For students seeking a more demanding high school journey or an opportunity to accrue college credit, Prime School provides various advanced college-level programme choices. One of the latest options in this realm is the Cambridge AICE program, an international diploma programme established in collaboration with Cambridge University in England.

To achieve the Cambridge AICE Diploma, learners must achieve a minimum of seven credits (including Cambridge International AS Level Global Perspectives & Research) from subject groups 1, 2, and 3 (and optionally Group 4) to be awarded the Diploma. Learners must achieve at least one credit from each of Groups 1, 2 and 3. 

The remaining credits can come from any of the groups. A Cambridge International AS Level is awarded one credit, and a Cambridge International A Level is awarded two credits. 

Learners who pass the Cambridge International A Level in Global Perspectives & Research meet the compulsory requirement of the core group and also have one credit which may then be included in Group 4 to contribute to the overall requirement of seven credits. 

The following combinations of credits are valid for the Diploma:

When a learner’s best overall outcome is achieved through a combination of Cambridge International A Level Global Perspectives & Research and three Cambridge International A Levels, this will be allowed even though it equates to eight credits. The maximum number of points a learner can be awarded is 420.

Grade A* is awarded 140 points, however, the maximum number of Cambridge AICE Diploma points is capped at 420.

Learners who meet the requirements of the group award will receive a Cambridge AICE Diploma at one of three levels: Pass, Merit or Distinction. The level awarded is based on the overall Cambridge AICE Diploma score. 

Cambridge AICE Diploma with Distinction: awarded to students with a score of 360 points or above. The maximum Diploma score is 420 points.

Cambridge AICE Diploma with Merit: awarded to students with between 250 and 359 points. 

Cambridge AICE Diploma at Pass level: awarded to students with between 140 and 249 points. 

Learners who do not meet the requirements of the group award will receive certificates for their individual subjects.

The A-Level curriculum immerses students in a select few subjects, fostering profound expertise. A-Level education is the established route for admission to universities in the UK and worldwide.

A-levels are universally acclaimed as the benchmark qualification for prestigious universities in the globe. This programme is internationally acknowledged as a testament to academic rigour.

Cambridge International Advanced Subsidiary Levels (AS Levels) and Cambridge International Advanced Levels (A Levels) are subject-based qualifications usually taken in the final two years of high school.

Cambridge qualifications are recognised and valued by universities all around the world, including in the US, the UK, Australia, Canada, Germany and beyond. In places such as the United States and Canada, good grades in carefully chosen Cambridge International A Level subjects can result in up to one year of university course credit.

Over 880 universities in the US formally accept Cambridge International AS & A Levels, including all Ivy League and Ivy Plus universities. These universities include Brown, Harvard, MIT, Stanford and Yale. Many more US universities accept Cambridge qualifications on application. In the UK, all universities accept Cambridge qualifications.

Aims

The aims describe the purposes of a course based on this syllabus.

The aims are to enable students to:

• develop an inquisitive, creative approach to research and problem-solving

• develop the ability to record from first-hand observation, personal experience and other sources

• effectively communicate their personal response by improving technical skills in a range of processes and media

• develop independent expression by analysing, evaluating and applying concepts and techniques

• articulate ideas and responses to their work and the work of others using a relevant vocabulary

• develop a clear contextual framework that aids critical reflection of their work

• develop a critical understanding of important concepts and formal elements of art and design

• develop the skills needed to study art and design at higher education

Content overview

Cambridge International AS & A Level Art & Design encourages learners to explore a range of processes and techniques appropriate to their chosen area of study. The syllabus encourages personal responses that are based on knowledge and understanding and skills in art, craft and design. The four areas of study are listed below:

Fine art

Candidates may focus on one or combine several of the following:

• painting

• sculpture

• print making

• experimental – assemblage/construction.

• drawing

• photography

• mixed media

Graphic communication

Candidates may focus on one or combine several of the following:

• illustration

• packaging design

• advertising

• typography.

• print making

• branding

• signage

Three-dimensional design

Candidates may focus on one or combine several of the following:

• sculpture, ceramics

• interior and exterior architecture

• environmental design

• jewellery and fashion accessories.

• product design

• interior design

• set design

Textiles and fashion

Candidates may focus on one or combine several of the following:

• fashion design and/or illustration

• constructed textiles

• batik

• surface pattern.

• costume design

• screen printing

• digital-printed textiles

Aims

The aims describe the purposes of a course based on this syllabus.

The aims are to enable students to:

• enjoy the experience of studying English language

• develop a critical and informed response to texts in a range of forms, styles and contexts, produced for a

variety of audiences

• communicate effectively, creatively, accurately and appropriately in their writing

• develop the interdependent skills of reading, analysis and research

• develop an appreciation of concepts and techniques in the study of English language

• build a firm foundation for further study of language and linguistics.

Content overview

Cambridge International AS Level English Language provides learners with opportunities to make critical and

informed responses to a wide range of texts. Learners will also demonstrate their ability to produce writing to

specific briefs and for given audiences.

Cambridge International A Level English Language learners will also develop a strong foundation in the study

of linguistics, focusing on language change, child language acquisition, English in the world, and language and

the self.

Learners who follow the Cambridge International AS & A Level English Language syllabus will develop the

following skills and understanding:

• sustaining accurate, fluent and consistent writing

• producing informed responses appropriate to the specified form, style, context, and audiences

• conveying knowledge and understanding from both specific examples and wider studies.

These are highly transferable skills and may help learners in other subject areas, as well as equipping them for

higher education or employment

Aims

The aims describe the purposes of a course based on this syllabus.

The aims are to enable students to:

Develop critical understanding of international media through engagement with media products and concepts

Develop critical understanding of international media through engagement with the creative application of practical skills

Explore production processes, technologies and contexts

Develop independence in research skills and their application

Enjoy and appreciate the media and its role in their daily lives

Appreciate and engage with a variety of global and local media texts

Explore the impact of the media within a variety of cultures and how this influences social values.

Content overview

Skills and understanding common to all areas of study

• Media forms and media platforms.

• Case studies.

• The ability to apply practical skills creatively, the ability to analyse their own and published media products

critically, research and evaluation skills and information management and project management skills.

• Knowledge and understanding relating to the key concepts of Language, Representation, Industry and

Audience.

AS Level subject content

Candidates must study:

• Media texts

• Technical elements

• Media contexts

Candidates must study at least one media area specified below:

• Film

• Music

• Print

• Radio and podcasts

• Video games

A Level subject content

In addition to the above, candidates must study at least two of the following topics:

• Media regulation

• Postmodern media

• Power and the media

Candidates must also study:

• Media ecology

Aims

The aims describe the purposes of a course based on this syllabus.

The aims are to enable students to:

• develop their mathematical knowledge and skills in a way which encourages confidence and provides

satisfaction and enjoyment

• develop an understanding of mathematical principles and an appreciation of mathematics as a logical and

coherent subject

• acquire a range of mathematical skills, particularly those which will enable them to use applications of

mathematics in the context of everyday situations and of other subjects they may be studying

• develop the ability to analyse problems logically

• recognise when and how a situation may be represented mathematically, identify and interpret relevant factors

and select an appropriate mathematical method to solve the problem

• use mathematics as a means of communication with emphasis on the use of clear expression

• acquire the mathematical background necessary for further study in mathematics or related subjects.

Content overview

1 Pure Mathematics 1 Paper 

1 1.1 Quadratics

1.2 Functions

1.3 Coordinate geometry

1.4 Circular measure

1.5 Trigonometry

1.6 Series

1.7 Differentiation

1.8 Integration

2 Pure Mathematics 

2 Paper 2 

2.1 Algebra

2.2 Logarithmic and exponential functions

2.3 Trigonometry

2.4 Differentiation

2.5 Integration

2.6 Numerical solution of equations

3 Pure Mathematics 3 Paper 

3 3.1 Algebra

3.2 Logarithmic and exponential functions

3.3 Trigonometry

3.4 Differentiation

3.5 Integration

3.6 Numerical solution of equations

3.7 Vectors

3.8 Differential equations

3.9 Complex numbers

4 Mechanics Paper 4 

4.1 Forces and equilibrium

4.2 Kinematics of motion in a straight line

4.3 Momentum

4.4 Newton’s laws of motion

4.5 Energy, work and power

5 Probability & Statistics 1 Paper 5 

5.1 Representation of data

5.2 Permutations and combinations

5.3 Probability

5.4 Discrete random variables

5.5 The normal distribution

6 Probability & Statistics 2 Paper 6 

6.1 The Poisson distribution

6.2 Linear combinations of random variables

6.3 Continuous random variables

6.4 Sampling and estimation

6.5 Hypothesis tests

Structure

There are six Mathematics components available:

Pure Mathematics components:

Paper 1: Pure Mathematics 1

Paper 2: Pure Mathematics 2

Paper 3: Pure Mathematics 3

Mechanics components:

Paper 4: Mechanics

Probability & Statistics components:

Paper 5: Probability & Statistics 1

Paper 6: Probability & Statistics 2

Candidates take two components for AS Level Mathematics.

Candidates take four components for A Level Mathematics

Aims

The aims describe the purposes of a course based on this syllabus.

The aims are to enable students to:

• acquire knowledge and understanding and develop practical skills, including efficient, accurate and safe

scientific practices

• learn to apply the scientific method, while developing an awareness of the limitations of scientific theories

and models

• develop skills in data analysis, evaluation and drawing conclusions, cultivating attitudes relevant to science

such as objectivity, integrity, enquiry, initiative and inventiveness

• develop effective scientific communication skills, using appropriate terminology and scientific conventions

• understand their responsibility to others/society and to care for the environment

• enjoy science and develop an informed interest in the subject that may lead to further study

Content overview

Candidates for Cambridge International AS Level Physics study the following topics:

1 Physical quantities and units

2 Kinematics

3 Dynamics

4 Forces, density and pressure

5 Work, energy and power

6 Deformation of solids

7 Waves

8 Superposition

9 Electricity

10 D.C. circuits

11 Particle physics

AS Level candidates also study practical skills.

Candidates for Cambridge International A Level Physics study the AS Level topics and the following topics:

12 Motion in a circle

13 Gravitational fields

14 Temperature

15 Ideal gases

16 Thermodynamics

17 Oscillations

18 Electric fields

19 Capacitance

20 Magnetic fields

21 Alternating currents

22 Quantum physics

23 Nuclear physics

24 Medical physics

25 Astronomy and cosmology

A Level candidates also study practical skills.

Aims

The aims describe the purposes of a course based on this syllabus.

The aims are to enable students to:

• acquire knowledge and understanding and develop practical skills, including efficient, accurate and safe

scientific practices

• learn to apply the scientific method, while developing an awareness of the limitations of scientific theories

and models

• develop skills in data analysis, evaluation and drawing conclusions, cultivating attitudes relevant to science

such as objectivity, integrity, enquiry, initiative and inventiveness

• develop effective scientific communication skills, using appropriate terminology and scientific conventions

• understand their responsibility to others/society and to care for the environment

• enjoy science and develop an informed interest in the subject that may lead to further study.

Content overview

Candidates for Cambridge International AS Level Biology study the following topics:

1 Cell structure

2 Biological molecules

3 Enzymes

4 Cell membranes and transport

5 The mitotic cell cycle

6 Nucleic acids and protein synthesis

7 Transport in plants

8 Transport in mammals

9 Gas exchange

10 Infectious diseases

11 Immunity

AS Level candidates also study practical skills.

Candidates for Cambridge International A Level Biology study the AS topics and the following topics:

12 Energy and respiration

13 Photosynthesis

14 Homeostasis

15 Control and coordination

16 Inheritance

17 Selection and evolution

18 Classification, biodiversity and conservation

19 Genetic technology

A Level candidates also study practical skills.

Aims

The aims describe the purposes of a course based on this syllabus.

The aims are to enable students to:

• acquire knowledge and understanding and develop practical skills, including efficient, accurate and safe

scientific practices

• learn to apply the scientific method, while developing an awareness of the limitations of scientific theories

and models

• develop skills in data analysis, evaluation and drawing conclusions, cultivating attitudes relevant to science

such as objectivity, integrity, enquiry, initiative and inventiveness

• develop effective scientific communication skills, using appropriate terminology and scientific conventions

• understand their responsibility to others/society and to care for the environment

• enjoy science and develop an informed interest in the subject that may lead to further study.

Content overview

AS Level subject content

Candidates for Cambridge International AS Level Chemistry study the following topics:

Physical chemistry

1 Atomic structure

2 Atoms, molecules and stoichiometry

3 Chemical bonding

4 States of matter

5 Chemical energetics

6 Electrochemistry

7 Equilibria

8 Reaction kinetics

Inorganic chemistry

9 The Periodic Table: chemical periodicity

10 Group 2

11 Group 17

12 Nitrogen and sulfur

Organic chemistry

13 An introduction to AS Level organic chemistry

14 Hydrocarbons

15 Halogen compounds

16 Hydroxy compounds

17 Carbonyl compounds

18 Carboxylic acids and derivatives

19 Nitrogen compounds

20 Polymerisation

21 Organic synthesis

Analysis

22 Analytical techniques

AS Level candidates also study practical skills.

A Level subject content

Candidates for Cambridge International A Level Chemistry study the AS topics and the following topics:

Physical chemistry

23 Chemical energetics

24 Electrochemistry

25 Equilibria

26 Reaction kinetics

Inorganic chemistry

27 Group 2

28 Chemistry of transition elements

Organic chemistry

29 An introduction to A Level organic chemistry

30 Hydrocarbons

31 Halogen compounds

32 Hydroxy compounds

33 Carboxylic acids and derivatives

34 Nitrogen compounds

35 Polymerisation

36 Organic synthesis

Analysis

37 Analytical techniques

A Level candidates also study practical skills.

Aims

The aims describe the purposes of a course based on this syllabus.

The aims are to enable students to:

• understand and appreciate the role of enterprise and the contribution of business to society – locally, nationally

and internationally

• develop critical understanding of business organisations, the markets they serve and the process of adding

value

• evaluate business behaviour from the perspective of a range of stakeholders and consider their relative

influence on business organisations

• develop an awareness of the political, economic, social, technological, legal, environmental and ethical issues

that influence or may be influenced by business activity

• apply quantitative, problem-solving, decision-making and communication skills

• develop skills and knowledge needed for further study or employment in business

Content overview

Candidates for Cambridge International AS Level study the AS Level topics for Paper 1 and Paper 2.

Candidates for Cambridge International A Level study all topics.                                                                                                                         

Business and its environment

AS Level topics   

1.1 Enterprise                                                                                                                

1.2 Business structure

1.3 Size of business

1.4 Business objectives

1.5 Stakeholders in a business

A Level topics

6.1 External influences on business activity

6.2 Business strategy

Human resource management

AS Level topics   

2.1 Human resource management

2.2 Motivation

2.3 Management

A Level topics

7.1 Organisational structure

7.2 Business communication

7.3 Leadership

7.4 Human resource management

strategy

Marketing

AS Level topics  

3.1 The nature of marketing

3.2 Market research

3.3 The marketing mix

A Level topics

8.1 Marketing analysis

8.2 Marketing strategy

Operations management

AS Level topics  

4.1 The nature of operations

4.2 Inventory management

4.3 Capacity utilisation and

outsourcing

A Level topics

9.1 Location and scale

9.2 Quality management

9.3 Operations strategy

Finance and accounting

AS Level topics  

5.1 Business finance

5.2 Sources of finance

5.3 Forecasting and managing cash flows

5.4 Costs

5.5 Budgets

A Level topics

10.1 Financial statements

10.2 Analysis of published accounts

10.3 Investment appraisal

10.4 Finance and accounting strategy

Aims

The aims describe the purposes of a course based on this syllabus.

The aims are to enable students to develop:

• an interest in the past and an appreciation of human endeavour

• a greater knowledge and understanding of historical periods or themes

• a greater awareness of historical concepts such as cause and consequence, change and continuity,

similarity and difference, significance and interpretations

• an appreciation of the nature and diversity of historical sources available, and the methods used by

historians

• an exploration of a variety of approaches to different aspects of history and different interpretations of

particular historical issues

• the ability to think independently and make informed judgements on issues

• an empathy with people living in different places and at different times

• a firm foundation for further study of History.

Content overview

AS Level

For Papers 1 and 2 Candidates study one of the following options:

European option: Modern Europe, 1750–1921

• France, 1774–1814

• The Industrial Revolution in Britain, 1750–1850

• Liberalism and nationalism in Germany, 1815–71

• The Russian Revolution, 1894–1921

American option: The history of the USA, 1820–1941

• The origins of the Civil War, 1820–61

• Civil War and Reconstruction, 1861–77

• The Gilded Age and Progressive Era, 1870s to 1920

• The Great Crash, The Great Depression and the New Deal policies, 1920–41

International option: International history, 1870–1945

• Empire and the emergence of world powers, 1870–1919

• The League of Nations and international relations in the 1920s

• The League of Nations and international relations in the 1930s

• China and Japan, 1912–45

Note: AS Level topics rotate between papers 1 and 2 year-on-year. The prescribed topic for Paper 1 in any given year is not used for Paper 2. For more information, please refer to section 4.

A Level

Paper 3

• Topic 1: The origins of the First World War

• Topic 2: The Holocaust

• Topic 3: The origins and development of the Cold War

Paper 4

• European option, Depth study 1: European history in the interwar years, 1919–41

– Theme 1: Mussolini’s Italy, 1919–41

– Theme 2: Stalin’s Russia, 1924–41

– Theme 3: Hitler’s Germany, 1929–41

– Theme 4: Britain, 1919–39

• American option, Depth study 2: The USA, 1944–92

– Theme 1: The late 1940s and 1950s

– Theme 2: The 1960s and the 1970s

– Theme 3: The 1980s and early 1990s

– Theme 4: Foreign policy, 1944–92

Aims

The Cambridge International AS & A Level syllabus in Portuguese aims to:

• develop the ability to understand Portuguese in a variety of registers

• enable students to communicate confidently and clearly in Portuguese

• form a sound base of skills, language and attitudes required for further study, work and leisure

• develop insights into the culture and civilisation of the countries where Portuguese is spoken, including the study of literary texts where appropriate (this does not apply to AS Language qualifications)

• encourage positive attitudes to language learning and a sympathetic approach to other cultures and civilisations

• support intellectual and personal development by promoting learning and social skills.

This syllabus gives you the flexibility to design a course that will interest, challenge and engage your learners.

Where appropriate you are responsible for selecting resources and examples to support our learners’ study. These should be appropriate for the learners’ age, cultural background and learning context as well as complying with your school policies and local legal requirements.

All textual material used in the examinations will be drawn from the topic areas below, with reference to the country or countries where Portuguese is spoken. 

AS Level

Content overview

The subject content is organised into six topic areas at A Level. These provide contexts for the acquisition of vocabulary and the study of grammar and structures. The study of these topic areas enables students to progress from the knowledge and skills developed at IGCSE or at AS Level. The topic areas listed below are described in more detail :

• Culture

• Health and well-being

• Education and future plans

• Community and society

• Our responsibility for the planet

• Science and technology

A-Levels

Set texts for examination in 2025

Section 1

1 O Moleque Ricardo, José Lins do Rego

2 A Rainha Ginga, José Eduardo Agualusa

3 As três vidas, João Tordo

Section 2

1 O Auto da Compadecida, Ariano Suassuna

2 Equador, Miguel Sousa Tavares

3 Luanda, Lisboa, Paraíso, Djamilia Pereira de Almeida

Aims

The aims describe the purposes of a course based on this syllabus.

The aims are to:

• develop the language proficiency required to communicate effectively in Spanish at B2 and C1

(Independent/Proficient User) level

• explore, appreciate and engage with the culture, society and literature of countries and communities where

Spanish is spoken

• provide enjoyment, intellectual stimulation and curiosity to learn more

• develop intercultural awareness, encouraging a positive, open and empathetic approach to other languages

and cultures

• continue developing the skills, language and attitudes required for higher education, work and leisure

• develop an awareness of the student’s own personal learning style and the opportunities for learning

independently

• further develop transferrable skills (e.g. communication and organisational skills, autonomy,

resourcefulness, cognitive and cultural flexibility) to complement other areas of the curriculum, prepare for

higher level studies and gain valuable life skills

Content overview

AS Level

The subject content is organised into six topic areas at A Level. These provide contexts for the acquisition

of vocabulary and the study of grammar and structures. The study of these topic areas enables students to

progress from the knowledge and skills developed at IGCSE or at AS Level. The topic areas listed below are

described in more detail in section 3.

• Culture

• Health and well-being

• Education and future plans

• Community and society

• Our responsibility for the planet

• Science and technology

A Level

Set texts for examination in 2025

Section A

Federico García Lorca, La casa de Bernarda Alba

Eds. Patricia García, Fantastic short stories by women authors from Spain and Latin

Teresa López-Pellisa, America

Carmen Laforet, Nada

Section B

Gabriel García Márquez, El coronel no tiene quien le escriba

Carmen Conde, Mientras los hombres mueren

Laura Esquivel, Como agua para chocolate

Aims

The aims describe the purposes of a course based on this syllabus.

The aims are to:

• develop the language proficiency required to communicate effectively in Chinese at B2 and C1

(Independent/Proficient User) level

• explore, appreciate and engage with the culture, society and literature of countries and communities where

Chinese is spoken

• provide enjoyment, intellectual stimulation and curiosity to learn more

• develop intercultural awareness, encouraging a positive, open and empathetic approach to other languages

and cultures

• continue developing the skills, language and attitudes required for higher education, work and leisure

• develop an awareness of the student’s own personal learning style and the opportunities for learning

independently

• further develop transferrable skills (e.g. communication and organisational skills, autonomy,

resourcefulness, cognitive and cultural flexibility) to complement other areas of the curriculum, prepare for

higher level studies and gain valuable life skills.

Content overview

AS Level

The subject content is organised into six topic areas at A Level. These provide contexts for the acquisition

of vocabulary and the study of grammar and structures. The study of these topic areas enables students to

progress from the knowledge and skills developed at IGCSE or at AS Level. The topic areas listed below are

described in more detail in section 3.

• Culture

• Health and well-being

• Education and future plans

• Community and society

• Our responsibility for the planet

• Science and technology

Set texts for examination in 2025

Section A

《顾城诗选》顾城

The following poems are to be studied:

《远和近》/《一代人》/《感觉》/《弧线》/《案件》/《生命幻想曲》/《摄》/《我是一座小城》/《自信》/

《我们去寻找一盏灯》/《简历》/《不是再见》/《回家》/《我是一个任性的孩子》

《龙须沟》老舍

《台北人》白先勇

The following stories are to be studied:

《永远的尹雪艳》/《冬夜》/《游园惊梦》

Section B

《我城》西西

《没有纽扣的红衬衫》铁凝

《围城》钱钟书

Aims

The aims describe the purposes of a course based on this syllabus.

The aims are to:

• develop the language proficiency required to communicate effectively in French at B2 and C1

(Independent/Proficient User) level

• explore, appreciate and engage with the culture, society and literature of countries and communities where

French is spoken

• provide enjoyment, intellectual stimulation and curiosity to learn more

• develop intercultural awareness, encouraging a positive, open and empathetic approach to other languages

and cultures

• continue developing the skills, language and attitudes required for higher education, work and leisure

• develop an awareness of the student’s own personal learning style and the opportunities for learning

independently

• further develop transferable skills (e.g. communication and organisational skills, autonomy, resourcefulness, cognitive and cultural flexibility) to complement other areas of the curriculum, prepare for higher level studies and gain valuable life skills

Content overview

AS LEVEL

The subject content is organised into six topic areas at A Level. These provide contexts for the acquisition

of vocabulary and the study of grammar and structures. The study of these topic areas enables students to

progress from the knowledge and skills developed at IGCSE or at AS Level. The topic areas listed below are

described in more detail in section 3.

• Culture

• Health and well-being

• Education and future plans

• Community and society

• Our responsibility for the planet

• Science and technology

Set texts for examination in 2025

A LEVEL

Section A

Jean Racine, Britannicus

George Sand, Indiana

Molière, Le Misanthrope

Section B

Gaël Faye, Petit Pays

Fatou Diome, Le Ventre de l’Atlantique

Romain Gary, La Promesse de l’aube

Aims

The aims describe the purposes of a course based on this syllabus.

The aims are to enable students to:

• develop awareness of the world of digital media and design and understand influencing factors and

contexts

• develop creative processes and understand that design is an iterative process

• research and evaluate information relevant to their studies

• reflect requirements and feedback from specific audiences and clients in developing their work

• use digital media creatively as a way of expressing meaning

• use knowledge, understanding and creativity to innovate using appropriate software, equipment,

technology and practices

• develop the skills needed for the study of digital media and design in higher education

• prepare for working in a collaborative industry

Content overview

Cambridge International AS & A Level Digital Media & Design is for candidates who want to explore a range of

processes and techniques in digital media.

The subject content allows space for teaching and learning to be creative. It is grouped into three broad areas

of study:

• Digital photography
• Moving image
• Mobile and multimedia applications.

You do not have to cover all three areas of study to deliver this qualification. You can structure a course around a single area of study or you can create a course which includes a combination of two or three areas of study.

The choice of content will depend on the interests of teachers and candidates as well as the resources and expertise available at the school.

Candidates can complete the assessment components in any of the areas of study.

Assessment at Cambridge International A Level has two purposes:

• To measure learning and achievement. The assessment confirms achievement and performance in relation to the knowledge, understanding and skills specified in the syllabus, to the levels described in the grade descriptions.
• To show likely future success . The outcomes help predict which students are well prepared for a particular course or career and/or which students are more likely to be successful. The outcomes help students choose the most suitable course or career.

Assessment at Cambridge International AS Level has two purposes:

• To measure learning and achievement. The assessment confirms achievement and performance in relation to the knowledge, understanding and skills specified in the syllabus.
• To show likely future success. The outcomes help predict which students are well prepared for a particular course or career and/or which students are more likely to be successful. The outcomes help students choose the most suitable course or career. The outcomes help decide whether students part way through a Cambridge International A Level course are making enough progress to continue. The outcomes guide teaching and learning in the next stages of the Cambridge International A Level
  

        course

Aims 

The aims describe the purposes of a course based on this syllabus. The aims of this course are to enable students to develop: 

• Computational thinking skills  
• an understanding of the main principles of solving problems using computers  
• an understanding of the component parts of computer systems and how they interrelate, including software, data, hardware, communication and people  
• an understanding of the different methods of communication and the functionality of networks and the internet 
• the skills necessary to apply this understanding to develop computer based solutions to problems

Content overview

AS Level content

1 Information representation 

• 1.1 Data Representation
• 1.2 Multimedia – Graphics, Sound
• 1.3 Compression

2 Communication 

• 2.1 Networks including the internet

3 Hardware

• 3.1 Computers and their components
• 3.2 Logic Gates and Logic Circuits

4 Processor Fundamentals 

• 4.1 Central Processing Unit (CPU) Architecture
• 4.2 Assembly Language
• 4.3 Bit manipulation

5 System Software 

• 5.1 Operating Systems
• 5.2 Language Translators

6 Security, privacy and data integrity

•  6.1 Data Security
• 6.2 Data Integrity

7 Ethics and Ownership 

• 7.1 Ethics and Ownership

8 Databases 

• 8.1 Database Concepts
• 8.2 Database Management Systems (DBMS)
• 8.3 Data Definition Language (DDL) and Data Manipulation Language (DML)

9 Algorithm Design and Problem-solving 

• 9.1 Computational Thinking Skills
• 9.2 Algorithms

10 Data Types and Structures 

• 10.1 Data Types and Records
• 10.2 Arrays
• 10.3 Files
• 10.4 Introduction to Abstract Data Types (ADT)

11 Programming 

• 11.1 Programming Basics
• 11.2 Constructs

• 11.3 Structured Programming

12 Software Development 

• 12.1 Program Development Life cycle 
•  12.2 Program Design 
•  12.3 Program Testing and Maintenance

A Level content 

13 Data Representation 

• 13.1 User-defined data types 
•  13.2 File organisation and access 
•  13.3 Floating-point numbers, representation and manipulation 

14 Communication and internet 

• 14.1 Protocols technologies 
• 14.2 Circuit switching, packet switching 

15 Hardware and Virtual Machines 

• 15.1 Processors, Parallel Processing and Virtual Machines 
•  15.2 Boolean Algebra and Logic Circuits 

16 System Software 

• 16.1 Purposes of an Operating System (OS) 
•  16.2 Translation Software 

17 Security 

• 17.1 Encryption, Encryption Protocols and Digital certificates 

18 Artificial Intelligence (AI) 

• 18.1 Artificial Intelligence 

19 Computational thinking 

• 19.1 Algorithms Problem-solving 
• 19.2 Recursion 

20 Further Programming 

• 20.1 Programming Paradigms 
•  20.2 File Processing and Exception Handling
  

Aims 

The aims describe the purposes of a course based on this syllabus. 

The aims are to enable students to: 

•  Acknowledge and understand the diversity of perspectives on global issues 
•  Develop the ability to evaluate claims and evidence 
• Make independent judgements supported by reasoning and evidence, and understand the importance of justifying their own opinions 
• Become effective researchers, using appropriate sources to support judgements and understanding of research processes 
• Develop their ability to reflect on their own learning and judgements and on their work with others 
• develop a range of effective written and spoken communication skills. 

Skills overview 

Cambridge International AS & A Level Global Perspectives & Research develops learners’ thinking skills of analysis, evaluation and synthesis through considering a range of global topics. 

• Learners will develop skills of independent enquiry and learn about appropriate research methods and methodology. 
• Learners will be encouraged to develop research, reasoning and communication skills systematically, using an approach called the Critical Path. This approach helps them to interrogate information, explore different perspectives and communicate personal reflections. 
• Learners are encouraged to work both independently and collaboratively, with respect for and understanding of different cultures and perspectives. This is a skills-based subject and schools can make their own selection of global topics to study. Learners can draw upon knowledge and understanding gained from studying other subjects. 
• Learners will develop skills that are interdisciplinary and highly transferable to other subjects.

"Cambridge International AS & A Levels prepare students well for university because they’ve learnt to go into a subject in considerable depth. There’s that ability to really understand the depth and richness and the detail of a subject. It’s a wonderful preparation for what they are going to face at university."

US Higher Education Advisory Council

Size and structure

  1080 GLH (1390 TQT) Equivalent in size to three A Levels. 14 units of which 10 are mandatory and 6 are external. Mandatory content (78%). External assessment (42%)

  This is intended as an Applied General qualification, equivalent in size to three A Levels. It is a two-year, full-time course that meets entry requirements in its own right for learners who want to progress to higher education courses in sport before entering employment

Mandatory units 

1 Health, Wellbeing and Sport	90
2 Careers in the Sport and Active Leisure Industry	90
3 Research Project in Sport	120
4 Ethics, Behaviours and Values	60
5 Self-employment in Sport and Physical Activity	60
11 Business in Sport	60
12 Sports Tourism	60
14 Marketing Communications	60
23 Talent Identification and Development in Sports	30
24 Applied Sports Anatomy and Physiology	90

Optional units

27 Sports Psychology	60
28 Fitness Testing	60
29 Technical and Tactical Skills in Sport	60
30 Organising Events in Sport and Physical Activities	60
31 Influence of Technology in Sport and Physical Activity	60
32 Sports Performance Analysis	60

   Alternatively, students can opt to complete one A-Level instead of the optional units.

Size and structure 

1080 GLH (1440 TQT) Equivalent in size to three A Levels. 13 units of which 8 are mandatory and 2 are external. 

This qualification is designed as a fulltime course to support learners who want to study travel and tourism as the main focus of a two-year, full-time study programme. The qualification would support progression to higher education in its own right.

Mandatory units  

• The World of Travel and Tourism 
• Principles of Marketing in Travel and Tourism 
• Managing the Customer Experience in Travel and Tourism 
• Travel and Tourism Enterprises 
• Researching Current Travel Trends and Key Issues in Travel and Tourism 
• Managing Accommodation Services 
• The UK as a Tourist Destination
  

Optional units

• Specialist Tourism 
• Sustainable Tourism 
• The Airport Experience 
• Work Experience in Travel and Tourism 
• The Cruise Industry 
• Recruitment and Selection in Travel and Tourism  
  

1080 GLH (1530 TQT) Equivalent in size to three A Levels. 13 units of which 8 are Mandatory and 4 are external. Mandatory content (72%). External assessment (42%).

This qualification has been designed to be the only qualification in a two-year, full-time study programme; it is an in-depth study of the health and social care sector.

This is an Extended Diploma pathway specifically for those learners who wish to progress to a health-related degree.

Mandatory units:

• Human Lifespan Development 
• Working in Health and Social Care 
• Anatomy and Physiology for Health and Social Care
• Meeting Individual Care and Support Needs
• Work Experience in Health and Social Care
• Principles of Safe Practice in Health and Social Care
• Promoting Public Health 

Optional Units:

• Infection Prevention and Control 
• Psychological Perspectives 
• Physiological Disorders and their Care 
• Caring for Individuals with Dementia 
• Nutritional Health 
• Understanding Mental Wellbeing 
• Biochemistry for Health
  

1080 GLH (1435 TQT) Equivalent in size to three A Levels. 15 units of which 10 are mandatory and 5 are external.

Mandatory Units

Information Technology Systems – Strategy, Management and Infrastructure	120
Website Development	60
Creating Systems to Manage Information	90
Programming	90
Mobile Apps Development	60
Digital 2D and 3D Graphics	60
The Internet of Things	60
Introduction to Robotics and Automation	60
Cloud Storage and Collaboration Tools	60
Customizing and Integrating Applications	60

• Optional Units

Cyber Security and Incident Management	120
Computer Games Development	60
Digital Animation and Effects	60
Introduction to Artificial Intelligence (AI)	60
Business Process Modelling Tools	60

Alternatively, students can opt to complete one A-Level instead of the optional units.

1080 GLH Equivalent in size to three International A Levels. This qualification is designed as a full-time course to support learners who want to study creative-based qualifications as the main focus of a two-year, full-time study programme. The qualification would support progression to higher education in its own right.

1080 GLH Equivalent in size to three International A Levels. This qualification is designed as a full-time course to support learners who want to study art and design-based qualifications as the main focus of a two-year, full-time study programme. The qualification would support progression to higher education in its own right.