Key Stage 4
Options
Contents
Welcome from the Principal
Information for students and parents
The different qualifications explained
English Language
English Literature
Mathematics
Science
Additional Science
Construction and the built environment
First Certificate in Engineering
Computer Science
Geography
History
Modern Foreign Languages
Triple Science
Design Technology - Resistant Materials
Design Technology - Systems and Controls
Art and Design
Business
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3
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5
6
7
8
9
10
11
12
13
14
15
16
17
18
19
20
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Welcome
Welcome to the first cohort of Medway UTC students. Medway UTC will be a provider of
first class education for young people aged 14-19 in the fields of engineering, construction
and design. At Medway UTC we are committed to providing the highest standards of
achievement and development of the whole student, so that you are ready to realise your
aspirations whether in employment, apprenticeship or higher education.
At Medway UTC we recognise the importance of the decisions that students need to make
in their transition from previous school. In this important and challenging phase of
students’ education, it is crucial that we give you clear and informed guidance as to the
choices available and how these are matched to individual needs, interests and abilities.
Our programme of Options evenings and guidance for students is designed to ensure that
parents and students are fully informed of the issues involved in choosing courses for
Years 10 and 11. We offer an exciting range of 16 courses this year, in addition to the
fantastic enhancement and enrichment opportunities that will provide the springboard for
our students' development and shape their future educational and career opportunities.
We also see this as a time to reinforce the partnership that exists between the school,
partners, parents and students. We value this partnership as we feel that it is vital in
ensuring that students commit themselves, unequivocally, to the hard work that will enable
them to successfully meet the challenges of new courses in Years 10 and 11. Our staff will
be only too pleased to offer any guidance that you may require and to discuss with you the
opportunities which are available.
Dr Karon Buck
Principal
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Information for students and parents
Our students are joining Medway UTC because they are passionate about construction and the
built environment, design and engineering. Students in years 10 and 11 will follow a programme
that includes both of these technical areas by completing the respective BTEC First Certificates
(which they will choose to specialise in either one of them in years 12 and 13). In addition they will
study GCSEs in the core subjects of English, English literature, mathematics and the sciences.
We recognise that our students will want personalise their study and we will offer choice where
possible. However it may not be possible to provide qualifications if the number of students wishing
to study them is low and so we ask that you put your order of preference in each of the three option
blocks.
Ebacc option block
Students can choose to study one of the following qualifications:
 GCSE Computer Science
 GCSE Geography
 GCSE History
 GCSE Modern Foreign Language1
 GCSE Triple Science
1
Since our students come from a wide range of schools that offer different language we
ask that you specify on the form which language(s) you wish to study on the option form
Design technology option
To complement their specialist studies, students can choose one of the following Design
Technology qualifications:
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GCSE Resistant Materials
GCSE System and Control
Portfolio option block
The final option block allows students to gain another Ebacc qualification or develop their skills in
Art and Design or Business.
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BTEC First Award in Business
GCSE Art and Design
GCSE Computer Science
GCSE Geography
GCSE History
GCSE Modern Foreign Language1
The option form
We ask that you submit you initial preferences by the end of the options evening, but you can use
the enclosed form to amend your choice. The deadline for final submission is the 27th April.
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The different qualifications explained:
There are a wide variety of qualifications available to students and it is important that you and
your child understand the difference between the qualifications so that they are able to make
informed decisions about which style of learning is best for them.
Nationally recognised qualifications are classified as either Level 1 or Level 2 qualifications at Key
Stage 4. Level 3 or A-Level type courses are studied post 16. Level 1 qualifications are equivalent
to GCSE grades D- G, Level 2 qualifications are equivalent to GCSE grades A*- C.
Qualification types

GCSE stands for General Certificate of Secondary Education. They are combination of
controlled assessment and examinations. Controlled assessment has to be completed
during lesson time in school under conditions which are controlled by the teacher. Awards
are granted as A*- G or ungraded. From September 2015, English and Mathematics will
be graded 9 -1, the top three grades (9, 8 and 7) will replace the current top two (A* and
A) and the bottom of 4 will be the same as the bottom of C, but whereas the bottom of C is
currently considered a ’good’ GCSE.

BTEC stands for Business and Technology Council qualification. They are a combination of
mostly coursework and an examination. They are graded from Distinction* to Pass (A*- C
equivalent at GCSE). Students can attain either Level 1 (GCSE equivalent D- G) or Level 2
(GCSE equivalent A*- C). BTECs differ to GCSEs as they designed so that students develop
knowledge and understanding by applying their learning and skills in a work-related
context.
Terminology
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Controlled Assessment consists of tasks are completed in class, but some subjects are
allowed to use homework time for preparation. They have to be completed under
controlled conditions which means that students are only allowed to have a certain
amount of time to complete them and that they are generally carried out under
examination conditions. They are marked by teachers, but then moderated by the
Examining Body.
Examinations are set and marked by the Examining Body, the dates and times of them
are outside our control which means that if your child is absent on that day, a medical
note must be provided as there may not be another opportunity for your child to sit this
examination again. These examinations will contribute towards GCSE, BTEC and
Cambridge Nationals Awards.
Tier of entry determines the difficulty of the paper and therefore the range of grades
available for reward. At GCSE higher tier is usually GCSE grades A*-D and foundation tier
grades C-G. Some subjects have only 1 tier which allows students to gain GCSE grades A*G. Tiers are selected by teachers according to each individual student’s ability and
performance.
English Language
Qualification type:
Tiers
Higher tier
Foundation tier
GCSE
Grades1
9-4
5-1
Numerical grades will replace the current A* to G grades for some GCSEs started in 2015. 9 will
be the highest grade.
1
Introduction
The aims of the qualification are for the students to read a wide range of texts fluently and with
good understanding, read critically and use knowledge gained from wide reading to inform and
improve their own writing. To should be able to write effectively and coherently using Standard
English appropriately, use grammar correctly, punctuate and spell accurately, acquire and apply a
wide vocabulary alongside knowledge and understanding of grammatical terminology, and
linguistic conventions for reading, writing and spoken language. Students should listen to and
understand spoken language, and use spoken Standard English effectively. Spoken language will
be reported as a separate grade on the student’s certificate.
What will I study?
Component 1: Fiction and imaginative writing
 Study selections from a range of prose fiction.
 Develop skills to analyse and evaluate 19th-century fiction extracts.
 Develop imaginative writing skills to engage the reader.
 Use spelling, punctuation and grammar accurately.
Component 2: Non-fiction and transactional writing
 Study a range of 20th- and 21st-century non-fiction texts (including literary non-fiction).
 Develop skills to analyse, evaluate and compare non-fiction extracts.
 Develop transactional writing skills for a variety of forms, purposes and audiences.
 Use spelling, punctuation and grammar accurately
Assessment
Component 1 is assessed by a one hour and 45 minute paper and worth 40% of marks. Component
2 is examined with a two hour paper. They are both externally set and marked by the exam board
with not coursework or controlled assessment.
Why study English Language?
The qualification provides the essentials of reading and writing whilst also encompassing the study
of a literary text and offering the opportunity for creative writing to develop the student’s essential
communication skills.
Future pathways
GCSE English Language is an essential qualification for entry to the sixth form, apprenticeship and
a number of professions or careers and will enable progression to A-Level English Language.
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English Literature
Qualification type:
Tiers
Higher tier
Foundation tier
GCSE
Grades1
9-4
5-1
Numerical grades will replace the current A* to G grades for some GCSEs started in 2015. 9 will
be the highest grade.
1
Introduction
The aims of the qualification are for the students to read a wide range of classic literature fluently
and with good understanding, and make connections across their reading read in depth, critically
and evaluatively, so that they are able to discuss and explain their understanding and ideas
develop the habit of reading widely and often appreciate the depth and power of the English literary
heritage write accurately, effectively and analytically about their reading, using Standard English
acquire and use a wide vocabulary, including grammatical terminology, and other literary and
linguistic terms they need to criticise and analyse what they read.
What will I study?
Component 1: Shakespeare and Post-1914 Literature
 Study a Shakespeare play and a post-1914 British play or novel.
 Develop skills to analyse how the language, form, structure and context of texts can
create meanings and effects.
 Develop skills to maintain a critical style and informed personal response.
Component 2: 19th-century Novel and Poetry since 1789
 Study a 19th-century novel and a poetry collection from the Pearson Poetry Anthology.
 Develop skills to analyse how the language, form, structure and context of texts can
create meanings and effects.
 Develop skills to maintain a critical style and informed personal response.
 Develop comparison skills.
Assessment
Component 1 is assessed by a one hour and 45 minute paper. Component 2 is examined with a
two hour 15 minute paper. They are both equally weighted, externally set and marked by the exam
board with not coursework or controlled assessment.
Why study English Language?
The qualification develops the essentials skills of analysis and critical style in the context of study
of a literary texts.
Future pathways
Many employers view GCSE English Literature as an indication of an articulate, well-motivated,
analytical and creative individual, which are essential in the specialism of construction, design and
engineering.
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Mathematics
Qualification type:
Tiers
Higher tier
Foundation tier
GCSE
Grades1
9-4
5-1
Numerical grades will replace the current A* to G grades for some GCSEs started in 2015. 9 will
be the highest grade.
1
Introduction
This subject covers far more than how to add up and multiply. It is about developing the tools to
solve problems enabling us to understand far more about the world around us and how things
relate to each other.
What will I study?
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Number
Algebra
Ratio, proportion and rates of change
Geometry and measure
Probability
Statistics
Assessment
Three papers each equally weighted, one hour and thirty minutes, one non-calculator and two
calculator based. They are all externally set and marked by the exam board with not coursework or
controlled assessment.
Why study mathematics?
The 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. Mathematics is an innate part of the construction, design and engineering industry.
Whether students plan to go on to employment, apprenticeship or further studies, a good
understanding of mathematics is essential.
Future pathways
GCSE Mathematics is an essential qualification for entry to the sixth form, apprenticeship and a
number of professions or careers. Students who achieve this GCSE in can progress from this course
to A-level Mathematics and A-level Further Mathematics, which will be offered by Medway UTC. It
is also very valuable as a supporting subject to our specialisms, Construction and the Built
environment, Engineering and Design Technology as well as the sciences.
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Science
Qualification type:
Tiers
Higher tier
Foundation tier
GCSE
Grades
A* - C
C-G
Introduction
This GCSE qualification in Science encourages students to be inspired, motivated and challenged
by following a broad, coherent, practical, satisfying and worthwhile course of study. It provides
insight into and experience of how science works, stimulating students’ curiosity and
encouraging them to engage with science in their everyday lives and to make informed choices
about further study and career choices.
What will I study?
Unit B1: Influences on life
 Classification, variation and inheritance
 Responses to a changing environment
 Problems of, and solutions to a changing environment
Unit C1: Chemistry in our world
 The Earth’s sea and atmosphere, materials from the Earth
 Acids
 Obtaining and using metals and fuels
Unit P1: Universal physics
 The electromagnetic spectrum and the Solar System
 Waves and the Universe
 Generation and transmission of electricity and energy of the future
Unit SCA: Science Controlled assessment
 Planning, making observations and drawing conclusions.
Assessment
Three papers each equally weighted, one hour. They are all externally set and marked by the exam
board. Controlled assessment takes approximately six hours and is completed during lessons.
Why science?
The qualification in science provides the fundamental knowledge and understanding that
underpins the qualification of construction, design and engineering. Whether students plan to go
on to employment, apprenticeship or further studies, a good understanding of science is essential.
Future pathways
Students studying GCSE Science will go on to study GCSE Additional Science.
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Additional science
Qualification type:
Tiers
Higher tier
Foundation tier
GCSE
Grades
A* - C
C-G
Introduction
This GCSE qualification in Additional Science builds upon the concepts and skills developed in
GCSE Science stimulating students’ curiosity and encouraging them to engage with science in their
everyday lives and to make informed choices about further study and career choices.
What will I study?
Unit B2: Influences on life
 The building blocks of cells
 Organisms and energy
 Common systems
Unit C2: Chemistry in our world
 Atomic structure and the periodic table
 Ionic, covalent and metallic bonding
 Quantitative chemistry
Unit P2: Universal physics
 Static and current electricity
 Motion, forces, momentum, energy, work and power
 Nuclear fission and fusion
Unit ASCA: additional Science Controlled assessment
 Planning, making observations and drawing conclusions.
Assessment
Three papers each equally weighted, one hour. They are all externally set and marked by the exam
board. Controlled assessment takes approximately six hours and is completed during lessons.
Why Science?
The qualification in science provides the fundamental knowledge and understanding that
underpins the qualification of construction, design and engineering. Whether students plan to go
on to employment, apprenticeship or further studies, a good understanding of science is essential.
Future pathways
Students who achieve this GCSE in can progress from this course to A-levels in Biology, Chemistry,
Physics, which we intend to offer at Medway UTC, and supportive of the BTEC level 3 qualifications
in Construction and Engineering.
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First Certificate in Construction and the Built
Environment
Qualification type:
Tiers
Level 2
Level 1
BTEC
Grades
D*D* - PP
Learners who do not achieve at Level 2 may be awarded a Level 1 grade
Introduction
BTECs are vocationally related qualifications, where learners develop knowledge and
understanding by applying their learning and skills in a work-related context.
What will I study?
The BTEC First qualifications have core, mandatory and optional specialist units.

Core Units: Construction Technology – this unit covers the different forms of construction
that can be used for low-rise offices, retail units and homes. Construction and Design – in
this unit learners will develop a broad understanding of the construction industry, the sort
of projects it undertakes, and the contribution it makes to wider society.
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Mandatory Units: Scientific and Mathematical Applications for Construction – in this unit
learners will apply scientific and mathematical knowledge, understanding and skills to
practical construction contexts. Sustainability in Construction – this unit has been included
as a mandatory unit within this qualification as it has been highlighted by employers and
stakeholders as a key element in the sector. They will also examine techniques that can be
used within construction projects to reduce the impact on the environment and improve
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Optional Units: Learners choose four further units from the 11 optional specialist units
offered within this qualification, building on the core and the mandatory units to provide
them with an opportunity to develop a wider understanding and appreciation of areas of
the construction sector, depending on their interests and motivation.
Assessment
The core units are assessed by one hour exams, they are all externally set and marked by the exam
board. Mandatory and optional units are set and moderated by the exam board but marked class
teachers.
Why Construction and the Built Environment?
The qualification is a core specialism of Medway UTC and will be enhanced by the Partner projects
in the delivery of this qualification.
Future pathways
The knowledge, understanding and skills learnt in studying a BTEC First will aid progression to
further study in the sixth form and prepare learners to enter the workplace in due course. Entrylevel employment opportunities in Construction Industry include a wide range of roles such as
junior technician or in the construction trades.
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First Certificate in Engineering
Qualification type:
Tiers
Level 2
Level 1
BTEC
Grades
D*D* - PP
Learners who do not achieve at Level 2 may be awarded a Level 1 grade
Introduction
The Edexcel BTEC Level 1/Level 2 First Award in Engineering provides an engaging, robust, broadbased introduction to engineering. It provides underpinning knowledge, understanding and
practical skills that reflect the needs of employers and higher and further education professionals.
It presents knowledge, skills and understanding in a meaningful work-related context, to allow
learners to understand theory and application.
What will I study?
The BTEC First qualifications have core, mandatory and optional specialist units.
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Core Units: Engineered World – you will discover the world of engineering. You will
investigate the processes used to manufacture modern products within different
engineering sectors. You will also study some of the new developments in materials and
engineering technology that have an impact on life today – or will have in the very near
future. Investigating an Engineered product - in this unit you will investigate a
manufactured product to learn what considerations a designer would keep in mind when
writing a technical specification.
Mandatory Units: Interpreting and Using Engineering Information - This unit will enable you
to know how to make effective use of textual, numeric, diagrammatic and graphical
information when working with engineering drawings, technical manuals, reference tables,
in accordance with approved procedures. Mathematics for Engineering - This unit is the
starting point for you to gain the mathematical skills needed to solve many of the
interesting challenges which car designers and other engineers face on a day-to-day basis.
Optional Units: Learners choose four further units from the 10 optional specialist units
offered within this qualification, building on the core and the mandatory units to provide
them with an opportunity to develop a wider understanding and appreciation of areas of
the engineering sector, depending on their interests and motivation.
Assessment
The core units are assessed by one hour exams, they are all externally set and marked by the exam
board. Mandatory and optional units are set and moderated by the exam board but marked class
teachers.
Why Engineering?
The qualification is a core specialism of Medway UTC and will be enhanced by the Partner projects
in the delivery of this qualification.
Future pathways
The qualification allows progression to the Level 3 Engineering suite.
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Computer Science
Qualification type:
Tiers
Higher tier
Foundation tier
GCSE
Grades
A* - C
C-G
Introduction
Computer Science has been developed in response to a number of recent initiatives aimed at
promoting computer science as a rigorous, knowledge-based subject discipline that should be part
of every young person’s education.
What will I study?
Principles of Computer Science:
 Understanding of what algorithms are, what they are used for and how they work; ability
to interpret, amend and create algorithms.
 Understanding of binary representation, data representation, data storage and
compression, encryption and databases; ability to use SQL to insert, amend and extract
data stored in a structured database.
 Understanding of components of computer systems; ability to construct truth tables,
produce logic statements and read and interpret fragments of assembly code.
 Understanding of computer networks, the internet and the WWW; ability to use HTML and
CSS to construct web pages.
 Awareness of emerging trends in computing technologies, the impact of computing on
individuals, society and the environment, including ethical, legal and ownership issues
Practical Programming:
 This is a practical ‘making task’ that enables students to demonstrate their computational
techniques using a programming language. Students will:
· decompose problems into sub-problems
· create original algorithms or work with algorithms produced by others
· design, write, test, and evaluate programs.
Assessment
The written paper, ‘Principles of Computer Science’, is a rigorous 2 hour, intellectually
challenging examination with a weighting of 75% that requires a high level of computational
thinking. Practical programming skills are assessed in the controlled assessment, which has a
weighting of 25%.
Why Computer Science?
The qualification develops the knowledge and understanding of the fundamental principles and
concepts of computer science and computational thinking skills to analyse problems and design
solutions across a range of contexts. Students will gain practical experience of designing, writing,
and testing computer programs that accomplish specific goals. They will develop the ability to
reason, explain and evaluate computing solutions.
Future pathways
Students can progress from this qualification to A-level in Computing Science which we intend to
offer at Medway UTC.
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Geography
Qualification type:
Tiers
Higher tier
Foundation tier
GCSE
Grades
A* - C
C-G
Introduction
Geography requires students to demonstrate knowledge and understanding of new ideas and
approaches to the study of geography in the 21st century and the importance of geographical
location. Students will consider places at different levels of development, including aspects of
physical and human geography and their associated processes, including relationships between
people and environments current issues of local, national and global importance.
What will I study?
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Unit 1 - Dynamic Planet: students will be introduced to the main areas of the planet: the
geosphere, atmosphere, biosphere and hydrosphere.
Unit 2 - People and the Planet: students will be introduced to the main aspects of how
people live on our planet: Population Dynamics, Consuming Resources, Globalisation and
Development Dilemmas.
Unit 3 - Making Geographical Decisions: Students develop knowledge and understanding
of key physical geography topics in Dynamic Planet and key human geography topics in
People and the Planet. Unit 3 is synoptic and requires students to have a complete
understanding of the core topics of Units 1 and 2.
Investigating Geography:
Assessment
This GCSE is assessed in the following way:
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Dynamic Planet: 1hr 15 min Written Exam (25%)
People and the Planet: 1hr 15 min Exam (25%)
Making Geographical Decisions: 1hr 30 min Exam (25%)
Investigating Geography: Controlled Assessment (25%)
Why Geography?
Geography is a vitally important subject for those students who have a keen interest in the world
around them. In today’s global community it is paramount that we understand how we are
connected to the world around us and the processes that will affect the way we live and work in
the future. Geography is a traditional, academic subject, respected by colleges and employers
alike.
Future pathways
Students who achieve this GCSE in Geography B can progress to a number of different
qualifications at level 3, including GCE in Geography, Geology, Environmental Sciences, Travel and
Tourism, and Leisure and Recreation – these courses will not be offered by Medway UTC.
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History
Qualification type:
Tiers
Higher tier
Foundation tier
GCSE
Grades
A* - C
C-G
Introduction
In this subject, we aim to investigate the impact of the 20th Century on three countries - USA,
Germany and Great Britain. In particular, focusing on the economic, social and political effects of
major historical events such as the two world wars, the interdependent world and shifting patterns
of moral and social behaviour.
What will I study?
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Unit 1 - International Relations: The Era of the Cold War 1943–1991: This unit gives
students an opportunity to study the changes in international relations through the era of
the Cold War 1943–1991 and the factors bringing about these changes.
Unit 2 - Modern World Depth Study: This unit gives students an opportunity to study in
depth a key aspect of modern world history.
Unit 3 - Modern World Source Enquiry: This unit gives students an opportunity to conduct
a source-based enquiry within a key context of modern British history.
Unit 4 - Representations of History: This unit gives students the opportunity to explore
consequence, causation or change in a historical context, carry out a historical enquiry
analyse and evaluate how the past has been interpreted and represented in different
ways.
Assessment
This GCSE is assessed in the following way:
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Unit 1: 1hr 15 min Written Exam (25%)
Unit 2: 1hr 15 min Exam (25%)
Unit 3: 1hr 15 min Exam (25%)
Unit 4: Controlled Assessment (25%)
Why History?
Studying history you will develop your historical skills of source evaluation and analysis of events.
Also you will develop higher or-der thinking skills, be able to debate and to fully investigate events.
Students with an enquiring mind, an ability to analyse different viewpoints and to form their own
balanced opinion will enjoy this course.
Future pathways
Students who achieve this GCSE in History can progress from this course to the Edexcel GCE
Advanced
Subsidiary and Advanced Level in History – these courses will not be offered by Medway UTC.
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Modern Foreign Language
Qualification type:
Tiers
Higher tier
Foundation tier
GCSE
Grades
A* - C
C-G
Introduction
This subject is designed to develop students’ understanding of modern foreign language e.g.
Spanish in a variety of contexts. Students will develop their listening and reading skills, and be able
to communicate effectively in written and spoken language.
What will I study?
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Unit 1 - Listening and understanding: This unit draws on vocabulary and structures from
across the four specified common topic areas. Students will be tested on their ability to
understand spoken language. Testing is through a variety of tasks which require a
response, written or non-verbal, to demonstrate understanding.
Unit 2 - Speaking: Students are required to develop oral communication skills in different
settings and for different purposes, related to one or more of the following themes:
 media and culture
 sport and leisure
 travel and tourism
 business, work and employment
Unit 3 – Reading and understanding: Students will be asked to demonstrate their
understanding of a number of short texts. The texts will be in a range of contexts and
styles, both formal and informal.
Unit 4 - Writing: The focus of the writing unit will be chosen by the teacher in consultation
with the student and will relate to one or more of the following themes: media and
culture, sport and leisure, travel and tourism or business, work and employment.
Assessment
This GCSE is assessed in the following way:
Controlled Assessment - 2 written and 2 spoken 60%
tasks
Reading Examination - (Higher or Foundation tier)
20%
Listening Examination - (Higher or Foundation tier)
20%
Why History?
This course offers students the opportunity to develop their knowledge of a modern foreign
language and culture. Students will learn to be creative, work independently and with others,
understand different points of view and organise and manage their time effectively.
Future pathways
Students who achieve this GCSE in a modern foreign language can progress from this course to
the Edexcel GCE Advanced Subsidiary and Advanced Level – the courses will not be offered by
Medway UTC.
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Triple Science
Qualification type:
Tiers
Higher tier
Foundation tier
GCSE
Grades
A* - C
C-G
Introduction
Whilst not a GCSE qualification, opting for this provides the additional curriculum time for students
to achieve GCSE in the separate science; biology, chemistry and physics. Students will study the
same topics as those on GCSE Science and Additional Science, but will in addition complete the
extension units B3, C3 and P3 and the respective controlled assessment task for each discipline.
What will I study?
You will study:
B3
• Control systems
• Behaviour
• Biotechnology
C3
• Qualitative and quantitative analysis
• Electrolytic processes
• Organic chemistry
P3
• Radiation in treatment and medicine
• Motion of particles
• Generation and transmission of electricity
Assessment
Three papers each equally weighted, one hour. They are all externally set and marked by the exam
board. Controlled assessment takes approximately six hours and is completed during lessons.
Why Triple Science?
For those students wishing to pursue further study in the Sciences at A-level and beyond, the
broader and greater depth of understanding that triple Science provides is essential preparation.
Future pathways
Students who achieve this GCSE in can progress from this course to A-levels in Biology, Chemistry,
Physics, which we intend to offer at Medway UTC, and supportive of the BTEC level 3 qualifications
in Construction and Engineering.
17
Design Technology – Resistant Materials
Qualification type:
Tiers
Higher tier
Foundation tier
GCSE
Grades
A* - C
C-G
Introduction
Resistant Materials is about designing and making using a range of materials: mainly Wood,
Metal and Plastics. It offers many opportunities to be creative and requires students to develop
problem solving skills through practical work. Students will gain skills, knowledge and
understanding about materials, processes, tools, machinery and equipment as well as industrial
production and related environmental issues.
What will I study?
You will study:
 About design influences, its impact on our lives and the environment - contemporary,
historical and cultural influences.
 The processes that craftspeople and industry use.
 The design process, from a design brief through research and development to planning,
making and evaluating.
 A broad range of graphical techniques and the application of ICT skills (CAD).
 About a range of materials, their properties and their uses.
 How materials are shaped, manipulated, joined, decorated and finished.
 How to use a range of hand tools, power tools and machinery safely and accurately to
produce a high quality product.
Assessment
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Unit 1: Written paper, two hours, worth 40% of the GCSE.
Consists of two sections, a product design study; section 1 based on information made
available on a preparation sheet and a section 2 on manufacturing, processes and
materials.
Unit 2: Controlled assessment, approximately 45 hours, worth 60% of the GCSE.
Designing, communicating and manufacturing a creative and original product made from
either wood, metal or plastic. Using a range of tools and processes, drawing ideas from a
range of different sources and research.
Why Design Technology – Resistant Materials?
Resistant Materials offers excellent opportunities to develop making skills, understanding of the
design process, and building general creative skills that would benefit a series of careers and
complements the specialisms of Construction and the Built Environment and Engineering.
Future pathways
Students who achieve this GCSE in a can progress from this course to the study A-Level Resistant
Materials Technology (RMT) or A-level Product Design which we intend to offer at Medway UTC.
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Design Technology – System and Controls
Qualification type:
Tiers
Higher tier
Foundation tier
GCSE
Grades
A* - C
C-G
Introduction
This qualification focuses primarily on an exploration and application of Electronic and Electromechanical control systems. Students will also study Pneumatic control systems.
What will I study?
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Materials and Making Processes: Develop a working knowledge of woods, plastics and
metals. The shaping, forming and machining of these materials. Component selection,
understanding values and tolerances.
Modelling and Prototyping: Circuit construction, use of temporary and permanent
techniques, the design and manufacture of PCBs and building high quality PCBs. Assembly
techniques and the building of functioning systems. Fault finding and the use of test
equipment.
Control Systems: Input systems such as sensors, switches potential dividers and their use
with PICs (programmable interface controllers) and the difference between analogue and
digital signals. Process systems such as time delay, pulse generation, switching, logic,
microcontrollers and programmable control. Interface systems such as relays and drivers.
Output systems with regards to motion, optoelectronics, mechanical systems, motors and
solenoids, drive systems and friction
Components: Electronic components such as resistors, capacitors and diodes. Component
symbols and calculations and formula.
Assessment
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Unit 1: Written paper, two hours, worth 40% of the GCSE.
Consists of two sections, candidates answer all questions. Pre-release material is issued
to guide preparation for the exam.
Unit 2: Design & making practice, approximately 45 hours, worth 60% of the GCSE.
Single project: Designing, communicating and manufacturing a Control system product.
Electro-Mechanical, Pneumatic or Electronic, selected from a range of board set tasks
Why Design Technology – System Control?
System Control offers excellent opportunities to develop understanding of materials, modelling and
prototyping and electronic and electromechanical control systems that will benefit a series of
careers and complements the specialisms of Construction and the Built Environment and
Engineering.
Future pathways
Students who achieve this GCSE in a can progress from this course to the study A-level Product
Design which we intend to offer at Medway UTC.
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Art and Design
Qualification type:
Tiers
Higher tier
Foundation tier
GCSE
Grades
A* - C
C-G
Introduction
Strong research skills form the basis of all these projects, you will need to analyse the work of
other artists, cultures and art forms. Pupils will be expected to produce written work in their
sketchbooks throughout the two years of this course.
What will I study?
The qualification consists of two units of coursework and an externally set assignment. Each unit
is based on a different theme and is designed to teach a range of skills, using different materials
to produce a variety of outcomes to form a finished piece two dimensional or three dimensional.
The pupils will go on to develop their understanding by using many processes.
Assessment
Unit 1: coursework, worth 60 % of the GCSE:
 The theme(s) for the personal portfolio will be selected and developed by centres.
 Based on a theme(s) selected by the school.
 The theme(s) may each have a separate focus or be interconnected.
 Include supporting studies and personal response(s).
Controlled assessment exam, externally set and worth 40% of the GCSE
 10 week preparatory period; sketchbooks, research, experimentation, drafts, mock-ups
produced.
 Final exam—10 hours (2 school days) - takes place significantly before main exam period.
Why Art and Design?
The qualification enables students to develop their skills in art, craft and design in an integrated
critical, practical and theoretical way that encourages direct engagement with original work and
practice.
Future pathways
Students who achieve this GCSE in a can progress from this course to A-Level Art, which we do
intend to offer at Medway UTC, and subsequently go on to study Art at degree level, eventually
working in a wide range of Artistic careers.
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First Award in Business
Qualification type:
Tiers
Level 2
Level 1
BTEC
Grades
D* - P
Learners who do not achieve at Level 2 may be awarded a Level 1 grade
Introduction
The qualification encourages personal development of knowledge and skills relevant to the
business
World through practical participation in a range of vocational business activities. These give
learners a wider understanding and appreciation of the broad range of business specialisms
through selection of optional specialist units. Students are encouraged to develop their people,
communication, planning and team working skills.
What will I study?
The BTEC First qualifications have core and optional specialist units. The core units cover the
essential knowledge and skills required in the business sector. The optional specialist units,
covering branding and promotion, customer service, sales, retail business, recruitment and career
development, and business support, provide your centre with the opportunity to develop
assignments and activities to meet the needs of both local employers and learners.
Assessment
BTEC First award in Business includes an externally assessed finance unit in the core to introduce
externality into vocational programmes of study. This will assist learners as they progress either
into higher levels of vocational learning, or to related academic qualifications such as A-Levels and
GCSEs. The assessment approach taken in internally assessed units of the qualification allows
learners to receive feedback on their progress throughout the course as they provide evidence
towards the assessment criteria. Evidence for assessment may be generated through a range of
diverse activities, including assignment and project work, case studies, workplace assessment,
role play and presentations.
Why Business?
First Award in Business has been designed to provide an engaging and stimulating introduction to
the world of business. The qualification builds on learning from Key Stage 3 for those who may
wish to explore a vocational route throughout Key Stage 4. It also provides a good introduction to
business for learners in post-16 education.
Future pathways
Achievement at level 2 provides a suitable foundation for further study within the sector through
progression on to other vocational qualifications at level 3, such as the Edexcel BTEC Level 3
Nationals in Business.
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