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The Year 11 International Group design magazines.
Option Subjects
Examination Board:
Staff to contact: Ms Ward
What and how will you learn?:
In years 10 and 11, pupils may opt to continue their art education adn follow AQA GCSE Art & Design full course endorsement. the GCSE courses provide a broad base of study, appropriate for those pupils continuing on design courses in Further and Higher education. the courses are appropriate to all pupils irrelevant of ability and gender.
The GCSE in Art & Design contains two components - one is Coursework, consisting of a portfolio of work, and the second is the enternally set task (40% of GCSE).
The emphasis in this GCSE is on the process of developing both ideas and work. Central to this is the work journal or sketchbook.
This course will cover the study of art, craft and design and enables the pupil to acquire the ability to investigate, analyse and experiment. They will also develop practical skills to express ideas and visual language. These specific skills will include drawing, painting, collage, printmaking, graphics and sculpture. The other skills developed during this course will be in communication, information technology, improving own learning and performance, working with others and problem solving.
Assessment:
You will be assessed on your portfolio of Coursework done over the two years and ina terminal practical exam where you produce a final piece response to a given theme (The externally set task). Your coursework will be monitored and assessed throughout the two years. Your practical work will be assessed on the following:-
- Your practical work and the skill you show in the way you use materials and techniques, (including observational drawing).
- Your ability to independently research and explore the work of a variety of Artists and make connections between your work and theirs.
- Your ability to produce a final piece of work in response to a theme or topic.
- Ability to work to a deadline and manage your time well.
- You will be expected to have sketchbooks for each topic and ideally a basic range of art materials.
What next?:
This qualification will give learners the opportunity to enter employment in the art and design sector or to progress to vocational qualifications such as the Edexcel BTEC Level 3 Nationals in Art and Design, or 'A' level Art and Design and higher qualifications towards a degree in a specialist area of Art and Design.
Art and design will provide other life skills such as creative problem solving, and how to understand and apply BVisual language in all contexts of life. |
Examination board:
Syllabus No:
Level: GCSE
Staff to contact: Mr Draper
What and how will you learn?:
this course is arranged into 3 units of study. The first concentrates on marketing and enterprise. The second unit focuses on businesses and people. the third on production, finance and external influences on businesses.
This course provides students with an overview of why businesses exist, how they are organised, why staff in a business are so important and how they are managed, how a business and individuals control their money, who entrepreneurs are and what characteristics they have, how to promote a business and what things can effect the business form the external environment that they operate in.
This course will also help you develop many useful skills, such as communication, interpersonal skills, ICT and numeracy.
How will you be assessed?:
You will complete 2 exams at the end of the course and complete 1 piece of timed coursework.
What next?:
If you successfully complete this course you can go on to complete an 'A' level in Economics and Business or a level 3 vocational business course, such as a BTEC Level 3 Subsidiary Diploma in Business.
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| Business Administration - Level 1 |
Examination Board:
Level: 1 BTEC
Staff to Contact: Mr Draper
What and how will you learn?:
This course is arranged into units of study, which include a unit on welcoming visitors, electronic communication and making and receiving calls. The course is very practical and will teach you the skills needed to work in an administration role in business, such as an office assistant or a receptionist. For example, you will learn how to deal with enquiries, how to use office equipment and how to gather and present some basic market research.
You will learn by using real business documents, role play of business situations and by presenting information which gives advice to others on how to deal with administration issues.
This course will also help you develop many useful skills, such as communication, interpersonal skills, ICT and numeracy.
How will you be assessed?:
You will complete a portfolio of evidence. This will include, documents which you have produced, witness statements from your teacher or other assessor who have observed you completing tasks. There may also be video evidence of your performance in role play. This portfolio is assessed by your teacher and then another business studies teacher. when both teachers are satisfied that you have passed the course, your marks will be submitted to the examination board. They may ask to see your portfolio before they award the qualification.
What next?:
If you successfully complete this course you can go on to complete a level 2 vocational business course, such as BTEC Level 2 Diploma. This course will also help prepare you for a Business and Administration apprenticeship or workplace training scheme. |
| Business Studies - BTEC Level 2 |
Examination Board:
Staff to contact: Mr Draper
Course Content:
The course is very practical and will teach you the skills needed to start a small business or enter the workplace. For example, you will learn why businesses exist, how they are organised, how to set up a small business, how to deal with customers, how to promote a business, how to manage the people in a business, how to communicate effectively using verbal and non-verbal methods of communication.
You will learn by using real business documents, role play of business situations and by presenting information which gives advice to others on how to deal with administration issues.
This course will also help you develop many useful skills, such as communication interpersonal skills, I.C.T. and numeracy.
How will you be assessed?:
25% of this qualification will be assessed by an online multiple choice and short answer tests. The rest of the course will be assessed by students completing a portfolio of evidence. This will include, documents which you have produced, witness statements from your teacher or other assessor who have observed you completing tasks. There may also be video evidence of your performance in role play. This portfolio is assessed by your teacher and then by another business studies teacher.
What next?:
If you successfully complete this course you can go on to complete a level 3 vocational business course, such as a BTEC Level 3 Subsidiary Diploma in Business. This course will also help prepare you for a Business and Administration apprenticeship or workplace training scheme.
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Examination Board:
Level: 1 & 2
Staff to Contact: Ms Waugh and Ms Esenalieva
What and how will you learn?:
This unit aims to give learners the knowledge, skills and confidence to enjoy cooking meals at home. Learners will gain understanding of how to ecnomise when planning meals to cook at home. The unit will encourage learners to transfer skills learnt to other recipes to continue cooking for themselves and their families and to inspire others by passing on their knowledge. The unit is based on the chef Jamie Oliver's proposition that being able to cook is an essential life skill which empowers people to make changes that have benefits to health and wellbeing.
How will you be assessed?:
A mix of multiple choice tests, practical and individual assigments based with set time contraints.
What next?:
The knowledge will contribute towards the realted Level 1 or 2 NVQ Diploma, or work as a cook in the hospitality and catering sector.
You could also continue onto a Level 2 Diploma in Catering or other related qualification. |
| Construction - City and Guilds |
Examination board: City and Guilds
Level: 1
Staff to contact: Mr Stainer
What and how will you learn?:
These qualifications provide the ideal introduction to the construction industry and cover essential skills in the following construction trades: bricklaying, site carpentry, plastering, painting and decorating, flooring, wall tiling and plumbing.
These qualifications are suitable for anyone of any age wanting an introduction to the construction industry. No previous knowledge or experience is required. A lot of hard work and "graft" will be required in order to complete the subject successfully.
How will you be assessed?:
You will be assessed in the workshop by completing unit 'tests' based on each area of trade construction. There will be roughly 6-12 tests throghout the 2 years of study. They are very 'hands on,' challenging yet very rewarding.
What next?:
City & Guilds qualifications are engaging and rewarding and can lead to a whole range of fulfilling careers - including many of the U.K's happiest professions!
A City & Guilds qualification is recognised across all the trades. It can help you progress in a wide range of roles in the construction industry including: bricklayer, carpenter, plasterer, painter & decorator, wall and floor tiler and plumber.
In terms of post-16 progression study you could complete a BTEC in Construction or look to complete a higher standard of City & Guilds qualification (Diploma).
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Examination Board: NCFE Level 2 certificate
Level: 2
Staff to Contact: Mr Johnston
What and how will you learn?:
The NCFE Level 2 Certificate in 3D Design is a practical applied learning course. You will learn through completing projects that are based on typical workplace situations with a Product Design focus.
You will gain knowledge and understanding of materials, techniques and processes (wood, metal and plastics) used within 3D / Product Design. you will also develop your design and making skills through sketchbook based work and the creation of final 3D Design outcomes. Gallery, workshop and exhibition visits will be organised to extend and enrich your learning.
How will you be assessed?:
Over the 2 year course, you will complete a variety of projects that will contribute to 5 Units of work. there is no final examination. All units (projects) are assessed and then a final grade will be awarded.
The NCFE level 2 certificate is the equivalent of 1 x GCSEs grade A*-C.
What next?:
The NCFE level 2 certificate will provide you with a good grounding to go on to a more advanced course within 3D / Product Design:
- A / AS Level Resistant Materials / Product Design
- BTEC / NCFE Level 3 Courses in 3D Design
Please be aware that if you choose this course, you will not be able to choose Graphics or Fashion & Textiles as well. |
Examination Board: Edexcel
Level: 2 BTEC First
Staff to contact: Mr Sousa
What and how will you learn?:
The dance course is highly practical in nature and has a clear vocational focus; this means that it is about the skills that are relevant to the performing arts / dance industry.
You will study 4 core units and 3 other units which will be selected by your class teacher. You will study Dance Skills in which you will learn about the specific demadns and skills needed to be a dancer. You will focus on versatility as a dancer and learn a variety of different styles of Dance including Urban, Contemporary and / or Jazz. As well as learning the various elements of these styles you will also develop interpretive skills, looking at how the choreography of a dance can communicate with your audience. You will then apply these skills in the study of the unit Individual Showcase in which you will prepare an audition performance and a letter of application as if you were applying for a dance job in the Performing Arts industry. You will also look at the industry itself in Performing Arts Industry and learn all about how a Dancer fits into that industry. The final core unit you will study, Preparation, Performance and Production, will have you working as part of a fictional dance company developing a performance both as a dancer and a member of the production team. You will learn about the different production roles necessary for a performance to be successful.
How will you be assessed?:
Internal Assessments will take a vareity of forms including written work, in class performances and public dance performances. The type of product that you will be assessed on will depend on the Grading Criteria and LEarning Outcomes for the unit, as well as the style of Dance being studied. Internal assessment will make up a total of 75% of your final grade. the External Assessment (completed as part of Unit 1 and 8) will involve completing a letter of application, a performance in response to a task set by Edexcel and an online multiple choice exam. The assessment will take place under controlled conditions and is worth 25% of the final grade.
What next?:
This course naturally leads on to a variety of pathways such as the Level 3 BTEC in Performing Arts (Dance) or to application to Performing Arts schools. The BTEC course in particular is an ideal first qualification for those wishing to consider a Dance career in the Performing Asts industry.
The course also provides unique transferable skills such as self-confidence, creativity, working as team and efficient time management for every learner, which are deemed essential for any future endeavour. |
Examination Board: Edexcel
Level: 2 BTEC First
Staff to contact: Mr Sousa
What and how will you learn?:
The BTEC in acting is a very practical course. As part of this you will learn about various acting skills and how to apply these for example in the development of believable characters for a staged performance, be this scripted or devised. As well as this you will learn how to write a working log book. This is an essential document that is used in the performing arts industry by all, from actors to directors.
The BTEC is very similar to the GCSE in terms of the skills that you will learn however it has a more vocational focus. there are three units that you will need to complete. You will study Acting Skills in which you will learn about the specific demands and skills needed to be an actor. You will focus on how you can control your body and voice to communicate a character in different contexts. You will then apply these in the study of the unit Individual Showcase in which you will prepare an audition performance and a letter of application as if you were applying for an acting job in the performing arts industry. The final unit you will study, Preparation, Performance and Production, will have you working as part of a fictional theatre company developing a performance both as an actor and a member of the production team. You will learn about the different production roles necessary for a performance to be successful.
How will you be assessed?:
Internal assessments will take a variety of forms including written work, in class performances and public acting performances. The type of product that you will be assessed on will depend on the grading, criteria, learning outcomes for the unit as well as the style of acting / text being studied. Internal assessment will make up a total of 75% of your final grade. The external assessment (completed of Unit 1: Individual showcase) will involve completing a letter of application and a performance in response to a task set by Edexcel. The assessment will take place under controlled conditions and is worth 25% of the final grade.
What next?:
These courses naturally lead on to a variety of pathways such as 'A' Level Drama, Level 3 BTEC in Performing Arts (Acting) or to application to performing arts school. The BTEC course in particular is an ideal first qualification for those wishing to consider an acting career in the performing arts industry.
Both courses provide unique transferable skills such as self-confidence, creativity, working as a team and efficient time management for every learner, which are deemed essential for any future endeavour.
Additional Information:
Students opting for Drama should be aware that they will not have the opportunity to select between the GCSE or BTEC but will be allocated these qualifications based on teacher recommendations. These decisions will be made in the best interest of the students in regards to which specification suits their learning style and give them the best opportunity to succeed.
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Examination board: OCR
Level: GCSE
Staff to contact: Mr Sousa
What and how will you learn?:
The GCSE Drama is a very practical course. as part of this you will learn about various acting skills and how to apply these for example in the development of believable characters for a staged performance, be this scripted or devised. As well as this you will learn how to write a working log book. This is an essential document that is used in the performing arts industry by all, from actors to directors.
The GCSE is split into 3 different units, each with a different area of study and method of assessment. You will apply your acting skills in the study of the unit From Page to Stage which explores how a published text is animated and brought to life for an audience. You will also study Drama in the Making in which you explore the concepts of devising a piece of drama froma stimulus material and will be a more advanced version of the unit you have already studied in year 9. finally you will study a unit called From Concept to Creation which changes every year and is based on a special brief that is given by the exam board.
How will you be assessed?:
All assessments will take place under controlled conditions. There will be two internal assessments each worth 30% and will look at a performance and a working record, for example an actor's log book. the first will focus on a scripted text, while the second will focus on a devised product. Both assessments will be mdoerated by the exam board OCR and together will be worth 60% of your final grade. The external assessment will be worth 40% of your final grade and will be based on a 0 hour practical workshoop in which learners will develop a performance based on a brief set by OCR.
What next?:
These courses naturally lead on to a variety of pathways such as 'A' Level Drama, the Level 3 BTEC in Performing Arts (Acting) or to application to performing arts school. The BTEC course in particular is an ideal first qualification for those wishing to consider an acting career in the performing arts industry.
Additional Information:
Students opting for Drama should be aware that they will not have the opportunity to select between the GCSE or BTEC but will be allocated these qualifications based on teacher recommendations. These decisions will be made in the best interest of the students in regards to which specification suits their learning style and give them the best opportunity to succeed. |
Examination Board: OCR
Level: 2 National Award
Staff to contact: Ms Richards
What and how will you learn?:
The OCR Level 2 National Award in Fashion & Textiles is a practical applied learning course. You will learn through completing projects that are based on typical workplace situations with a fashion and textile focus.
You will gain knowledge and understanding of materials, techniques and processes used within fashion and textiles. You will also develop your design and making skills through sketchbook based work and the creation of final fashion and textile outcomes. Gallery, workshop and exhibition visits will be organised to extend and enrich your learning.
How will you be assessed?:
Over the 2 year course, you will complete a variety of projects that will contribute to 3 Units of work. there is no final examination. All units (projects) are assessed and then a final grade ill be awarded of Pass, Merit, Distinction or Distinction*.
The OCR Level 2 National Award is the equivalent of 2 GCSEs grade A*-C.
What next?:
The OCR Level 2 National Award will provide you with a good grounding to go on to a more advanced course within fashion and textiles:
- A/AS Level Fashion/Textiles
- BTEC/OCR Level 3 Courses in Fashion & Textiles
Please be aware that if you choose this course, you will not be able to choose 3D Design or Graphics as well.
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Examination Board:
Level: GCSE
Staff to Contact: Ms Earthrowl
What and how will you learn?:
Will your grandchildren have to live on boats? Will we be holidaying in space like we holiday in Benidorm? If you want to know more about the world you live in and what it will be like in the future - then Geography GCSE for you! Geography looks at lots of aspects of the world, how it works and how we live our lives.
The course covers four modules, which are each worth 25% of the final GCSE:
1) Dynamic Planet - Ever wondered why the earth cracks, or how people survive in the desert? This unit looks at the physical world of geography: volcanoes and earthquakes, beaches and coasts, biomes and rainforests, the climate and climate change, our watery world and the extreme environments of deserts. It studies how the natural world functions and how we have changed and altered it. Has the way we live our lives damaged the world beyond repair?
2) People and the Planet - Is the world a fair place to live? This unit studies people. Where we live, how we live and how wealth, culture and location affects the quality of life for individuals. It looks at how we adapt and change our living spaces, how we work and what we do, the amount of resources we consume and waste we produce. Are we living sustainably? Will the human population be around in 100 years for our children's children's children?
3) Making Geographical Decisions - Enjoy the challenge of problem solving? Then this unit is for you. You will be given sources of information about a particular topic, from the impact of the London Olympics to development issues in Africa. You will work through these resources with your teacher and begin to form an opinion on what should be done to solve the problem. You'll have to write your arguments up in the examination and justify your choices.
4) Researching Geography Controlled Assessment - Fancy learning more about your local area? We base our controlled assessment on your local environment so that you can apply your geographical knowledge to your everyday life and so that you have insider information when it comes to analyising the causes of different patterns, which should give you the chance to achieve top marks!
How will you be assessed?:
The final GCSE is separated into 4 modules, each worth 25% of the final GCSE.
Units 1 and 2 are both examinations of 1 hour where you are tested on your knowledge of the topics.
Unit 3 is a decision-making exercise, where you will get given sources in advance of the examination on a specific topic, such as the impact of the London 2012 Olympics or development dilemmas in Africa. You will work through this with your teacher and prepare your arguments for your decision. You will present and justify your decision in an examination.
Unit 4 is the controlled assessment, based on a fieldwork study of the local area.
What next?:
Geography is considered as a subject that provides you with the opportunity to acquire lots of analytical and decision-making skills which can be transferable to numerous careers and future pathways. You will get experience in carrying out effective research and applying your findings to explain problems and justify your choices - skills well sought after in higher education and the world of work. |
Examination board: OCR
Level: 2 National Award
Staff to contact: Mr Stainer
What and how will you learn?:
You will study different ways of communicating and working in graphic design. You will have the opportunity to investigate a range of styles and explore media, materials, techniques and technologies through the development of ideas and production of a final outcome. This could be in the shape of?
Publishing: e.g. magazsines, brochures, books
Packaging: CD/DVD covers, labels, cartons
Corporate Identity: logos/branding
Advertising: flyers, posters, vehicle livery
Web design: digital multi-media
How will you be assessed?:
100% coursework, you will create a portfolio of work that shows you can meet all of the assessment objectives in the graphic design unit.
What next?:
After completion of the subject, you could study an OCR Level 3 Art & Design course specialising in graphics or an 'A' Level in graphic design.
For routes into work, companies may take on a young designer should their portfolio be strong enough, or you could get an internship at a graphic design agency working in a team on interesting and exciting briefs.
Different graphic design professions include: design for print, multi-media designer (website design), animator, video games designer, sign maker, typographer, advertising/marketing.. the list is endless. |
Examination Board: OCR
Level: 2 BTEC
Staff to contact: Ms Wiggins
What and how will you learn?:
There are a broad range of units studied in Health and Social Care, these include:-
Unit 1: Communication in Health and Social Care
Unit 2: Individual rights in Health and Social Care
Unit 3: Individual needs in Health and Social Care
Unit 4: Ensuring Safe environments in Health and Social Care
Unit 6: Cultural Diversity in Health and Social Care
Unit 7: Anatomy and Physiology for Health and Social Care
Unit 8: Human Lifespan development
Unit 9: Creative and Therapeutic activities in Health and Social Care
Lessons will include practical demonstrations, role plays, presentations, discussions, observations and research.
How will you be assessed?:
There are no exams.
This course is 100% coursework/assessment based.
You will complete a range of assessment tasks for each of the units you are studying, including presentations, role plays, essays, research projects and reports.
What next?:
Successfully passing this course could qualify you for relevant 'A' Levels or BTEC level 3 qualifications in the sixth form.
Following this many of our Health and Social Care students go on to study university degrees in nursing, teaching, psychology, counselling and social work. Many also go into employment in health, social or child care organisations. |
Examination Board:
Level: GCSE
Staff to contact: Mr Boulton
What and how will you learn?:
The course is arranged into 3 units of study:
1. Medicine through time
A study of the history and development of medicine through the following periods of history: Prehistoric, Egyptian, Greek, Roman, Medieval, Renaissance, Victorian and 20th Century.
2. Nazi Germany
A study of how Hitler came to power in Germany, how the Nazis controlled Germany and what it was like to live in Nazi Germany.
3. 9/11 and the 'War on Terror'
Controleld assessment on the events of 9/11 and the fight against terrorism.
Through the study of these history topics, you will gain vital key skills such as: problem solving, analysis of evidence, empathy and teamwork. These skills are essential, not only for history and other subjects in school, but for any career you may wish to pursue in the future. The subject is taught through a range of sources, including video & I.C.T. as well as giving you the opportunity to enhance understanding through school trips.
How will you be assessed?:
Through 3 assessments:
Exam 1 - Source and knowledge exam with questions on Medicine through time and Nazi Germany (45% of final grade)
Exam 2 - source investigation exam on Medicine through time (30%)
Controlled Assessment - Written assignment on 9/11 (25%)
What next?
Choosing history at GCSE will provide you with plenty of opportunities for further progression. At AS/A Level, in colleges and universities, history is a very relevant subject. For example, many professions such as medicine and law feel that history opens the minds of students. Therefore history can gain you entry into a wide range og careers, including television, radio, journalism, the police force, social work and the civil service.
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| Computing (Computer Science) |
Examination Board:
Level: GCSE
Staff to contact: Mr Stanley or Mr Nightingale
What and how will you learn?:
"...When you learn computer science, anything is possible, except when you don't, then it isn't." (Google 2012)
This GCSE Computing course is totally unlike BTEC and ICT ... It is for those who are excellent at mathematics and want to be high achievers at sixth form, at a top university and in their career. You will:
- Understand computer systems
- Learn programming
- Design & create Apps / applications
- Research new technologies
- Uncover the secrets of social networking
- Develop Games
- Research networks
- Master problem solving
The learning methods are different. There is more emphasis on independent learning and contributions to group work. Lesons will contain a wide range of enjoyable activities to suit your unique learning style. Visits to Channel 4 and leading games / film programmers / designers are already happening.
How will you be assessed?:
Your marks will come from a final test - Computer systems & programming - (30% of the qualification mark)
Controlled practical investigation project chosen from a set of options. (35%)
Controlled programming project chosen from a set of options. (35%)
What next?:
You can progress to GCE 'A' Level in Computing (Computer Science) or GCE 'A' Level in I.T. Universities and employers are looking for studetns with Computing / Computer Science GCE 'A' Levels and degrees. These graduates are currently in demand.
"...There will be a bigger demand for professionals who are qualified in computing. Learners who have taken this Computing GCSE and who then progress to study the subject at 'A' Level or university will have a sound underpinning knowledge of this subject area." (Manchester University - December 2011)
"...We urge that the specialised link between mathematics and computing is strengthened" (Professor Rosamund Sutherland - Joint Mathematical Council of the United Kingdom JMC - 2011).
SPEAKING AND LISTENING
This requires the student to take part in a group discussion and to give a talk for approximately four minutes.
READING
Level 1 - Read and understand a range of texts for different purposes.
Level 2 - Compare, select, read and understand texts and use them to gather
information, ideas, arguments and opinions.
WRITING
Level 1 - Write documents to communicate information, ideas and options using
formats and styles suitable for their purpose and audience.
Level 2 - Write documents, including extended writing pieces, communicating
information, ideas and opinions, effectively and persuasively.
Assessment:
Reading and Writing
For each of levels 1 and 2, reading and writing will be externally assessed and based on two tiered written papers.
Speaking and Listening
The speaking and listening part of the exam will be internally assessed.
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Examination Board:
Level: 2 BTEC Extended Certificate
Staff to contact: Mr Spindler
What and how will you learn?:
You will learn about all the stages involved in the creation of a media production. You will become familiar with the technical language associated with the media industries and will gain skills in filming and editing. through completing research tasks, you will learn the value of different forms of data and effectiveness of various research methods.
The course is very practical. You will be supported by your teacher to work independently to complete a series of assignments, all of which have a vocational focus. By critically evaluating the work of others and yourself, you will be encouraged to come up with ways to refine your own practice.
How will you be assessed?:
You will build a portfolio of evidence throughout the two years. tghis will include documents which you have produced and witness statements from your teacher. this will be combined with the films that you have produced to form the file on which you will be assessed.
The portfolio is assessed by your teacher and then by another English teacher. when both teachers have agreed, your mark will be submitted to the examination board. They may ask to see your portfolio before they award the qualification.
What next?:
Successful completion of this course forms a good foundation for Level 3 Film and Media Studies coourses. The research skills you will gain on the course will also be useful in a wide range of studies in areas such as science and humanities.
The vocational focus of the course will prepare you well for work in a business environment. |
Examination Board:
Level: GCSE
Staff to contact: Mr Pinder or Mr Quadraruopolo
What and how will you learn?:
Structured musical learning through four areas of study.
The four areas of study are:
Area of Study 1: My Music (an opportunity for students to explore and compose in styles of their choice within areas of study)
Area of Study 2: Shared Music
Area of Study 3: Dance Music
Area of Study 4: Descriptive Music
Integrated Tasks
A performance, a composition and a commentary, all related to Area of Study 1.
Practical Portfolio
A second performance or realisation, a second composition and a log.
An opportunity to develop a wide range of creative, personal and social skills.
How will you be assessed?:
A practical portfolio that contains four pieces of music - 60%
A practical creative task - 15%
A listening examination - 25%
Creative Task
A practical examination drawing on understanding gained from all areas of study, in which learners develop a short piece, based on a stimulus, and communicate it.
Listening Examination
A written paper, with CD, assessing knowledge and understanding of Areas of Study 2, 3 and 4.
The assessment objectives are
1: performing/realising with technical control and interpretation.
2: Creating and veloping musical ideas with technical control and coherence.
3: Analysing and evaluating music using musical terminology.
What next?:
BTEC Level 3 Music (composing)
Music Technology |
Personal, Social, Careers & Religious Education
Level: N/A
Staff to contact: Ms Hine or Ms Clark
What and how you will learn?:
This course seeks to build on the skills and knowledge gained by the students in their Key Stage Three course. The emphasis in the work is the development of the individuals, both personally and as a member of society. Students also examine those issues important in the development of citizenship and harmony within the local and wider community. Throughout the course students will develop their own self esteem and be able to make informed decisions in regard to:
- Personal health
- Sex and relationships
- Sexually transmitted diseases/AIDS
- Discrimination
- Power and Politics
- Parenting
- Career Pathways
- CVs and applying for jobs
- Preparation for work experience
- Progress File
- Crime and Community
- Personal finance and economic wellbeing
- Issues from different relgious perspectives
In conjunction with the PSE/Citisenship/RE component of the year 10 course, students study a number of intergrated careers units of work (work, college, training). These focus upon career paths, the contruction of a CV and extensive preparation for students' 2 week block of work experience. Students also study the benefits of going to university.
How will you be assessed?:
There are no formal assessments. |
| Physical Education - Sport |
Examination Board:
Staff to contact: Mr Mensah
Level: 2 BTEC
What and how will you learn?:
The BTEC Level 2 in sport is designed to build upon the knowledge that students would have gained in KS3, allowing students to explore a vocational hands on engaging route through KS4.
There are various levels of qualification available to students ranging from 1 GCSE equivalent to 4 GCSEs depending on student choice.
The course will have a combination of classroom based theory sessions and practical lessons.
Students will be able to study units such as Fitness Testing, Planning and Leading Sports Activities, Psychology of sports, Business Skills in Sport, Nutrition in sports and Injury in Sport.
Students will be able to learn and develop skills such as leadership skills, coaching skills, I.C.T. skills and many more within this course.
How will you be assessed?:
The course is a modular based course. completion of the BTEC Level 2 in Sport will require students to complete units of work. The grades obtained from each unit contribute to the final grade.
There are no final examinations however you may have end-of-assignment tests to assess your progress and understanding.
Assessment evidence for assignments may be generated via a range of activities such as role plays, video diaries, experiments, practical assessments, presentations.
What next?:
Completion of the BTEC Level 2 in Sport provides a suitable foundation for progression to BTEC Level 3 courses.
The BTEC Level 2 in Sport also enables students to progress to specific areas within employment such as exercise and fitness, leadership support, recreation assistants and sports development. |
Examination Board:
Level: GCSE
Staff to contact: Ms Clark
What and how will you learn?:
If you enjoyed Year 9 R.E. and want to take it further this is the course for you.
You will be able to build on the knowledge you have gained in Year 9.
We will look at 5 more units including:
Religion and the Media,
Medical ethics,
Relationships,
Peace and war,
Beliefs about God.
All from Christian and Muslim perspectives.
We will provide you with the opportunity to examine and debate the issues such as marriage and divorce, sex and violence in the media and uses of animals.
You will be taught using a whole variety of different methods - DVDs, games, discussion and some written tasks.
If you enjoy working on riddles and puzzles. This is the course for you!
If you are looking for a subject which has no right or wrong answers this is the course for you.
Please see Ms Clark (Room 77) for more details.
How will you be assessed?:
You will be assessed by your teacher throughout the course but the GCSE examination will take place at the end of Year 11.
It will comprise of four separate exam papers, each an hour long (not on the same day!) |
Examination Board:
Level: GCSE
Staff to contact: Ms Calverley
What and how will you learn?:
Sociology is 'the study of society'.
You will learn;
- what sociology is and how sociologists do research.
- you will examine what makes people behave and how we learn to be members of society.
- you will consider whether or not everyone has an equal chance in society and whether society is fair.
- you will study the role of the family, schools and the police in society.
- topics include; the family, education, crime and deviance, social inequality, sociological methods.
How will you be assessed?:
You will sit two examinations of 1 1/2 hours each.
You will sit Paper 1 at the end of Year 10 and Paper 2 at the end of Year 11.
There is NO COURSEWORK.
What next?:
Many of our students go on to study 'A' Level Sociology or Psychology.
The course sits very well with Health & Social Care courses.
Sociology is relevant to every job that involves working with people or in society.
Sociologists work in the fields of education, social work, nursing, health care, police & prisons, politics and journalism, to name a few professions. |
Examination Board:
Level: GCSE
Staff to contact: Ms Marquez
What and how will you learn?:
You will develop language skills: listening, speaking, reading and writing.
Through developing these skills you will also improve: cultural awareness, problem solving abilities, teamwork and presentation skills.
You will cover 4 contexts over the 2 years:
Lifestyle
Leisure
Home and environment
Work and education
How will you be assessed?:
Two speaking assessments in Year 10 and Year 11. Worth 30%
Two written assessments in Year 10 and Year 11. Worth 30%
A final listening exam at the end of Year 11 (higher / foundation). Worth 20%
A final reading exam at the end of Year 11 (higher / foundation). Worth 20%
What next?:
A GCSE in a foreign language can improve your chances of gaining employment and in some cases increase your starting salary.
You can study Spanish 'A' Level and go onto university to study Spanish or Hispanic studies which will include a year abroad in a Spanish speaking country; Spain, Central and South America.
Spanish is the 3rd most spoken language in the world so it is one of the most popular languages that businesses look for on a CV.
Also if you like to travel you have many more options to choose from if you want to practise or if you want to go somewhere where you can communicate and be understood by the locals.
Finally if you want to study Law or Medicine, universities look for a language qualification as many of the technical terms are in Latin which is what Spnaish, French, Italian and many more European langauges are derived from. |
Examination Board:
Level: 2 BTEC First Extended Certificate
Staff to contact: Ms Earthrowl
What and how will you learn?:
Fancy getting to grips with one of the largest sectors in the world in terms of jobs and income?
Always wanted to travel the world? Then the Travel & Tourism BTEC course is an excellent starting point.
The course covers six different units as outlined below.
1) The UK Travel and Tourism Sector - How much business does travel and tourism create in the UK? This unit is an exploration of the types of tourism and tourist organisations and their influence on the UK's economy.
2) Understanding customer service in Travel and Tourism - Could you see your granny on an '18-30s' holiday? This unit provides an insight into different types of customers, their specific needs and how travel and tourism organisations meet the needs.
3) Understanding the nature and effects of world travel - Where would you like to go in the world? This unit looks at the different human and physical features that people go on holiday to visit, as well as the climate (and jet lag) holiday-makers might experience.
4) UK holiday destinations - Fancy a roadtrip around the UK? This unit discovers the key holiday destinations the UK has to offer and why people want to visit the different cities, seaside resorts and countryside locations.
5) Worldwide holiday destinations - Ever thought about your carbon footprint? This unit explores the world through identifying different destinations for different types of holiday and customer and reviewing all the good and bad impacts our holidaying lifestyles have on the local people and the environment.
6) Holiday planning - Fancy trying your hand at being a travel agent? This unit gives you the opportunity to research, plan and provide itineraries for a range of holidays both in the UK and abroad.
How will you be assessed?:
The assessement is 100% coursework. You will be given assignment briefs to complete that may be based on role plays, practical tasks, presentations, map work, displays and written assignments such as articles, leaflets and holiday plans. So a wide range of activities are undertaken to ensure you can achieve your potential.
What next?:
Travel and toursim is now one of the largest sectors in the world in terms of jobs and income. Studying it will allow you to broaden your knowledge of the sector as well as deepen your skills. The Level 2 BTEC First is a vocational or work-related qualification, which means you will have the opportunity to gain specific knowledge and skills that are relevant to the subject and this area of work. |
| Functional Skills (for ESOL) |
This course is a teacher guided choice.
Examination Board:
Level: Entry Levels 1, 2 & 3 & Levels 1 & 2
Staff to contact: Ms Reece
what and how will you learn?:
This course is being offered to second language students in Years 10 and 11 who need help with their English. This course provides learners with the skills and abilities they need to gain the most from life, learning and work. This is a two year course whereby studetns sit the Level 1 examination and then sit the Level 2 examination in the second year which is equivalent to GCSE Grade C. For some students who are extremely weak in English, they can sit Entry Levels 1, 2 or 3 where the texts and tasks are far easier and then progress to Levels 1 & 2.
How will you be assessed?:
The course is divided into three discrete areas:-
SPEAKING AND LISTENING
This requires the students to take part in a group discussion for approximately four minutes or for the Level 2, to take part inh a discussion and give an individual presentation.
READING
Level 1 - Read and understand a range of straightforward texts for different purposes.
Level 2 - Compare, select, read and understand texts and use them to gather information, ideas arguments and opinions.
WRITING
Level 1 - Write a range of texts to communicate information, ideas and opinions, using formats and styles suitable for their purpose and audience.
Level 2 - Write a range of texts, including extended written documents, communicating information, ideas and opinions, effectively and persuasively.
For each of the levels, reading and writing will be externally assessed by a written exam.
For the speaking and listening part of the exam, this will be internally assessed.
What next?:
If you successfully complete the Level 2 Functional Skills exam, this is equivalent to a grade "C" in English Language and will enable you to go on to Level 3 courses. |
This course is a teacher guided choice.
Examination Board: N/A
Level: N/A
Staff to contact: Ms Hutchinson
What and how will you learn?:
An independent learning programme will be designed for you based on your specific needs following discussions with your parents and yourself.
This programme will help you to:
- Extend and develop your language and literacy skills
- Develop your social skills and self-esteem
- Support, overlearn and develop the work that you do in mainstream lessons
- Develop your audiological knowledge and skills
- Develop your study skills and your organisational skills
How will you be assessed?:
There is no external examination, but this course and the support you receive will help to raise your grades across all curriculum areas.
Assessment is ongoing throughout the course using evidence from your work, data, observations, through IPs, Annual Reviews and feedback from your parents, teachers and also from commenst that you make to us in the HiU.
What next?:
This course is designed to support your specific needs, to develop your skills and to support your work across mainstream lessons. It will also help us to prepare you for transition to the world of work through apprenticeships or onto higher education. |
This course is a teacher guided choice.
Talk to your tutor about the possible courses and the kind of support you might need. Think realistically about what you want to achieve and then come and speak to either Ms Desmond or Mr Wedderburn.
LEAP - (Personalised Learning Programme)
Examination Board: N/A
Staff to contact: Ms Desmond
What and how will you learn?:
You will learn a range of subjects, tailored to suit your specific needs and interests. Subjects include mathematics, English, science, I.C.T, P.E, ASDAN COPE and vocational courses such as sport and business studies. You will learn using a range of technologies, individual tuition, practical sessions and related trips.
How will you be assessed?
Through a combionation of coursework, controlled assessment, examinations and folders of evidence. |
This course is a teacher guided choice.
Examination Board: N/A
Staff to contact: Ms Desmond or Ms Greig
What and how will you learn?:
This course is designed to meet the needs of students who have been assessed and diagnosed as having Dyslexia.
The focus of the course is on supporting coursework in all curriculum areas. Students will follow a multisensory, structured programme of literacy support, study skills, keyboard skills and I.T. training and development.
Students will work in a small group in the Student Support Area. All students will be disapplied from Modern Foreign Languages (Spanish). There are 2 lessons (per week) in Year 10 and 3 in Year 11.
How will you be assessed?:
There is no external examination but students are expected to raise their grades across all curriculum areas. |
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Curriculum 
