Geology
Wells Cathedral School - Somerset
01749834200
15 The Liberty, Wells, BA5 2ST
Course summary

Geology is a practical, broad based and multidisciplinary subject suiting pupils who are interested in the World around them. Practical tasks are undertaken on field trips and in the classroom/laboratory. Geology impacts on our everyday lives due to natural events, and also as consumers of the Earth’s dwindling resources. The mantra ‘if we can’t grow it we have got to dig it’ means that there is demand for geologists. Geology pupils need to be numerate, literate and computer literate and have experience of problem solving in a variety of related subject areas. 84 Wells pupils have gone to read geology at university in recent years.

Entry requirements

For Sixth Form entry, we will require predicted grades as well as actual grades in the summer, to ensure that our published entry requirements are met. Pupils will need satisfactory IGCSE or GCSE results in at least six subjects at grades 9-4 (A* to C ) and typically a minimum of grade 7 or 6 (A or B) in the chosen areas of Sixth Form study. Exceptions to this may be made for those following a Specialist Music course.

How you'll be assessed

Fundamentals of Geology F1 Elements, minerals and rocks F2 Surface and internal processes F3 Time and change F4 Earth structure and global tectonics Interpreting the Geological Record G1 Rock forming processes G2 Rock deformation G3 Past life and past climates G4 Earth materials and natural resources Geological Themes T1 Geohazards T2 Geological map applications T3 Quaternary geology Component 1: Geological Investigations Written & practical examination: 2 hours 15 minutes 35% of qualification Section A: Two stimulus response questions requiring short and structured answers. Section B: An investigation of the geology of an area shown on an accompanying simplified geological map, involving the interpretation of hand specimens and photographs of minerals, rocks and fossils map interpretation and cross-section construction the completion of questions using short, structured and extended answers. Component 2: Geological Principles and Processes Written examination: 1 hour 45 minutes 30% of qualification Component 3: Geological Applications Written examination of Geohazards, Quaternary Geology + BGS colour mapwork: 2 hours 35% of qualification Pupils will also assessed in their practical skills in field and lab work and will earn a certificate of scientific competence (called a Practical Endorsement) as part of the qualification.

School Info

About Education Provider

RegionSouth West
Local AuthoritySomerset
Ofsted Rating
Gender TypeCo-Educational
ISI ReportView Report
Boarding Fee£30,717 - £42,987
Sixth Form FeeDay £9,942 - £26,277
Address15 The Liberty, Wells, BA5 2ST