Curriculum

Studying Fine Art not only enhances your fine motor skills, hand-eye coordination, problem solving skills, lateral thinking, complex analysis, and critical thinking skills, but it also teaches you self-discipline, focus, organizational and time management skills. The Fine Art course at MHSG is centered on your potential and imagination. We aim to provide assignments broad enough in concept and subject matter to allow for your personal interpretation, but at the same time, structured enough to ensure a gradual progression towards, eventually, completing the Fine Art specification. Your work can be representational, figurative, or abstract, and any media may be used in the preparatory studies and in the final pieces. The curriculum, together with the supporting specification, promotes the practice of art (2D & 3D) combined with studies of the artefacts of influential artists and designers, historical and contemporary.

During the course, you will be introduced to a variety of experiences that explore a range of fine art media, processes, and techniques, both traditional and new media. You will also explore the use of drawing for different purposes, using a variety of methods and media on a variety of scales and relevant images, artefacts and resources relating to a range of art, craft and design, from the past and from recent times, including European and non-European examples. Independence is a key aspect of the course, and you will complete a practical investigation into a chosen idea, concept or theme, supported by written material.

The specification lays an appropriate foundation for further study of Art and Design or related subjects in Higher Education. A-level Art and Design prepares students for the Foundation Course in Art and Design, which is followed by a three-year BA (Hons) degree course. An art and design background is helpful for a

variety of university degree courses, such as Architecture, Engineering and Dentistry. It is also useful in such fields as advertising, marketing, publishing and the media.

Extra-curricular opportunities:

• Life Drawing Classes
• ARTiculation Competition
• Visits to Art Galleries- local, national, and international.
• LivingEdge Exhibition School Arts Competition at The Lowry, Salford Quays.

Richard Dawkins described Biology as ‘the study of complicated things that give the appearance of having been designed for a purpose’. If you want to learn about the purpose of wasps, the power of the pancreas, or how every living organism is supremely designed for life in its environment, then A-level Biology is for you. From the ecology of huge ecosystems to the biochemistry of tiny molecules within cells, Biology is a diverse subject that is relevant to many aspects of our everyday lives and has something in it for everyone. Alongside gaining factual knowledge, you will consider the ethical and moral implications of new developments in Biology, particularly in rapidly evolving and high-profile fields such as gene technology. There are also plenty of opportunities for the development of practical skills and students are expected to carry out a wide variety of experiments and investigations, both in the laboratory and in the field. Good biologists can apply their subject knowledge to unfamiliar problems, are effective communicators, can analyse and evaluate scientific evidence, and are able to think creatively, making the subject an ideal gateway to a wide variety of careers. Medicine is only one possible future option: bioscience is a rapidly developing field with huge opportunities in research; bioengineering; technology; environmental remediation, or even scientific communication. An A-level in Biology can help open the door to many opportunities in life beyond MHSG.

Extra-curricular opportunities:

• Introduction to Biosciences Enrichment Course
• Sixth Form Biology lecture series opportunities
• Royal Society of Biology Olympiad and Intermediate Olympiad
• Royal Society of Biology North West Schools Competition
• Biology Journal Club
• Biology essay and photo competitions

Classical Civilisation is an exciting, interesting and wide-ranging course which provides students with a broad, coherent and rewarding study of the literature and culture of the Classical world. The course embraces elements of Art and Architecture, Archaeology, Comedy, Culture and Society, Epic Poetry, Philosophy, Religion and Tragedy. You will have the opportunity to study some of the world’s most powerful literature and visual material, both of which have had a profound and wide-reaching influence on modern culture, giving you not only a depth and breadth of knowledge about the ancient world, but an insight into the modern world. Our culture has been and continues to be influenced and inspired by Classical models – from Greek tragedy to Shakespeare, from Greek comedy to satire and modern stand-up comedy, from the Parthenon to the Lincoln memorial. No previous knowledge of the subject is needed. You do not need to have studied Latin or Greek to examination level to take this course as all of the texts will be read in English. The A-level course is made up of three components: ‘The World of the Hero’, which includes an in-depth study of Homer’s Odyssey and Vergil’s Aeneid; ‘Culture and the Arts’, in which you will study the Greek Theatre and ‘Beliefs and Ideas’, in which you will either study Greek Religion or Love and Relationships in the Greek and Roman world.

Classical Civilisation is accepted as an academic subject for entry into a wide range of courses by all universities, including Oxford and Cambridge. It is particularly useful for the study of Art, English, History and Politics, as well as the full range of Classics courses. The course provides you with opportunities to develop and demonstrate the key skills of communication, working with others, problem solving and improving your

own learning and performance. Former students have gone on to work in art galleries, the Foreign Office, journalism, the legal system, the medical professions, museums, radio, teaching and television.

“Studying the literature, theatre, art and philosophies that came out of Ancient Greece and Rome has opened my eyes to the profound impact that classical civilisations have had in shaping today.” – Natalie, S6.

Extra-curricular opportunities:

• Classics reading group
• Theatre trips

Do you enjoy exploring thought-provoking ideas through performance? Do you enjoy working collaboratively on creative projects? Do you believe that theatre can be a powerful tool for change? A Level Drama and Theatre Studies inspires students to become independent theatre makers and creative thinkers with the skills

they need to go on to higher education; whether that is to study a course in drama and theatre or another subject. Students develop transferable skills through the analysis of key texts in relation to social, historical and cultural context, collaborative group work and the interrogation of key theatre practitioners. The course will provide you with a varied skillset, including skills in cooperation and collaboration, independent decision making, effective communication, awareness of a potential audience reaction, reviewing and refining work, detailed analysis of processes and self-reflection to inform future decisions. Furthermore, you will have the opportunity to attend many live performances in both Manchester and further afield to develop your understanding of the different genres of theatre.

“I took Drama A-level as it gives you the opportunity to explore a range of texts and topics through performance and analysis. It’s great to take a subject that involves as much practical work as it does written work, as it help you to think more creatively.”

– Ruby, S6.

Extra-curricular opportunities:

• Performing/helping with tech in the school shows
• National Drama competitions
• Leading KS3 Drama clubs
• English and Drama residential
• Numerous theatre trips, both locally and nationally
• Linked Drama work and productions with WGS and MGS

How do men and women speak differently? How do babies learn to talk? How is technology affecting the way we use language in everyday life? Studying English Language at A-level is very different from GCSE; it can involve exploring almost any use of words and it often addresses big questions such as these. At A-level you will have the opportunity to study the ways in which English language is used in a variety of forms, from casual spoken conversations and advertising material, to texts and tweets, and even legal and medical discourse. You will also be able to study language from a range of periods and cultures, exploring the evolution of the English language from its Anglo-Saxon beginnings, and looking at the variety of forms of English in use across the world today. You will also investigate children’s language acquisition alongside the completion of an independent research project. Initially, you will learn the ‘Language Framework’ and how to apply it to a range of unseen texts. You will also have the opportunity to explore areas of Sociolinguistics, incorporating Language and Gender, Language and Identity, and Language and Occupation modules. The course also involves learning how to become an effective journalistic writer as part of the examination requires you to transform linguistic theories and ideas in the form of an article for a non-specialist audience.

Extra-curricular opportunities:

• Writing or editing the school magazine, Onward
• Creative Writing trip to Ty Newydd in Wales
• Literacy Leaders
• English and Drama residential
• Sixth form book group with WGS and MGS
• Linguistics conference

How do natural hazards shape our world? What impact do humans have on Earth’s landscapes and climate? How do global institutions influence our daily lives? What are the implications of population growth and migration? Studying Geography at A-level takes you beyond GCSE, exploring these and many other critical questions that define our world today. At A-level, Geography explores the complex interactions between physical and human environments. You will study a wide range of topics, from the dynamic processes shaping coastlines to the urgent issues of climate change, managing migration, and sustainable development. This subject allows you to investigate both local and global scales, using case studies from around the world to understand the diverse and interconnected nature of our planet.

In physical geography, you will study tectonic hazards, coastal systems, and the water and carbon cycles. These topics provide insight into how natural processes operate and their impact on landscapes and human activities. Whether you are exploring the mechanics of an earthquake or the effects of coastal erosion, you will build a strong foundation in the natural sciences as they relate to geography. Human geography topics include global systems and governance, place, and population dynamics. You will examine how economic, political, and social processes shape our world, from the factors influencing place meaning to the effects of globalization on local communities. These studies foster a critical understanding of the challenges and opportunities in our interconnected world.

Fieldwork is a vital part of the course, giving you the chance to apply your knowledge in real-world settings. You will gather data, analyse geographical patterns, and draw conclusions from your findings, developing practical skills highly valued by universities and employers. An independent investigation allows you to research a geographical issue of your choice, deepening your research and analytical skills while exploring a topic that interests you. Through A-level Geography, you will gain a deep understanding of both physical and human geography, along with transferable skills like critical thinking, data analysis, problem-solving, and communication. This subject is intellectually stimulating and relevant, offering pathways to careers in environmental science, urban planning, international development, and more.

“Through the study of Geography A-level, I have been able to continue my learning about people, places and their future.” – Georgia, S6.

Extra-curricular opportunities

• MHSG Geography Society – presentations and discussions on contemporary geographical issues.
• Manchester Geographical Association lectures
• Fieldtrips to Sefton Coast, Formby and local area study
• Geographical competitions such as Royal Geographical Society essay competition
• Mentoring GCSE geography students

The Latin A-level specification provides a holistic study of Classical authors in their social and historical contexts. Although the A-level course obviously builds on the GCSE course, Latin is not just about grammar, vocabulary and translation. It gives you the opportunity to study the language and literature of ancient Rome. The power and the beauty of the Latin language cannot fully be appreciated at GCSE level, but at A-level you will be exposed to the writing of some of the most famous poets and prose writers in history. You will experience elements of the culture, language, literature and social and political life of the Roman civilisation which have inspired, and had a profound influence on, many later generations. You will acquire knowledge and understanding of important issues by considering a range of political, social, religious and ethical questions encountered in the material you study. The A-level course is made up of three components: Language, Prose Literature and Verse Literature. In the language component you must demonstrate your ability to understand a passage of Latin, by translation into good English and answering a series of comprehension questions. Students need good knowledge and understanding of vocabulary, grammar and syntax. Latin verse and Prose Literature provide you with the opportunity to hone your translation skills, to deepen your literary appreciation by further study of both prose and verse, and to develop your personal response. The set authors for 2027 are Cicero, Tacitus and Apuleius (prose) and Lucretius, Ovid, Tibullus and Vergil (verse). You will study at least one from each genre.

Latin is accepted as an academic subject for entry into a wide range of courses by all universities, including Oxford and Cambridge. The course provides you with opportunities to develop and demonstrate the key skills of communication, working with others and problem solving. Students go on to work in art galleries, the Foreign Office, journalism, the legal system, the medical professions, museums, radio, teaching, and television, to name but a few.

“I enjoy Latin because it challenges me and really makes me think about the way I use language.” – Sasha, J6.

Extra-curricular opportunities

• Classics book group
• Theatres visits
• Study days

Modern Foreign Languages give you the opportunity to acquire an essential skill for a career in the global market, in international law and finance, in scientific and commercial fields, politics, engineering or education. The ability to learn a language at a higher level is likely to impress employers and mark you out as a good communicator. Learning a language at a higher level also opens up an exciting new world of culture. Once you understand more, you are able to enjoy foreign music, literature, film and television. The ability to converse fluently will be admired by all those who can’t. In lessons, you will have the opportunity to find out more about topical issues and to join in lively discussions and debates. You will develop the ability to think on your feet and to see things from another perspective. Studying French, German or Spanish helps you build on the skills you have acquired at GCSE and greatly enhances your employment prospects, whilst increasing your earning potential. It will help to facilitate foreign travel and give you a sound basis for further study. Each language is assessed in the same way, through a mix of listening, speaking, translating and responding to literature and other media, such as films. Topics may vary between the courses to reflect different cultural and topical emphases.

Extra-curricular opportunities

• Overseas visits
• MFL debating competition
• Theatre visits
• Poetry competition (Mother Tongue, Other Tongue)
• Spending time each week with the Foreign Language Assistant
• Organising language clubs or film clubs for younger students
• Acting as mentors for younger girls

FRENCH – Film: ‘La Haine’, Book: ‘No et Moi’

SPANISH – Film: ‘El Laberinto del Fauno’, Book: ‘Como Agua Para Chocolate’

GERMAN – Film: ‘Goodbye, Lenin!’, Book: ‘Die Verwandlung’

At Manchester High School for Girls, our Physical Education program offers an unparalleled journey into the world of sports science, building upon the foundational knowledge gained at Key Stage 4 and GCSE. Our A-Level PE course is meticulously designed to deepen your understanding and broaden your perspectives on the myriad factors influencing performance and participation in sports. Choosing to study PE in the Sixth Form at MHSG means embarking on a comprehensive exploration of how your body responds to physical activity. You’ll delve into the intricacies of your muscular and skeletal systems and uncover the profound psychological dynamics at play. Our curriculum is a rich tapestry that weaves together physiology, anatomy, psychology, and the historical and sociological contexts of sport. Imagine tracing the evolution of sport from its early ‘mob games’ roots to the highly commercialised, professional spectacle it is today. You’ll study the elite athletes who have transcended their sports to become global icons, understanding the technological innovations and training methodologies that propel them to greatness.

Our course invites you to explore the cardiovascular, respiratory, neuromuscular, and musculoskeletal systems, applying biomechanical principles to enhance physical performance. Moreover, you’ll gain insights into how mental fortitude and psychological strategies can optimize both individual and team performances. As you progress, you will tackle critical issues such as deviance in sport, exploring topics like player and spectator violence, performance-enhancing drugs, and the legalities surrounding sports. The specification not only enriches your theoretical knowledge but also provides practical experience, allowing you to develop skills in various roles such as a player, performer, and coach.

“Studying PE has vastly increased my knowledge in the world of sport and science. It has helped me understand and appreciate the anatomy and physiology of the human body, whilst also teaching me the history and the development of sport today.” – Imaan, S6.

Extra-curricular opportunities

• Trip to the Ashbourne Shrovetide Games
• Trip to play Real Tennis
• WSL Football matches
• Sports Conferences
• Outside Speaker e.g. UK Athletics and UKAD Drugs agency
• Relevant conferences and seminars

Extra-curricular sports clubs, both performing and coaching

Choosing A-level Politics isn’t just about studying government structures or memorizing details about past elections; it’s about taking the pulse of today’s world and shaping the world of tomorrow. In an era where events unfold ever more rapidly, understanding politics is more crucial than ever. Imagine not just watching the news but grasping the complex interplay of power, policy, and people that drives every societal change. A-level Politics equips you with the analytical skills to decode these complex interactions, fostering a deeper awareness of how decisions are made and how they impact our nation and world. This subject is a gateway to a multitude of careers, from law and journalism to international relations and public service. Engaging in debates and discussions hones your critical thinking and communication skills, vital in any profession. You will engage with both the British and American political systems, studying how they work in theory and in practice by taking a deep dive into recent political history. You will judge the extent to which these systems function effectively and what might need to be done to preserve democracy for future generations. You will also study key thinkers in the most important political traditions and engage with the philosophies that underpin our politics. In lessons, you will be confidently debating Brexit, Net Zero, social justice movements and other key issues. If you’re passionate about making a difference and excited by the prospect of taking on the world’s challenges, then A-level Politics is the perfect choice. It will open your eyes, sharpen your mind, and shape your future.

“Studying Politics A-level has added context to my knowledge of current affairs, further broadening my perception of the world.” – Aleena, S6.

Extra-curricular opportunities

• Paul Dockery Mock Trial Schools Competition
• Mock Trial Club
• Politics Club
• Annual trips e.g. House of Commons

If you have an open and enquiring mind, then Religious Studies A-Level could suit you. Religious Studies includes the study of philosophy, ethics and religion, providing a wide-ranging study of the nature of human experience. In this course, you will be introduced to the views of philosophers who have caused landslides in the way we view the world. In part, the course asks you to consider whether we can prove that God exists or whether the existence of evil succeeds in undermining such arguments. You will also study ethics. This entails studying the reasons why we choose to act as we do. You will examine major ethical theories as well as considering various responses to modern ethical issues, such as abortion, euthanasia and animal experimentation. This course will also appeal to those students who wish to engage in an in-depth study of religion, learning more about key religious beliefs and concepts, and how religion has developed in response to the modern challenges of secularisation and feminism. An A-Level in Religious Studies will broaden your horizons and help in the development of your independent, critical thinking. You will be encouraged to adopt an enquiring and reflective approach to your studies and will have an opportunity to develop your own values, opinions and attitudes in the light of the topics we study.

“Religious Studies A-level provides a space wherein students can ask fundamental questions of meaning and purpose and engage in debate and discussion with their peers and teachers. It is for those who enjoy pushing the boundaries of conventional thinking and considering world views and philosophies that they might never have previous considered.” – Mrs Kate Stedman, Head of Religion & Philosophy at MHSG.

Extra-curricular opportunities

• Ethics Matters
• Religion and Philosophy conference
• RS Clinic mentoring