THC Courses
AS/A Level Maths: Further Maths
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.
Vocational Courses
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THC is a leading supplier of vocational courses in the East End of London.
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. |
New Practical Courses for 16-19 Year olds:
Our vocational courses are listed alphabetically below or you can search by Subject.
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- Entry Level
- Full Time
- Level 1 - Foundation equivalent
- Part Time
- Level 2 - GCSE level equivalent
- Level 2.5 - Advanced Certificate
- AS Level
- Level 3 - Full A Level equivalent
- Level 4 and above - University Level
- 16-19 Year Olds
- Daytime
- Evening
- Non-accredited
- Over 19 - Adult
- Vocational Courses
- Work Related Learning
AS/A Level Maths: Statistics
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.
Art, Design, Media and Multimedia Courses at THC
- Entry Level
- Full Time
- Level 1 - Foundation equivalent
- Part Time
- Level 2 - GCSE level equivalent
- Part of Full Time Programme
- AS Level
- Level 3 - Full A Level equivalent
- Level 4 and above - University Level
- 16-19 Year Olds
- Courses for Employers and Employees
- Courses for Job Seekers
- Daytime
- Evening
- Over 19 - Adult
- Professional Development Courses
- Vocational Courses
AS/A Level Photography
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.
Business Studies at THC
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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 »
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AS/A Level Physics
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.
Computing and ICT Courses at THC
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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.
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Under 19s at THC
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AS/A Level Psychology
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.
Maths at THC
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Maths is a key subject which we all need to master in order to function in our complex society. At Tower Hamlets College we offer a full range of maths courses, from Functional Skills in Maths at entry level, level 1 and level 2, GCSE Maths for 16-19 year olds with separate classes for adults, to a suite of AS/A2 courses in Mathematics, Further Mathematics, Statistics and Use of Mathematics. You won't find this range of courses in many other schools or colleges! The Maths Department was rated Outstanding by Ofsted in 2005. Our teachers are well qualified maths specialists, who have been at the forefront of developments in Maths education. We have excellent resources and rooms, and we offer workshops where you can do your homework or get extra help. We run an acclaimed Peer Tutoring scheme in which our stronger students give one-one support to weaker students. We also encourage university students to come and help in our classes and workshops. The Maths Department is committed to supporting and encouraging you to achieve your best! And a little interactive game to help you decide » See also our section on Numeracy »
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AS/A Level Biology
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.
AS/A Level Religious Studies
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.
AS/A Level Performing Arts
A-level Performing Arts is for those seeking a career in drama, music or performance production. It is also suitable for students who wish to develop their confidence, communication, team work and problem-solving skills.
You will develop the practical knowledge and skills that take account of the industry’s needs whilst at the same time learning about placing performing art in a socio-historic context. The course covers units such as:
- exploring skills for performance,
- planning for an event and performing to a commission
An emphasis is placed on the importance of team work when responding to briefs. You will have the chance to work as a member of a production tea m an d create your own piece of theatre beginning with the development of a script in response to a ‘live’ brief through to the finished production complete with audience.

The course will include off-site visits to theatres in order to explore what goes on behind the scenes in relation to sound, lighting, stage management as well as learning how to analyse and evaluate performance. You will also get to meet a broad range of professionals who work in the industry both behind the scenes and front of house.
The briefs you will be given will give you an into what it is like working in the performing arts industry and give you a chance to explore working methods linked to industry practice, contextual Studies will develop your understanding of how social, historical and cultural activities have influenced the historical development of performing arts,
Performing Arts A level compliments A levels in English Literature, History, Politics, Art, Business, Sociology, Psychology, Film Studies, Communication & Culture, Media Studies, Mathematics and Photography.
AS/A Level Chemistry
Chemistry is an interesting and valuable subject. It's the study of substances, what they are made of, how they interact and what role they play in living things. In fact it is the study of all materials and is vital to every aspect of your life. From the moment you are born you are surrounded by chemistry - in the air you breathe, the food you eat and the clothes you wear.
Chemistry and the chemical sciences open up a world of possibilities. No matter how the world changes in the 21st century, Chemistry will always be at the centre of science and at the heart of life. Training in Chemistry or the chemical sciences gives you the skills needed for a wide range of careers. Here are some examples of jobs in Chemistry.
Chemistry plays an important part in all of the other natural sciences, basic and applied. Plant growth and metabolism, the formation of igneous rocks, the role played by ozone in the atmosphere, the degradation of environmental pollutants, the properties of lunar soil, the medical action of drugs, establishment of forensic evidence: none of these can be understood without the knowledge and perspective provided by chemistry. Indeed, many people study chemistry so that they can apply it to their own particular field of interest. Of course, chemistry itself is the field of interest for many people, too. Many study chemistry not to apply it to another field, but simply to learn more about the physical world and the behaviour of matter from a chemical viewpoint. Here is some more information...
At Tower Hamlets College we can offer you specialist teachers of Chemistry, and new, well-equipped labs for practical work. The Chemistry team has a strong record of success, and many of our students go on to top universities to study sciences.
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