is educationally desirable, and this is more really achieved by choosing to undertake four AS levels. To ensure breath it is recommended that you choose at least one subject in a contrasting discipline.
- Students are recommended to take a fourth subject if they are considering applying for ‘high demand’ courses. Some University faculties such as Dentistry and Medicine at QUB) indeed may demand that entrants offer 21 unit, i.e. 3 A-Levels and an AS Level. Taking an extra subject to at least at AS Level may give an advantage – as long as the extra grade achieved is good.
- Undertaking four subjects greatly increases the workload for students. Only choose to start four subjects if you feel that you have the ability and aptitude to complete all four to at least AS level. Remember that if you choose four subjects then you have made a commitment to continue their study through lower sixth year.
Remember in making your decisions you must seek the advice of subject and careers teachers.