The value of learning Arabic is indisputable; not only does it offer a huge benefit to speakers in terms of their ability to flourish and do business in the Arab speaking world, but it also offers access and insight for students and families living in the UAE into aspects of local and regional culture which are going to remain distant to any mono-linguist.

All students study Arabic in Key Stage 3 (Years 7, 8 and 9), which combines the content of the local Ministry of Education curriculum with modern foreign language teaching methods. Our Arabic curriculum is for non-native speakers. Students joining secondary with no foundation in Arabic should be able to benefit from the lessons and acquire functional conversational Arabic.

Lessons also assist in delivering aspects of the UAE Social Studies programme, enhancing students’ knowledge of the UAE, its history and traditions, and celebrating the country’s achievements. Cultural trips to local sites such as the impressive museums of Sharjah and the Grand Mosque in Abu Dhabi complement classroom study.

After Year 9 students who require Arabic for MoE high school graduation or university admission purposes (usually those destined for UAE or Middle Eastern colleges), continue to have Arabic lessons to prepare them for ministry exams in Years 10 to 12. 

Mr. Hasan Abu Dayyeh
Head of Arabic

Imagination, experimentation and risk-taking are at the core of the art and design curriculum at Sharjah English School. As a thriving department with two full time staff, we have two large, well-lit, fully equipped specialist art rooms where all the pupils have the opportunity to work with a wide variety of media and techniques, including printing, textiles, relief, mixed media, three dimensional and sculptural forms as well as drawing and painting.

Taking inspiration from the natural and man-made world students learn to engage creatively with the world around them. Through a wide range of projects they learn to appreciate and value images and artefacts across times and cultures, and to understand the contexts in which these were made.

Students are encouraged to explore visual, tactile and other sensory experiences to help them to communicate ideas and meanings. They work with traditional and new media throughout the Key Stages, which helps them to develop their confidence, imagination and most importantly their creativity. They learn how to research and present their work, how to experiment with, and use, a wide variety of materials and how to practice and perfect their technical skills. Pupils develop an appreciation of art, craft and design, and its role in the creative and cultural industries that will enrich their lives.

Art is a compulsory component of the Key Stage 3 curriculum, and can be taken at GCSE and A Level. 

Miss Kate Morgan
Head of Art

 

 

Biology provides a stepping stone to a wide range of university courses and careers, ranging from medicine, dentistry and veterinary science to conservation, food science and forensics. All of our courses follow the UK-based AQA examination board.

Biology is the study of the natural world in all its intricate detail and the interactions between its living and non-living components. We look into the past, studying evolution and how species have adapted to their surroundings and consider what the future may hold, looking at the human impact on the environment and at advances in medicine and genetics. Biology is also studied on a wide range of scales from molecular biology and the study of DNA through to animal behaviour and the fragile relationships between the organisms that inhabit the planet.

Biology investigates the hugely important question of how living organisms work. It is a challenging subject academically, but also presents moral challenges and questions existing ideas and behaviours. A biology student will need to be motivated, inquisitive, interested in the natural world and able to grasp high level concepts. They will also need to bring a wide range of skills in order to plan investigations, analyse and present data and communicate ideas and findings.

Biology is taught in modules as part of the Key Stage 3 science curriculum. At this stage, basic concepts are developed with an emphasis on skills and practical work. The topics that are studied include cells, body systems, disease and inheritance amongst others. In Year 9 students embark on their GCSE journey, we have developed a personalised curriculum to cover key topics to GCSE level, these topics are carefully chosen to ensure they are an integral part of the GCSE that will be revisited and reinforced throughout the GCSE.

All students at Sharjah English School will take at least Double Award in Science at GCSE and be taught each of the three sciences by subject specialists. Studying Triple Science, which leads to three separate GCSEs in Biology, Chemistry and Physics, is an option. This is a popular choice, but we would expect students to heed the advice and guidance of their science teachers when deciding on this.

The A Level course aims to inspire students, nurture their passion for Biology and lay the foundations for further study and the workplace. A separate endorsement of practical skills will be taken alongside the A-level. This will be assessed by teachers and will be based on direct observation of students’ competency in a range of skills that are not assessable in written exams. 

Mr. Christopher Roche
Head of Science

The world around us, the products we purchase, the charities we support, the services we use, the careers we chase are all created by, managed and sold to us by Businesses. Businesses the world over, have never had some much criticism and praise in equal measure. Think about the 10 biggest businesses you have ever heard of. How Ethical is Apple? How much profit is too much? Why do I (or you) keep buying iPhones and Macbooks? Why did I choose another brand?  In short this is Business. You already know so much about it. Would it not be great if you could formalise that knowledge and gain a really deep insight into the subject?

Some key questions your Business course will consider and try and answer:

• Why do businesses exist?

• Who owns a business?

• How do businesses select, train and motivate their employees?

• How does a business engage with its market and know its customers so well it can predict what they will buy and how much they are prepared to pay?

• How does a business’s leadership plan its future and assess how successful it has been?

• How does a business assess its external environment and then respond to those opportunities and threats?

• What methodologies allow Toyota to make a product cheaper than its competitors?

These are just a few of the questions Business students will research, ask, analyse and evaluate over their time in the department; to apply their thinking to the real world. We are a student led department.

We expect our Business students to be open minded, fully engaged, hard working and critical thinkers. We want students to be excited about the subject, who will open their eyes to the world around them and see things in a new (Business) light, and immerse themselves in it. Everything else we can teach you. 

Students are able to pursue Business at both IGCSE and BTEC Level 2 and Level 3

Mr. Greg Brown and Miss Jenny Price

Chemistry is, it can be argued, the central science. It overlaps with and is fundamental to biological, medicinal, physical and earth sciences; success in these fields is hard to imagine without understanding Chemistry and seeing how it underpins other disciplines. Its presence and impact in our everyday lives is equally profound and ubiquitous.

Chemistry is an exciting and stimulating path to pursue at all levels. The courses at SES from Year 9 through to Year 13 provide a logical sequence and re-visit and build upon previous learning year on year. Genuine curiosity and a passion for making sense of how the world works are key attributes. Our students are methodical, rigorous and prepared to test their ideas; they understand that disproving something can be the key to progress and success. They embrace resilience, creativity and imagination as much as they display logic, discipline and diligence.

If you choose to study Chemistry you are likely to have an interest in Science, but you do not necessarily become a career chemist. A study of Chemistry is essential in order to develop the knowledge and skills needed to succeed in careers such as medicine, dentistry and pharmacy, but is equally beneficial in law and engineering. It has always been a popular subject with universities because of its intellectual challenge and the diversity of skills it encourages. 

Throughout their time at SES, students will have the opportunity to use sophisticated equipment and learn about analytical techniques such as infra-red spectroscopy and nuclear magnetic resonance, as well as exploring more traditional areas of Organic Chemistry, Physical Chemistry and Inorganic Chemistry. It is a rewarding and fascinating subject that requires good organisation skills, analytical reflection, problem-solving, and the ability to work both within a team and as an individual.

Chemistry is a compulsory subject taught within the Key Stage 3 science curriculum at SES. It can also be pursued as a separate subject at both GCSE and A Level. Traditionally it has been, and remains, one of the most popular SES subjects chosen at A Level. 

Mr. Gareth Phillips
Head of Chemistry

Information Technology has evolved quickly and dramatically over the last few decades to a point where its application is prevalent in almost every aspect of our lives today, throughout work and recreation. This march of technical progress shows no signs of slowing; in fact, it is increasing - and fast!  As a result, the relevant IT based skills and understanding have become both an essential component of living and working in today’s (and tomorrow’s) society and a very marketable commodity in the workplace.  

Computer Science provides the knowledge and skills to understand and utilise the computers and networks that are the fundamental enablers of this digital revolution.  It also overtly develops problem solving, abstract thinking and addresses logic - all of which are fundamentally empowering skills for students.  Importantly, it also develops the ability to adapt and deal with change. Thus, the subject satisfies a dual requirement. Firstly, regardless of whether they choose to specialise later on in Computer Science, the subject provides an essential basis for all students to interact with IT effectively and safely in their lives and work.  Secondly, by providing a comprehensive technical education to those students that wish to continue their studies in this field, Computer Science ensures that these future IT professionals are well equipped to work effectively in this new and dynamic workplace, becoming themselves the drivers of progress, innovating to support our rapidly developing society.   

The Computer Science Department follows the English National Curriculum guidelines. We have committed industry-proven staff who are passionate about transmitting their knowledge to future generations. We have a state of the art IT infrastructure and resources to support our teaching and learning environments. We will develop students’ understanding of how computers actually work, both in terms of hardware and software. This includes the software development cycle and the necessary mathematics and logic needed to understand some of the new concepts like binary, hex and Boolean algebra. Students also begin to learn to program (or code) and develop their own software, using industry standard software development environments and programming languages like Java, VB and Python.   

At Key Stage 4 we offer the Edexcel GCSE in Computer Science, and at Key Stage 5 the AQA A Level in Computer Science. Both are highly regarded and technical qualifications in Computer Science and allow a seamless progression to a Computer Science related degree.  

In terms of future careers, students will be well prepared to pursue career paths that directly require technical IT skill e.g. software designers and developers (programmers) or technical support and network engineers.  But equally, should they choose other career paths, they will find they also have the necessary IT skills to support or enhance their work. 

Ms. Salma Rasool
Head of Computing

Design and Technology has evolved incredibly over the past decade. The historical perception of it being solely a practical subject has long gone. Students are now more innovative designers: skilled in graphics, consumer profiling, prototyping and fully versed in the theoretic study which underpins design decisions. Today’s students are more visually articulate than their predecessors; we strive to harness their creativity and visual literacy. Whether it be James Dyson’s endless prototyping or Elon Musk’s drive for the most innovative production methods, the work of famous designers and entrepreneurs has become integral to our teaching content and students’ understanding of Design Technology and its importance in the world. 

The focus at Key Stage 3 Design Technology at Sharjah English School is to immerse the students in all aspects of design and to apply their responses to various different practical tasks both as individuals and as groups. We nurture the creativity of each pupil while also achieving a functioning product. Students acquire greater insight into how images and form shape our perceptions of the world. 

At Key Stage 4, where Design and Technology is one of our most popular options, the pupils gain the experiences needed to think creatively and independently to solve a design problem. We incorporate theory and practical topics into every lesson, giving the pupils a well-rounded approach to their studies. Our well-resourced classrooms cater for the needs of the most enthusiastic student, whether it is in our beautifully lit Graphic Design Room or the modern workshop full of the latest technologies. 

Our Key Stage 5 pupils further build on their experiences at GCSE. Delving further into the world of famous designers, while also trying to show their individuality and unique take on designing innovative solutions, these students have taken to the subject so much over the past few years that we have had a constant flow of students selecting design based courses for their further education. This is a glowing testament to how much students enjoy the subject and the department in Sharjah English School. 

The school offers opportunities for students to display their work creatively. The department also promotes visits to exhibitions and galleries; opportunities exist also for collaborations and visits to the many local university departments with specialized programmes in related areas. 

Miss Kate Bayford
Head of Design & Technology

Drama is much more than just an academic subject at Sharjah English School. It provides students with the opportunity to experience life from different points of view. As Shakespeare said, “All the world’s a stage, and all the men and women merely players; they have their exits and their entrances, and one man in his time plays many parts.”

One of the most important elements of Drama is allowing students of all ages and abilities to develop their confidence as well as performance skills. In being encouraged to explore their own feelings and to find meaning in a wide variety of subject matter and stimulus materials at all key stages, students learn to have a voice, explore their own beliefs and understand other perspectives. As part of the curriculum, students are regularly given the opportunity and the motivation to investigate and offer reasons about moral and ethical issues. Their investigative study of characters and themes require them to develop empathy, extend their understanding of different circumstances, rights and choices of others.

We wrestle with the most compelling issues of our time. Therefore, we foster curiosity, invention, bravery, and humour: we risk and learn from failure and vulnerability in order to build lifelong habits of innovation and revelation. This allows them to go onto further education as well-rounded individuals with a better understanding of the world around them.

Another key element of Drama is collaboration. Student groups are alternated regularly to ensure all students work together regardless of age, race, religion, background or gender, building their teamwork and cooperative skills and ability to problem-solve with others. Students are taught to respect and support each other as part of their success criteria.

We offer a variety of opportunities to delve into the world of Drama and Theatre through clubs, productions and trips which open up students’ minds even more to the world and the opportunities available to them.

Drama is a compulsory subject in Key stage 3 and is a popular subject choice at both GCSE and A Level. 

Miss Lauren Collins
Head of Drama

We live in unprecedented times. There has never been a more exciting time to study Economics; a subject that has gained new purpose and its fair share of criticism in equal measure. At its core, Economics is the study of human behaviour especially with regard to decision making.

Consider the following questions: 

• If the government reduces interest rates to historically record lows; do you save or spend? 

• Should the internet be a human right and a public good? If so, who pays and what do we sacrifice?

• Should governments of the world tax plastic and meat more heavily to fight climate change?

• How do we regulate global companies and make them pay their fair share of tax?

• Is BREXIT the correct choice in the long run? Or has immigration added more to the UK Economy than critics would care to admit?

• Was the 2008/9 Financial Crisis predictable and predicted? Can Behavioural Economics explain the crisis?

• How should companies like Ford or VW respond to the threats posed by regulators and the twin challenges of automation and electrification to stay relevant and profitable?

These are just a few of the questions Economics students will research, ask, analyse and evaluate over their time in the department; to apply their thinking to the real world. We are also a student-led department with engagement via the SES Economics Society and external competitions such as the Royal Economic Society Essay Prize in Year 12. 

We expect our Economists to be open minded, fully engaged, hard-working and critical thinkers. We want students to be excited about the subject, who will open their eyes to the world around them and see things in a new (Economics) light, and immerse themselves in it. Everything else we can teach you. 

Economics is available for study at GCSE and A Level. 

Mr. Greg Brown
Head of Business & Economics

Our desire to stimulate academic curiosity and inspire a love of our subject drives every element of teaching and learning within the English Department. Lessons are characterised by diverse and innovative activities that aim to nurture an atmosphere of active engagement and interest on behalf of the students and staff alike.

As a department, we believe that the study of literature and language is a powerful tool that allows us to appreciate and understand the full extent of human experience, emotion and intellect. Text and topic choices are both demanding and thought-provoking and are used to explore complex and challenging concepts.

Developing learners who are confident and impressive communicators is recognised as one of our fundamental goals and, as such, our programme of study is enriched with opportunities for students to cultivate their spoken and written expression within a creative and academic framework. At Key Stage Three, students work through all the skills required for future study also allowing them to see the connections between language and literature. Due to the size of the GCSE course, students at Sharjah English School begin their GCSE study in Year 9.

Language is the primary vehicle through which we interact with people and the world around us, making it crucial for students to become skilled in recognising and harnessing its power to influence others and convey meaning. We also understand the intimate link between language and cognition; elevating language development liberates the capacity for complex and subtle thought. A student with sophisticated language skills is one whose creativity is as expansive as their imagination.

English at Sharjah English School helps learners to become independent and academic inquirers. It fosters reflective and critical skills, ultimately equipping students with the ability to not only empathise with, and evaluate, the world around them, but to be able to shape it positively in the future.

At GCSE, students receive two separate qualifications (one in English Language and one in English Literature). At A Level, English Literature is a popular and rewarding choice.

Mrs. Louise Larvin
Head of English

Let’s start with the following three figures. There are over 220 million French speakers worldwide. French is the second most widely learned language in the world, with almost 120 million students. It is also spoken on all five continents.

Learning a modern foreign language is a considerable benefit if one wishes to be competitive in an increasingly diverse cultural environment. One look at Expo 2020 and  we have a first hand glimpse of that multicultural diversity. Professionally, individuals can no longer operate in a monolingual world and having strong skills in two, if not several, languages has become an extremely valuable asset.

French does not only help when looking for employment abroad: it also provides a great advantage for studying in general. The acquisition of a second language invariably enables students to develop various mental abilities at all ages. By exploring the similarities and differences between other languages and French, learners express themselves with increasing confidence, independence and creativity. They develop enhanced cognitive skills whilst fostering their curiosity and understanding of other cultures. French potentially becomes the starting point of a life-long cultural and linguistic journey.

In our world, cultural diversity, mutual understanding and global citizenship have never been more relevant. The key to appreciating different countries and their people lies with the ability to communicate. With that in mind, studying French becomes an ideal choice when considering a successful future filled with not just rewarding professional prospects, but also enhanced personal cultural experiences. 

All students at SES take French up to the end of Key Stage 3, after which the subject becomes optional for students wishing to pursue it at GCSE and A Level. 

Miss Chantal Benani
Head of French

Geography is taught in a modern, dynamic and forward-thinking way and we aim to combine the best of both classroom enquiry and fieldwork techniques to broaden knowledge. Geography offers an opportunity to understand physical processes, a sense of global awareness and understanding of our environment. Students are also encouraged to develop critical thinking and decision making skills established in small group activities. Practical application reinforces a discursive writing style as issues are addressed and weighed up.

GCSE Geography is relatable on a daily basis so its contemporary nature is maintained. Awareness of news and current events at all scales can only serve to strengthen geographical understanding. The diverse cultural backgrounds of our students provide experiences to enrich and accelerate the learning experience. Geography is complementary to many subjects namely Geosciences and Economics. Combination choices that have proven to be mutually reinforcing are also with English and History where students have commented on topics and techniques that are familiar. Students learn transferable skills, making Geography graduates highly employable. The development of statistical and analytical skills also sharpen interpretation of data.

Geography at A level enables students to maintain a balance of both human and physical disciplines as well as incorporating world events to increase its relevance. Geography is widely accepted at universities as being one of the most versatile subjects providing students with a range of skills which are relevant in today’s job market. Students who study Geography can enjoy a range of career paths including surveying, town planning, international relations, environmental management, sustainability, conservation, oceanography or geomorphology. Further scope is evident through the more technical side of the subject as an engineer, or a Geographical Information Systems provider – a highly sought after skill. 

All students study Geography at Key Stage 3 and it is a popular optional subject at GCSE and A Level; A Level study typically involves an overseas field-work trip. 

Ms. Simone Lok
Head of Geography

 

For Muslim students, Islamic Studies is compulsory in Key Stage 3, and it is also a requirement in Years 10 to 12 for Muslim students aiming for admission to most local or Middle Eastern universities and colleges.

The department promotes a discussion-based and open approach to the study of one of the world’s great monotheistic religions, with its traditions of learning and scientific advancement, tolerance and peace.

Opportunities to celebrate important events in the Islamic calendar, whether it be Ramadan or Eid holidays, offer a platform for the department and its students, to enhance the knowledge and understanding of Islam by our non-Muslim children.

Mr. Hasan Abu Dayyeh
Head of Arabic & Islamic Studies

“To understand the Universe, you must first understand the language in which it’s written, the language of Mathematics.” Galileo Galilei.

At Sharjah English School we see Mathematics as an important subject to support all areas of learning.  We wish to promote independent thinking and problem solving, the ability to take a moment to reflect on the question posed and then find an elegant solution.

Mathematics is a subject that has always been valued highly by universities and employers and here at SES we encourage all students to reach their full potential in order to secure their future careers.  To this end we have developed a strong Post-16 programme offering A Levels in both Mathematics and Further Mathematics.  This has been built upon developing students’ ability to think from the day they enter the classroom.

Mathematics is not only a tool for our studies and everyday life; it is fascinating in its own right and should be studied for its beauty and interest.  Our aim is for our students to discover maths for themselves and not just be taught to remember how to solve a problem.  Something discovered will be remembered forever, not just until the exam has been taken.  We also believe that Mathematics should be inspiring so we have developed a Maths Leadership Programme where older students lead and inspire younger students in a variety of mathematical activities.

Ultimately Mathematics at SES is about challenge and intellectual curiosity and perhaps one day understanding the language of the Universe.

All students take Maths up to GCSE; it remains the most popular subject choice for students moving through to A Level. 

Mr. David Thompson
Head of Mathematics

SES is unusual in the Northern Emirates in having music available as a curriculum subject throughout the Junior school to Year 13. Visiting instrumental teachers complement the work of the two full-time specialist music teachers. Instrumental tuition is currently available on piano, strings, brass, classical guitar, rock guitar, and singing. Other instruments are available on request. As a centre for the Associated Board of the Royal Schools of Music, students are able to take instrumental grade exams regularly.

The Secondary music curriculum is based on the English National Curriculum and focuses on performing, composing and listening. Music theory is covered, but lessons are also practical, so that students can expect to regularly sing and play instruments. Students deepen their appreciation of music and different genres through our ‘Musician of the Fortnight Programme’. Pupils learn how to use music technology creatively through notation and sequencing applications. The department has its own Apple network with musical keyboards and specialist software.

The department runs a wide variety of extra-curricular groups, including choirs, specialist ensembles and bands. Regular concerts take place at school and also at external venues. We send musicians annually to the ‘Young Musicians of the Gulf’ Competition in Bahrain, where we have previously won ‘Best Vocal Ensemble’ and ‘Best Overall Ensemble’. Music is at the heart of SES and students can often be heard performing at school events. 

An annual inter-house ‘Battle of the Bands’ competition is hugely popular and standards have risen year by year. The competition is judged by external professional guest musicians.

The music department is housed in the Performing Arts Building which includes an auditorium, music classrooms and rehearsal rooms. The faculty is well resourced with instruments, keyboards, music technology equipment and recording facilities. 

Ms Terri Snodgrass
Head of Music

Mission
The mission of the PE, Health and Well-Being department is to inspire students to develop a love of movement and physical activity by providing them with the tools and opportunities to explore personally relevant experiences. 

Outcomes
Students will develop the knowledge, skills and understanding to enable them to participate in lifelong physical activity in a variety of roles whether this be as a gym goer, hiker, referee, sports coach or sportsperson. Our students will also develop the social and emotional attributes outlined in the Learner Profile.

Core PE
During Key Stage 3 students will experience a broad and balanced curriculum specifically designed to develop the following skills and concepts:

1. Fundamental movement skills (squat, lunge, push, pull, brace, rotate, jump and land)

2. Fundamental sports skills (throwing, catching, striking)

3. Evaluating and improving performance of self and others

4. Developing social and emotional skills (leadership, communication, self motivation etc.)

5. Making informed decisions about leading a healthy and active lifestyle

At Key Stages 4 and 5, students will continue to work on the skills and concepts identified above, however they are afforded more choice with regards to the activities that they participate in. In addition to the concepts identified above, students will begin to take more responsibility for their own learning and will be able to take on leadership roles within the school community. 

Key Stages 4 & 5 Academic PE
At Key Stages 4 & 5, students can choose to study academic PE, initially as a GCSE subject in Key Stage 4, progressing to A-Level or BTEC Sport Science in Key Stage 5. Academic PE qualifications cover a range of subjects including, but not limited to, Anatomy, Physiology, Psychology and Socio-cultural issues in sport. The topics covered in the academic PE programmes complement the sciences, and in particular human biology, giving students a greater understanding of complex body systems. Students also develop strong transferable skills of analysis, evaluation and discussion all of which are highly valued by universities and an ever evolving job market.

School Sport Programme
The School Sport programme offers students the opportunity to be physically active every day of the week. Activities we offer include netball, basketball, athletics, football, rounders, cricket and badminton among others. Students have the opportunity to attend ‘Recreational Clubs’ - the focus of these clubs is to provide students the opportunity to enjoy movement and improve their leadership, cooperation and communication skills. Recreational clubs also provide an opportunity for our older students to volunteer and lead activities helping them to shape the school community. Students will also have the opportunity to attend ‘Performance Clubs’ - these are for students who want to focus on improving their skills and abilities within their chosen sport. We also aim to offer a range of physical activities to engage as many of our pupils as possible.

Mr. Daniel Burns
Head of PE

Physics, the study of matter, energy and their interactions, plays a key role in the progress and development of humankind. Physics is an exciting intellectual adventure that inspires young people and expands the frontiers of our knowledge about Nature.

Students may already be familiar with some of the topics that they will study in GCSE Physics, including forces, waves, radioactivity, electricity and magnetism. At A-level, they will look at these areas in more detail and find out how they are interconnected. They will also learn how to apply maths to real-world problems and explore new areas such as particle physics, cosmology and medical physics. Perhaps more importantly, students are encouraged to develop skills that can be transferred to just about any other area of work, from setting up a business to saving the planet. Physics doesn’t give us all the answers, but it teaches us how to ask the right questions.

Although only a lucky few get the chance to become an astronaut, studying physics can help land a job in space, as a cosmologist investigating the evolution of the universe, a planet-hunter searching for habitable planets around other stars or an astrophysicist who searches for dark matter and black holes. If you prefer something more hands-on, there are also lots of jobs in space engineering.

Whether as a surgeon or a clinical scientist, understanding physics is important if you want to work in modern medicine. Physics has revolutionised the diagnosis and treatment of illness. Surgery is now routinely carried out using lasers; cancer is treated using radiation, and new ways of using Physics to see inside our bodies are being developed every year.

Architects and civil engineers design all sorts of buildings, from schools to skyscrapers, as well as other vital structures like bridges, dams and tunnels. A-level Physics could be the first step towards a career in building a better world.

Making realistic visual effects for films and TV, or design computer games needs physics. People with a background in Physics are needed more than ever to monitor climate change and find sustainable ways of generating electricity. More engineers are needed to work out how to save water, improve the world’s food supply, make travel more environmentally friendly and recycle waste on a large scale.

To know how to answer questions like how big the universe is, what everything is made of and whether time-travel is possible, all involve an understanding of Physics. Although Physicists have made huge progress in answering many questions, there is still plenty to find out.

At Sharjah English School, Physics is offered at GCSE and A Level.

Mr. John Winstanley
Head of Physics

Psychology A Level

Psychology explores why we behave the way we do. It helps us to understand the human mind and gives us insight into the motives behind our actions.  

Through the work psychologists do we have gained a greater understanding of how the mind functions. Because of this, we’re able to identify and build awareness around mental disorders.

By better understanding disorders, such as obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD), we can help people overcome the challenges they bring.

Psychology can help explain why people react differently in the same scenario. As well as explains why certain people are more prone to developing mental disorders.

The insight you’ll gain from your A Level psychology can help you better understand the people around you. As a result, this will make you more compassionate and give you real-life skills to apply in everyday situations.

So, if you’re interested in building key psychological knowledge then A Level Psychology is a solid choice.

What you’ll learn

A Level Psychology develops your understanding of the key elements of the subject.

Throughout your studies you’ll explore many aspects of psychology such as social, cognitive and developmental psychology. This allows you to gauge what part of psychology interests you most should you wish to carry on your studies.

Social psychology analyses social groups and how they’re structured. It focuses on exploring social norms and what that means for the individual's perception of normality.

Cognitive psychology studies how the brain influences our perception and interprets our surroundings.

Developmental psychology covers psychological changes that occur through key developmental stages.

You will build upon this knowledge with modules on psychopathology and biopsychology. These modules help us understand the causes behind mental disorders and what effect biological factors can have on the mind.

Throughout your A Level course you will:

• Explore obedience, how our interactions with people shape our notions of conformity.

• Examine the cognitive process behind memories and thoughts and how that affects how we perceive the world.

• Discover the changes that are made from birth up until adulthood and their importance.

• Explore causes and potential treatments for mental disorders such as schizophrenia, OCD and brain abnormalities.

• Investigate how biological factors, such as hormones and the nervous system, can influence the brain’s functions.

• Analyse established psychological theories and examine case studies to get to grips with key psychological ideas.

When you have completed your modules you’ll be ready to take your exams and receive your qualification. Once qualified you’ll have a strong understanding of the core principles of Psychology to build on at higher education and beyond.

Why study A Level Psychology

Studying A Level Psychology allows you to gain a solid understanding of key concepts and theories. It will explore the fascinating human mind and expand your awareness of why we behave how we do.

A Level Psychology could be the first step towards an exciting career as it helps you prepare for university study.

Your A Level will develop core skills that universities and employers alike desire. These include:

• Independent thinking

• Critical analysis

• Strong research skills

Should you choose to continue your studies then you could find yourself in a fulfilling career as a qualified psychologist.

Your A Level Psychology will explore the subject so that you’re able to decide what elements really interest you. Whether that’s working as a counsellor, clinical psychologist or forensic psychologist, it’s up to you.

The expertise you will possess as a psychologist can be useful in a range of sectors including mental health, social work, education, business and even sport and fitness.

Ms Sofia Leon Garcia
Psychology Teacher & School Counsellor