Our latest education related articles

If results day did not quite go as planned and you are considering an A Level retake, we have outlined the options and answered the questions we are commonly asked at Keystone.

With A level Results day almost upon us (Thursday 13th August), here is a helpful guide to ensure you are appropriately prepared.  

The British Chemistry Olympiad is one of the UK’s most respected chemistry competitions for secondary school students. The BCO goes beyond the GCSE and A Level syllabus in Chemistry, testing students’ abilities in applying existing knowledge to real-world situations, their critical problem-solving skills and creativity in answering challenging questions. 

The competition is organised by the Royal Society of Chemistry (RSC) and a small number of applicants are invited to represent the United Kingdom at the International Chemistry Olympiad, which involves between 80 and 90 countries worldwide. 

The BCO consists of two rounds: Round 1 is a 2 hour written paper with multiple sections, designed to stretch even the strongest chemistry students.  Tens of thousands of students from over 1000 schools have entered Round 1 in recent years, which has been seeing rapidly growing participation. A small number of students are invited to Round 2, and from this, around 4 students are chosen to compete in the ICO. 

BCO papers reward clear reasoning and insight as much as giving the correct answers. Marks are awarded for method, explanations, and the application of chemical principles. 

The British Physics Olympiad is one of the UK’s most prestigious physics competitions for secondary school students. In contrast to standard GCSE and A Level Physics exams, which typically test students’ abilities to recall formulae or standard exam techniques, the BPhO tests a deeper understanding of the subject and complex problem-solving ability.

The BPhO is organised by Oxford Physics, with the support of a large team of volunteer teachers and academics. The results of the exam are used to help select the UK team for the International Physics Olympiad, which features teams from between 80 and 90 countries. As of recently, there are three rounds for the BPhO: Round 0, which was introduced due to an increasing number of entries over the past few years, Round 1, which is now sat by around 1500 students, and Round 2, which only a select handful of students are invited to take.

These papers are designed to be much more challenging than standard GCSE and A Level Physics exams, often containing questions that require multiple steps and various different topics. Marks are awarded for both the final answer and the reasoning presented by the candidates.  

Theology is a potentially interdisciplinary subject with opportunities to learn more about the ideas, history, practices, sociology, literature and languages of belief. Its scope ranges well beyond what you cover on the A-Level Religious Studies syllabus. Follow your supercurricular interest and see where it leads!  

If you’re aiming for a place on a competitive Engineering course, strong grades alone are not always enough. Admissions tutors want to see that your interest in the subject goes beyond the curriculum. That’s where super-curricular activities come in. Whether you’re discussing ideas from a book or lecture that inspired you, testing your skills in a competition, or carrying out an independent project, these experiences demonstrate that you are passionate about studying Engineering. They show you can apply concepts in the real world, develop practical skills, and tackle problems with creativity and resilience, exactly the qualities top universities are looking for. Here is our list of super curricular activities for Engineering you might want to consider:

Those who have been through the Oxford or Cambridge admissions processes report that the emphasis is largely on an applicant’s mathematical ability, so that should be the main focus of any utilitarian supercurricular work towards competitive university entry. The other suggestions below (after maths problems, puzzle books and YouTube channels) are therefore for developing your passion in the subject matter and to understand its academic field rather than to improve your skills.

Creative Ideas to Support Summer Learning for Secondary Aged Students 

Summer holidays provide a well-earned break for secondary-aged students, but a complete pause in learning can make the return to school in September feel overwhelming. As the summer holidays approach, many parents find themselves with more time to explore enriching, creative learning opportunities with their children. At Keystone, we believe that these moments are most impactful when they are led by your child's own interests - whether it is a favourite artist, animal, historical era, or a country they are keen to explore.  

Here are our top recommendations for secondary summer learning:

When it comes to deciding on the best educational path for students post GCSE, the choice between A Levels and the International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma Programme is a topic of debate for many families. Both qualifications offer unique approaches to learning and present opportunities for children to excel academically at school and beyond.

In this article, Ed Richardson, Keystone's Managing Director explores some of the key differences between A Levels and the IB Diploma, looking at their structures, grading systems, and overall impact on university admissions. Whether you are a student considering your options or a parent seeking guidance, this article aims to provide valuable insights to help you make an informed decision on the right educational qualification for you. .

What is the IB Diploma?

The IB (formerly known as The International Baccalaureate Organization or IBO) was founded in 1968 and offers international recognised qualifications for students from 3 to 18.

The Diploma Programme, aimed at students between the ages of 16-18, was devised to "provide an internationally acceptable university admissions qualification suitable for the growing mobile population of young people whose parents were part of the world of diplomacy, international and multinational organizations." 

Whilst A Levels are typically sat by most sixth formers at UK schools, some schools (such as Sevenoaks and King’s College Wimbledon) offer the International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma Programme (DP) either alongside or instead of A Levels.

Despite being first taught in a UK school in 1971, the IBDP is currently available in 91 schools [link here https://www.ibyb.org/ib-world-schools-in-the-uk] – though the number grows each year. Nevertheless, it offers students and their parents a choice when it comes to their sixth form study options..

How is the IB structured?

IB students are required to select six subject courses to study. Students select their six subject courses from the following groups:

1. Studies in Language and Literature
2. Language Acquisition
3. Individuals and Societies
4. Sciences
5. Mathematics
6. Arts

Whilst students must study at least one subject from groups 1 to 5 they can opt to study an additional Sciences, Individuals and Societies, or Language Acquisition course instead of a course in the Arts.

Three subjects will be studied at Standard Level (SL) and three at Higher Level (HL). SL courses require up to 150 hours of teaching whereas HL courses comprise of 250 teaching hours. Consequently, HL study requires students to demonstrate a greater level of subject understanding and skill. 

In addition to the six subjects IB students must complete and pass the DP Core which is composed of 3 parts:

• Theory of Knowledge (TOK): in which students reflect on the nature of knowledge and on how we know what we claim to know.
• Extended Essay (EE): in which is an independent, self-directed piece of research, finishing with a 4,000-word paper.
• Creativity, activity and Service (CAS): in which students complete a project related to those three concepts.

How is the IB graded?

Students studying the DP receive grades between 7 and 1 for their six subject courses, with 7 being the highest score. Furthermore, theory of knowledge (TOK) and extended essay (EE) components are awarded individual grades and, collectively, can contribute a further 3 additional points towards the overall diploma score. Thus, the IB is out of 45 overall and students have to score 24 or more to pass.

How are the IB subjects assessed?

Each subject will have a combination of externally marked examinations and internally marked assessments, often called IAs. The percentage weighting of each of these components depends on the subject. The nature of internal assessments means that students are often working on assignments throughout the two years. 

What are A Levels?

A Level stands for ‘Advanced Level’ and they were introduced in 1951. A Levels are the nationally standardised qualification most UK educated students complete in Years 12 and 13, i.e., the final two years of school. There are International A Levels offered by exam boards for students studying outside of the UK.

How are A Levels structured?

Typically, students select 3 or 4 A Levels to focus on during their sixth form (i.e. Years 12 and 13). There are over 80+ subjects to study at A Level and no one subject is compulsory. Each A Level course is discrete and the breadth of subjects on offer will vary from school to school. Typically, students will be able to choose from:

• Those subjects they have studied before (e.g. Biology)
• Variations of subjects they have studied before (e.g. Further Maths)
• Completely new subjects (e.g. Psychology)

Students will often select A Level subjects which relate to or prepare them for what they wish to study at university. For example, students wishing to study Medicine at university will often choose Biology, Chemistry, Physics and Maths or a combination of.

How are A Levels graded?

A Levels are graded A* to E, although it is possible to receive a U, which stands for ungraded or unclassified. Although grade boundaries are liable to move year on year the correlation between % mark and overall is approximately as follows:

• A* 90%+
• A 80% -89%
• B 70% - 79%
• C 60% - 69%
• D 50% - 59%
• E 40% - 49%

How are A Levels assessed?

Most A Levels are assessed by externally set examinations at the end of the two year course. Some subjects will also have coursework components and the percentage weighting will vary by subject. This tends to be higher for practical subjects such as Art or Design and Technology whereas for subjects like Maths the final exams will account for 100% of the grade.

What are the differences between the IB and A Levels?

• The IB Diploma offers students a broader education than A Levels requiring them to study 6 subjects from across the subject range (Language and literature, Language acquisition, Individuals and Societies, Sciences, Mathematics, Arts).
• A Levels offer students the opportunity to choose the 3 or 4 subjects they wish to study without restriction.
• The IB’s more holistic approach also requires students to complete the DP core (Extended Essay, Theory of Knowledge and Creativity, Activity and Service) alongside their chosen subjects.
• Studying A Levels does not require this of students, although they may wish to complete an Extended Project Qualification, which is much like the Extended Essay.

Do universities prefer A-Levels or IB?

UK universities recognise both A Levels and IB qualifications equally. Whilst the A Level may be more common in UK schools, UK universities appreciate the depth of study, development of independent research skills and academic rigor of the IB Diploma. Looking further afield, European and American universities also recognise both qualifications.

Many parents are often stuck between choosing A-Levels or IB for their child. Here is a nifty table that clarifies the key differences.

If you want to find out more about A Levels and IB, watch our webinar below.

What is the difference between History GCSE and A-Level?

Many students who have enjoyed GCSE History choose to continue studying the subject at A-Level, making it one of the more highly ranking courses in lists of the most popular A-Levels.

One of the key differences between GCSE and A-Level History is the breadth and depth of content. Whilst some students might relish the opportunity to continue studying topics with which they are already familiar, such as the Tudors and the Cold War, exam boards offer an increasingly wide range of options at A-Level. With courses on twentieth-century Chinese history, medieval France and the rise of Islam in sixth to eighth centuries, students are frequently faced with entirely new material that they must master in breadth and depth. This is exciting for enthusiasts of the subject. However, with three to four topics to cover it is also one of the main challenges of the course.

Another key difference between the A-Level and GCSE courses is the number and nature of essays required. In the GCSE exams, students may write one extended answer per topic across around four topics. At A-Level, students have to write double that number. Fundamentally, the structure of questions can be similar to those set at GCSE, with questions asking students to evaluate causes and consequences or the success of a particular figure or movement. That said, as students cover topics in greater depth and complexity there are higher expectations about the amount of detailed evidence that is required for high marks, as well as the insight and sophistication of argument. Indeed, the A-Level offers an excellent opportunity for students to develop their skills of argument, using analysis and evaluation with clear criteria and reasoning to form their own judgements.

The final major difference between the GCSE and A Level History is the amount of primary and secondary sources that students are required to work with. All of the major exam boards require students to write essay-length responses to questions on pieces of historical evidence and writing, which are longer and more challenging than those set at GCSE.

Achieving an A or A star in A Level Spanish is undoubtedly challenging, but with the right approach and dedication, it's entirely attainable. This guide will equip you with essential strategies resources and tips to excel in all aspects of the exam.  

For an overview of A Level preparation across subjects, our A Level Revision Tips article covers proven strategies that can be adapted to Spanish.

A Levels are challenging, and French is no exception. Even native speakers can struggle with the complexities of the language at this level. However, with the right approach and dedication, achieving top grades is entirely within reach. This comprehensive guide will equip you with the essential tools and strategies to excel in your A Level French exams.  For general revision strategies, see our A Level Revision Tips Guide.

Super-curricular activities are intellectually enriching pursuits that extend beyond the standard curriculum. Super-curricular activities are essential for applications to top universities, demonstrating commitment and deeper engagement with a chosen subject.  

Is English Language a good A Level subject? 

English Language A Level is a really good choice if you have enjoyed the language aspects of your GCSE English course. Students will recall that study for the GCSE Language qualification is what we might call more ‘programmatic’: this is a more technical discipline, requiring a focus on technical aspects of language, and which looks as ‘texts’ that are sometimes a long way from the highbrow and romantic reading of the Literature qualification. It is a modern way of thinking about ‘English’ – as a language and a field of study – that is in some respects a great equaliser. This course elevates advertisements, diaries and scripted speeches to the level of Charles Dickens and Shakespeare: it presents them as all equally worthy of study, equally able under analysis to tell us important things about the way we think and the way the world works. Another way of thinking about and English Language A Level is that it this course presents English almost as a foreign language, divisible into its component parts, into its nouns and syntax features, and whose cultural importance is visible in its contexts of use – and misuse. You will be required to write critical essays, analysing language change and language use; but also to write creatively, producing letters and speeches in much the same way as you did at GCSE.   

Is English Literature a good A Level subject? 

Studying English Literature at A Level is a fantastic option for those who have enjoyed English at GCSE and want to take their study to the next level. But be under no illusions that this is a step up - in terms of the knowledge you will be required to retain and process, the language you will be required to use, and the general ‘seriousness’ of the course. And examinations. But for those who enjoy language and reading and want to explore some of the major artists (and cultural and social issues of our time (and others)); and who want to discuss in a small group of likeminded and committed students, and experiment with writing, it can be a dream!   

In this article, experienced Theatre Studies tutor Matthew Dann, addresses some common questions and concerns around A Level Theatre Studies, including, the advantages of studying Theatre Studies at A Level, the best subject combinations, and the relevance of the subject for future studies or careers. He also explores the key components of the A Level Theatre Studies curriculum and discusses effective revision techniques and his tips for getting a top grade in the subject.

In a world full of distractions, there are few more satisfying ways to spend your time than immersed in a good book. But studying literature at university is about more than wiling away your days in the company of great authors; it’s a rigorous and exacting discipline that will stretch the way you think about language and about art. So how can you prepare yourself for this kind of course, and, just as importantly, how can you prove to admissions tutors that you’re prepared?

Firstly, there’s nothing more important in this regard than good grades, so the priority should always be school work. But literature courses are some of the most competitive in the country. Admissions tutors will receive thousands of applications from qualified candidates. If you’re on-top of your school work, therefore, it’s worth investing some time in super-curricular activities. When a university is choosing between you and a candidate of a similar level, this might give you the edge. 

What are super curricular activities?  

Every student that applies to university will know something about psychology. They may have seen a true crime documentary about a serial killer, read an article about attachment styles, or even studied the subject at GCSE or A-level. But in order to convince universities to give you an offer for undergraduate study, you will need to go above and beyond this level, exploring the subject to a greater extent. This is where super-curricular activities come in.  

 Super-curricular activities are activities that go beyond the standard academic curriculum and demonstrate a student's passion, commitment, and intellectual curiosity in a particular subject area. 

 They are incredibly important for university applications, especially at top universities like Oxbridge, for several reasons. 

For an overview of what top universities like Oxford and Cambridge expect from applicants, see our Oxbridge Personal Statement Guide.