ST THOMAS AQUINAS
CATHOLIC SCHOOL
KEY STAGE 4
OPTIONS BOOKLET
2014 -17
A guide book for Year 8 Students and Parents
CONTENTS
Part 1 Letter of Introduction
What are the qualifications available?
Part 2
CORE SUBJECTS
Part 3
OPTIONAL SUBJECTS (GCSE)
RE / Citizenship
English
Mathematics
Science
Physical Education
Art
Business Studies
Drama
French
Geography
German
Health and Social Care
History
Hospitality & Catering
ICT
Media Studies
Photography
Physical Education
Product Design
Psychology
Textiles
OPTIONAL SUBJECTS (Btec)
Health & Social Care
Hospitality and Catering
ICT
Music
Sport
Work Skills & Travel & Tourism
March 2014
Dear Year 8 Student,
KEY STAGE 4 CHOICES 2014 - 2017
At St Thomas Aquinas, Year 9 represents the start of a programme of study which lasts for three years
and leads to qualification at GCSE level. These three years are known as Key Stage 4. This is a very
important phase in your secondary education.
The information in this booklet is provided to support the information you will receive this evening
Thursday 20th March and to help you to make the right choices. Your parents, form tutor and subject
teachers can also help.
Most of the Key Stage 4 courses are compulsory:
All students will study the core GCSE or equivalent subjects: RE, English, Maths, Science, and
Citizenship. All students will also continue to do a general PE programme.
In addition, students will have four choices from Option subjects leading to either GCSE or BTEC
qualifications. The Options process is designed to guide you towards the appropriate choices and
combinations of subjects for you.
You have already had a personal interview with a member of staff to help you make your choices. One of
the following pathways has been suggested for you and you should follow the guidance you have been
given when selecting your subjects for KS4.
If you are following the GREEN pathway you are on a vocational route. You should choose at least two
BTEC subjects and two further options which you enjoy and have the skills to do well in.
If you are following the RED pathway you are on the GCSE route. You should choose at least one of the
following subjects: Geography, History, Computer Science, French or German. You should then choose
three further options including at least two further GCSEs.
If you are following the BLUE pathway you are on the English Baccalaureate route. You should choose at
least one Modern Foreign Language (French or German) and at least one Humanity subject (History or
Geography). You may then choose two further GCSE options of one further GCSE and one BTEC option.
You should now read this booklet carefully with your parents, listen to the information at the evening,
discuss this with your form your teachers and complete the Option Form at the end of the booklet.
Options Forms should be returned to form tutors by Friday 28th March 2014.
As a school, we believe very much in the importance of partnership in education. We hope the
information in this booklet will help you and your parents as you consider together with your teachers the
next step in your education.
Yours sincerely
Mrs C Cooke
DEPUTY HEADTEACHER
GENERAL CERTIFICATE OF SECONDARY EDUCATION (GCSE)
Most of the courses at Key Stage 4 lead to GCSE qualifications. Grades are awarded in the range A*-G.
GCSE qualifications are nationally recognized and are used by employers for selection and recruitment
purposes. A certificate shows the employer the subjects that have been passed but it also shows that a
student is capable of thoroughness and persistence.
You will find that the qualifications and the subjects you achieve them in will determine:The kind of career you finally decide upon;
The level at which you can enter your chosen career;
The type of further education course you will study.
ENGLISH BACCALAUREATE
The English Baccalaureate (EBacc) is not a new qualification. It is a certificate that will be awarded to any
student who secures a GCSE Grade C or higher in the following subjects:
English Language
Mathematics
2 Sciences
1 Modern Foreign Language
1 Humanity (History or Geography)
The Department for Education has included these subjects as it believes this combination gives pupils
the opportunity to study a broad core of subjects, which in turn leaves a wide variety of subjects and
career pathways open to pupils after their GCSEs. Also, many universities have indicated that the English
Baccalaureate will be an entry requirement. Therefore if you are thinking of going to university, you would
be strongly encouraged to continue with the study of a Foreign Language and to choose either History or
Geography as a second option; this will still leave one further option choice available to you.
OCR NATIONALS AND BTEC COURSES
There are courses which have a vocational element to them, but the qualifications gained are equivalent
to one GCSE. The range of these courses consists of:
CAMBRIDGE NATIONAL ICT
BTEC HEALTH & SOCIAL CARE
BTEC ART AND DESIGN
BTEC HOSPITALITY & CATERING
BTEC SPORT AND RECREATION
SECTION ONE
COMPULSORY CORE
CURRICULUM
RELIGIOUS EDUCATION / CITIZENSHIP
ENGLISH
MATHEMATICS
SCIENCE
CORE PHYSICAL EDUCATION
SUBJECT TITLE:
Religious Education/ Citizenship
EXAMINATION BOARD:
WJEC/ Edexcel
QUALIFICATION:
GCSE
Religious Education/ Citizenship
COURSE DESCRIPTION AND SUBJECT CONTENT
Being a Catholic School and a place of development for young citizens we believe that it is essential that
students recognise and appreciate the spiritual, moral, social and cultural dimension of life. It is important
that students leave school with a knowledge and understanding of the Catholic faith.
The RS GCSE syllabus is concerned with what it means to be a Catholic and Christian in society.
There are two Examination Papers which deal with:
1)
The Beliefs and Teachings of the Catholic Church as found in the Creed and the words of
Jesus.
2)
Life as a Catholic including Key Feasts in the Church‟s year and the Sacraments as rites of
passage.
3)
Prayer and Worship including the celebration of Mass.
4)
The Catholic response to moral and ethical issues.
CAREER POSSIBILITIES
After GCSE, Religious Studies may be followed to „A‟ level and used as an entry requirement to
university, further education and a range of careers. At „A‟ level, Religious Studies deals with questions
central to the meaning of life and challenges students to reflect on what they believe and how they should
act.
Some may want to further their Citizenship through A Levels in Social Studies/ Health and Social Care or
Law.
ASSESSMENT AND EXAMINATION
Citizenship has a controlled Assessment for Units 2 which will be prepared for in and out of school and
finished in a controlled environment in class.
Students who are in A1 and B1 will take an additional short course examination in Citizenship along side
their Religious Studies examination. All students in all groups will sit 2 Religious Studies Papers in May
and June of Year 11. Students not taking Citizenship Short Course will study Citizenship as an integral
part of their Religious Studies paper with an explicit focus on the responsible Catholic Citizen.
Miss M Moran
Head of Religious Education/ Citizenship
February 2014
SUBJECT TITLE:
English
EXAMINATION BOARD:
AQA
QUALIFICATION:
GCSE
COURSE DESCRIPTION AND SUBJECT CONTENT
In English the course of study undertaken by students is based on three strands – Speaking and
Listening, Reading and Writing.
Speaking & Listening
You will be required to complete individual presentations, participate in group discussions and perform in
role as part of the English Language course. This element of the course will not form part of your final
grade but you are expected to complete it to a sufficient standard.
Writing
You will be required to communicate clearly, adapting your writing for a range of purposes and
audiences. You will need to organise your ideas into sentences, paragraphs and whole texts. Spelling
and punctuation will also be assessed for accuracy. You will need to use appropriate grammatical
structures of Standard English and a wide vocabulary to express your intentions with clarity and
precision.
CAREER AND FUTURE POSSIBILITIES
The qualifications in English Language and English Literature which the courses offer will lead to a
wealth of possibilities in terms of future career choices. Being able to effectively communicate through
appropriate written and spoken English is an essential life skill. If you would like to pursue English
Language, English Literature or English Language and Literature combined at A‟ Level then a B grade in
each of the courses offered at GCSE level will be a fundamental requirement. GCSE English Language
is a prerequisite for many Further and Higher Education courses.
ASSESSMENT AND EXAMINATION
Students in sets 1,2 and 3 will sit examinations in English Language and English Literature at the end of
year eleven. Students in set 4 will study English Language only at Key Stage Four to ensure that the
essential life skills which this course develops is given sufficient time. Both courses will be assessed
through 100% linear examination. There will be no controlled assessments or coursework units from now
on.
English
Reading
You will be required to sustain an interpretation of a range of texts offering supporting evidence to
reinforce your arguments where appropriate. You will also need to distinguish between fact and opinion
and evaluate how information is presented. Being able to follow an argument, identifying implications
and recognising inconsistencies will be an essential part of the course. There will also be opportunities to
compare the different ways in which writers of fiction and non-fiction, from a range of different historical
periods, present information in order to provoke a specific response from their readers.
PATHWAY THROUGH THE CURRICULUM
SUMMARY
Year 9
Sets 1, 2 and 3: English Language
and English Literature
Students in sets 1, 2 and 3 will
commence reading the set texts
required for examination in English
Language and English Literature at
the end of the course.
Set 4: English Language
Students in set 4 will commence reading
the set texts required for examination in
English Language at the end of the
course.
Students will continue to study the
texts required for both the English
Language and the English Literature
side of the course.
Students will continue to study the texts
required for the English Language side
of the course. This year, any students
identified as underachieving will receive
additional support with one to one
literacy tutors.
Year 11
All students in these sets will complete
the course and sit the examination at
the end of the year for both English
Language and English Literature
Both courses are assessed through
100% examination.
All students in set 4 will sit the
examination at the end of the year for
English Language. If additional support
is required it will be provided by the
mentoring team.
The course is assessed through
100% examination.
English
Year 10
Ms E Doherty
Head of English
February 2014
SUBJECT TITLE:
Mathematics
EXAMINATION BOARD:
Edexcel
QUALIFICATION:
GCSE
COURSE DESCRIPTION AND SUBJECT CONTENT
The Edexcel course that we study is linear.
All students will complete the linear GCSE exam course at either foundation or higher level depending on
their ability. All exams will be taken at the end of Year 11.
Throughout the course, students will develop knowledge, skills and understanding of mathematical
methods and concepts, including: Number, Algebra, Geometry, Measure, Statistics and Probability
They also apply the functional elements of Mathematics in everyday and real-life situations.
CAREER POSSIBILITIES
PATHWAYS THROUGH THE CURRICULUM
Pathway 1 – this is designed to provide a Higher level route through GCSE and best prepare students for
further study of Mathematics. Some students may be given the opportunity to study an additional Maths
course in Year 11 if they achieve highly at the end of Year 10.
Pathway 2 – this is designed to provide the best possible support for students who may be late
developers in Mathematics. The flexible approach of undertaking the GCSE Foundation at the end of
Year 10, followed by an evaluation of where the students are at will enable students to develop their
Mathematical ability at their own pace. During Year 11 students will have the opportunity to consolidate
their position on the GCSE course by progressing onto the Higher tier GCSE.
Pathway 3 – this is aimed at less mathematically able students. All students will follow the Foundation
course throughout Key Stage 4. Some students will be given the opportunity to complete a Level 1 or 2
numeracy qualification in addition to their GCSE.
SUMMARY
Year 9
Pathway 1
Higher
Pathway 2
Foundation
Pathway 3
Foundation
Year 10
Higher
Foundation
Foundation
Year 11
Higher (Plus opportunity
to complete Additional
Maths qualification)
Higher (Examined at the end
of year)
Foundation
(Examined at the end
of year)
Mrs C Henvey
Head of Mathematics
February 2014
Mathematics
This qualification in Mathematics encourages students to develop confidence in, and a positive attitude
towards, Mathematics and to recognise the importance of Mathematics in their own lives and to society.
This qualification prepares students to make informed decisions about the use of technology, the
management of money, further learning opportunities and career choices. GCSE Mathematics is a
prerequisite for many Further and Higher Education courses.
SUBJECT TITLE:
Science
EXAMINATION BOARD:
Edexcel
QUALIFICATION:
Science GCSE, Additional Science GCSE, Further Additional
Science GCSE (Set 1 only)
GCSE COURSE DESCRIPTION AND SUBJECT CONTENT
Up to this stage, you have had science lessons which were simply called “Science”, so this may be the
first time that you encounter three of the different subjects that make up science. These are biology
(which looks at how plants, animals and other organisms live and how they benefit us), chemistry (the
study of substances, the way in which they react and how we use them to make new materials) and
physics (which looks at how forces, electricity, waves and radiation affect our universe and how we use
these to invent technology to our benefit). You‟ll do equal amounts of the three sciences and you‟ll take
exams in all three subjects.
Each GCSE has the same format for Biology, Chemistry and Physics components and controlled
assessment. Controlled assessment is an internally assessed piece of work that is related to a practical
(this focuses on planning, data collection, conclusions and evaluations). This is carried out during class
time.
Science
Year 9
Year 10 (set 1)
and 11 (sets 2/3)
Year 11 (set 1)
CAREER AND FUTURE OPPORTUNITIES
You may choose to go on either to GCE AS/A2 Level if you‟ve studied GCSE in Additional Science or
separate sciences, or to a BTEC Level 3 course in Applied Science. You may go on to college or to
university to study science, or a science-related subject such as Maths, Medicine, Psychology or
Veterinary Science. This may be as a degree, or other courses, such as the Higher National Diploma.
You may go into a science-based job straight from school, working in engineering or biomedicine or many
other fields where you‟ll get to use some of the knowledge from your science GCSEs in real situations.
Even if you stop studying science after Year 11, you‟ll have useful qualifications in science. Employers
(and colleges and universities) often look for people with good results in science, because studying and
doing well in science shows that you have the sort of way of approaching and solving problems that
employers find useful.
ASSESSMENT AND EXAMINATION
Each GCSE works exactly the same: to get any of the GCSEs making up the science subjects, you‟ll
need to take three exams and do a piece of controlled assessment. All the exam papers follow a common
format:
•
The exam papers each last one hour and they are marked out of 60. Each question
paper has six questions; and the question parts get a little more difficult as you work
through each one, and as you move from Q1 through to Q6. Exams are worth 75% of
the GCSE being studied. You are not able to re-sit any exams.
•
Controlled assessment is worth 25% of the GCSE being studied.
•
The GCSEs are linear. This means that you have to do all the exams in June at the end
of your course.
Mrs P Righton
Head of Science
March 2014
SUBJECT TITLE:
Core Physical Education
COURSE DESCRIPTION AND SUBJECT CONTENT
During Key Stage 4 students are offered a variety of sporting activities. In Year 9 students will follow
seven activity blocks during the year which will give them a breadth of opportunity in athletic, fitness,
gymnastic and game sports. In year 10 and 11 students chose a pathway based on either 6 games or 6
PE blocks during the year with year 10 completing a block of leadership in the summer. Each student will
have three lessons over a two week timetable.
PERSONAL ACHIEVEMENT POSSIBLITIES
We endeavour to promote a positive attitude to exercise and hope that all students are committed to
improving themselves physically through the core P.E. programme.
REQUIREMENTS
It is important that all students come fully prepared for activity with the correct P.E. kit. This includes a
black polo shirt or red rugby jersey, black shorts and red socks. If working indoors clean appropriate
trainers are needed. When students participate in football at The Hayes Playing Fields it is highly
recommended that they wear football boots with shin-guards for their safety.
PATHWAYS THROUGH THE CURRICULUM
Year 9
Year 10
Year 11
Girls
Trampolining
Netball
Dance
Badminton
Short Tennis
Athletics
Rounders
Option 1
Option 2
Netball
Badminton
Basketball
Tchouckball
Rounders
Short Tennis
Leadership
Netball
Badminton
Basketball
Tchouckball
Rounders
Short Tennis
Mr J Houston
Head of Physical Education
February 2014
Trampolining
Dance
Basketball
Fitness
Short Tennis
Rounders
Leadership
Trampolining
Dance
Basketball
Fitness
Short Tennis
Rounders
Boys
Football
Basketball
Orienteering
Fitness
Athletics
Cricket
Short Tennis
Option 1
Option 2
Football
Basketball
Touch Rugby
Indoor Football
Football
Fitness
Leadership
Football
Basketball
Touch Rugby
Indoor Football
Football
Fitness
Handball
Golf
Fitness
Dodgeball
Circuit Training
Football
Leadership
Handball
Golf
Fitness
Dodgeball
Circuit Training
Football
Core Physical Education
It is imperative that all students in Year 9, 10 and 11 undertake regular exercise in any sporting activity
they choose. We highly recommend that all students look to partake in extra-curricular sport either in
school or with outside sports clubs or local leisure centres. Taking part in regular exercise alongside P.E.
lessons will hopefully ensure a healthy lifelong commitment to sport.
SECTION TWO
GCSE OPTION SUBJECTS
ART
BUSINESS STUDIES
DRAMA
FRENCH
GEOGRAPHY
GERMAN
HEALTH & SOCIAL CARE
HISTORY
HOSPITALITY & CATERING
ICT AND COMPUTING
MEDIA STUDIES
PHOTOGRAPHY
PHYSICAL EDUCATION
PSYCHOLOGY
PRODUCT DESIGN
TEXTILES
SUBJECT TITLE:
Art
EXAMINATION BOARD:
AQA
QUALIFICATION:
GCSE
COURSE DESCRIPTION AND SUBJECT CONTENT
The aim of the course is to enable a student to express ideas and feelings independently and use two
and/or three dimensions to communicate with others.
CAREER POSSIBILITIES
Art deals with visual awareness, personal preferences, decision-making and self-expression. These
are vital areas of concern in any profession.
Preparation for AS/A2 courses
Preparation for foundation course leading to BA in Art
Preparation for careers in Art & Design
EXAMINATION
All preparation work must be completed fully prior to the exam. Students are given ten hours over two
days to complete their final outcome.
A portfolio of work is produced and displayed in an exhibition. Development work carries a large
percentage of marks and must accompany all final pieces of work.
All students will start the Art GCSE in Year 9 and complete it by Year 11.
SUMMARY
Pathway 1
Year 9
AQA Art
Foundation Course Building Skills
Year 10
AQA Art
GCSE Year 1
Year 11
AQA Art
GCSE Year 2
Ms Geoghegan
Head of Art
February 2014
Art
PATHWAYS THROUGH THE CURRICULUM
SUBJECT TITLE:
Business Studies
EXAMINATION BOARD:
IFS / OCR
QUALIFICATION:
GCSE
COURSE DESCRIPTION AND SUBJECT CONTENT
Business is a new course to all students in Year 9 and therefore it is difficult to make an informed
decision as to whether the course will suit and/or be appropriate. The course is split into 2 significant
parts.
Business Studies
In Year 9 you will study the IFS Certificate in Personal Finance. This course is all about finance and
how it affects the individual. You will learn about important money decisions and how best to tackle
issues and situations that may come up in day to day life. You will also learn about borrowing money,
savings and the risk involved should you get into debt. This is a good opportunity if you would like to
learn more about personal finance.
In OCR GCSE Business Studies you will learn about a number of key areas that are important to
make a business successful. It is important that you have an interest in business, whilst no prior
knowledge is necessary it helps if you are aware of what is going on in the wider world. You will learn
about the structure of businesses, the markets they operate in and how they deal with the competition
in the examined unit. There is an emphasis on marketing in the controlled assessment and this requires
students to work both independently and in a group to be able to suggest to a business how they may
go about improving the service they offer. You are expected to be creative and organised in this unit as
there is a lot of work to do.
CAREER POSSIBILITIES
The many areas studied provide a useful platform from which to explore a range of career
opportunities:
Preparation for AS and A2 Applied Business
Preparation for BTEC Level 2 National
Preparation for a range of Business related careers such as accountancy, retail management,
marketing, warehousing and logistics, banking and human resources management.
PATHWAY THROUGH THE CURRICULUM
Pathway
Year 9
3 computer based e-tests to be completed throughout the year
Certificate in Financial Studies – IFS Financial Certificate (equivalent
to ½ GCSE GRADES A-G)
Year 10
OCR GCSE Business - Controlled Assessment – 60% of the final
grade
Year 11
OCR GCSE Business – Exam Unit – 40% of the final grade
Mr J Stacey
Head of Business & Computing
March 2014
SUBJECT TITLE:
Drama
EXAMINATION BOARD:
AQA
QUALIFICATION:
GCSE
COURSE DESCRIPTION AND SUBJECT CONTENT
The course will provide dynamic and exciting opportunities to explore Drama. The practical nature of
the course will stimulate imaginative, creative, cognitive, communication and social skills.
We will be exploring many themes and issues relevant to the students in our practical Drama and
improvisational work. There will also be the chance to study a selection of plays from a practical point
of view, concentrating on relationships between characters and how to translate written text into
performance. As performance is an integral part of the course, it is essential that students watch a
variety of live productions to widen their knowledge and understanding of drama and theatre.
CAREER POSSIBILITIES
ASSESSMENT AND EXAMINATION
Unit 2 - Practical (60%) Drama Exploration
Internally assessed and externally moderated. Teacher assessed practical work. Unit 2 explores a
variety of different performance styles such as scripted, improvised and devised performance. The
students have to create and prepare a full length performance and are then assessed on their
contribution to rehearsal and acting in the final presentation.
Unit 1- Theory (40%) Written Exam
Externally assessed written examination; students will answer questions about two of the performances
they have created and performed during the course.
Miss N Mortimer
Drama
March 2014
Drama
As an art form, Drama develops artistic, aesthetic, social and cultural skills through a reflective and
practical process in which social skills and the ability to see another's perspective are of paramount
importance. It is therefore a subject that benefits all those who wish to work with others, from medicine
to sales work, in addition to a career in the theatre or in teaching. Drama is invaluable in promoting
self-confidence, an essential for all careers.
SUBJECT TITLE:
French
EXAMINATION BOARD:
WJEC
QUALIFICATION:
GCSE
COURSE DESCRIPTION AND SUBJECT CONTENT
This course may be right for you if you have enjoyed learning French in Year 7 and 8 and if you are
keen to develop more confidence in your spoken and written French. You will have to be prepared to
learn plenty of new vocabulary and structures as well. During the three year course, you will study the
following topics:
 Personal and Social Life
 The Local Community
 The World of Work
 The Wider World
French
The aims are:
 To develop an understanding of the language in a variety of contexts
 To develop the ability to communicate effectively in the language
 To develop awareness and understanding of countries where the language is spoken
CAREER POSSIBILITIES
Universities and employers value a qualification in a foreign language. French is one of the official
languages of the European Commission. There are so many jobs where some knowledge of French is
useful, including Industry, Business, Leisure and Tourism, Engineering, Telecommunications and the
Civil Service.
ASSESSMENT AND EXAMINATION
You will complete two pieces of written work from different contexts (250 words each). For each task
you will be given guidance to prepare a draft in class but the work must be learned at home and
rewritten during a one hour lesson. You will have access to a dictionary and some notes in the form of
bullet points.
You will also complete two speaking tasks: a Structured Conversation and a Presentation.
FINAL EXAMINATION (40%)
There is a final examination in Listening and Reading.
Mrs M Bell
Head of Modern Foreign Languages
March 2014
SUBJECT TITLE:
Geography
EXAMINATION BOARD:
AQA
QUALIFICATION:
GCSE
COURSE DESCRIPTION AND SUBJECT CONTENT
If you choose to study Geography in Year 9 you will continues to receive a first class Geographical
Education based on the key skills of enquiry and investigation. Geographers learn how to investigate
topical issues such as deforestation, global warming and volcano management. The information
presented to you will be a combination of audio, visual and textual, in keeping with what you have
experienced in Years 7 and 8.
The course has the major elements; Physical Geography, Human Geography and Geographical Skills.
You will be examined in all 3 elements. The controlled assessment coursework will be based on a
fieldwork study and is worth 25% of your final grade.
CAREER POSSIBILITIES
ASSESSMENT AND EXAMINATION
One piece of controlled assessment is required to be completed in Year 10 spanning the Autumn and
first part of the Spring Term. This represents 25% of the final grade awarded. This is in the form of a
geographical enquiry using data you have collected. You will build on the skills you have learned in
Years 7 and 8.
The final examinations are at the end of Year 11 and consist of two papers.
Unit 1: Physical Geography (37.5% of total marks)-tests 3 physical topics
Unit 2: Human Geography (37.5% of total marks)- tests 3 human topics
Students may be entered at Foundation or Higher level. Higher level enables the students to succeed
at grades A* to D. Foundation level enables the students to succeed at grades C to G.
SUMMARY
Pathway 1: Foundation
(students can achieve C-G grade)
Pathway 2: Higher
(students can achieve A*-D grade)
9
-Water on the Land
-The Restless Earth
-Changing Urban Environments
-Water on the Land
-The Restless Earth
-Changing Urban Environments
10
-Changing Urban Environments
-Controlled Assessment Fieldwork
-Unit 3 Accreditation (controlled assessment)
-The Living World
-Changing Urban Environments
-Controlled Assessment Fieldwork
-Unit 3 Accreditation (controlled
assessment)
-The Living World
-Tourism
-Population
-Revision
-Unit 1 and 2 Accreditation (Physical
and Human exams).
Year
11
-Tourism
-Population
-Revision
-Unit 1 and 2 Accreditation (Physical and Human
exams)
Mrs A Lavin
Head of Humanities
February 2014
Geography
By taking geography you will open up many career opportunities including those in Leisure, Tourism,
Environmental Work, Advertising, Transport, Teaching, Social and Youth work, Meteorology, Town
Planning, Law, Journalism and Publishing.
SUBJECT TITLE:
German
EXAMINATION BOARD:
WJEC
QUALIFICATION:
GCSE
COURSE DESCRIPTION AND SUBJECT CONTENT
You might choose to study German if you have enjoyed learning French in Year 7 and 8 but would like
a new challenge or to try a different language. The course is completed over three years and involves
accelerated progress in order to reach GCSE standard by Year 11. You will have to be prepared to
learn lots of new vocabulary at home to support your studies. You will study the following topics:
 Personal and Social Life
 The Local Community
 The World of Work
 The Wider World
The aims are:
 To develop an understanding of the language in a variety of contexts
 To develop the ability to communicate effectively in the language
 To develop awareness and understanding of countries where the language is spoken
German
CAREER POSSIBILITIES
Universities and employers value a qualification in a foreign language. German is spoken by over 100
million people in mainland Europe. Germany has the leading and most influential economy in the
European Union. Therefore a qualification in German could lead to a career in Industry, Business,
Leisure and Tourism or Telecommunications.
ASSESSMENT AND EXAMINATION
You will complete two pieces of written work from different contexts (250 words each). For each task
you will be given guidance to prepare a draft in class but the work must be learned at home and
rewritten during a one hour lesson. You will have access to a dictionary and some notes in the form of
bullet points.
Students also complete two speaking tasks: a Structured Conversation and a Presentation.
FINAL EXAMINATION (40%)
There is a final examination in Listening and Reading.
Mrs M Bell
Head of Modern Foreign Languages
March 2014
SUBJECT TITLE:
Vocational GCSE in Health and Social Care
EXAMINATION BOARD:
Edexcel
QUALIFICATION:
GCSE
COURSE DESCRIPTION AND SUBJECT CONTENT
GCSE Health and Social Care is a vocational, nationally recognised work-related qualification designed
to provide you with a choice of routes into further education or employment.
The course is vocational in nature and will cover some of the knowledge needed to work in the Health
and Social care Sector. It will be delivered in the context of real life needs and care related contexts.
Students gaining a Vocational GCSE in health and social care will have access to a range of career
and further education opportunities. The skills you develop through the course are in great demand and
are recognised and highly valued by employees and colleges. The options open to you depend on the
results achieved and your own interests. If you wish to continue studying health and social care in a
vocational context, you may consider a Vocational A Level in Health and Social Care. You may wish
instead to study a related BTEC National course such as Health Studies. Otherwise you may wish to
study a Diploma in Child Studies or a NVQ qualification in Care. You can then continue your studies in
Higher Education on either a BTEC Higher National or degree. There is a large variety of Higher
Education courses that are based around Health and Social Care.
ASSESSMENT AND EXAMINATION
The Single Award comprises 2 units:
Understanding Personal Development and Relationships [assessed by exam]. 40%
Health, Social care and Early Years Provision [assessed by controlled assessment] 60%
Unit 2 comprises controlled assessment investigating the needs of one person and how health, social
care and early years organisations may meet those needs. You will need to select a person and care
provider to base your research upon and write a report. This is carried out as a controlled assessment
task.
The exact nature of the controlled assessment tasks is changed by the exam board annually.
Controlled assessment is worth 60% of the Award.
Mrs P Burls
Head of Health and Social Care
February 2014
Health and Social Care
CAREER POSSIBILITIES
SUBJECT TITLE:
History
EXAMINATION BOARD:
OCR
QUALIFICATION:
GCSE
COURSE DESCRIPTION AND SUBJECT CONTENT
This course looks at the forces and events that have helped shape the modern world. Unit One is on
„Aspects of International relations, 1919-2005, and the chosen depth Study‟. The depth study will be
„The USA 1919-41‟. Unit Two is a source based enquiry, „How far did British society change, 1939-75‟.
Unit Three will be a controlled assessment task on an aspect of „Germany 1918-45‟.
CAREER POSSIBILITIES
History
GCSE is a welcome qualification for a wide spectrum of employment for it shows among other
attributes, a student‟s ability to understand human problems, analyse them and argue logically and
concisely. Key skills of communication and Information Technology are developed throughout the
course. These are central to successful employment and underpin further success in learning
independently. There is also a direct link with the History AS and A2 Level courses. Students may then
progress, via university, to careers in journalism, the media, law, education, civil service…..the list is
endless.
ASSESSMENT AND EXAMINATION
Units One and Two will be assessed by external public examinations (75%). Unit Three will be
internally assessed (25%). In addition there will be regular summative assessments where students will
answer exam type questions that will be marked according to GCSE criteria. These will enable a
regular estimate of progress in relation to target grades.
PATHWAYS THROUGH THE CURRICULUM
All students will follow the OCR GCSE Modern World course starting in Year 9. It is intended that they
will have completed studying Units 1, 2 and 3 by the end of the Autumn Term in Year 11. Students will
then prepare for the external exams which will be taken in May/June.
SUMMARY
Pathway 1 – OCR GCSE Modern World
Year 9
Unit 1: USA 1919-41; Unit 2: How far did British society change, 1939-75?
Year 10
Unit 2: how far did British society change 1939-75: Unit 3: Controlled
Assessment ‘Germany 1918-45’; Unit 1 Aspects of International Relations,
1919-2005
Year 11
Unit 1; Aspects of International Relations 1919-2005; Final preparation for
May/June Public Examinations
Mr I Gaunt
Head of History
February 2014
SUBJECT TITLE:
HOSPITALITY & CATERING (Food)
EXAMINATION BOARD:
WJEC
QUALIFICATION:
GCSE
COURSE DESCRIPTION AND SUBJECT CONTENT
This course is assessed by practical and written assessments as well as terminal examinations. Some
of the areas that are studied include: health and safety, hygiene, nutrition and menu planning, practical
cookery skills and techniques, knowledge and use of ingredients, an understanding of the industry.
Students will be given the opportunity to learn about the huge role that food plays in everyday life and
work with a range of ingredients, encouraging them to discover new ideas and ways with food. Through
their practical work they will experience the flavour, texture and characteristics of different foods.
Practical work is a vital part of this course and students will be required to cook weekly. An interest in
food, watching TV food programmes and a desire to cook is essential when choosing this course.
CAREER POSSIBILITIES
Completion of this course will offer you the opportunity to continue into our Sixth Form where a range of
courses will be available to you – dependent upon your level of ability. This course is also a good
preparation for the increasing number of careers in catering, where you may still have the opportunity to
continue training with an NVQ or progress to a BTEC National Diploma.
There may be an opportunity to take a Food Hygiene Certificate required by all those working in
Catering.
ASSESSMENT AND EXAMINATION
The Catering course is made up of two controlled practical assessments (worth 30% each) and a final
written examination at the end of the course (worth 40%).
The Hospitality course consists of one Event-based task (worth 60%) which involves working as a team
to host a function for more than 10 people and a final written exam paper at the end of the course
(worth 40%).
Some of the areas that are studied include: health and safety, hygiene, nutrition and menu planning,
practical cookery skills and techniques, knowledge and use of ingredients, an understanding of the
industry.
Mrs L McGinley
Head of Food Technology
February 2014
Hospitality and Catering
This course offers a unique opportunity for candidates to develop their knowledge and extend their
skills within hospitality and catering in a vocational context. It is a suitable qualification for those who
want a broad background in this area and for those who wish to progress to further education. The
Hospitality and Catering course is suitable for those who have an interest in food, enjoy practical
cooking and want to increase their ability and develop their practical skills.
The course also aims to develop your personal qualities, communication skills and practical skills which
are essential for working life.
EXAMINATION BOARD:
WJEC GCSE / OCR GCSE and OCR National
QUALIFICATION:
GCSE or Cambridge Nationals Level 2
COURSE DESCRIPTION AND SUBJECT CONTENT
Within Computing and ICT there is an opportunity to study one of 3 different qualifications depending
on your skills, preferred method of study and interests.
ICT and Computing
The WJEC GCSE in Information and Communication Technology allows you to learn about current
technologies and the impact on individuals and different businesses. You will be expected to develop a
range of ICT skills and techniques that you can use to solve problems and develop ideas. You will learn
a range of technical skills and you will need to apply these to potential business risks to come up with a
suitable solution to the problem. To study this GCSE you must be creative, logical and able to work on
your own as there is a large proportion of controlled assessment. You will also need to be able to work
as part of a team as some of the tasks can only be completed through small group work.
The OCR GCSE in Computing is a relatively new course that will give you a real, in-depth
understanding of how computer technology works. This course will help you understand how computers
work and what goes on „behind the scenes‟. You will research and investigate hardware, software,
logic, programming and trends in computing. The course will help develop thinking and problem solving
skills through the study of computer programming. You should consider taking this course if you are
interested in how computers work and want to know what it takes to write a programme or application. It
will contain a lot of technical language and in some cases may be difficult to grasp. You should
consider this course if you like maths or science or have participated in the computer club.
The OCR National in Information and Communication Technology is a modern and practical
course that is relevant to the workplace. The course is structured to help you, the student, to develop
your knowledge and understanding of ICT. As part of this course you will learn how to create an
interactive product such as a website or sound and vision promotional tool. You will learn the
supporting theory that every business must know when using ICT. This will include the risks involved in
using ICT and the appropriate use of software and hardware. To study this course you must work well
independently as there is a large emphasis on working individually to tight deadlines. Whilst the
majority of the course is coursework there is an exam element.
WJEC GCSE ICT
2 exam units that are worth
40% - taken at the end of
year 11
2 controlled assessment
units worth 60% - this are
assessed on-going
throughout the course
You should consider this
course if you are in sets 1-3
OC NATIONAL ICT
2 coursework units that are
each worth 25% and 1
examined unit that is worth
25%. He units are equally
split over the duration of the
course
Progression
Leads to A-level ICT or
Cambridge Technical
Leading to Cambridge
Technical
Careers
Preparation for a range of ICT related jobs such
as: Business analyst, Computer hardware
engineer, Computer technician, Data technician,
Database administrator, ICT support, Network
manager, Project manager and systems analyst
Course Structure
Prior Attainment
Mr J Stacey
Head of Business & ICT
February 2014
You should consider this
course if you are in sets 3-4
OCR GCSE Computing
There are 3 units of study
over the duration of the
course. 1 unit is a short and
long answer exam, 1 is a
practical investigation and the
final unit is a programming
project
You should consider this
course if you are set 1 or have
participated in computer club
for a long period of time
Leads to A-level Computing
Preparation for a range of
Computing based roles such
as: computer engineer,
programmer/software
designer, systems designer,
forensic computing/security
and computer games
SUBJECT TITLE:
Media Studies
EXAMINATION BOARD:
OCR
QUALIFICATION:
GCSE
COURSE DESCRIPTION AND SUBJECT CONTENT
Media Studies offers studies an opportunity for you to engage with a range of media texts; on an
analytical and creative level. This exciting subject will not only develop your critical appreciation of
music, TV, advertising and film texts but it will also develop your creative abilities using different
software programmes.
CAREER POSSIBILITIES
This GCSE Course does not lead directly into a specific career path, but as an academic examination it
is a valuable means of enhancing critical and evaluative skills. Students will be made far more aware of
the power that the Media exerts on our lives, and how they, themselves, can create images to achieve
effects.
The Coursework component, (60%) aims to examine students‟ understanding of Media concepts and
how well these can be translated into imagined Media Products.
The final examination, (40%) specifically tests knowledge and understanding of Media theory and
practice.
There is one final exam paper: 1h 45m (40%)
Textual analysis (Action Adventure)
Audiences & Institutions (TV Comedy)
Three substantial pieces of work must be produced: one essay and two media products. Work must
show evidence of critical evaluation
Mr J Stevens
Head of Media Studies
February 2014
Media Studies
ASSESSMENT AND EXAMINATION
SUBJECT TITLE:
Photography
EXAMINATION BOARD:
OCR
QUALIFICATION:
GCSE - ART & DESIGN IN PHOTOGRAPHY
COURSE DESCRIPTION AND SUBJECT CONTENT
You should show an informative response to imagery, through two or more different approaches such
as: Printed photography, digital photography, photo montage, black and white photography, colour
photography, achieved through lens based media.
Candidates will be required to demonstrate skills in:
Visual analysis through exploring imaging techniques such as depth of field, film speed, shutter
speed, lighting, exposure, and viewpoint;
Experimenting with media, processes and techniques;
Abstracting, designing, illustrating, documenting.
Photography
COURSE REQUIRMENTS
Component
1
2
Name
Coursework
Examination
Requirements
2 units of work
1 unit of work
Duration
-
Pathway 1
Year 9
OCR Photography
Foundation Course Building Skills
Year 10
OCR Photography
GCSE Year 1
Year 11
OCR Photography
GCSE Year 2
Mrs D Sullivan
Head of Art
March 2014
Weighting
60%
40%
SUBJECT TITLE:
Psychology
EXAMINATION BOARD:
Edexcel
QUALIFICATION:
GCSE
GCSE COURSE DESCRIPTION AND SUBJECT CONTENT
What do I need to know, or be able to do, before taking this course? The good news is that this will be
a new subject for you so you will not have to have any prior knowledge of psychology. Psychology is
the study of mind and behaviour and, through your own experiences; you will already have an
understanding of how individuals and groups function.
What will I learn? You will be looking at answers to the following five questions:
•
Unit 1: How do we see our world? Is dreaming meaningful?
•
Unit 2: Do TV and video games affect young people‟s behaviour? Why do we have
phobias? Are criminals born or made?
To achieve in GCSE Psychology, you need to have good literacy skills and be an effective
communicator. There is a lot of reading and remembering key information (theories, experiments and
case studies), the course is also methodological because Psychology is a Science – if you do not like
Science, this is the wrong course for you! People often think Psychology is easy and a bit of a doss
subject – they are very wrong, it is challenging and rigorous: there is a lot of information to learn,
remember and apply; often to new settings you have not been directly taught. You also need to have
good written skills and be able to construct longer answers to exam questions.
CAREER AND FUTURE OPPORTUNITIES
You can go on to study A Level Psychology. The skills you learn, such as how to evaluate, how to see
problems in data gathering and how to interpret graphs and data, will be very useful in further study.
You can go on to a health and social care course which includes psychology. You can use these skills,
and some of the material, in other subjects such as English literature and sociology. Business studies
and media studies also involve psychology, as does biology. You will find psychology useful in many
areas of work, such as selling, marketing, training and coaching. Even if you stop studying science
after Year 11, you‟ll have useful qualifications in science. Employers often look for people with good
results in science, because studying and doing well in science shows that you have the sort of way of
approaching and solving problems that employers find useful.
ASSESSMENT AND EXAMINATION
There are two exams which include some multiple-choice questions, some short-answer questions and
some extended writing. There will be case studies with questions and you need to give answers about
what happened in the study and the possible problems with it. You will be asked to use your
understanding of psychology, such as commenting on a dream or comparing two different explanations
of aggression. There is no coursework component for the GCSE.
Miss V Hampshire
March 2014
Psychology
Within these five topics you will look at:
•
how illusions work, how we see things and whether aggression and antisocial
behaviour comes from our biology (for example genes and hormones) or our
upbringing
•
the work of forensic, clinical and educational psychologists, as well as psychoanalysts
•
issues such as how reliable eyewitness testimony is and how someone‟s race or
accent can affect how they are judged by a jury
•
the methods used in psychology, as well as ethics and wider issues such as naturenurture.
SUBJECT TITLE:
Physical Education
EXAMINATION BOARD:
Edexcel
QUALIFICATION:
GCSE
COURSE DESCRIPTION AND SUBJECT CONTENT
Do you love sport? Do you to want find out how to be a top performer? Do you want to know how and
why your body can do the things it does? If yes, then this course is for you!
Physical Education
GCSE PE is both a theoretical and practical subject. Students wishing to take the course need to be
strong across a range of different sports and have an interest in the theory, which contains psychology,
physiology and the social issues around how we perform and play sports.
Theory (40%)
Healthy Active Lifestyle
The Healthy Active Body
Revision and Exam preparation
Practical (60%)
Practical Areas
Analysis of Performance
Moderation preparation
Year 9
Year 10
Year 11
CAREER POSSIBLITIES
The Sport and Leisure industry is still a popular area of employment with jobs in coaching,
physiotherapy, sports massage, teaching, sport administration, leisure centre management etc.
ASSESSMENT AND EXAMINATION
Theory work will be assessed continually and examined at the end of the course.
Practical work will be assessed in subject or activity blocks with a moderation day in March-April 2017.
Unit One (40% of the total GCSE) - Theory
1 hour 30 minute exam taken in May 2017
Topic Overviews
Healthy Active Lifestyles
The Healthy Active Body
Unit Two (60% of the total GCSE) - Practical
Students are assessed and moderated in 2017 on their practical ability
Topic Overviews
Students will be required to be assessed in four practical activities in a variety of different roles
– player/participant, official or leader (two of which must be in the role of player/participant).
Students will also be required to complete an Analysis of a Performance (controlled
assessment).
FINAL EXAMINATIONS
It is advisable that any students wishing to undertake study at GCSE level in PE are fully involved in at
least two different practical activities at a good level (club standard and above). It is also desirable that
students have an interest in and aptitude for the study of human biology.
Mr J Houston
Head of Physical Education
March 2014
SUBJECT TITLE:
Applied Art and Design GCSE
EXAMINATION BOARD:
OCR
QUALIFICATION:
Product Design
COURSE DESCRIPTION AND SUBJECT CONTENT
This course is suitable for you if you enjoy designing, modeling and making products. If you follow this
course you will develop your knowledge of using materials and techniques and design skills. Your will
then learn how to apply your designs and practical skills to work in wood, metal and plastics to create a
product.
CAREER POSSIBILITIES
Preparation for AS and A2 courses in Years 12/13.
Preparation for a wide range of Modern Apprentiships in craft, manufacturing and building trades.
Preparation for careers in art and design.
The major design project requires each student to produce a substantial piece of practical work and a
design folder of between 15-20 sheets of A3 drawing paper. This project will form 60% of the final
grade the remaining 40% are gained during the practical exam.
Practical exam a set brief will be given by the exam board in January and students will work on
research, designs and testing during lessons and for homework until their 10 hour practical exam where
they will make their final product. 40% of total marks
Mrs Chew
Product Design
February 2014
Product Design
ASSESSMENT AND EXAMINATION
SUBJECT TITLE:
Textiles
EXAMINATION BOARD:
AQA
QUALIFICATION:
GCSE
COURSE DESCRIPTION AND SUBJECT CONTENT
This course is suitable for you if you are interested in the Fashion and Textiles industry. The aim of the
course is to enable a student to express selling the subject ideas and feelings independently and use
two and/or three dimensions to communicate with others. Students will use a range of materials and
mediums based on a personal approach, in order to understand the visual implications of the design
process.
CAREER POSSIBILITIES
Textiles
Textiles deals with visual awareness, personal preferences, decision-making and self expression.
These are vital areas of concern in any profession.
 Preparation for AS/A2 courses
 Preparation for a foundation course leading to a BA in areas of Art, Craft and Design
 Preparation for careers in Art and Design, the vast textiles industry and Fashion
ASSESSMENT AND EXAMINATION
A portfolio of work is produced and displayed in an exhibition. Development work carries a large
percentage of marks and must accompany all final pieces of work.
FINAL EXAMINATION
All preparation work must be completed fully prior to the exam. Students are given 10 hours over two
days to complete their final outcome.
PATHWAYS THROUGH THE CURRICULUM
All students will start the Textiles GCSE in Year 9 and complete it by the end of Year 11.
SUMMARY
Pathway
Year 9
AQA Textiles
Foundation Course Building Skills
Year 10
AQA Textiles
GCSE Year 1
Year 11
AQA Textiles
Complete GCSE
Year 2
Mrs E Bayliss
Head of Textiles
March 2014
SECTION THREE
BTEC OPTIONS SUBJECTS
HEALTH & SOCIAL CARE
HOSPITALITY & CATERING
ICT
MUSIC
SCIENCE
SPORT
WORK SKILLS and TRAVEL & TOURISM
SUBJECT TITLES:
BTEC level 2 First Award in Health and Social Care
EXAMINATION BOARD:
Edexcel
QUALIFICATION:
Level 2 First Award equivalent to 1 GCSE
Grades A*-C
Health and Social Care
COURSE DESCRIPTIONS AND SUBJECT CONTENT
The course is vocational and will cover some of the knowledge and practical skills needed to work in
the Health and Social Care sector [eg. care worker, healthcare assistant, teaching assistant, youth
support worker, nursery nurse, playgroup leader]. The course will be delivered in the context of real
jobs and careers and will support skills needed in the workplace. You will need to care about health,
well being and rights and have lots of enthusiasm and a willingness to work independently and meet
the deadlines set.
Please note: this is not a course about child care or child development studies.
In Years 9, 10 and 11 students will study a Level 2 course which was re-structured and introduced in
September 2012. It is equivalent to 1 GCSE Grade A* to C [minimum] depending on whether students
achieve Pass, Merit, Distinction* or Distinction * in the various assessed tasks.
Four units are completed over 3 years:
2 units are compulsory core units [one exam unit, one coursework unit].
2 are chosen from 6 optional specialist units [both are coursework units].
All units are worth 25% of the final grade.
The exam unit [Human Growth and Development] will be sat In May/June of Year 11.
CAREER POSSIBILITIES
By the end of these vocational courses you will have developed many useful work related skills If you
wanted to continue with your studies you could return in the Sixth Form or go to college to complete
Level 3 BTEC courses relating to Health and Social Care or Child Care studies.
The course will help prepare you for employment in the Health and Social Care industry where you
could also work towards achieving an NVQ course at the same time or start an Apprenticeship.
ASSESSMENT AND EXAMINATION
Coursework (75%)
Three of the four units: are assessed by coursework. One of the units is compulsory [Health and Social
Care Values], the other 2 are chosen by the school [choice will vary each year]. These will be
completed during lesson and homework time.
Each unit is graded Fail, Pass, Merit or Distinction. Students will have the opportunity to access advice
and help with portfolio work throughout the course and chances to improve their work to a higher level.
All tasks in all coursework units must be passed to a minimum Pass level standard to achieve the Level
2 award. Failing this, a Level 1 may be awarded.
Final Examination (25%)
Unit 1, Human Growth and Development, is assessed by a 1 hour exam marked externally by Edexcel.
The exam consists of shorter and longer structured answers based upon a case study/scenario that
relates to the Health, Social Care or Early Years settings.
Mrs P Burls
Head of Health and Social Care
February 2014
SUBJECT TITLE:
Hospitality and Catering (Food)
EXAMINATION BOARD:
EDEXCEL
QUALIFICATION:
BTEC Level 2 First Certificate
COURSE DESCRIPTION AND SUBJECT CONTENT
The course aims to develop your personal qualities and practical skills essential for working life.
This is the course for you if you have an interest in food, enjoy practical cooking and are thinking of
working in the hospitality and catering industry.
Your will learn about the Hospitality and Catering industry, hygiene and safety, nutrition and health and
the huge role that food plays in everyday life. Practical work is an important part of the course so you
will need to be well organised and reliable in bringing ingredients.
CAREER POSSIBILITIES
Completion of this course will offer you the opportunity to continue into our Sixth Form where a range of
courses will be available to you – dependent upon your level of ability. This course is also a good
preparation for the increasing number of careers in catering, where you may have the opportunity to
continue training with an NVQ or progress to a BTEC National Diploma.
There may be an opportunity to take the Basic Food Hygiene Certificate required by all those working in
Catering.
ASSESSMENT
The course is assessed 80% on coursework and 20% on a final examination.
Each unit of work involves you completing an assignment that is assessed and graded and, if you are
successful, an overall grade is awarded for the qualification. This will be a Pass, Merit or Distinction.
All coursework assignments MUST be completed by May of the year in which you will complete the
course.
SUMMARY
Year 9
Pathway 1
BTEC Hospitality & Catering
Students start BTEC course. Introductory topics include health
and safety, nutrition and an introduction to the industry.
Year 10
Students working on completing assignments for BTEC, both
written and practical tasks.
Year 11
Mrs L McGinley
Head of Food Technology
February 2014
Unit 1 – including final exam.Completion of BTEC course for all
students.
Hospitality and Catering
The BTEC course also develops your personal qualities, communication skills and practical skills which
you will use throughout your life.
EXAMINATION BOARD:
OCR National
QUALIFICATION:
Cambridge Nationals Level 2
COURSE DESCRIPTION AND SUBJECT CONTENT
ICT and Computing
The OCR National in Information and Communication Technology is a modern and practical
course that is relevant to the workplace. The course is structured to help you, the student, to develop
your knowledge and understanding of ICT. As part of this course you will learn how to create an
interactive product such as a website or sound and vision promotional tool. You will learn the
supporting theory that every business must know when using ICT. This will include the risks involved in
using ICT and the appropriate use of software and hardware. To study this course you must work well
independently as there is a large emphasis on working individually to tight deadlines. Whilst the
majority of the course is coursework there is an exam element.
WJEC GCSE ICT
2 exam units that are worth
40% - taken at the end of
year 11
2 controlled assessment
units worth 60% - this are
assessed on-going
throughout the course
You should consider this
course if you are in sets 1-3
OC NATIONAL ICT
2 coursework units that are
each worth 25% and 1
examined unit that is worth
25%. He units are equally
split over the duration of the
course
Progression
Leads to A-level ICT or
Cambridge Technical
Leading to Cambridge
Technical
Careers
Preparation for a range of ICT related jobs such
as: Business analyst, Computer hardware
engineer, Computer technician, Data technician,
Database administrator, ICT support, Network
manager, Project manager and systems analyst
Course Structure
Prior Attainment
Mr J Stacey
Head of Business & ICT
February 2014
You should consider this
course if you are in sets 3-4
OCR GCSE Computing
There are 3 units of study
over the duration of the
course. 1 unit is a short and
long answer exam, 1 is a
practical investigation and the
final unit is a programming
project
You should consider this
course if you are set 1 or have
participated in computer club
for a long period of time
Leads to A-level Computing
Preparation for a range of
Computing based roles such
as: computer engineer,
programmer/software
designer, systems designer,
forensic computing/security
and computer games
SUBJECT TITLE:
Music
EXAMINATION BOARD:
EDEXCEL
QUALIFICATION:
BTEC First Award in Music
BTEC COURSE DESCRIPTION AND SUBJECT CONTENT
BTEC Music is about learning how music is created in the 21 st century. The course is structured to
allow you to develop skills in composing and performing. You will also have the opportunity to learn
how to compose using music software that is used by professional musicians.
CAREER POSSIBILITIES
A BTEC in Music prepares young people for a career in the Performing Arts or the music industry. Have
you ever thought about becoming a lawyer for a pop band or working as a sound technician in a
recording studio? The course also provides an excellent progression route to more advanced
qualifications such as the BTEC Subsidiary Diploma in Music and is recognised by colleges and
universities.
ASSESSMENT AND EXAMINATION
Introducing Live Sound
Introducing Music Composition
Introducing Music Performance
Introducing Music Recording
Introducing Music Sequencing
PATHWAYS THROUGH THE CURRICULUM
Pathway 1 - In Year 9 all students will study the BTEC Level 2 in Music which is equivalent to one
GCSE A*-C. Before completing assignments, students begin with a Key Skills Unit which prepares
students for BTEC assignments in composing and performing.
Pathway 2 – This is designed to provide the opportunity for any student who has not achieved their
target grade for assignments completed in Year 10 and the Autumn term of Year 11. This pathway will
allow students to complete new units in addition to those completed so far in the course.
SUMMARY
Year 9
Year 10
Year 11
Pathway 1
Pathway 2
BTEC in Music (Equivalent to 1 GCSE
A*-C)
BTEC in Music (Equivalent to 1 GCSE A*-C)
In Year 11, students will complete additional units to
improve their current coursework grade
Music
75% coursework 25% examination (There may be some controlled assessments in the new BTEC
specification)
During the course you complete two core units called The Music Industry and Managing a Music
Product. The Music Industry unit is externally assessed. You also complete two optional units from
the choices below:
The Music Department will consider offering GCSE Music instead of BTEC Music if the majority of
students opting for Music in Year 9 express this preference. GCSE Music can only run if there are
sufficient student numbers to run the course.
GCSE COURSE DESCRIPTION AND SUBJECT CONTENT
GCSE Music develops students‟ skills in composing, performing and listening. You will have the
opportunity to study a variety of musical styles and learn how compose in different musical genres. As
there is a strong weighting on music performance, it is suggested that students are currently learning a
musical instrument and receive instrumental tuition for the duration of the GCSE course.
SCHEME OF ASSESSMENT
Integrated Tasks (30%), Practical Portfolio (30%), Creative Task (15%) and Listening Examination
(25%)
COURSEWORK REQUIREMENTS
Music
Integrated Tasks (30%) – Students study the role of their chosen instrument and the techniques used
to create a performance. This will lead to a performance/recording of a piece of music (15%), a written
commentary (5%) and composition (10%).
Practical Portfolio (30%) - Students are required to produce three pieces of work: A group
performance (15%), a composition or arrangement based on one of the Areas of Study such as Dance
Music or Descriptive Music (10%) and a composition log and evaluation (5%).
Creative Task (15%) – Students are required to create a short piece of music in response to a stimulus
set by the exam board (e.g. short rhythm or chord sequence). They will complete this part of the course
in controlled conditions. Students will perform their piece on their instrument/voice or through a
performance using ICT or by writing it down.
Listening Exam (25%) – Students complete a written paper in Year 11 lasting 1 ½ hours. This
assesses knowledge of all the Areas of Study studied throughout the course.
Mrs M Johnson
Head of Performing Arts
February 2014
SUBJECT TITLE:
Science
EXAMINATION BOARD:
Edexcel
QUALIFICATION:
BTEC Level 1/Level 2 First Award in Application of Science
GCSE COURSE DESCRIPTION AND SUBJECT CONTENT
If you are in Set 4 for Science, after completing Science GCSE, you will move onto a vocational BTEC
in Applied Science.
There are four main components that have to be studied:
•
Health Applications of Life Science: investigating factors that contribute to healthy
living, learning how preventative measures can be used to support healthy living,
investigating how some treatments are used when illness occurs.
•
Application of Chemical Substances: investigating and understanding enthalpy
changes associated with chemical reactions, investigating organic compounds used in
society, exploring the uses of nanochemicals and new materials.
•
Application of Physical Science: investigating motion, investigating forces, investigating
light and sound waves, investigating electricity.
•
Scientific Skills: understanding how to produce a good plan for an investigation,
processing, presenting and analysing data, and drawing evidence-based conclusions,
evaluating evidence and investigative methods.
BTEC First qualifications were originally designed for use in colleges, schools and the workplace as an
introductory level 2 course for learners wanting to study in the context of a vocational sector. The skills
learnt in studying a BTEC First will help you to study further and prepare you to enter the workplace. In
Applied Science, typical employment opportunities may be as a laboratory technician or in roles
involving sample analysis in environmental protection or healthcare.
Even if you stop studying science after Year 11, you‟ll have useful qualifications in science. Employers
value employees who are able to communicate effectively both verbally and using electronic
communication methods. The qualification provides opportunities for you to develop your
communication skills as you progress through the course. This can be achieved through presentations
and in discussions where you have the opportunity to express their opinions.
ASSESSMENT AND EXAMINATION
The course is completed over 120 guided learning hours, this means that you will complete internal
assessments in 3 units (Health Applications of Life Science, Application of Chemical Substances and
Application of Physical Science) over 30 guided learning hours. These internal assessments consist of
assignments focussed on key areas of learning. Assignments will not just be written based; these can
focus on role-play and modelling and posters production in addition to written reports and practical
write ups. Assignments are grades on a Pass, Merit or Distinction level. A pass is equivalent to a
GCSE grade C and a Distinction a GCSE grade A.
The fourth unit, Scientific Skills, is externally assessed by an exam that is 1 hour and 15 minutes long
and is worth 50 marks. The examination will contain questions on planning, processing, presenting and
analysing data, drawing conclusions and evaluating methodology and conclusions. This exam is taken
at the end of Year 11.
Mrs P Righton
Head of Science
March 2014
Science
CAREER AND FUTURE OPPORTUNITIES
SUBJECT TITLE:
Physical Education
EXAMINATION BOARD:
Edexcel
QUALIFICATION:
BTEC
COURSE DESCRIPTION AND SUBJECT CONTENT
Physical Education
Do you enjoy sport? Do you want to know how top performers can do what they do and help them
achieve it? Do you want to be able to coach and improve yourself and others in sport? If yes, then this
course is for you!
BTEC sport is both a theoretical and practical subject. Students wishing to take the course need to be
interested in a range of different sports and be ready for a challenge. You must have an interest in the
rules, regulations and coaching behind sports, how we play them and improve in them as well as how
we physically perform and play ourselves. This is a course for the student who enjoys sports and
coaching and is looking to explore Physical Education in more depth.
The course itself covers four different areas and are all coursework based apart from one unit;
Unit 1 – Fitness for Sport and Exercise (1 hour on-line examination 2015/2016)
Unit 2 – Practical Sports Performance
Unit 4 – The Sports Performer in Action or Unit 5 – Training for Personal Fitness
Unit 6 – Leading Sports Activities
CAREER POSSIBLITIES
The Sport and Leisure industry is still a popular area of employment with jobs in coaching, teaching,
sport administration, leisure centre management etc.
PATHWAYS THROUGH THE CURRICULUM
BTEC
Year 9
Unit 1 Fitness for Sport and Exercise
Unit 2 Practical Sports Performance
Year 10
Unit 4 The Sports Performer in Action or Unit 5 Training for Personal Fitness
Unit 6 Leading Sports Activities
Year 11
Additional Units
Curriculum statement
This vocational BTEC course is awarded Pass, Merit or Distinction and is equivalent to one GCSE
Grade A-C.
Mr J Houston
Head of Physical Education
March 2014
SUBJECT TITLES:
Travel & Tourism
EXAMINATION BOARD: Edexcel
QUALIFICATION:
BTEC Level 1/Level 2 First Certificate in
Travel and Tourism
COURSE DESCRIPTION AND SUBJECT CONTENT
You must be good at carrying out research from different sources such as the internet, travel brochures
and travel guides. You will need to be able to work independently as a lot of the tasks are individual
pieces of work that require self-motivation and the need to manage your time effectively. If you are
capable of keeping to deadlines, hardworking and well organised then you will succeed on this course.
CAREER POSSIBILITIES
This course can lead to jobs in hospitality, travel and tourism such as hotels, travel agents and tour
operators and airlines. The range of roles is far reaching and include customer facing to management.
You may also use this course to progress to Level 3 BTEC National Travel and Tourism. This in turn
can lead to higher education opportunities.
PATHWAYS THROUGH THE CURRICULUM
YEAR
Pathway
9
Units 1 and 2 (Unit 1 is exam based and unit 2 is coursework)
10
Units 4 and 7 (Unit 7 is exam based and unit 4 is coursework)
11
Units 3 and 9 (Both units are coursework based)
Mr J Stacey
Head of Business & ICT
March 2014
Travel and Tourism
If you enjoy learning about different parts of the world and holiday destinations and the reasons why
people travel then you will enjoy this subject. In this subject you will cover 8 units of work over 3 years.
The units of work include the UK travel and tourism sector, the UK and International travel destinations
and employment in travel and tourism. You will expect to carry out a research project for each of these
units that are assessed internally and externally to strict deadlines. 6 of the units are coursework units
and will be completed in classwork and as homework and 2 units are assessed externally through
examination. All of the units have an equal weighting. There is an opportunity to achieve Pass, Merit or
Distinction grades that are equivalent to a C, B or A(A*) grades.
Notes
Notes