Carmel CollegeChallenging minds, inspiring success

Prospectus entry 2013

25 Yearsof inspiringindividuals

1987-2012

2 Contents

04 Welcome to Carmel 06 Great reasons to choose Carmel08 Top Results & Student Success 10 First Class Facilities14 What will you study? 16 How will we support you? 20 Life at Carmel 22 Enriching Experiences 24 Entry Requirements 26 How to find us 27 Any Questions?

Contents

The information in this prospectus can be found on our website – www.carmel.ac.uk. The website can also be viewed in a text only format allowing you to choose the font size and background colour that best suits your needs.

You can also contact the college on 01744 452200 and we can send the information to you in an alternative format.

The information within this prospectus is correct at the time of printing.

Read the prospectus to find out why so many young people choose to come to Carmel College.

Read

Click www.carmel.ac.uk to find out more about us 3

To be a centre of educational excellence, opportunity, challenge and support within a caring, Christian environment.

Carmel is a Catholic Sixth Form College welcoming students of all faiths and from all backgrounds. We are committed to developing a community where personal qualities are highly valued and where each student is enabled to reach their potential feeling supported, safe and happy during their time here. At Carmel we enable our students to flourish both academically and as individuals.

Find out why Carmel is one of the top 3 Sixth Form Colleges in the country (ALPS)

Our Mission

Check out our website: www.carmel.ac.uk

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Open Evenings 2012Come along and see for yourself what makes Carmel such an outstanding college.Wednesday 17th October, Thursday 8th and Tuesday 13th November. 6:00-8:30pm

“From the moment I stepped foot into this college I have always had a warm reception from the staff and students. I suppose that’s what I like most about Carmel, that nobody judges you for what you are or where you come from, you always feel a sense of belonging.”Brandon Thorpe St Aelred’s Catholic Technology College

Carmel CollegeChallenging minds, inspiring success

Prospectus entry 2013

25 Yearsof inspiringindividuals

1987-2012

There are many reasons why our young people are among the highest achievers in the country. Those who enrol here can choose from an enormous range of different subjects and find the ones that are just right for them. There are more than 40 different A Level subjects alone! There are also programmes of study for those who need a second chance at GCSE level or for students with particular needs. After A Levels, talented artists can take advantage of our Art Foundation programme.

OfSTED rated the quality of teaching and learning as “outstanding” and graded the

college “outstanding in all aspects of its provision”. Every year exam results are amongst the top 5% of over a thousand schools and colleges*, proof that our young people really fulfil

their potential.

Carmel’s success is built on teamwork between staff and students. All our staff are passionate about working with young people and are always more than happy to “go the extra mile” to provide guidance and support in order to help them succeed.

Students at Carmel work hard but they also enjoy life with an enormous range of enrichment activities: trips and visits, sport, performance and many other activities too numerous to mention.

As I write this introduction, our current students are busy preparing for the 2012 AS and A2 exams. They have worked hard during the year and I am confident that they will do really well. I know that they will leave Carmel College fully prepared for the next stage of their careers. I wish them well.

Take your time to browse through this prospectus, have a look at our website or, best of all, come along to one of our Open Evenings.

I look forward to meeting you.

Rob Peacock, Principal

*(ALPS: A Level Performance System)

Welcome to CarmelStudents come to Carmel from over 40 high schools every year. Why not join them?

A very warm welcome to the latest Carmel College prospectus.

Carmel is a great place to be a student.

4 Welcome to Carmel

Click www.carmel.ac.uk to see what our students say 5

Here at Carmel there are over 40 subjects to choose from and tonnes of enrichment activities to get involved in. Studying here will give you so many opportunities both during your time at the college and also after you have left. Carmel has a really friendly atmosphere and you will get the chance to meet new people and make new friends, some of whom will be friends for life. The Student Council will be more than happy to help with any queries you have during your time here. See you in September!

Hello and welcome from the Student Council

6 Great Reasons to Choose Carmel

Friendly, Welcoming Atmosphere On Open Evenings, many prospective students and parents comment on the ‘friendly and helpful staff’ and the warm welcome that is extended to everyone.

Caring, Christian CommunityCarmel is a Catholic college where mutual respect and care for the individual lie at the heart of college life.

Top Results & Exam Success 2012 A Level pass rate of 99.2%In the top 5% of schools and colleges nationally*

Outstanding Support for StudentsCarmel provides a comprehensive programme of support and personal development for every student. Highly Qualified TeachersStudents are taught in an atmosphere of mutual respect by our dedicated, enthusiastic and highly qualified teachers. Wide Choice of Courses Over 50 subjects/courses on offer. Choose from AS Levels, A2 Levels, Applied A Levels, BTECs, GCSEs and Foundation Learning.

First Class Facilities£22M of investment has transformed Carmel’s campus into a truly inspiring place of learning.

Reputation for QualityCarmel has Beacon Status for outstanding performance.The last Ofsted Inspection rated Carmel as “Outstanding in all aspects of its provision.”

Excellent Sports FacilitiesSports hall, multi-gym, rugby and football pitches plus two new floodlit 3G astroturf pitches. Spacious, Modern Student Facilities Student work areas, ICT areas and tutorial rooms.Library & Study CentreModern refreshment facilities in the Restaurant and Café.

Exciting Student LifeA varied Enrichment Programme will enable you to choose from over 60 extra-curricular activities from Sports, Music, Drama, Young Enterprise, the Student Council and many more. *(ALPS: A Level Performance System)

Great reasons to choose CarmelThese are just some of the reasons why so many people choose Carmel!

Click www.carmel.ac.uk for even more great reasons to choose Carmel 7

“The teachers are really supportive, there’s a friendly atmosphere and the facilities are excellent – the college definitely lives up to its reputation.”John Owen Cowley International College Studied - Business Studies, History, ICT, Extended Project. Now at University of Liverpool, BA Combined Honours

Did you know? Carmel was one of the first four Sixth Form Colleges in the country to be awarded Beacon Status way back in 1999.

*

8 Top Results and Student Success

Each year it is great to see the progress that our students make both academically and personally during their time at the college. Such outstanding achievements lead to excellent opportunities for the future. The majority of Carmel’s students progress to university, with many taking up places at a Russell Group University or other prestigious institution.

Here are just a few examples of what former Carmel students have gone on to study:

Name Previous School A Level Grades Now studying

Danielle Bailey Higher Side AAAB Dance, Liverpool

Gregory Ball Tower College BBB Graphic Design, Leeds

Elena Basley Rainhill High A*AAB Dentistry, Glasgow

Abigail Bradley Cowley A*A*A Graphic Design, Sheffield

Michael Briers Prescot School A*AA Maths, Liverpool

Emma Broughton St Augustine’s BBBC History & English, John Moores

Rebecca Campbell St Ed Arrowsmith (Whiston) A*A*ABB Chemistry Masters, York

Josh Colfar St Ed Arrowsmith (Whiston) A*AAC Medicine, Liverpool

Heather Corley Aukland College A*AAC English Literature, Glasgow

Sophie Dey St Gregory’s A*AABC Geoscience, Durham

Sophie Fitzpatrick Wade Deacon A*A*A*AB Medicine, Manchester

Daniel Follin St Augustine’s A*A*A*A Actuarial Science

Phyo Khaing St Gregory’s A*A*A*C Medicine, Birmingham

Thomas Leyland De La Salle A*A*A*A* Maths, Manchester

Michael Nesbit The Bankfield AAAB Biomedical Science

Kate O’Neil Penketh High AABC Veterinary Medicine, Nottingham

Jonathan Porrino De La Salle A*AA Psychology, Liverpool

Daniel Rice Sts Peter & Paul A*A*AA German & Spanish, Manchester

Sarah Rimmer St Gregory’s ABC Drama, Liverpool Hope

Benjamin Sayah Rainford High ABB Music, Salford

Laura Scilio Knowsley Hey ABC Primary Teaching, Liverpool

Thomas Syder Rainhill High A*A*A*AABB Astrophysics, Birmingham

Paul Swift De La Salle A*A*A*A*A*A* Natural Sciences, Cambridge

Top Results & Student Success Carmel is one of the top 10 Sixth Form Colleges in the country*

100% 3D Design / Applied Business / Applied Travel & Tourism / BTEC L3 Applied Science / BTEC L3 I.T. / Business Studies / Computing / Critical Thinking / Dance / Economics / English Combined / English Language / English Literature / Film Studies / Fine Art / French / Further Maths / Geography / German / Government & Politics / Graphic Communication / Health & Social Care / History / Mathematics / Media Studies / Music / Music Technology / Photography / Physical Education / Product Design / Spanish / Textile Design / Use of Maths

99% Biology / Law / Psychology / Sociology

98% ICT / Philosophy and Religion

97% Physics / Chemistry

96% Performance Studies

95% Statistics / General Studies

Click www.carmel.ac.uk to find out more about our students’ success 9

“Carmel allowed me to mature both personally and academically and has equipped me with the skills and confidence needed to continue in higher education.”Elizabeth Kelly Now studying English Language and Literature at the University of Sheffield

Carmel’s Pass Rates for 2012

* The Telegraph (17/08/2012)

Carmel’s students consistently achieve excellent results in their examinations. This year’s A Level pass rate is an impressive 99.2% with 58.6% of the grades at A*-B. In addition, the 2012 results confirmed Carmel as…

One of the top 10 Sixth Form Colleges in the country*

The best performing college in Merseyside and Cheshire*

The top institution in St Helens*

Over the past 3 years, the quality of teaching at Carmel has been consistently in the top 10% of schools and colleges nationally (ALPS: A Level Performance System).

The results were officially rated ‘OUTSTANDING’. This means that our students far exceed their potential as predicted by their GCSE results.

Liam Thomas

10 First Class Facilities

Carmel’s campus has been transformed into a truly outstanding and inspiring place of learning. Additions to Carmel’s existing buildings include the Notre Dame Centre for Art & Design, the West Park Building and the Dalton Building.

All subject areas have access to their own I.T. facilities and the new buildings are wi-fi enabled to allow staff and students to access the internet anywhere. As part of the college’s green heating and lighting strategy, the new buildings are controlled by an intelligent building management system which uses the latest technology to monitor heating, lighting and ventilation, leading to significant energy savings.

The facilities that have been created certainly match Carmel College’s outstanding reputation and will provide an inspiring environment for future generations.

Did you know? Carmel has educated well over 15,000 students since it opened its doors 25 years ago in 1987.

*“The college is modern and the facilities are fantastic. It has excellent technology which makes learning enjoyable.”Katie Jolley Haydock Sports College Studied - English Lit, PE, History. Now at Edge Hill University, BA History

First Class FacilitiesCarmel has invested over £22M in brand new, technology-rich facilities. It’s impossible to do justice here to the superb environment that has been created. Come and see for yourself at our Open Evenings in October and November!

Click www.carmel.ac.uk to see more of our inspirational learning environment 11

12 First Class Facilities

Science Laboratories 9 fully equipped labs providing specialist facilities for Biology, Chemistry, Physics and BTEC Applied Science. Excellent I.T. facilities 1000 Student PCs with internet access / Colour printing and scanning facilities across campus / 200 student laptops / 3 Apple Mac suites / 20 computer suites. Library and Study Centre Over 25,000 books / computer links with The University of Liverpool library / full range of daily newspapers / over 40 journals / careers library / silent study area / stationery shop / online resources / suite of computers.

Performance Theatre and Dance Studio Dalton Theatre seating 200 / dance studio with semi-sprung dance floor / drama and rehearsal space / changing rooms / lighting and sound gallery / communication head sets / sound system / stage management equipment. Well equipped suites for Music Practice and performance rooms / computer suite with Cubase and Sibelius software / recording studio with mixing and editing facilities.

Film & Media Facilities Computer suite with Apple Mac computers running industry specific software / classroom and viewing room with multi-media projection facilities / digital cameras / editing suite. Modern Languages Wide range of language resources/ digital language lab with the latest technology to help improve listening and speaking skills. Sports Hall and Fitness Studio Sports Hall for trampolining, basketball, badminton, volleyball, table tennis etc / fitness studio and multi gym / football and rugby pitches / 2 floodlit astroturf pitches.

Click www.carmel.ac.uk or download our free app to see our photo galleries 13

Foundation LearningFully furnished flat / training garden with greenhouse / multimedia technology with access to computers and the internet. Restaurant and Café The restaurant serves breakfast as well as hot and cold lunches and snacks which includes food from TUGO, Love Joes or the ‘subcentral’ range at the Deli. There’s also a café which serves hot and cold drinks and snacks including Fairtrade goods.

Art and Design 6 large specialist studios for Fine Art, Graphic Design, Photography, Textiles/Fashion, 3D Design and Product Design / sewing room, dye print room / dark room / kiln room / glass fronted gallery running the full length of the building / student resources and tutorial area / dedicated ICT rooms / spacious technical workshop.

Outdoor Space Carmel’s buildings are complemented by the careful landscaping of the college grounds. A central courtyard makes the best possible use of the space to provide students, staff and visitors with a pleasant outdoor area in which to work or relax.

“Carmel is a great place to learn with fully equipped classrooms and access to computers and study areas to improve learning. There are also lots of places to relax and socialise during lunch times.”Jennifer Teasdale The Bankfield School

“I was impressed by the size of the library; there are lots of books that can help you with your homework.”Rebecca Steele St Cuthbert’s

14 What will you study?

At Carmel there is an enormous range of courses which are designed to meet the specific needs of individual students.

All our courses are taught by highly qualified staff and have excellent achievement rates.

Advanced Courses

Choose from over 40 A Level subjects and a range of BTEC courses.

How many subjects will I study? You can study up to five subjects, though most students study four subjects, reducing to three in the second year.

Where can I find out more information on individual subjects? You can download full course information from our website www.carmel.ac.uk or pick up course leaflets at our Open Evenings.

Level 2 ProgrammeThe Level 2 Programme is a full time, one year course of study in GCSE, BTEC and other Level 2 subjects.

What are the benefits of this programme? The programme gives students the opportunity to study new subjects as well as re-sits if needed, providing a chance to gain access to an Advanced Level course or as a pathway to employment, training or vocational courses.

Can I study an AS Level in addition to the Level 2 Programme? Yes, but only in cases where genuine talent is shown by achieving a high grade in the GCSE examination.

Foundation LearningFoundation Learning is a personalised learning programme for young people working at Entry Level and Level 1.

What are the benefits of this programme? Foundation Learning will help you develop your potential and prepare you for further education, the world of work or independence in the community.

What will you study?With over 50 high quality courses to choose from and such outstanding student success, you’ll be spoilt for choice!

Click www.carmel.ac.uk to download course leaflets 15

Advanced Courses

• AppliedBusiness•ArtandDesignsubjects: - Diploma in Art and Design - Fine Art - Graphic Design - Photography (Lens/light based media) - Textile Design - Three Dimensional Design• Biology • BTECAppliedScience• BTECHealth&SocialCare• BTECIT/SoftwareDevelopment• BTECSport • BTECTravel&Tourism•BusinessStudies• Chemistry• Computing• CriticalThinking•Dance•DesignandTechnology (Product Design)• Economics• EnglishCombined• EnglishLanguage• EnglishLiterature• ExtendedProject• FilmStudies• French• FurtherMathematics• GeneralStudies• Geography•German•Government&Politics•Health&SocialCare•History• InformationCommunication Technology

• Law•Mathematics•MediaStudies•Music•MusicTechnology• PerformanceStudies• PhilosophyandReligion• PhysicalEducation• Physics• Psychology• Sociology• Spanish• Statistics•UseofMaths

Other CoursesLevel 2 Programme:• BTECBusiness• BTECCreativeMedia•GCSEMaths•GCSEEnglishLanguage•GCSEScience • FreestandingMaths Qualifications

Foundation Learning

“At Carmel you are encouraged to take a more independent and active approach to your learning, yet help is always available if you need it. The passion that the teachers have for their subjects is impressive, and this really motivates me to try my best each lesson.” Jessica Southward St Cuthbert’s

Open Evenings 2012Come along and see for yourself what makes Carmel such an outstanding college.Wednesday 17th October, Thursday 8th and Tuesday 13th November. 6:00-8:30pm

Download course leaflets

from our website

16 How will we support you?

Did you know? You can choose from over 50 courses at Carmel, a much wider range than at high school!

*

Your Personal Tutor

Your Personal Tutor will provide you with guidance and support to help you reach your academic and personal potential. Your Personal Tutor will provide:

• one-to-one discussions with you about your progress

• group discussions on a weekly basis

• the link between the college and parents

• an input to Consultation Evenings and Progress Reviews

Do you have specific needs?

Our learning support team has experience of working with students with a wide range of learning difficulties such as dyslexia, dyspraxia, ADHD and Asperger’s Syndrome. Support is also available if you have a medical condition which may affect your studies such as ME, epilepsy, mental health issues and anxiety. If you have a visual or hearing impairment or use a wheelchair, support is also available for you. If you have any concerns about starting your chosen course at Carmel or any aspects of college life, we would like you to tell us. You can speak in confidence to Linda Carr, our Head of Learning Support. Alternatively, speak to your Personal Tutor or any other member of staff with whom you feel comfortable.

Need a little extra help with your studies?

Study Support Tutors and Classroom Assistants work with students both on an individual basis and in small groups to provide support with:-

• coursework• planning and time management• revision and exam techniques• essay and report writing • stress management

Support Tutors take a flexible approach and are happy to talk to you about any issues that may be affecting your studies. Students also have access to the College Counsellor if required.

How will we support you?A great deal of thought, commitment and resources have been invested in providing a comprehensive programme of support and personal development for every student at Carmel.

At Carmel, great emphasis is placed on providing excellent careers advice and guidance. Our Careers Team are available to give help and advice whenever you need it. They will provide you with:- • information on a range of

progression routes based on your individual needs and aspirations

• Higher Education events for those who wish to progress to university

• guidance and course specific advice for those who strive to enter prestigious universities

• specially designed careers programmes for students following courses other than A Levels

• careers activities as part of the tutor programme

• a drop in service for general advice and help

Need some careers advice?

“Carmel has a welcoming vibe that really motivates students to enjoy their college experience. The tutors are always happy to help and really want their students to succeed. It’s a very encouraging atmosphere.”Natalie Woodward The Bankfield School Studied - Photography, Applied Business & Media Studies

Now studying Art Foundation at Carmel College

‘Learners clearly enjoy their studies and praise the support and encouragement they receive from all staff.’ OFSTED

Click www.carmel.ac.uk for the full range of support available to students 17

“Carmel gives you the opportunity to do and achieve anything. The support from teachers can make a real difference to your work which gives you confidence especially during exam time.”Rachel Evans Broughton Hall School Studied - Economics, Maths, Media Studies Now at Northumbria University, BA International Management

18 How will we support you?

‘I can see immediately what makes this college so special. Not only is it focused on achieving the highest educational standards, but also on the development of the whole person. It is a strong, thriving community where students and staff enjoy learning and the determination to succeed is palpable’

Christine Gilbert Her Majesty’s Chief Inspector

Click www.carmel.ac.uk for the full range of support available to students 19

High Achievers

We are keen to ensure that all our students achieve to the best of their ability. To allow the most able students to reach their potential, we offer a structured programme of teaching, activities, events and support including:-

• help with applications to Oxford and Cambridge

• support with applications for Medicine, Dentistry and Veterinary Medicine degrees

• support for talented students in specialist areas such as Art, Music, PE and Performance

• the opportunity to study Critical Thinking

• the opportunity to study for the Extended Project Qualification

Personal Development

At Carmel we place great emphasis on raising students’ awareness of their personal responsibilities through spiritual and moral education. We create opportunities for students to discuss social and ethical issues and reflect on how they should respond to them.

Student ServicesCome and see us if you need advice, information or help with the following:Discretionary Support Fund / Careers advice / Applying to university / Transport to college / Exam related enquiries / Paying for trips, college events, books, calculators, exam remark and resit fees, printer credits and bus passes / IT Services / First Aid

Safety Matters

The welfare of our young people is at the heart of everything we do. A number of our staff are trained Safeguarding Officers and a comprehensive Safeguarding policy is in place to ensure all our staff are aware of correct procedures.

Financial Support

A college Bursary Scheme is available to provide support for students aged 16-19, who are experiencing financial difficulty with meeting the costs associated with learning.

Details of the Bursary Scheme are available on the college website – www.carmel.ac.uk

ChaplaincyThe Chaplaincy at Carmel is a welcoming Christian community and a sacred space. Students can use the Chaplaincy for private prayer and reflection. It is also a base where the Justice and Peace group organise many charitable events, where friendships are made and where students and staff are encouraged to ‘be the change they want to see in the world’ (Gandhi).

20 Life at Carmel

Whether it’s joining the Student Council or sport teams, expressing creative talent for music, drama or art, going on trips organised through the subject areas or getting involved in the Chaplaincy or the many Enrichment activities on offer, at Carmel, we enable our students to flourish both academically and as individuals! You can take part in activities that complement your academic course options or try something different and develop new skills.

Enrichment ProgrammeOur Enrichment Programme offers over 50 activities, some of which will enable you to gain useful qualifications or improve learning, others allow expression of creative talent. Enrichment activities are also useful for supporting your career choices by gaining relevant experience in a particular area. All these additional experiences will enhance the impression you give to future employers and are extremely valuable when applying to Higher Education establishments.Here are just some examples of Enrichment activities on offer at Carmel:-• Cabin Crew• Carmel Ambassadors• Chess Club• Choir• Debating Society• Driving Theory• Duke of Edinburgh Award• Forensic Science• Kite Making• History Through Film • Introduction to Italian• Interior Design• Primary School Project• Science Challenge• Sign Language• Team Sports• World Challenge

Life at CarmelThere’s more to life at Carmel than just passing exams. We encourage you to get involved, make new friends and take advantage of the many opportunities that are available to you.

Download our Enrichment

brochure atwww.carmel.

ac.uk

11:45 I’m free this lesson so can choose what I need to do. The many facilities at Carmel provide opportunities for study in different ways. I’ve not got Chemistry today so I’ll use the college library or go to a workbase to use the computers and printers to further my research; there is a quiet place for all of us.

12:45 It’s time for my daily chicken baguette from the sandwich and salad bar and a chance to relax with my friends and talk about non-college topics!

13:25 At this time it’s Enrichment for AS students. Last year I enjoyed Aerobics which tapped into my passion for dance while the “Science Challenge” helped me turn ‘copper’ into ‘gold’ – Carmel’s very own ‘Hermione’! For A2 students the focus is more on study support and tutorials. I am concentrating on Maths with an A* grade still within reach.

14:25 Maths may not be everyone’s cup of tea but I enjoy the certainty of its logic. We covered further trigonometry today and I’ll do revision on this at home. Statistics links into many aspects of everyday life and I will need this in my science career.

Click www.carmel.ac.uk to discover what else there is to do at Carmel 21

A day in the life of...

Rebecca Jones

I came to Carmel College from St Gregory’s Catholic High School and I am currently studying A2 levels in Biology, Chemistry and Maths. My typical Wednesday...07:00 After getting showered and dressed I grab a cereal bar – need some energy and fast before I catch the college bus.

08:50 Double Biology to start with, and the challenge of a practical. Steady hands were required last week when I dissected a kidney. This week it’s microscopy looking at cells and the stages of meiosis and mitosis!

10:30 Time for a break and to catch up with friends. On a sunny day there is time to get a breath of fresh air and clear our heads ready for more study.

10:45 Open Forum is next. This is where I focus on my personal development and we look at current moral and ethical issues. It’s important in shaping me as a person, ready for the wider community beyond Carmel College.

16:05 End the day as I started with a quick dash for the bus. Home to ‘chill out’ before doing homework and some revision.

Another busy but productive day!I can motivate myself but the support of the staff is what I value the most. Carmel is like a great team – working together towards one goal … PERSONAL ACHIEVEMENT!

22 Enriching Experiences

2012 was a very special year for the French Department at Carmel as we celebrated our20th exchange with our partner school in La Roche-sur-Yon! To mark the occasion both Principals took part and special celebrations were held. The weather was glorious and once more our students immersed themselves in the French way of life for a week.

The ICT department visited Cadbury World in Birmingham. The students had a fabulous day and were fascinated with how ICT is used to make, test and package the many chocolate bars. One particular highlight was seeing how a ‘waggler’ makes Cadbury’s Curly Wurly!!

During the Philosophy & Religion trip to Krakow in Poland, the group explored the city, had a tour of Auschwitz concentration camp and descended miles underground into the famous salt mines where entire cathedrals, homes and lakes have been crafted out of the 700 miles of salty earth.

The Geography AS students braved the elements developing their fieldwork skills in a range of locations on a three day residential based in Cumbria. In Morecambe the students analysed the environmental costs and benefits of the coastal defences. Plant succession was also investigated on the dune system at Sandscale Haws NNR.

During the Easter holidays, 42 students and 7 staff descended on Saalbach in Austria for the annual college ski trip. One beginner group, two intermediate groups and an advanced group took part in 6 days of amazing skiing and five nights of activities and socialising. On the cards for next year is Italy where staff and students aim to conquer their slopes and discotheques as well!

Enriching ExperiencesTrips and visits organised through the subject areas are a great way to bring your academic studies to life.

This year’s Government & Politics trip to London included a visit to the British Museum, St Paul’s Cathedral and a full tour of Parliament where students had the opportunity to meet local MP Dave Watts. They also saw Downing Street and had time to fit in some retail therapy!

Carmel’s modern facilities include a sports hall with multi-gym and cardio-vascular machines including rowers, bikes, running machines and steppers. Within the college grounds there are also rugby and football pitches plus two astroturf pitches. All these facilities are freely available to students during college hours.Students are encouraged to take part in competitive sports against other colleges including Rugby, Football, Hockey, Badminton and Netball. There are also opportunities to achieve coaching and leadership awards.

Check out our Flickr page for more photos www.flickr.com/photos/carmel_college 23

Sport & Fitness Students are encouraged to pursue their leisure and sporting interests through a comprehensive programme that caters for all levels. Sport at Carmel is intended to improve levels of personal fitness, provide challenging experiences, promote social interaction and encourage students to achieve high standards.

Alex Dunk

Student Alex Dunk is currently part of the ‘England Talent Programme’ after becoming the North West Swimming Champion at the 200, 400 and 1500m for the last few years. He trains 11 times a week and is currently 2nd in the UK in the 200m freestyle. He has the National and European Junior Championships fast approaching. His aim is to represent Team GB at the Commonwealth Games in Germany in 2014 and the 2016 Olympics in Rio.

24 Entry Requirements

Advanced Courses General Entry Requirements

Partner Schools: De la Salle, St Augustine’s, St Cuthbert’s, Haydock High, St Gregory’s, Cardinal Newman, St Edmund Arrowsmith Ashton, St Edmund Arrowsmith Whiston, St Peter’s.

A minimum of 2 grade Bs and 3 grade Cs from separate GCSEs

OR

For students who have studied a Diploma:

Higher Diploma grade B or Higher Diploma grade C, plus 2 GCSEs at grade B (preferably in Maths and English for access to a wider range of subjects)

All other Schools:

A minimum of 4 grade Bs and 1 grade C from separate GCSEs

OR

For students who have studied a Diploma:

Higher Diploma grade B

Level 2 Programme General Entry Requirements

For all schools: At least 2 GCSEs at grade D or above.

Course Specific Entry Requirements

For all schools: Access to individual courses will depend on you meeting specific entry requirements which are available on the course leaflets at Open Evening or download from the website www.carmel.ac.uk. You will also be given the entry requirements at your preliminary interview. We recommend that you have at least a grade B in the subjects that you choose.

Please Note :- Personal circumstances, disability or interrupted schooling are taken into account as they may affect your examination performance. You will have an opportunity to give us details of any relevant circumstances at your interview.

In the event that either the college or a particular course is oversubscribed, you may be placed on a waiting list.

The closing date for applications is Thursday,

31st January 2013

Late applications will only

be considered if there are sufficient places

available

Course specific entry requirements can be found on the course leaflets available at Open Evening or from the website www.carmel.ac.uk

*

Entry RequirementsClick www.carmel.ac.uk and apply online before 31st January 2013

Attend your preliminary interview Interviews will take place between February and March 2013 either at Carmel or at your school. The interview is very informal; we will discuss your career aspirations, predicted GCSE results, choice of subjects and entry requirements.

February - March 20133

Click www.carmel.ac.uk and apply online before 31st January 2013 25

steps to joining us 6

Investigate your options Read the prospectus, look at the college website and start thinking about your choices. If your school has a link with Carmel, one of our liaison officers will visit your school to give a talk to Year 11. Don’t forget to come along to one of our Open Evenings.

1 September - November 2012

Make your application All applications must be made online via the Carmel website - www.carmel.ac.uk The application deadline is 31st January 2013.

January 20132

Return your admissions documents In early May you will be sent an admissions pack which needs to be returned by the deadline date given. You will also receive an invitation to our New Student Conference where you will try out your chosen subjects.

May 20134

Enrol on your chosen courses GCSE results will be published on 22nd August 2013. Providing you meet the entry requirements you will be able to enrol at Carmel on either 22nd or 23rd August. (Appointment times will have been sent to you in June)

August 20135

Start at Carmel Welcome to Carmel! You will begin an induction programme to help you settle into college life. We look forward to seeing you!

September 20136

Open Evenings 2012Come along and see for yourself what makes Carmel such an outstanding college.Wednesday 17th October, Thursday 8th and Tuesday 13th November. 6:00-8:30pm

26 How to find us

How to find usThe college is situated on the A58 Prescot Road, next to West Park Rugby Club.

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ST HELE

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DUNRID

ING L

ANE

BOUNDAR

Y RO

AD

ECCLESTON STREET

KIRKLAND STREET

KING

STR

EET

GRANGEPARK

THATTOHEATHPARK

WestParkRFC

WillowbrookHospice

Grapes Pub

KnowsleySafari Park

WellingtonPub

Bird i’thHand Pub

Grange ParkGolf Course

TAYLORPARK

St HelensCollege

Park Inn Hotel

B&Q

McDonalds/Petrol Station

ASDA

KNOWSLEY ROAD

ALEX

ANDR

A DR

IVE

PRESCOT ROADFRECKLETON ROAD

HILL SCH

OOL RO

AD

GRANGE D

RSED

DON RO

AD

RAVENHEAD ROAD

CROSS

LEY R

OAD

BRIDGE ST

CANA

L ST

REET

ALBA

NY

AVEN

UE CENTRAL AVENUE

LINCOLNROAD

THE

SHIR

ES

BOROUGH ROAD

PRESCOT ROAD

GROSVENOR ROAD

REG

ENTS

ROA

D

BURTONHEAD RO

AD

ELM ROAD

A58

A58

A58

A58

A570

A570

BURR

OW’S LAN

E

LangtreePark

Stadium/ Tesco

The GameBird Pub

StanleyArms Pub

GriffinPub

PoliceStation

KnowsleyRd

CatchdaleMoss Lane

(B5203)

BurrowsLane (B5201)

FromEccleston

Tesco Garage

FROM A580 (VIA CATCHDALE MOSS LANE) TOBURROWS LANE AND ONTO THE A58 ST HELENSROAD/PRESCOT ROAD:

From Manchester

FromLiverpool

A580

The GameBird Pub

GriffinPub

PoliceStation

KnowsleyRd

BurrowsLane (B5201)

FromEccleston

FromLiverpool

A580

M57Junc 2

toM57Junc 2

toM62Junc 7

A570

McDonalds/Petrol Station

FROM JUNC 7 M62, TO THE McDONALDS ROUNDABOUT A570:

MickleheadGreen Pub

Bridge

M627

FROM JUNC 7 M62, TO THATTO HEATH ROAD:

MickleheadGreen Pub

Sutton’sDepot

M627

Elton HeadRoad

SherdleyRoad

Elephant LaneThatto HeathRoad

Eccleston ParkTrain Station

Thatto HeathTrain Station

Surrounded by good transport links, Carmel College is easily accessible from a wide area.

On Foot Carmel College is located 1.5 miles from St Helens town centre on the A58 Prescot Road. The centre of Prescot is 4 miles away.

Carmel College can also be reached via the Red Rocks public footpath which runs alongside the college playing fields and down towards Knowsley Road.

By Car or Bike There is free car parking in the college grounds for staff and visitors and we have an agreement with our neighbours, West Park Rugby Club, for student parking.

There is designated parking for disabled drivers at both the front and side entrances to the college. There is also an area for parking mopeds and bicycles.

By Rail Carmel College is only 10 minutes walk from both the Thatto Heath and Eccleston Park Rail Stations. These stations are on the main line between Wigan North Western station and Liverpool Lime Street station. For timetables and costs, contact The Trainline on 0871 244 1545 or www.thetrainline.com

By Bus The following Carmel College buses are scheduled to arrive at college before 8.45am and to leave at approximately 4.15pm. Please visit www.carmel.ac.uk

• Service 740 - Rainhill• Service 741 - Newton, Parr and

Sutton• Service 742 - Haydock and Chain

Lane• Service 743 - Rainford and

Eccleston

• Service 745 - Platt Bridge and Ashton

• Oakwood Service - Culcheth, Croft, Woolston, Cinnamon Brow, Orford and Winwick

• Kingsway Service - Kingsway North, Latchford, Sankey Bridges, Penketh, Lingley Green

• Grappenhall Service - Grappenhall, Stockton Heath, Town Centre, Cromwell Ave, Westbrook

• Service 1W - Widnes from Vicarage Road

• Service 2W - Widnes from Prescot Road

Several public buses also stop near college including the numbers 10, 10a, 89, 97 & 297

For timetables and prices contact the Traveline on 0871 200 2233 or www.merseytravel.gov.uk

“What I like most about Carmel is the friendliness of both the teachers and the students. There is always someone available if you need help, and everyone is supportive.”Paalan Sood Tower College Studied - Economics, Geography, Maths, Media Studies.

Now at Manchester Met, BA Marketing Management

Click www.carmel.ac.uk for bus info and route finding 27

Do I need to have studied a subject at GCSE to study it at A Level?The majority of A Level courses require you to have studied that subject at GCSE but this is not the case for every single subject. Further information can be found on individual course leaflets which can be downloaded from the college website or you can pick one up at Open Evening.

Can I take GCSEs as well as A Levels?If you are following an A Level programme, GCSEs can only be taken as re-sits if you need to improve your grade in a particular subject. If you are following a Level 2 Programme then some students are allowed to study an AS subject, but this is only in cases where the student has shown a genuine talent by achieving a high grade in the GCSE examinations.

What is the preliminary interview like?The interview is very informal; we will discuss your career aspirations, predicted GCSE results, choice of subjects and entry requirements.

What’s the typical timetable?All students study full-time at Carmel. The college day starts at 8.50am and ends at 4.05pm with a break in the morning and an hour for lunch. As well as your chosen subjects you will take part in an enrichment activity once a week. You will also have free study periods and will attend sessions with your Personal Tutor.

Can I change the subjects I’ve applied for?Yes, the subject choices you give at your preliminary interview can be changed. For example your actual GCSE grades may differ from your predicted grades which may impact on your subject choices. On enrolment day, you will be able to choose an alternative course provided that it is not already full and you have met the entry requirements for this subject. Our admissions team will be on hand to help you make the right choice for you.

Any Questions?

Did you know? Students come to Carmel from over 40 different high schools.

*

25 Yearsof inspiringindividuals

1987-2012

2012 Open EveningsWednesday 17th October Thursday 8th November Tuesday 13th November

6.00 - 8.30pm

We hope this prospectus has given you a flavour of what Carmel has to offer.

If you have any questions do not hesitate to contact us, or come to one of our Open Evenings and see for yourself what makes Carmel such an outstanding college.

Carmel College Prescot Road St Helens Merseyside WA10 3AG

Tel: 01744 452200 (Reception) 01744 452214/452212 (Admissions) Email: info@carmel.ac.uk

www.carmel.ac.ukwww.facebook.com/carmelcollege www.flickr.com/photos/carmel_college

A Catholic College for the Community. Charity No. 1003663

Design: www.palfreygreer.co.uk

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25 Yearsof inspiringindividuals

1987-2012