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Acres across Merchant Taylors' grounds

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A-Levels

The Sixth Form curriculum at Merchant Taylors’ is designed to stretch pupils intellectually and prepare them for the demands of university study and life beyond.

22
Subjects offered at A-Level
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Depth, Independence, & Preparation for Life Beyond School

It is a time when academic challenge is combined with growing independence and opportunity – where boys shape their own educational journey and develop the confidence and curiosity to thrive in higher education and beyond.

Most students take three subjects for A-Level unless they are studying Maths and Further Maths in which case they typically take four.

A-Level Options

In the Lower Sixth, pupils begin by selecting four A-Level subjects. At Christmas of the Lower Sixth year, they are asked to nominate the three subjects they intend to pursue through to full A-Level. While a few students continue with four subjects, most choose to focus on three A-Levels and enrich their studies with an Extended Project Qualification (EPQ), online courses (MOOCs), essay competitions or other academic extensions to deepen their understanding and broaden their intellectual horizons.

Students can choose from a wide and stimulating selection of 22 A-Level subjects, including exciting new additions such as Business, Economics, Philosophy and Psychology.

Enrichment & the Super-Curriculum

Alongside their chosen curriculum courses, students participate in a unique extension and enrichment programme designed to foster intellectual curiosity, independence, and the ability to think and communicate with clarity and confidence.

Throughout the Lower Sixth, all students attend weekly lectures on different topics ranging from mental health to polar exploration, prison reform to the life of a magician. After Christmas, targeted extension lessons begin for those aspiring to apply for the most competitive university courses.

Students also have dedicated time for Independent Study Courses, including the EPQ, and spend one hour each week with an Academic Supervisor. These supervisions, modelled on university-style small group seminars, encourage pupils to think deeply, explore topics beyond the curriculum, and gain confidence in articulating and presenting their ideas.

The Extended Project Qualification (EPQ) is a stand-alone qualification, equivalent to half an A-Level in UCAS points.

The EPQ gives students the opportunity to independently research an area of personal interest and does not have to be based on a subject studied in the Sixth Form. The project can take many forms – an academic essay, an investigation or a more practical outcome such as an art exhibition, a film or a practical engineering project.

It is assessed internally and moderated externally, with grades being awarded at the end. Students are supervised by a teacher who gives guidance and advice but does not ‘teach’ the content of the project. An EPQ demonstrates the ability to work independently and be organised which are essential skills for university.

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