The A Level

What is A-Level?

The Advanced Level (A Level) course is a post-16 two-year course that is highly respected and known for its academic rigour, it is seen as the gold standard of British education. Being a globally recognised qualification means that examination success in this course will open doors to top universities worldwide.

Pupils will typically choose three or four subjects to study. This is different to the International Baccalaureate (IB) or Gaokao, but the A Level course allows pupils to specialise in their chosen fields from an earlier age and focus on gaining a greater depth of knowledge as a foundation for university education. The A Level course has been designed such that the engaging subject content and specialist skills development form part of the key to success in higher education, but it is the focus on developing independent learning that will really enable its participants to flourish in the future.

It is important that a pupil chooses their A-Level subjects carefully as university entry requirements sometimes specify with subjects are necessary. For example, most Medicine courses require the study of chemistry and/or Biology at A-Level. Under the careful advice of our excellent university counselling team, each of our pupils will receive individual guidance on the best combination of subjects for the strongest personal profile. It is important to note here that it is common for young adults to be unsure of what to study at university and the advice for A-Level choices would be to always choose the subjects that brings the most happiness. If you are studying what you enjoy, then studying is a pleasure and learning will be natural and a lifelong pursuit.

Curriculum Framework

At Hiba Academy Nantong, we strive for excellence and equity in our approach to the A-Level programme. Recognising the rigorous academic landscape, we are committed to offering a broad spectrum of subject options that cater to our pupils' diverse interests, while allowing them to showcase their strengths. Our A-Level curriculum helps pupils cultivate deep knowledge and an array of skills in a supportive and intellectually stimulating environment.

During the AS level in Grade 11, pupils will normally select four (or a maximum of five) subjects, one of which must be English, reflecting our commitment to strong communicati on skills as a foundation for academic and professional success. During the second year of the course, pupils have the option to continue with all their chosen subjects or to focus on three main subjects, allowing for increased specialisation and greater depth of study.

At the same time, pupils will also be encouraged to undertake an extended project qualification during their time in the Sixth Form, called Extended Project Qualification (EPQ) project. This project fosters a host of skills not typically assessed in traditional examinations, such as independent research, collaboration, innovation, and self-directed learning. EPQ typically counts for up to 28 UCAS points in the UK university admissions process, which is equivalent to half an A-level, allowing students to potentially enhance their university application and showcase their passion and ability in a particular subject area.By adhering to these guidelines, we aim to develop well-rounded individuals who are equipped to navigate the complexities of higher education and contemporary careers.

Our programme supports pupils in becoming competitive candidates for universities and future employment, ensuring they are prepared to contribute meaningfully to a modern and interconnected world.

Examination Boards

Choosing the right examination board is vital to your child's academic success. At our school, we provide three prestigious options: Cambridge Assessment International Education (CAIE), Pearson Edexcel, and Oxford AQA. CAIE is globally recognized for fostering a broad understanding and promoting analytical skills, thereby readying pupils for their future endeavours.

Pearson Edexcel is noted for its well-organized assessments and its focus on research-oriented A-level subjects, which paves the way for a coherent academic trajectory. Oxford AQA is a joint venture between Oxford University Press, a department of the University of Oxford, and AQA, one of the UK's leading exam boards. Offering a distinctive approach to secondary education qualifications such as IGCSEs and A-Levels, Oxford AQA is recognized for its international perspective and emphasis on developing critical thinking and independent research skills.

For our Extended Project Qualification (EPQ) program, we have chosen Oxford AQA, acclaimed for its emphasis on independent learning and research skills — essential for university-level studies. The EPQ allows pupils to delve deeply into a topic of their choice, developing comprehensive research abilities and academic resilience, all of which will be useful in the workplace.

In aligning subjects with the examination board that best supports their academic goals and learning preferences, we ensure a personalized and impactful educational experience. With CAIE, Pearson Edexcel, and Oxford AQA, all internationally recognized for their excellence, we affirm our pledge to provide an education of global standards. This pupil-centric approach is directed at nurturing outstanding educational outcomes, establishing a solid base for further studies, and paving the way toward a successful professional life.