THC on Facebook  THC are now on Twitter!  Google Bookmarks  THC on flickr  THC on YouTube  Moodle for THC Students

THC Courses

AS/A Level Maths

Print PagePrint PageSend to friendSend to friend
Study Times: 
Part of Full Time Programme
Level: 
AS Level
Level 3 - Full A Level equivalent
Length of course: 
1 year AS Level, 2 years for full A Level
Venue: 
Poplar Centre
Age Group: 
16-19 Year Olds

Maths is one of our major strengths at Tower Hamlets College. We have a strong record of success, and have taken part in all the new developments in mathematics teaching and learning over the last six years. Our teachers are very well qualified and will offer you support at all stages of your maths education. 

We have a wide and exciting range of subjects. AS Mathematics is our standard maths course. We also offer AS/A2 Further Mathematics, AS/A2 Statistics and AS Use of Mathematics.

In your first year (AS) there are two Core units (C1 and C2), containing advanced algebra and graph work and building on what you studied at GCSE. You will study calculus (the maths of change), sequences and series, curve sketching, trigonometry, coordinate geometry and other topics. You will need to have a good background in algebra. You also study one unit EITHER of Mechanics M1 (the mathematics of physics), mostly for students who are taking Physics OR Statistics S1. Statistics is about using data and probability, and is very useful for subjects such as Biology, Sociology, Psychology, and many others.

In your 2nd year (A2) there are three more units, two Core units (C3 and C4) plus EITHER Mechanics (M2) OR Statistics (S2) OR Decision Maths (D1).  Decision Maths is about algorithms, networks and graph theory. It is the mathematics behind taking a decision such as "which is the best route..." (satnavs); what is the shortest time in which we can finish the job ..." (project management), and is very useful for students interested in Computing or Business. At a higher level this branch of Maths is often called Operations Research and leads into many exciting careers.

A Level Mathematics prepares you for any university degree course and combines well with all A levels. A Maths degree is the pathway to a huge variety of well paid careers.

Tower Hamlets College is one of the few offering such a wide choice of units. Many others will only offer you Core plus S1 and M1 only. Anyone wishing to become an engineer really needs to take Mechanics 1 and 2.  S2 is very useful if you want to study the social sciences at university.  Most schools cannot provide these higher units.

turbine.jpg
Where this course might take me: 
Maths is an excellent grounding for many university degrees or work in business, economics, engineering or science.

Learndirect Courses

Print PagePrint PageSend to friendSend to friend

Would you like the opportunity to learn a new skill or gain a new qualification?

Well, now you can with… Learndirect And most courses are absolutely free!

Learndirect is an innovative on-line learning system that lets you take things at your own pace. Log on to your course at work, college or in our learning centre, or you can even study at home! We have books and materials so you can work off-line if you prefer. Learndirect has been designed to fit around your lifestyle and our helpful tutors are always on hand to make sure you reach your goals.

Improve your job chances with national and international qualifications!

 
Learndirectat THC offers courses in Maths, English and IT. We can help you work towards qualifications such as ITQ and the National Tests in Numeracy and Literacy (which requires the equivalent skill set as a GCSE in Maths and/or English).

There are taster courses available for those of you who aren't familiar with computers and friendly staff to help you navigate your way.

You don't need any experience or prior qualifications; there will always be someone available throughout your learning to offer support.

Visit the Learndirect website www.learndirect.co.uk (opens in new window)

How Do I get Started?

For more information call: 020 7510 7777
email us at: advice@tower.ac.uk

   
   

 

AS/A Level Maths: Further Maths

Print PagePrint PageSend to friendSend to friend
Study Times: 
Full Time
Part of Full Time Programme
Level: 
AS Level
Level 3 - Full A Level equivalent
Length of course: 
1 year AS Level, 2 years for full A Level
Venue: 
Poplar Centre
Age Group: 
16-19 Year Olds

This is our top rated maths course!! You need to be enthusiastic about Maths, hard working and looking for high achievement to really benefit from taking Further Mathematics. This course will lift your understanding of Maths to a higher level, and will put you ahead in your first year at university. You must take Further Maths alongside A Level Maths. This course is for students who love Maths and who have scored at least an A in Maths at GCSE.  At Tower Hamlets College we have several years experience teaching the course, and we are host to the East London Further Maths Centre.

In AS Further Maths you will study three modules. Further Pure consists of complex numbers, vectors, matrix algebra, and further calculus. Your other two modules will be Statistics 1 and 2. We will expect you to sit the Statistics 1 exam in January.

In your A2 year you will take Further Pure 2 and Further Pure 3 plus Decision Maths 1 (see the AS/A2 Maths for details of the Decision module). If you do A level Maths and Further Maths you will end up studying all of our twelve available modules!!

Maths and Further Maths is considered a very strong combination and is highly regarded by universities. The top universities all recognise Further Maths, even for medicine. It is a very useful subject if you apply for mathematical degrees such as Engineering, Physics, Economics, or Actuarial Science. If you decide to study Maths at university, most universities will expect at least an AS in Further Maths. Other universities will give you a better offer if you have Further Maths!  We will encourage you to try the STEP papers if you're really good.

Tower Hamlets College is one of the few that can offer you the full A level in Further Maths.  We will support you at all stages of your maths journey.

 

world_temp.jpg
Where this course might take me: 
Degree courses in maths or areas requiring a high level of mathematical knowledge.

AS and A levels

Print PagePrint PageSend to friendSend to friend

Our A level courses...

Our A levels are listed alphabetically below or you can search by Subject.
 

Our AS/A level programme is an excellent choice, whether you want to go on to university or to enter the world of employment. 

Entry Requirements »

 

A level Students

With over 50 AS/A2 Level courses to choose from, we have the largest A Level provision in Tower Hamlets. Students can therefore find the perfect combination that helps them reach their dream goals.

There are 26 different subjects to choose from as part of your A Level programme. You must study at least three A Levels (unless you are taking one A Level alongside a BTEC course), and many students choose to do four or even five ASs and then drop down to three A2 Levels.

All applicants will be invited to an interview at Tower Hamlets College. This is to ensure we place you on the right programme of study.

 


 

 
     

 

AS/A Level Maths: Statistics

Print PagePrint PageSend to friendSend to friend
Study Times: 
Part of Full Time Programme
Level: 
AS Level
Level 3 - Full A Level equivalent
Length of course: 
1 year AS Level, 2 years for full A Level
Venue: 
Poplar Centre
Age Group: 
16-19 Year Olds

This is another fantastic mathematical A level that we offer at Tower Hamlets College. Statistics is an excellent choice if you are interested in studying Economics, Psychology, Biology, Business or other similar courses where you will have to analyse data and draw conclusions from the evidence.

Statistics is concerned with collecting, analysing and using numerical data. For example, a new drug is tested to on some volunteers. How do we decide if it makes a positive difference? Some volunteers improved, but was that "just chance"? Statistics enables you to judge in a scientific way. Statistics are used in all areas of business, industry and government. There are loads of jobs for graduate statisticians.

AS Statistics consists of three modules (SS1, SS2 and SS3). All of them concentrate on statistical processes and representations of the world. You will look at probability models, and will be introduced to a variety of statistical techniques and tests. In your A2 you will study another three modules (SS4, SS5, SS6). There is very little algebra involved - this is a specialised A level.

We recommend you to take Statistics instead of Maths if your main interest is Psychology, Economics, Biology, or Business Studies. Statistics is highly regarded at university, and will be a major help if you go on to study these sort of subjects for your degree. Most other colleges and schools will not be able to offer you a full A level in Statistics.

Portfolio_Risk_Analysis.jpg
Where this course might take me: 
Statistics A level will help you get into almost any degree course.

Vocational Courses

Print PagePrint PageSend to friendSend to friend

THC is a leading supplier of vocational courses in the East End of London.

Vocational Options Students

Vocational courses are designed so that you can learn relevant skills and gain specialist qualifications for a variety of jobs in particular sectors.

These courses are available from several awarding bodies, such as BTEC, City and Guilds, Edexcel and OCR, and can be taken at many different levels in a wide range of subjects.

Many of these courses have been designed in collaboration with the relevant industry so that they can equip you with the skills and knowledge that employers demand.

These courses offer a mixture of theory and practical work. Some of the courses also offer a short work experience placement.

New Practical Courses for 16-19 Year olds:

Practical CoursesWe also have a brand new range of practical courses designed to help get you into work.  more »

 

 

 

 

Our vocational courses are listed alphabetically below or you can search by Subject.

 

AS/A Level Photography

Print PagePrint PageSend to friendSend to friend
Study Times: 
Part of Full Time Programme
Level: 
AS Level
Level 3 - Full A Level equivalent
Length of course: 
1 year AS Level, 2 years for full A Level
Venue: 
Poplar Centre
Age Group: 
16-19 Year Olds

Our exciting course covers advanced photography techniques for those students who wish to further their creativity or gain a solid grounding in photographic skills. You will explore both creative and technical camera techniques with full support and expert teaching from tutors who are successful published photographers.

During this course you will develop your ability to appreciate the visual world and to respond in a personal and creative way to your environment using lens-based media. The course has a large practical component where you will learn technical skills in both traditional and digital camera use, as well as black-and-white printing techniques, digital processing and manipulation. You will also learn about good composition, lighting techniques and carry out research about the history of photography and its application in society. The skills you will develop will be many and varied. You will learn about a variety of   materials, practices and technologies that are used in different fields of the Arts. You will develop the ability to communicate ideas and express yourself using a specialist vocabulary. You will develop an appreciation of the historical role of art, craft and design in contemporary society. Finally, through a major project, you will have the opportunity to explore your own personal photographic interests.

Working in the Industry
If you want to work in the industry, you may need to specialise as a portrait, wedding, commercial, news, fashion or fine arts photographer. Portrait photographers take pictures of individuals or groups of people and often work in their own studios. Some specialise in weddings or in fashion and you may work on location. Commercial and industrial photographers take pictures of various subjects, such as buildings, products and landscapes. These photographs are used in a variety of media, including books, reports, advertisements, and magazines. Photojournalists take photos of newsworthy people, places, sports or politics and even community events and their images would be used for newspapers, journals, magazines or televisions.  

Southbank (10).jpg
Where this course might take me: 
You could progress to university where you can further develop your skills on photography so you can become free-lance or develop your own business.

Art, Design, Media and Multimedia Courses at THC

Print PagePrint PageSend to friendSend to friend

Our Courses:

At THC we have an exceptionally strong Creative Arts department.  We offer courses specialising in Art, Design, Media Studies, Multimedia, Film, Journalism, Photography, Creative Computing and Web Design.

Courses for over 19s: Courses for Under 19s: See also Computing and ICT for further digital courses
 

News and Student Success!

 

 

Play to view clips created by our students!

Gallery Sites:

THC Creative Arts on Facebook




Play this video by THC Student Tom Stewart studying Access to Motion Graphics »

 

 

AS/A Level Physics

Print PagePrint PageSend to friendSend to friend
Study Times: 
Part of Full Time Programme
Level: 
AS Level
Level 3 - Full A Level equivalent
Length of course: 
1 year AS Level, 2 years for full A Level
Venue: 
Poplar Centre
Age Group: 
16-19 Year Olds

Physics is a fantastic subject to study. Not only do you learn about how things work – from the tiny atom to the universe – but you also have the opportunity to develop a range of useful skills. These include problem-solving, lateral, analytical and creative thinking, as well as a good level of mathematical ability.

The first year of the A-level Physics course builds on material you have already covered at GCSE. You will be studying topics such as light, energy, electricity, forces and motion in greater depth. There are of course exciting new topics and applications such as the strange world of quantum physics to encounter. Alongside this you be learning what it is like to be a physicist by designing and carrying out experiments. The first year course (AS) is assessed through two written exams and practical assessments which are carried out in lessons.

In the second year of the course (A2) we cover medical physics; astronomy and the cosmos; force fields and energy; the physics of heat and research on the frontiers of physics. Medical physics involves looking at the use of x-rays and ultrasound in medicine as well as diagnostic methods used in hospitals whilst astrophysics covers the nature and evolution of the universe. There are plenty of experiments throughout the course and a practical assessment. There is an exam in January and another one at the end of the course.

There is a national shortage of physics and engineering graduates making them a highly sought-after group. If you are interested in science and good at Maths, this is an excellent A Level.

pillarsofcreation.jpg
Where this course might take me: 
You can progress from AS level to A2, then on to a wide range of university courses in Science, Maths, Medicine and Engineering. Physics is an important qualification for many careers including engineering, medical physics, research and development.

Business Studies at THC

Print PagePrint PageSend to friendSend to friend

If you’re aiming for a career in business, management, accounting or law,  then one of our courses will provide you with the practical, theoretical and professional knowledge you will need. You’ll be working in state-of-the-art facilities, with widely experienced staff. On our business courses you’ll also benefit from the expertise of invited speakers and mentors from The City and Canary Wharf. BTEC National Diploma Business and Finance students also have the opportunity to become part of the UK Career Academy, which offers work experience through a paid internship with a high profile business.

Tower Hamlets College has an arrangement, called a progression with Birkbeck, University of London. This means that Birkbeck offers a guaranteed entry to graduates of the Access to HE Diploma (Business and Accounting) from Tower Hamlets College onto their courses in Management and Accounting and have connections with your tutors to support you if you are interested in applying. Further information »

 

 Business at THC

Related Links:

 

 

Under 19s at THC

Print PagePrint PageSend to friendSend to friend

We offer a vast range of courses from BTECs and A Levels to short courses for 16-19 year olds at our sixth form centre along with excellent support and superb facilities enabling you to progress on to higher education or into employment.

Under 16s, please visit our page dedicated to 14-16 year olds »
 

Search our courses...

News about the new Bursary Scheme »

16-19 Mini Guide


Brand New Practical Courses for 16-19 year olds...

Practical CoursesWe also have a brand new range of practical courses designed to help get you into work.  more »

 

 

 



Technical Skills at THC


16-19 Course Guide


Alternative format

If you require a document in an alternative format, please contact the Marketing team marketing@tower.ac.uk

 

AS/A Level Psychology

Print PagePrint PageSend to friendSend to friend
Study Times: 
Part of Full Time Programme
Level: 
AS Level
Level 3 - Full A Level equivalent
Length of course: 
1 year AS Level, 2 years for full A Level
Venue: 
Poplar Centre
Age Group: 
16-19 Year Olds

The AS year is a general introduction to the subject and covers all the main approaches in modern psychology, including Cognitive Psychology (Memory), Physiological Psychology (Stress), Individual Differences (Abnormality), Social Psychology (Conformity and Obedience) and Developmental Psychology (Attachments) as well as how research in these areas is conducted. The course then allows for more detailed study of some of these main areas in second year.

In each of these key areas you will consider a range of theories, research examples and explanations, as well as developing critical and evaluative skills. You will be expected to take part in group discussions, carry out research and work collaboratively with other students. You must have good written skills as you will be assessed at the end of the AS year by two one-and-a-half hour exams.

There are numerous career options open to someone studying Psychology at degree level so it is best to seek advice from a member of the Psychology department before you make your choices. Careers can include Educational Psychology, Forensic Psychology, Counselling Psychology and Health Psychology. Some graduates also go on to do teacher-training courses or become Social Workers.

Where this course might take me: 
As an A level subject, Psychology goes well with Statistics, Law, English, Communication Studies, Sociology and Biology.

Computing and ICT Courses at THC

Print PagePrint PageSend to friendSend to friend

If you’re aiming for a career in computing or information communication technologies (ICT),  then one of our courses will provide you with the practical, theoretical and professional knowledge you will need. You’ll be working in state-of-the-art facilities, with widely experienced staff.

See also our Creative Courses page for further digital courses

 

 Computing and ICT at THC

Related Links:

 

 

AS/A Level Biology

Print PagePrint PageSend to friendSend to friend
Study Times: 
Part of Full Time Programme
Level: 
AS Level
Level 3 - Full A Level equivalent
Length of course: 
1 year AS Level, 2 year for full A Level
Venue: 
Poplar Centre
Age Group: 
16-19 Year Olds

Biology is a really interesting subject, especially at this time when scientists are making big advances in understanding how organisms work. Biology, molecular biology and genetics are dynamic areas of scientific growth. The pharmaceutical industry is hugely important to the UK economy.

Tower Hamlets College offers an innovative course in A level Biology. At AS level (year 1) you will study two units. In Unit 1 you will be studying the structure and function of cells, human physiology (heart and lungs) and disease; in Unit 2 you will look at the variety of life, genetics and physiology related to other organisms. You also study "How science works", which will prepare you for setting up experiments and collecting data, and will enhance your ability to analyse and evaluate and to write experiment reports.

At A2 level you will take Units 3 and 4, in which you will study the following topics: How populations and the environment affect each other; the control and co-ordination of cells and the body as a whole; Genetic controls and DNA Technology. You will continue to study "How science works" and look at how you can apply your scientific knowledge to these topics.  

As a part of your course you will take part in a field trip to collect and then analyse data. In Biology you will be expected to carry out a number of practical experiments and to write experiment reports competently. Biology is a demanding subject that requires good study skills. You will need to work independently at home, and to be able to read, analyse and write about scientific topics.

Pursuing a career in biology can be immensely rewarding and exciting. Studying biology teaches us to ask questions, make observations, evaluate evidence, and solve problems. Biologists learn how living things work, how they interact with one another, and how they evolve. They may study cells under a microscope, insects in a rainforest, viruses that affect human beings, plants in a greenhouse, or lions in the African grasslands. Their work increases our understanding about the natural world in which we live and helps us address issues of personal well being and worldwide concern, such as environmental depletion, threats to human health, and maintaining viable and abundant food supplies. Here's some more information on careers in the biological sciences.
 

hand.jpg
Where this course might take me: 
A level Biology allows you to progress to a very wide range of science and social science based degrees.

AS/A Level Religious Studies

Print PagePrint PageSend to friendSend to friend
Study Times: 
Part of Full Time Programme
Level: 
AS Level
Level 3 - Full A Level equivalent
Length of course: 
1 year AS Level, 2 years for full A Level
Venue: 
Poplar Centre
Age Group: 
16-19 Year Olds

Religious Studies gives you the chance to look at how we have come to understand ourselves and the world around us.

At AS level you are required to study two units. The first looks at Ethics. This allows you to explore issues such as Euthanasia, Abortion, philosophers such as Bentham and Mill and the Value and Nature of Human Life. The second unit will concentrate on a world religion. You will be studying Christianity and will focus on Trinity and Salvation, Christian scripture and Christian way of life. 

At A2 level you will look at Life, Death and Beyond. This will consist of studying life on earth, its relationship to a variety of religions alongside different rituals of death and what happens in the afterlife. You will also study Islam, Sharia Law, Role of Women and the Family and Islam in Contemporary Society.

You will develop good written, interpersonal and communication skills. You will develop critical and evaluative skills, take part in group presentations and carry out research. You will be assessed by sitting two exams in the first year and two in the second year.

Where this course might take me: 
You may progress to university where you could study Religion, Theology or a variety of Humanities related subjects. Religious Studies combines well with subjects such as English, Psychology, Sociology, Islamic Studies and History.