Courses and Subjects

Churston's Sixth Form offers 25 A Level subjects plus the Extended Project Qualification - the breadth to find your passion and the depth to pursue it.

A broad and ambitious curriculum

Our curriculum spans the Arts, Sciences, Humanities, Languages, Social Sciences, and Mathematics - giving students the genuine freedom to explore across disciplines or specialise with purpose. Below you'll find the full list of subjects available at Churston Sixth Form.

Art & Design

Art & Design

Real creative freedom, backed by genuine craft.

Working across Pop Art, photography, drawing and mixed media, students develop a visual language that is entirely their own, building a portfolio grounded in experimental thinking and hard-won technical skill.

Biology

Biology

Understanding the mechanics of life, from microscopic cells to entire ecosystems.

We encourage students not just to learn how the natural world functions, but to engage with it critically, developing the environmental awareness and problem-solving instincts required to champion a sustainable future.

Business Studies

Business Studies

Every product you use and every service you rely on began as someone's idea.

Business Studies reveals how those ideas become reality, exploring start-ups, cash flow, global markets and ethics. Students leave with commercial awareness that is useful in any direction they choose.

Chemistry

Chemistry

Unlocking the fundamental building blocks of the universe.

From the development of sustainable fuels to life-saving medicines, Chemistry offers a hands-on approach to solving real-world challenges. Students build rigorous analytical skills and a deep understanding of the materials that shape our daily lives.

Computer Science

Computer Science

Designing the digital architecture of tomorrow.

Go beyond simply using technology to understanding how it works from the ground up. Through programming, algorithmic thinking, and systems analysis, students learn to tackle complex problems and innovate in a rapidly evolving technological landscape.

Design & Technology

Design & Technology

Turning creative concepts into tangible, innovative solutions.

We combine aesthetic vision with engineering precision, giving students the tools to design, test, and manufacture real products. It's an immersive journey from sketch to prototype, preparing future designers for the creative industries.

Digital Photography

Digital Photography

Capturing the world through an expressive and interpretive lens.

Master the technical elements of lighting, shutter speed, and digital editing while finding your unique artistic voice. Students explore everything from documentary to fashion photography, building a compelling visual portfolio.

Drama

Drama

Bringing powerful stories to life with confidence and imagination.

Drama challenges students to explore diverse human experiences through performance, direction, and design. You will build exceptional communication skills, teamwork, and a dynamic presence that commands any room.

Economics

Economics

Navigating the forces that drive our global society.

Economics is the study of how choices are made in a world of limited resources. By examining everything from local market failures to international trade, students develop the critical edge needed to interpret and influence global events.

English Literature

English Literature

Exploring the depths of the human experience through powerful storytelling.

Dive into a diverse landscape of classic and contemporary texts, interrogating ideas with clarity and precision. Students emerge with an enriched worldview and the ability to construct incisive, persuasive arguments.

Fashion & Textile Design

Fashion & Textile Design

Weaving artistic expression into the fabric of contemporary design.

Experiment with materials, techniques, and textures to push the boundaries of modern fashion. Students blend traditional craft with avant-garde thinking, creating collections that reflect their unique identity and aesthetic vision.

French

French

Connecting with a rich global culture and broadening horizons.

Fluency in French is an open door to international opportunities, from business to the arts. Students immerse themselves in francophone culture, contemporary issues, and cinematic heritage, mastering a language spoken across five continents.

Geography

Geography

Understanding the dynamic relationship between people and the planet.

Geography tackles the most pressing challenges of our time, from climate change to global migration. Students develop a comprehensive view of the world, gaining the analytical skills to make informed decisions about our shared future.

German

German

Opening doors to the economic and cultural heart of Europe.

Learning German connects you to a powerhouse of innovation, history, and philosophy. We explore contemporary societal trends and cultural movements, giving students the linguistic agility to thrive in a globalized economy.

History

History

Making sense of the present by interrogating the past.

History requires us to critically evaluate evidence, challenge established narratives, and build compelling arguments. Students explore pivotal moments that shaped the modern world, developing the intellectual rigor prized by universities and employers.

Linguistics (English Language)

Linguistics (English Language)

Decoding the hidden mechanics and power of human communication.

Linguistics explores how language shapes identity, influences society, and evolves over time. By analyzing real-world texts and spoken language, students gain a forensic understanding of how we use words to inform, persuade, and connect.

Mathematics & Further Mathematics

Mathematics & Further Mathematics

Mastering the universal language of logic, pattern, and proof.

Mathematics provides the essential framework for understanding everything from complex physics to economic forecasting. Students develop unparalleled problem-solving capabilities and analytical clarity that open doors to elite STEM careers.

Music

Music

Elevating creative expression through performance, composition, and analysis.

We explore a diverse range of musical traditions, refining technical skills and nurturing artistic intuition. Students develop the discipline and collaborative spirit necessary to succeed both in the creative industries and beyond.

Philosophy & Religious Studies

Philosophy & Religious Studies

Tackling humanity's most profound questions with rigorous debate.

From the nature of existence to contemporary ethical dilemmas, PRS challenges students to think critically and argue logically. It builds the capacity to navigate complex moral landscapes with empathy and intellectual honesty.

Physical Education

Physical Education

Pushing the limits of human performance and sporting excellence.

PE combines hands-on physical mastery with deep theoretical knowledge of anatomy, psychology, and biomechanics. Students learn what it takes to optimize performance and lead in the fast-paced world of sport and health.

Physics

Physics

Unraveling the fundamental laws that govern the universe.

Physics challenges us to understand the reality behind everything, from subatomic particles to the expanding cosmos. Through experimental investigation and mathematical modeling, students build the analytical power to drive future technological breakthroughs.

Politics

Politics

Empowering the next generation to shape the world they live in.

Politics is a dynamic exploration of power, ideology, and governance. By debating current affairs and analyzing political systems, students gain the sharp critical thinking required to become active, informed citizens and future leaders.

Psychology

Psychology

Exploring the complex science behind human behavior and the mind.

Psychology investigates why we think, feel, and act the way we do. By studying cognitive processes, social influences, and neuroscience, students develop profound insights into the human condition and highly valued research skills.

Sociology

Sociology

Examining the hidden structures that shape our society.

Sociology challenges us to look beyond individual choices and understand the impact of culture, class, and institutions. Students learn to question the status quo, developing a sharp, analytical perspective on modern social issues.

Spanish

Spanish

Engaging with one of the most vibrant and widely spoken languages on Earth.

Spanish opens a window to the rich cultures of Spain and Latin America. We focus on authentic communication, cultural immersion, and social issues, equipping students with the linguistic fluency to thrive in a deeply connected world.

At Churston, your academic journey doesn’t stop at your core subjects.

As part of the Churston Baccalaureate, every Year 12 student selects a fourth academic option to study alongside their three A-Levels. These courses are designed to broaden your skill set, keep your options open, and give you a distinct advantage when applying for university or highly competitive degree apprenticeships.

Taking your passion further with the Extended Project Qualification (EPQ)

The EPQ is a self-directed research project that allows you to explore a topic you are genuinely passionate about. Highly valued by universities, it develops your ability to research independently, manage your time, and write academically - skills that bridge the gap between Sixth Form and higher education.

Core Maths gives you practical problem-solving for the real world

If you aren't taking A-Level Maths but want to maintain and develop your mathematical skills, Core Maths is an excellent choice. It focuses on using maths to solve everyday, real-world problems and perfectly complements subjects like Psychology, Geography, Sciences, and Business.

AS Further Maths is for the serious mathematician

Designed for students who are already taking A-Level Maths and want to stretch their logical and algebraic reasoning even further. AS Further Maths delves deeper into complex mathematical concepts and is often highly recommended for students considering degrees in Engineering, Physics, or Mathematics at top-tier universities.

A Fourth A-Level gives you maximum academic breadth

For a select number of students with a very strong GCSE profile and a clear academic rationale, there is the option to take on a fourth full A-Level subject. This is a demanding route, but it provides exceptional breadth for those looking to keep their future pathways as wide open as possible.

You won't have to decide alone

We know that choosing three A Levels can feel like enormous pressure. That's why we build in support at every stage: subject taster sessions, detailed conversations with teachers, guidance from our Sixth Form team, and the chance to hear from current students about their own experiences. Our open events are a particularly good opportunity to explore your options in a relaxed, unhurried setting.

"One thing I have learnt throughout my time at Churston, and especially in sixth form, is to take and make use of opportunities when they arise."

Charlie
Year 13 Student

“During our beach clean with Churston, we came together as a community to protect our beautiful coastline. It was inspiring to see everyone pitching in, turning a simple day at school into an opportunity to care for our environment. Every piece of litter we collected was a reminder that together, we can forge a cleaner, healthier planet.”

Lucas
Year 12 Student

"It is important to invest in your future self. Constantly try to improve yourself by nurturing your mind and pushing yourself, we can't become what we want to be by remaining the same."

Daisy
Year 13 Student

“Collaboration and empathy have shaped how I lead and support others.”

Zuzia
Year 13 Student / Student President

“I met inspiring professionals who really cared about people, motivating me to want to further pursue Medicine as a career.”

Adam
Year 13 Student

“Why not try everything - you never know, you might find the thing you enjoy most.”

Adam
Year 13 Student