Edexcel – Trinity’s Next Step Forward
Start your Australian Foundation pathway at UTS Sri Lanka
For nearly 150 years now, Trinity College has been one of the foremost and celebrated schools in not only the Kandy district but the island as a whole, and in almost all interschool competitions that have happened in Sri Lankan history, you can be certain to find at least one student representing our name. For years, Trinity College has been considered one of the most modern schools in the island as well, quick to adapt various new educational practices, and in 2019, Trinity set their eyes on joining the set of very few schools in the nation to support both the local Advanced Level examinations and the Edexcel International Advanced Level examination. Ultimately, our first batch of Edexcel students proved to be a grand success, showing a passing rate of 94.3% in the October 2020 examinations.
What exactly is ‘Edexcel’?
Founded in 1996 by Pearson PLC, the Edexcel International Advanced Level (IAL) has evolved into an internationally respected and highly esteemed examination board with thousands of students under its wing. Currently, the Edexcel programme being carried out here in Trinity College allows a combination of any 3 or 4 subjects from the following: accounting, biology, business studies, chemistry, economics, English literature, further mathematics & mathematics, information technology, physics, and psychology.
In the IAL curriculum, all students do not sit for one exam that takes place at the end of the year, but instead their chosen subjects are split into separate ‘units’ and each unit has a different exam, which can be taken during a period of 2 years, starting from when they commenced the programme. Additionally, the number of exams that take place for each subject varies: mathematics and science subjects consist of 3 units in a year, English literature, business studies, information technology, economics, and psychology consist of 2 units in a year, and accounting consists of 1 unit in a year.
If required, a unit’s examination can be retaken, and there is no obligation to redo the entire subject; the examinations themselves occur every January, June, and October.
The 2 years that the student will be studying during is divided into 2 components: the first year is named ‘Advanced Subsidiary Level’ or AS, and the second year is simply named ‘Advanced Level’ or A2.
Why Choose Edexcel?
As time passes it is becoming more and more apparent that the local Advanced Levels simply cannot compete with Edexcel in essentially any field. First and foremost, the local A/Ls have one central problem a majority of the island have identified; they are far too outdated, not only in terms of syllabus, but also in terms of how that syllabus is digested, relying almost solely on rote-learning/memorisation instead of the genuine intelligence and skill of the student. Meanwhile IALs have a much more modernised syllabus, recognised by hundreds of universities both national and international. Moreover, a more modernized mode of teaching, including a balanced combination of both memorisation and an encouragement of self-learning, is implemented to ensure the student receives an appropriate comprehension of the material.
But by far the greatest advantage of IAL would be the ability to choose multiple subjects from different streams, a much-needed and helpful option the local A/Ls have been notorious for lacking, having caused many of its students to be forced to abandon a subject they favour and/or study a subject they despise. Additionally, the IAL allows the student to choose 4 subjects if they desire it, opening up more gates and choices for higher education.
Why Edexcel in Trinity in Particular?
Excluding the gorgeous scenery of the school, embedded with open spaces of greenery and outdoor walkways, the dozens of highly esteemed and internationally acknowledged clubs and societies, some having been founded over 100 years ago, the abundance of facilities for self-development and training, the legendary sports section, the well-experienced teachers, etc, Trinity College offers an assortment of benefits regarding the IAL.
Not only does Trinity College support IAL, we also have a time-honoured and deep-rooted local A/Ls section, which permits Trinitians a choice where both options will lead to a high-quality education that most other Sri Lankan schools just cannot offer.
The foremost schools of Colombo such as Ladies’ College, where around 40% of the students follow it, and we believe Trinity College is the prime candidate for receiving that height of education and opportunities here in Kandy.
And even for those outside of Kandy, Trinity College has recently finished renovating the Allison House, one of the oldest boarding houses in our history. The newly renovated building was fitted with polished wooden flooring, fresh windows, modern ceiling lights, etc, and generally furnished with a brand-new aesthetic of modernism, and is eager to begin housing upper school students again. Therefore, whether you’re from Jaffna or Galle or anywhere in between, Trinity is an accessible option.
Moreover, Trinity offers a more competitive environment than most international schools do, and presents the student a chance to compete and grow both academically and personally.
In Conclusion
The current Sri Lankan world of education is tense and choking with lack of opportunities, lack of facilities, inconveniences, and so forth, and during such a time, Trinity College offers a comparatively more relaxed and flexible education, especially in its Edexcel International Advanced Level section. - Dulina Herath
Last December, Education Minister, Professor G.L Peiris announced that the 2020 Ordinary Level Examination would be postponed due to the disruptions caused by COVID-19. This means a total of 621,000 candidates are due to sit the exam this month, with results not due for release until June.1 While this might seem like a setback, the good news is that students looking for a study pathway to Australia do not need to delay their plans. Students with pending O-Level results can use their grade point average to enrol in UTS Foundation Studies at UTS Sri Lanka.
Highly regarded qualification
This highly regarded qualification opens the door to an impressive range of undergraduate programmes at the University of Technology Sydney ( UTS), Australia’s number one young university. Designed in collaboration with UTS, the course has been devised to meet the needs of international students. It builds skills in areas such as mathematics, society and culture, and many key academic areas. Contemporary subjects like International Perspectives, Science, Technology and Society, and Introduction to Creative
Thinking are also included, nurturing a 21st Century mindset. On completion, students have many options available. Some choose to move on to a degree programme at UTS in Australia. Others follow Foundation Studies with diploma courses in Business, Engineering or IT at UTS Sri Lanka, before completing their degrees in Sydney.
Access to a range of popular UTS degrees
UTS Foundation studies has a strong track record in giving students the knowledge, skills and confidence they need for academic success, while introducing them to the UTS model of teaching and learning. Graduates are eligible to enter UTS undergraduate programmes in such diverse areas as Analytics and Data Science, Business, Communication, Design Architecture and Building, Education, Engineering, Health, I n f o r mat i o n Te c h n o l o g y, International Studies, Law, Nursing, Science and Mathematics, and Transdisciplinary Innovation.
Degree pathways at UTS Sri Lanka
Foundation Studies graduates are also eligible for the quality degree pathways ( diplomas) on offer at UTS Sri Lanka. These are designed in collaboration with UTS, which means the educational outcomes are the same as for firstyear undergraduate students at
UTS. On successful completion of a diploma in Engineering, Business, or Information Technology, students are guaranteed* entry to the corresponding UTS degree. In many cases, students can move directly to the second year of their degree.
From the heart of Colombo to the heart of Sydney
UTS Sri Lanka’s new, purposebuilt campus provides the same features as UTS College in Sydney. UTS Foundation students enjoy the benefits of a world- class university from the beginning of their study pathway. These include well- appointed teaching spaces, state- of- the- art engineering and computer labs, communal student learning spaces designed for effective collaboration and group work, first rate library facilities and more. The teaching model focuses on life- long learning skills, enabling students to adapt to challenges and opportunities not just for today, but well into their careers.
No reason to put study plans on hold
Ms Alison Hiscox, Principal of UTS Sri Lanka, says, “The delays caused by COVID-19 are no reason for Sri Lankan students to put their education plans on hold. We encourage students with pending O-Levels take the next step in their education journey by enrolling in UTS Foundation Studies. It’s a unique and supportive pathway for students who wish to continue their studies at the University of Technology Sydney. They will build the skills and confidence to realise their potential as independent learners as they prepare to thrive at university.”
Enrolments now open
UTS Sri Lanka has already opened enrolments for the March intake, and there are advantages for those who make an early start. Early birds are entitled to a guaranteed 25 percent scholarship and a registration fee waiver. UTS Sri Lanka also offers academic merit scholarships up to 100 percent. These include the Sri Lanka to Sydney Scholarship for academically gifted students who want to transfer from UTS Sri Lanka to UTS.
To find out more about UTS Foundation Studies, the range of courses available at UTS Sri Lanka, and how to take advantage of scholarship opportunities, visit utscollege. edu. lk/ experience or call 0774 775 774. About UTS
UTS is a dynamic and innovative university, ranked as Australia’s top young university, and 133rd in the world in the QS World University Rankings 2021, reflecting its strength in employability, research, teaching, and internationalisation.
UTS Sri Lanka prepares students for entry to all UTS undergraduate courses though the UTS Foundation Studies Programme and offers a Diploma of Business, a Diploma of Engineering and a Diploma of IT. When students complete their first year at UTS Sri Lanka, they are ready to complete their UTS degree in Sydney. After successful completion of a diploma, students can often fast-track to the second year of the corresponding degree. *
* Subject to successful completion of a diploma with no more than 2 subject fails and depending on course chosen.
Sri Lankan Medical Council ( SLMC) recognized and ranked 1 state medical university in Eurasia. The University’s Sri Lankan Representative and Assistant General Manager of ANC Education Dr. Harry Prasad talks to Sunday Times about the University, Country and the Medical degree program.
TELL US ABOUT YEREVAN STATE MEDICAL UNIVERSITY
Yerevan State Medical University ( YSMU) is the Soviet Union’s first medical university, the largest and ranked 1 medical university in Armenia. Located in the capital Yerevan, The University has had 31,000 graduates till date and is equipped with 15 teaching hospitals. At present, YSMU hosts approximately 2500 International students from 40 countries including the newly joined 100 Sri Lankan students.
There are about 8,000 students in 6 faculties. It is considered to be the best university to study medicine globally. University has about 1,100 lectures out of which, 171 are well qualified Doctors of Science, 504 are candidates of Sciences, 7 Academicians who perform scientific and pedagogical works at the university. YSMU is established in 1920 and celebrated its 100 years of excellence last year.
YSMU is indeed a great university with highly talented professors who render their service to students by using the modern technology.
ARMENIA IS KNOWN FOR THE LOWEST CRIME RATE AND IS ONE OF THE SAFEST COUNTRIES IN EURASIA. COULD YOU LET US KNOW MORE ABOUT THIS COUNTRY?
Yes. Armenia is one of the best countries when it comes to affordable and quality education. The country holds a population of only 3 million with major languages spoken is Armenian, English and Russian.
A country that has so much to offer – Asian monastery, great cuisines and beautiful nature and all of this for a fraction of price in a similar vacation in Europe. The breathtaking landscapes and high mountains are just few attractions in the country with a very old heritage and picturesque scenery.
Armenia has witnessed a remarkable development in the field of education, especially medical stream. The medical degrees awarded by the Armenian universities are globally recognized.
WHY DO YOU THINK A STUDENT SHOULD CHOOSE YEREVAN STATE MEDICAL UNIVERSITY (YSMU)?
YSMU is recognized by the Sri Lanka Medical council ( SLMC), World Health O r g a n i s at i o n ( W H O ) , Australian Medical Council ( AMC - Australia), General Medical council ( GMC - UK) and Educational Commission f or Fo r e i g n M e d i c a l Graduates (ECFMG - USA). Notably, YSMU is the first university to provide the ERPM – Act 16 ( Sri Lanka), AMC (Australia), PLAB (UK), USMLE (USA) Licensing Examinations training to help the International Students. “Low tuition Fee” of Rs. 500,000 per semester is the primary reason for attracting thousands of students from around the world. 100% English Medium Curriculum. Extensive clinical training at 15 state
hospitals. The university offers degree programmes in General Medicine, Dentistry (Stomatology) and Pharmacy.
WHAT CAN ANC MEDICAL PLACEMENTS OFFER TO THE STUDENTS?
ANC Medical Placements provides unmatched student services that make the difference.
As a part of our service, we are organizing MEDICAL UNIVERSITY OPEN
DAY to give the first- hand experience to students and parents to gain knowledge of the foreign medical education. It gives you the unique opportunity to meet the registered foreign medical doctors who will represent the internationally renowned universities from all over the world and sharing everything and anything you need to know to become a locally and internationally qualified medical doctor. This open day will be focused mainly on countries, such as Armenia, Russia, Belarus, Malaysia, China, Georgia, Latvia, UK, Canada, USA and Australia with regards to foreign medical placements.
The event details as follows;
MEDICAL UNIVERSITY OPEN DAY
Date – Saturday, 13th March 2021. Time – From 10am to 3pm.
Place – ANC Premises, No. 308 – 310, R.A. De Mel Mawatha, Colombo – 03.
To Reserve your seat for the Medical University Open Day & Medical Career Consultation:
Contact Dr. Harry Prasad (MD) – 0777 30 10 80
FIND US!
Website: www.medicalplacements. org Facebook: https://www.facebook. com/ancmedicalplacements / Instagram: https://www.instagram. com/anc_medical_placements/ Twitter: ANC_FC_Medical VISIT US AT ANC Medical Placements - 111 1/2, Maya Avenue, Colombo 06