Rochester Independent College, London:
Rochester Independent College, established in 1984, offers a distinctive alternative to a conventional sixth form and a stepping stone between school and university. We are located in the County of Kent, just East of London. We accept day students from the age of 11 and boarders from the age of 16. Our focus is on examination success in a lively, supportive and informal atmosphere. Students are encouraged to be themselves and achieve exam results that often exceed their expectations. Rochester Independent College is accredited by the ISC (Independent Schools Council) and a member of the ISA (Independent Schools Association). The College's January 2008 Ofsted report judged that "the quality of education is outstanding."
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Most full time students at the College study GCSE courses in the Lower School, one or two year A level courses in sixth form, ESL ( English as a Foreign Language) courses, Creative and Visual Art courses or a combination of these. Many students are taking subjects / courses for the first time, others may be studying to resit exams. Direct entry into any year group is possible.
Classes at Rochester are characterised by the enthusiastic engagement of both students and teachers in the learning process. At A level we have a maximum class size of eight, in the Lower School there is never more than twelve. Students sit around tables, tutorial style, rather than in regimented rows.
The best teaching manages to be both exam focused and full of enrichment material. Our teachers aim to thoroughly prepare students for their GCSEs or A levels but also to inspire in them a thirst for learning for its own sake rather than just narrowly prescriptive examination specificatproions. We ensure that no student, regardless of their academic ability, is left lost, overlooked or let down. A rigorous programme of regular testing undepins teaching at the College at all levels so that students are properly prepared for examinations and can approach them with confidence. .
The College values traditional academic subjects and creative and practical subjects equally. Many of our students mix the two and successfully gain entry to top universities.
One Year GCSE Cours
e
The One Year GCSE course allows students to take a fresh look at their options, perhaps starting one or two subjects from scratch. Only Mathematics, English and Science are compulsory on a one year GCSE course. Most students take both English and English Literature GCSE and at least GCSE Core and Additional Science although we are also able to offer Chemistry, Physics, Biology and Astronomy as Single Sciences. It is sometimes possible to add a subject at AS level to prepare for A level study. Students will be guided and advised during the admissions process as to the most appropriate combination and number of subjects to take- anything from 5 to 12 is possible depending on individual circumstances. With the exception of Modern Foreign Languages any subject can be taken as a one year course from scratch without the requirement for the student to have studied it previously.
Two Year GCSE Course
The majority of Lower School students begin a very distinctive two year GCSE programme, the first year of which retains a great deal of flexibility. Students may opt to take a variety of subjects as either one or two year courses. Where they prefer to do so, students can pursue conventional two year programmes in all of their GCSE subjects. English, Mathematics, Science, ICT and Art are compulsory. All options are discussed extensively with students and parents before any particular course is commenced. Students will be guided and advised during the admissions process as to the most appropriate combination and number of subjects to take- anything from 5 to 12 is possible depending on individual circumstances.
One Year A Level Co
urses
Students take one year A level courses for a variety of reasons. The most common reasons that students may choose to take one year A level courses include under-achievement in the lower sixth, AS year at another school; returning to education after a break; a need to retake A levels, perhaps adding one or two new subjects and needing to gain qualifications rapidly. Groups in all subjects on one year courses tend to be dynamic and exciting with lots of interaction between students and teachers. Those aiming for places on highly competitive courses such as Veterinary Science, Medicine, Law and English will find themselves placed in groups of similarly dedicated students who are also keen to make rapid progress. The advantage for overseas students of taking one year A level courses is that they can move quickly into Higher Education.
Two Year A Level Courses
Two year A level courses give tremendous scope for gaining the widest possible AS and A level base. Frequent meetings with their Personal Tutor ensure that students are keeping constant track of their own progress. Students study at the pace most suited to their ability and aims. Two year A level students also follow an enrichment programme including ICT training, work experience placements and a series of university application guidance seminars.
Visual Arts
A level students enjoy an art College atmosphere where students are welcomed at all times during the working week, not just during lesson times. Spacious studio spaces are available with individual working zones for fine art students and an open area for graphics, textiles, ceramics and photography students. Students specialise in one of the following areas: Fine Art (including painting, sculpture, drawing and printmaking); Graphic Design (including packaging, illustration, corporate identity, computer aided design and printmaking); Photography (including digital and traditional photography, lighting, studio techniques and photoshop); Textiles (including fashion). Students are able to combine Visual Arts courses with additional A levels in Art History, Film Studies, Theatre Studies and Media Studies.
English Language Courses
Rochester Independent College offers specialist English language teaching support to Overseas students on GCSE and A level courses. We specialise in preparing students for the IELTS examination necessary to secure entry to UK universities. We also offer a variety of part time English language courses, including those designed for students who require English tuition before commencing full time academic study. Our experienced and qualified teachers are used to dealing with the wide variety of linguistic needs of all students whether they are studying General English, English for Academic Purposes, Part Time Courses, Business English Courses, on an Easter or Summer Programme or studying one to one. The courses offered have flexible start dates and run throughout the year.
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