General Studies and Critical Thinking

These courses are taken by most Year 12s in the sixth form as supplementary subjects. They allow students to broaden their knowledge and skills.

General Studies can be taken to A level but most students just take the AS. General Studies AS shows university admissions officers and prospective employers that the student is up to date with current issues and events. It also shows that the student has developed analytical skills in discussion and writing.

Critical Thinking is only offered as an AS. Employers and universities see it as proof that a student understand the techniques of persuasive writing. Studying this subject allows the student to see through weak arguments and admire well-crafted speeches and writing. This enhances their own writing and their thinking skills.