Key Stage 4 Core Curriculum and Option Subjects

We offer the following course in one of our pathways for selected students to help with key skills and developing confidence and communication.

The qualification offers imaginative ways of accrediting young people's activities. It promotes, and allows centres to record, a wide range of personal qualities, abilities and achievements of young people, as well as introducing them to new activities and challenges.

The CoPE curriculum comprises 13 modules. The modules are divided into three sections; section A, B and C.

Each section should take at least 10 hours to complete – 10 hours is worth one credit. Students will need 12 credits to gain the Certificate of Personal Effectiveness.

Assessment

Students will produce a portfolio of evidence to demonstrate their achievements. Students must also demonstrate competence at Level 1 or 2 in the six CoPE skills units:

• Introduction to Working with Others
• Introduction to Improving own Learning and Performance
• Introduction to Problem Solving
• Planning and Carrying out a Piece of Research
• Communication through Discussion
• Planning and Giving an Oral Presentation

Course Content

Course Content

The module titles are:

• Communication;
• Citizenship and Community;
• Sport and Leisure;
• Independent Living;
• The Environment;
• Vocational Preparation; 
• Health and fitness; 
• Work-Related Learning and Enterprise; 
• Science and Technology; 
• International Links; 
• Expressive Arts; 
• Beliefs and Values;

• Combined Studies (this module allows you to mix and match a combination of challenges from other modules).

Progression

The Certificate of Personal Effectiveness (CoPE) is a nationally recognised qualification available at Levels 1, 2 and 3 and will develop a wide range of skills leading to different careers and opportunities.

Art and Design GCSE (OCR J170-176)

Art and Design GCSE is the right subject for you if you are a creative and independent learner. The skills you need to succeed in Art and Design GCSE are not just drawing and painting. We use a range of artistic skills including printing, photography, pastels, model making, graphic design and illustration. You will explore, experiment and create different pieces of work that reflect your interests and ideas. You need to be committed to putting in the time to develop and create work. The GCSE builds on skills students have been developing throughout Key Stage 3 Art.

Course Content

Students will learn how to use a variety of materials and techniques including; observational drawing, watercolour and acrylic painting, mixed media, printing, chalk and oil pastels, pencil crayon and pen and 3D construction. Students will be guided by their Art and Design teacher on how to use different materials and then apply these skills to their own work. Students will produce work on sketchbook style pages and larger scale pieces on paper, canvas, or 3D in card, clay, paper mache and Mod Roc. Students will become familiar with the assessment objectives of the GCSE and how to design and produce a well-balanced project. The emphasis is on personalised learning and as such students will be confident and competent when embarking on their GCSE work.

In year 10 students will produce a portfolio of work that will demonstrate a range of skills, materials and techniques. This portfolio will be based on a theme or topic which students will explore through observational studies, artist and contextual research, and experimentation with materials and techniques. In year 11 students will plan and create a personal response to their theme focusing on their key strengths and interests. students will be given their exam topic in January of year 11 for which you will have 10 weeks to prepare a final piece.

Assessment

OCR GCSE Art and Design is marked in 2 sections. Students will be assessed on their coursework portfolio which is marked out of 60% and their exam which is marked out of 40%, resulting in a mark out of 100%

Students submit a coursework portfolio and examination portfolio and final piece that will be marked by their Art and Design teacher and externally moderated by the exam board. In the final GCSE year the exam board will set a task and students have 10 weeks to prepare an idea for their exam. During a 10 hour exam students will make their final piece.

Progression

Professional artists, craftspeople and designers all start somewhere and our GCSE Art and Design course provides endless opportunities to develop student interests which can also follow into other industries and businesses. The creative industries are the fastest growing of all areas and add £76 billion pounds to our economy every year.

GCSE Art and Design offers progression onto A Level Art and Design.

Art & Design Practice - Tech Award Level 1/2

(Pearson BTEC 603/7056/7)

All students will follow the Pearson BTEC Level 1/2 Tech Award in Art & Design. They will begin the course in Year 9 and complete component 1 to build their knowledge over the first two years. Students will then study component 2 in year 11, which is pre-released and different each year.

The course is designed to provide Level 2 learners with:

• Application of Art and Design principles to work with realistic vocational contexts.
• Working in response to design challenges using practical exploration and experimentation.

Pearson Level 2

The course is equivalent to a GCSE qualification where students will be given the opportunity to develop a range of skills and techniques, personal skills and attributes essential for successful performance in working life. Learners will be introduced to the following disciplines:

• Design Crafts
• Visual Arts
• Visual Communication
• Product Design

The content builds on skills students have learnt in Design Technology as well as visual communication skills from Art at Key Stage 3.

The content differs to GCSE Art as the course works with a range of Design Technology mediums including resistant materials, CAD/CAM and digital image manipulation.

Course Content

Component 1: Creative Practice in Art and Design- An internally assessed unit, giving students an opportunity to build their skills using a range of different tools, machines, equipment as well as graphic equipment.

Component 2: Responding to a Brief- An externally assessed unit in which learners will use the range of skills picked up in component 1 to produce work in response to a different brief each year.

Assessment

Component 1 is assessed internally.

Component 2 is assessed externally.

Progression

The course aims to give learners the opportunity to progress to higher qualifications such as the Edexcel BTEC Level 3 Nationals or A-levels in Art and Design or Product Design. These qualifications will fully support university applications or appropriate Level 3 – 4 apprenticeships.

Students will follow the Edexcel GCSE (9-1) Business specification. They will begin the course in Year 9 and sit two exams in the summer of Year 11.

The course is designed to provide GCSE Business learners with:

• An understanding of how businesses work and operate.
• An understanding of how to build a business.
• An opportunity to apply learning to different business contexts
• An opportunity to develop of understanding of how different contexts impact on business behaviour

Edexcel GCSE Business Course

The Edexcel GCSE Business specification reflects the demands of a truly modern and evolving business environment. This qualification allows students to develop as commercially minded and enterprising individuals which will help them to succeed in their chosen pathway.

A range of business topics will be covered throughout the course, including:

• Entrepreneurship
• Spotting business opportunities
• Putting a business idea into practice
• Understanding external influences on business
• Making marketing decisions
• Making operational decisions
• Making financial decisions
• Making human resource decisions

Course Content

Theme 1: Investigating small business

Theme 2: Building a business

Assessment

The Edexcel GCSE Business courses consists of two externally examined papers. Both sat in May/June of Year 11.

Theme 1:

Written examination: 1 hour and 45 minutes

50% of the qualification

90 marks

Theme 2:

Written examination: 1 hour and 45 minutes

50% of the qualification

90 marks

Progression

This course gives the perfect foundation for students to develop their skills and understanding ready to move into A-Level, T-Level or Vocational Level 3 study.
Students will be well prepared to continue their studies through an A-Level in Business, which will allow for progression to university or employment.

Level 1 / 2 Technical Award (NCFE CACHE)

This will be taught over three years and students will learn about:

• Child development
• Care routines and activities to support development
• Early years provision
• Legislation relating to care of children
• Roles and responsibilities of an Early Years Practitioner
• Observation and planning in the early years  

Learning will involve class discussions, written work, production of posters, booklets and resources to use with young children. This will build the students’ skills which will support lifelong learning.

Progression

Students can progress to health and social care or T level in Education and Child care in sixth form This can then lead to university or careers such as nursing, social work, teaching, child care and elderly care.

Course Content

Unit 1 – An introduction to working with children 0-5 years

Unit 2- Development and well-being of children 0-5 years

Unit 3 – Child care and development of children 0-5 years (Examination module)

Assessment

Written exam – externally marked -50%

Synoptic project – internally marked and externally moderated -50%

Computer Science GCSE (OCR J277)

Students will follow the OCR GCSE Computer Science specification.

This is a rigorous and challenging qualification that aims to give students a thorough understanding of computational thinking and algorithms. Students will have the opportunity to build their own programs to help solve problems of given tasks and develop a greater awareness of the rapidly changing computing field. Content covered is widespread and includes software development, cyber security, and systems architecture.

This is a high intensity, mathematically and logic driven course that requires a tolerant aptitude and a methodical approach to solving problems. Students must be willing to invest their time outside of school hours in order to develop their generic I.T based skills. 

Course Content

Component 1 – Computer Systems

Written paper: 1 hour 30 minutes

50% of total GCSE – 80 Marks

Component 2 – Computational thinking, algorithms, and programming

Written paper: 1 hour and 30 minutes

50% of total GCSE – 80 Marks

Assessment

The course consists of two core examined components.

Each examination is worth 50% of the final grade and will assess the pupil’s knowledge and understanding of computational thinking, problem-solving and programming, alongside computing fundamentals such as a computer structure, data representation and networking.

Practical Programming will also be featured giving students the opportunity to undertake programming tasks.

Support and direction for students is available continuously throughout the duration of the course by specialist subject staff.

Progression

The course offers a multitude of progression opportunities including: further chance to study Computing/Computer Science at A level, apprenticeships or HND courses in a niche area of computing, i.e. software engineering.

Or even, the knowledge to become the C.E.O of your own company! 

For Example:

Mark Zuckerberg (Facebook Creator) studied Computer Science at Harvard University.

Sergey Brin (Google Co-Founder) studied Computer Science at Stanford University.

GCSE Design Technology (AQA 8552)

All students will follow the AQA GCSE specification in Design Technology. They will begin the course in Year 9 and complete it over three years. The course will end with an examination in Year 11.

 Product Design is a mixture of practical and theory based work which requires the application of knowledge and understanding regarding how to develop ideas, plan, produce products and evaluate them. Topics studied include;

• System designing (input, process and output)
• Material Properties including timbers, metals and polymers
• New & Emerging Technologies
• Energy Storage & Generation

The course allows students to develop many skills which will benefit them in pursuing future employment in areas such as architecture, designing, product design and engineering etc.

AQA GCSE

This course is a GCSE qualification.

The course is designed to support and develop a full range of theoretical and practical skills used in everyday working environments.

Students will be assessed using grades 1-9, please see the assessment section for more information.

Course Content

• Specification No:8552
• The course is split into three key areas
  • Cre technical principles
  • Specialist technical principles
  • Designing and making principles
• Core technical principles covers a range of materials, whilst specialist technical materials covers a specific material area in greater detail.

Assessment

Unit 1 is a 2 hour written exam paper with a total of 100 marks which equates to 50% of the total GCSE qualification. 20 marks are based around multi choice. 30 marks are based around technical principles. 50 marks are awarded for extended responses including a 12 mark design question.

Unit 2 is a 35 hour non exam assessment based around a given task. Marks are awarded for Investigating, designing, making and analysing/evaluating.

Progression

The course offers progression to an A-Level in 3D Product Design and university or employment in a range of areas.

Design Technology - Textiles GCSE (AQA 8552)

All students will follow the Design Technology (Textiles) AQA GCSE specification. They will begin the course in Year 9 and complete it over three years. The course will end with an examination in Year 11.

The course enables students to express their creativity through a diverse range of textile media. A combination of traditional and modern techniques will be delivered to help students to design their own textile products from fashion garments to other textiles products such and bags, home furnishings and other more abstract product ideas.

Textile topics covered include:

• Garment construction
• Dyeing fabrics
• Fabric construction - felting, weaving and knitting
• Pattern cutting – layout plans
• Machine and Hand embroidery

In the theory element of Textiles topics studied include:

• System designing (input, process and output)
• Material Properties
• Specialism in Textiles
• New & Emerging Technologies
• Energy Storage & Generation

AQA GCSE

This course is a GCSE qualification.

The course is designed to support and develop a full range of theoretical and practical skills used in everyday working environments.

Students will be assessed using grades 1-9, for more information Speak to Mrs Cole or Mr Radburn.

Assessment

Unit 1 - 2 hour written exam paper

100 marks = 50% of the GCSE.

Unit 2 – 35 hours (approx) Non Exam Assessment (NEA)

100 marks = 50% of the GCSE.

Course Content

• The course is split into three key areas
  • Cre technical principles
  • Specialist technical principles
  • Designing and making principles
• Core technical principles covers a range of materials, whilst specialist technical materials cover a specific material area in greater detail.

Progression

The course offers progression to an A-Level in 3D Product Design / Btec in Art and Design 3D products / Fashion and Textiles A level. It could lead to any art based degree course. Possible career progressions:

• Fashion Designer                      
• Fashion buyer
• Textile designer
• Fashion illustrator
• Pattern cutter/grader
• Stylist
• Garment technologist
• Personal stylist/personal shopper

Drama GCSE (Edexcel 1DR0)

All students opting for drama will study Edexcel GCSE. From Year 9 students will explore a variety of performance styles using scripts as well as making up their own dramas. In Year 10 students begin to explore more challenging scripts and devise plays towards the required running time. Year 11 students will be assessed on their understanding of the use and performance of drama through three assessments units.

A GCSE in drama prepares students for the outside world and is not just about people who want to be actors. Students will finish the course with added confidence and a strong ability to work as part of a group, also gaining excellent communication skills. All of which are of benefit in higher education and the workplace.

Students opting for the subject should have an interest in drama and appreciate that they will need to perform in front of others.

Progression

The qualification allows progression to A Level or performing arts Level 3 qualifications.

Course Content

Component 1 –Devising = 40% of marks

Working in groups students will create and perform a piece of drama from a starting point. The performance will last around 15 minutes. Students will also keep a portfolio of evidence from the devising process.

Component 2 –Performing from Text = 20% of marks

Working with a script students will create a performance from a play text. The performance is assessed by a visiting examiner.

Component 3- Theatre Makers in practice = 40% of marks

Students will study how a set text could be performed and answer questions on their interpretation in its performance. Over the course students will visit the theatre and answer two questions about the staging of the performance they saw (notes on the performance can be taken into the exam).

Assessment

Component 1 is internally assessed and work is then externally moderated.

Assessment for Component 2 is by an external examiner. Students perform their play and are marked on that performance.

Component 3 is a 1 hour 45 minutes written exam.

English Language and Literature GCSE (AQA 8700 and 8702)

The core of the English GCSE course is to foster the enjoyment of reading, writing, speaking and listening in a range of different ways. Students will engage with a variety of texts, both fiction and non-fiction, and will experiment in writing in different forms and for different audiences. They will learn to analyse and evaluate texts and gain confidence in expressing their ideas clearly and concisely. All students will follow AQA GCSE English Language and English Literature, beginning in Year 9, with the final examinations mostly taken in the June of Year 11.

GCSE Award

Students will be awarded two GCSEs in English (English Language and Literature). English Language is an essential qualification for all university courses and most college courses, and it is viewed as an essential qualification by most employers.

Progression

This course is compulsory for all students to undertake at KS4. It builds upon skills that are integral to many other subjects and is an important requirement for most KS5 courses and higher education courses.

English Language Course Content and Assessment

Students will take two written examinations. They will respond critically to how established writers use narrative and descriptive techniques to capture the interest of readers and will also write their own creative texts. There is a Spoken Language Endorsement, which is teacher assessed and is in addition to the final English Language grade.

English Literature Course Content and Assessment

There are two written examinations, one focusing on a Shakespeare play and a 19th century novel, the other on a modern play and a series of poems; there is also an unseen poetry element. All examinations will require students to apply the skills of analysis they’ve acquired throughout their course of study.

Food and Cookery - Level 1 / 2 Technical Award  (NCFE CACHE)

The Level 1/2 Technical Award in Food and Cookery is designed for learners who want an introduction to food and cookery that includes a vocational and project-based element.

The qualification will appeal to learners who wish to progress onto further study or pursue a career in the food industry. The course has been designed to develop knowledge and understanding related to a range of topics including hygiene and safety, food provenance, food groups and key nutrients (see all topics below).

In this qualification, you will also develop food preparation and cooking skills as well as transferable skills of problem-solving, organisation and time management, planning and communication.

Course content

The course is split into 7 content areas covering all topics required by the specification:

Content area 1 - Health and safety relating to food, nutrition and the cooking environment

Content area 2 - Food legislation and food provenance

Content area 3 - Food groups, key nutrients and a balanced diet (This is the largest area of study)

Content area 4 - Factors affecting food choice

Content area 5 - Food preparation, cooking skills and techniques

Content area 6 - Recipe amendment, development and evaluation

Content area 7 - Menu and action planning for completed dishes

Learners will be given the opportunity to cook throughout. It is vital that learners are well prepared and have developed a range of practical skills.

This practical element of the course is not optional and should be carefully considered. Although staff will try to suit practical’s to classes, an explicit list of skills and dishes will be taught to pass on practical knowledge required of the course.

Assessment

Assessment

40% of marks are gained through an external examination, taken at the end of Year 11

60% of marks are gained through completing one internal assessment task – Including a practical examined element. Again in Year 11

Examined assessment (EA) (40%)

Written examination: 

Written examination: 

• 80 marks
• 1 hour 30 minutes
• A Mixture of multiple-choice, short-answer and extended

Non-exam assessment (NEA) (60%)

• 96 marks 
• The completion time for the NEA is 16 hours 30 minutes plus 2 hours’ preparation and research time 
• The NEA will assess the learner’s ability to effectively draw together their knowledge, understanding and skills from across the whole vocational area
• This unit is based around a given brief in which Students will need to complete all the assessment criteria: this will from their coursework element, along with a practical assessment

How will students be graded?

L1 Pass, L1 Merit, L1 Distinction,

L2 Pass, L2 Merit, L2 Distinction, L2 Distinction*

Progression

This course offers progression to Level 3 qualifications and is an excellent starting point for students interested in further study or a career in the food industry. It particularly links well with our Level 3 Food Science and Nutrition offer.

French GCSE (PEARSON 1FR1) 

Students studying French will work towards gaining a GCSE in French. They will continue to consolidate their basic understanding of French grammar and further extend their vocabulary based knowledge in Year 9. Students will then deepen these skills during Years 10 and 11. Speaking a foreign language is a key skill for any student wishing to go to university and it greatly improves employment potential. The course allows students to increase their global understanding, appreciate different cultures, develop their own native language ability and expand their horizons. It supports them to become well rounded individuals with excellent communication skills.

GCSE

The course is aimed at developing students’ abilities in all 4 skills (speaking, listening, reading and writing) and prepares them for the demands of a widening world.

The course is designed to equip students with skills required for further/higher education and employment and gives them life-long tools to understand and communicate with the world around them.

Progression

The course allows progression to A Level French and supports many other qualifications. Many universities and employers value the subject as an extra skill even when not continuing with French to degree level.

Course Content

There are 6 Thematic Contexts

• My Personal World
• Lifestyle and Wellbeing
• My Neighbourhood
• Media and Technology
• Studying and My Future
• Travel and Tourism

These themes will be covered across the three years. Many thematic contexts overlap to ensure repetition of key vocabulary and grammar to support student progress.

Assessment

Speaking exams will be internally conducted by their own teacher but externally assessed.

The students will be externally examined on the reading, writing and listening aspects of the subject. These skills will be tiered.

Each of the 4 skills are worth 25% of the whole GCSE.

Geography GCSE (AQA 8035)

All students will follow the AQA geography specification for GCSE. Geography is the study of the world and the relationships between people and their environments. It enables you to study issues which affect your everyday life, both now and in the future, and allows you to see the world from multiple perspectives. Students will begin studying the content for the course in Year Nine.

Geography enables students to study issues which affect our everyday life, both now and in the future. The course is designed to deliver transferrable skills, essential when entering higher education. or employment.

AQA Level 2

The course is equivalent to 1 GCSE qualification, during which students will study a mixture of Human and Physical topics, which are both equally weighted.

The course also provides the opportunity for the planning and undertaking of two compulsory fieldwork trips to two contrasting environments.

Course Content

During the course students will study the following:

• Living with the Physical Environment:

Tectonic/Weather Hazards & Climate Change,

Tropical Rainforests & Deserts, Rivers & Coasts

• Challenges in the Human Environment:

Urban issues and challenges, The changing economic world, resource management

• Geographical Applications: analysing a geographical issue, via a pre-release, and two compulsory fieldwork trips.

Fieldwork and Geographical skills are also integrated into units of study throughout the GCSE course.

Assessment

At the end of the course students will be assessed through three examinations:

Paper 1 – Living with the Physical Environment – 1hr 30 minute paper worth 35% of the total GCSE.

Paper 2 – Challenges in the Human Environment  – 1hr 30 minute paper worth 35% of the total GCSE.

Paper 3 - Geographical applications -  1hr 15 minute paper worth 30% of the total GCSE. A pre-release paper is available 12 weeks prior to the exam to aid preparation.

Progression

The course offers progression to A Level Geography and would also support students with other Humanities/Social Science A Levels such as History and Psychology which they have not previously studied, in addition to a wide variety of careers from Law to Research to Public Services.

German GCSE (Pearson 1GN1)

Students studying German will work towards gaining a GCSE. They will acquire basic understanding of German grammar and gain vocabulary based knowledge in Year 9. Students will then deepen these skills during Years 10 and 11. Speaking a foreign language is a key skill for any student wishing to go to university and it greatly improves employment potential.

The course allows students to increase their global understanding, appreciate different cultures, develop their own native language ability and expand their horizons. It supports them to become well rounded individuals with excellent communication skills.

GCSE

The course is aimed at developing students’ abilities in all 4 skills (speaking, listening, reading and writing) and prepares them for the demands of a widening world.

The course is designed to equip students with skills required for further/higher education and employment and gives them life-long tools to understand and communicate with the world around them.

Progression

The course allows progression to A Level German and supports many other qualifications. Many universities and employers, especially in industry, value the subject as an extra skill even when not continuing with German to degree level. This course is the perfect platform to discover the language and the country’s rich culture.

Course Content

There are 6 Thematic Contexts

• My Personal World
• Lifestyle and Wellbeing
• My Neighbourhood
• Media and Technology
• Studying and My Future
• Travel and Tourism

These themes will be covered across the three years. Many thematic contexts overlap to ensure repetition of key vocabulary and grammar to support student progress.

Assessment

Speaking exams will be internally conducted by their own teacher but externally assessed.

The students will be externally examined on the reading, writing and listening aspects of the subject. These skills will be tiered (Foundation & Higher).

Each of the 4 skills are worth 25% of the whole GCSE.

History GCSE (AQA 8145)

Students will follow the AQA GCSE history specification. This exposes students to the key events and personalities of both British and wider-world history and the impact they have had on our lives.

The new GCSE has two papers, each considering a different historical period. While Paper 1 looks into the modern world of the Twentieth Century, Paper 2 examines Ancient to Early Modern History with a focus on Elizabethan England.

The subject allows students to develop their analytical, essay writing and verbal reasoning skills. It will also give them a greater understanding of the world we live in, and allow them to become more knowledgeable about politics and citizenship.

History is an enjoyable and well-respected subject and enjoys consistently high GCSE results. Skills learnt in this subject will complement other areas of the curriculum.

Students have a number of opportunities to attend trips, which will support and further develop their knowledge.  An example of this is visiting the historical environment studied as part of Elizabethan England.
 

Course Content

Paper 1- Understanding the Modern World

Option 1B- Germany: Democracy to dictatorship, 1890 to 1945

Section B: Inter-war European conflict and tension, 1918-1939

Paper 2

Option 2A- Britain: Health and the people: c1000 to the present day

Section B: Elizabethan England, 1568-1603

Assessment

The new history GCSE is assessed through two external examination papers one of which will include a study of historical buildings and sources, requiring an out of school visit.  There is no longer a coursework requirement.

Progression

The content and concepts developed in history GCSE prepare students for academic A-Level subjects including history, politics, English, law, geography, religious studies and social sciences.

History is a very well-respected subject by universities and is considered by the Russell Group of top Universities as one of the seven most ‘enabling’ subjects to opt for.

Information Communication Technology Technical Award (WJEC 5539)

Students will follow the WJEC L1/2 Vocational Award in ICT.  Students will begin the course in Year 9 and will complete it over a three-year period. The examination element of the course will be completed in Year 10/11.

ICT is an essential part of our world and is an essential skill when entering higher education or employment. The course allows students to develop transferable skills which will be of great benefit to their future employability.

Course Content

The course is equivalent to 1 GCSE qualification There are two compulsory units to complete:

Unit 1 – ICT in Society (External Examination)

• Explore the wide range of uses of hardware, application and specialist software in society.
• Investigate how information technology is used in a range of contexts, including business and organisations, education and homes.

Unit 2 - ICT in Context (Internal Coursework)

• Gain a working knowledge of databases, spreadsheets, automated documents and images.
• Learn to apply your knowledge and understanding to solve problems in vocational settings.

Assessment

Students will be assessed through a mixture of exams and controlled assessments.

Unit 1 will be assessed through an exam which is worth 40% of your qualification. The exam will last 1 hour and 20 minutes, it will be made up of short and extended response questions.

Unit 2 will be assessed with project work (no exam) which is worth 60% of your qualification. As part of this assessment, you will be given a scenario and will need to undertake a number of tasks.

Progression

The course offers direct progression to the Level 3 BTEC Extended Certificate qualification which is respected by universities and employers, therefore providing students with opportunities for further study within this subject or others.

Mathematics GCSE (OCR J560)

All students will follow the OCR GCSE course in mathematics as this is a key core subject, providing essential skills and knowledge for their future. They will begin the course in Year 9 and will all be entered for the examination at the end of Year 11.

The course has an increased content and consequently will be assessed via three papers instead of the traditional two.

The new foundation tier has significantly changed, including almost all current grade B and some grade A topics. The new specification has put a greater emphasis on proportion and ratio and a greater formalisation on topics such as probability.

Due to the significant changes to the curriculum, the faculty has been rewriting the curriculum to prepare students for the increased breadth and level of material.

Mathematics and numeracy are essential for all aspects of life. It is envisaged that a grade 4 in this subject will be a requirement for most college and university courses and employers see it as an essential qualification.

Studying this subject directly benefits other curriculum areas such as science, geography, psychology, technology and ICT.

Course Content

Students will study all four areas of mathematics through the following topics:

• Number
• Algebra
• Geometry
• Statistics

Assessment

As with Key Stage 3, assessment will involve students sitting internally produced modular examinations. These will be used to ascertain progress and identify areas for development. Homework will also be used to determine strengths and weaknesses.

Formal assessment is completely externally assessed by OCR via written examinations.

Progression

The course offers progression to Level 3, AS/A2 mathematics, Further Mathematics as well as providing a foundation for a number of other Level 3 courses and career pathways.

Media Studies GCSE (EDUQAS C680QS)

The media plays a central role in our society and culture today. Media surrounds us and affects every aspect of our lives. Media provides us with ways to communicate, express ourselves and participate in society. Its importance is unquestionable.

Therefore, it is also important that we study Media.

Media Texts studied:

• Advertising and Marketing
• Films
• Magazines
• Music Videos
• Social Media
• Newspapers
• Radio
• Television
• Video Games

Progression

Increasingly more and more jobs in today’s world are related to the media. A media studies GCSE is an excellent foundation for a future career in TV, publishing (books, magazines, journals) vlogging, website design and content creating to name a few..

Assessment

Component 1: Exploring Media Language, Industries, Audiences and Representation

This is a written exam (1 hour 30 minutes) which accounts for 40% of the grade.

This section focuses on magazines, marketing (film posters), newspapers, or print advertisements, film, newspapers, radio and video games.

Component 2: Understanding Media Forms and Products

This is a written exam (1 hour 30 minute) which accounts for 30% of the grade.

This section assesses the theory and contexts of television and music.

Coursework - Component 3: Creating Media Products

This is a practical assessment which accounts for 30% of the grade. Students will create their own media product (short film) towards a set brief for a target audience.

Music Technology - Level 1/2 Technical Award (NCFE)

This course offers an exciting opportunity to develop your music production skills using Logic Pro, the industry-standard software. It is designed for students who are passionate about music, creativity, and technology. Whether you aspire to create your own beats, manage a music studio, or design sound effects for films, TV, and video games, this course provides the foundational skills to kickstart your journey in the UK’s vibrant music industry.

The UK music industry was worth £6.7 billion in 2022 and grew to £7.6 billion in 2023. By choosing Music Technology, you can take your first steps into this booming sector.

NCFE Level 1 / 2 Technical Award

This Level 2 qualification helps you build the skills needed for a career in the music industry or other creative fields like film, television, and theatre. It also serves as a great stepping stone towards music colleges, apprenticeships, or starting your own music production business.

Course Content

• Unit 1: Introduction to Music Technology and the Music Business
  Explore the roles and responsibilities within the music industry, how technology drives the business, and how to market and sell your own music.
• Unit 2: The Digital Audio Workstation (DAW)
  Learn to use music production software to create your own tracks.
• Unit 3: Musical Elements, Styles, and Technology
  Develop your understanding of musical elements and create music in a variety of styles.
• Unit 4: Sound Creation
  Use microphones and technology to create original sounds, including sound effects and voiceovers for movies, TV, and podcasts.
• Unit 5: Multitrack Recording
  Gain hands-on experience in studio recording, mixing, and studio management.

Assessment

Non-Exam Assessment (NEA) – 60%

• A portfolio of work developed over the course, showcasing your readiness for the music industry.
• Includes written documentation and audio creations.
• Worth 120 marks, completed over 17 hours.

Examined Assessment – 40%

• A 1.5-hour written exam testing your knowledge and skills in music technology.
• Worth 80 marks.

Skills Needed for this course:

• Passion for music and creativity – No prior experience in music production is required.
• No need to play an instrument or sing – While musical experience can be helpful, it’s not essential. This course will teach you everything from scratch.

Progression

This course equips you with skills for creative industries and is an excellent foundation for:

• Further studies in music technology or production.
• Apprenticeships in music-related fields.
• Starting your own music production business.

A significant part of student development from year nine to year eleven is emotional and personal development.

Our PSHE programme is rooted in fundamental British values, most notably individual liberty.

With lessons covering health and wellbeing, relationships and sex education, careers education, citizenship and finance education, we believe we are equipping our students with all the tools to navigate their lives effectively and know how and when to seek out help should they need it in the future.

No Examination

As a non-exam subject, PSHE time allows students to be reflective and learn content in new and interesting ways. Guest speakers from the local area also offer students a broader understanding of pressures facing students. The PSHE programme concludes early in year eleven to enable students to prepare for their formal examinations.

Personal Development Course Content

Our personal development programme focuses of five key learning areas;

Health and Wellbeing education includes; physical health and wellbeing, mental health and wellbeing, using NHS services effectively, first aid and CPR awareness.

Relationship and Sex Education includes; consent, forming positive relationships, relationship abuse, child-on-child abuse, coping with grief and loss, sex education (including contraception, parenthood and fertility), online relationship risks.

Careers Education includes; target setting, career stereotypes, forming a CV, online reputation, interview preparation (including mock interviews supported by local employers) and work experience (undertaken in year 10).

Citizenship Education includes; law making and British political and legal systems, assessing media for misinformation or disinformation, social media benefits and risks, effective debating skills and ideological and religious extremism.

Finance Education includes; basic budgeting, dangers of gambling, types of income and identifying financial exploitation.

Physical Education GCSE (AQA 8582)

Students will follow the AQA GCSE PE course. You should choose GCSE PE if you love being active and want to find out more about how the human body works and how to improve performance.

The content and skills required for the examinations are taught through a range of practical, active and engaging methods to ensure that full advantage can be taken by kinaesthetic learning.

Progression

GCSE Physical Education is an excellent foundation for studying Physical Education at A- Level and for going on to study Sports Science and Leisure Management at University.

This can lead to a wealth of job opportunities as the leisure industry has never been healthier, such as PE teacher, physiotherapist, sports coach / consultant, personal trainer, diet and fitness instructor and many more.

Course Content

There are two main components to the course – practical and theory. The areas of study are;

• Applied anatomy and physiology.
• Movement analysis
• Physical training
• Sports psychology
• Socio-cultural influences.
• Health, fitness and well-being.

Assessment

Theoretical component – 60%

Paper 1 involves looking at the human body and movement in physical activity and sport.

Exam - 1 hour 15 minutes and worth 30% of the course.

Paper 2 looks at Socio-cultural influences and well-being in physical activity and sport.

Exam - 1 hour 15 minutes and worth 30% of the course.

Practical performance in physical activity and sport – 40%

Practical performance is assessed in three different physical activities in the role of player / performer. It is important that you are committed to improving your practical scores in your own time. If you already play a lot of sport, then it is an ideal opportunity to gain some academic credit for the time you put into your activity.

Progression

GCSE Physical Education is an excellent foundation for studying Physical Education at A- Level and for going on to study Sports Science and Leisure Management at University.

This can lead to a wealth of job opportunities as the leisure industry has never been healthier, such as PE teacher, physiotherapist, sports coach / consultant, personal trainer, diet and fitness instructor and many more.

All students are expected to participate in core PE as part of their curriculum. PE allows students to develop transferable skills such as team work, communication and organisation.  It is also essential to support students’ understanding of how to stay healthy.

At various times of the year students will have the opportunity to participate in a range of physical activities. These will include; swimming, trampolining, table tennis, football, rugby, fitness, basketball, softball and rounder’s.

Assessment

All students work towards Academy certification. Students can achieve either a bronze, silver, gold or platinum award based on their effort, participation rate and involvement in sport both in lessons and in extra-curricular activities.

Progression

Although this is not an examination subject, students at Key Stage 4 are encouraged to pursue accreditation through National Governing Body (NGB) schemes where available. These can lead to coaching and refereeing qualifications and it would be hoped that some students would pursue these to a higher level either at Key Stage 5 or during extra-curricular time.

Course Delivery

Students are timetabled for one hour of physical education per week. This may be supplemented through the extra-curricular programme which is regularly advertised.

Psychology is the scientific study of the human mind and its functions, especially those affecting behaviour in a given context.

All students will follow the AQA Psychology GCSE specification.  It is an opportunity to study a new and exciting subject which explores how the human mind works and why people behave in particular ways.

It allows students to learn new skills, understand the world around us and how people interact within that world.

AQA GCSE

The course is equivalent to 1 GCSE qualification. It provides the opportunity to develop skills in critical thinking, analysis and evaluation which are considered to be valuable and transferable skills. It develops independent learners who are willing to think and question, yet work well as part of a team. These are all qualities that are valued in both higher education and by employers.

Course Content

During the course students will study the following topics:

Unit 1- Cognition and Behaviour

• Memory
• Perception
• Development
• Research methods

Unit 2- Understanding Other People

• Social influence
• Language, thought and communication
• Brain and neuropsychology
• Psychological problems

Both units also require the study of research methods in psychology to build understanding of psychology as a science.

Assessment

Assessment is 100% examination based at the end of the course of study.  Students will sit 2 examinations, both 1 hour and 45 minutes, covering the units studied above. Each exam is worth 50% of the GCSE.

Progression

The course offers progression to A Level psychology and would also support students with other social science A Levels they have not previously studied.  Success in this course would allow access to university and then employment in some of the following careers: psychiatry, psychotherapy, nursing, police force, teaching, behaviour therapy and counselling.

Religious Studies GCSE (AQA 8062)

All students will follow the AQA GCSE specification. They will begin the course in Year 9 and will study the beliefs of two religions throughout the three year course. The content is both interesting and engaging, being taught by enthusiastic specialist teachers.

Religious Studies is a literacy based subject which helps to develop a student’s written and verbal communication skills. Religious Studies challenges and equips students to lead constructive lives in the modern world.  Opportunities will arise for educational visits and external presentations which will enhance the learning experiences.

This is a full GCSE qualification accredited by AQA where students will learn how to apply their literacy skills to develop their ideas for essay based questions. Students will evaluate and reflect on their work and that of their peers throughout the course allowing them to improve and reach their full potential. Communication skills are paramount in the learning as is ability to develop personal opinions with justification and evidence. This course will also help prepare students for the future.

Progression

The course offers excellent progression to A-Level courses. Studying religious studies can lead to careers in law, teaching, social work, counselling, nursing, administration, journalism, librarian, minister of religion, youth and community worker and many more.

Course Content

Component 1: The Study of Religions: Beliefs, Teachings and Practices

Content Covered- Beliefs, teachings and practices of 2 religions-

• Christianity- history, key beliefs- trinity and salvation, worship, festivals, family life.
• Islam- history, key beliefs- five pillars and the oneness of God, worship, festivals, family life, prophethood.

Component 2: Philosophy and Ethics

Content Covered- Four religious, philosophical and ethical studies themes-

• Theme A: Relationships and families.
• Theme B: Religion and life: creation and ethics.
• Theme D: Religion, peace and conflict.
• Theme E: Religion, crime and punishment.

Assessment

Assessment is 100% examination based at the end of the course of study.  Students will sit 2 examinations, both 1 hour and 45 minutes, covering the units studied above. Each exam is worth 50% of the GCSE.

Biology (AQA 8461), Chemistry (AQA 8462) and Physics (AQA 8463)

Students who have a keen interest in or aptitude for science will have the opportunity to study all three separate sciences at Key Stage 4. This is an ideal course for those students wishing to pursue a career in the varied aspects of science, whether it is medical, forensic or engineering.

 Successful studies in this area can lead to places at the Russell Group universities which are very well respected by employers.

 Students will study biology, chemistry and physics in greater detail than in the combined science award.  By following this route students have the opportunity to gain three GCSE qualifications, one in each science discipline.

Course Content

Biology topics: Cell Biology; Organisation; Infection and Response; Bioenergetics; Homeostasis and Response; Inheritance, Variation and Evolution and Ecology.

Chemistry topics: Atomic Structure and the Periodic Table; Bonding, Structure, and the Properties of Matter; Quantitative Chemistry; Chemical Changes; Energy Changes; The Rate and Extent of Chemical Change; Organic Chemistry; Chemical Analysis; Chemistry of the Atmosphere and Using Resources.

Physics topics: Energy; Electricity; Particle Model of Matter; Atomic Structure; Forces; Waves; Magnetism and Electromagnetism.

Assessment

There are 6 papers which are each 1 hour and 45 minutes long: 2 biology, 2 chemistry and 2 physics.  Each of the papers will assess knowledge and understanding from each distinct topic area.   Exam questions will consist of multiple choice, structured, closed short answer, and open response. Maths skills and practical skills are tested within the 2 exam papers.

Progression

Higher grades in these qualifications offers excellent preparation for A Levels in biology, chemistry and/or physics.

Sociology GCSE (AQA 8192)

All students will follow the AQA GCSE specification. They will begin the course in Year 9.  Students will develop a wide range of knowledge and understanding about society and its structures, processes and issues.

Sociology is a literacy based subject which helps to develop a student’s written and verbal communication skills. Sociology is exciting, interesting and relevant to students’ lives. This specification encourages students to question society and the structures and institutions that control our lives. Students will be questioning evidence and issues, thus developing their critical, evaluating skills.

AQA Sociology GCSE

This is a full GCSE qualification accredited by AQA where students will learn how to apply their literacy skills to develop their ideas for essay based questions. Students will evaluate and reflect on their work and that of their peers throughout the course allowing them to improve and reach their full potential. Communication skills are paramount in the learning as is the ability to develop personal opinions with justification and evidence. This course will also help prepare students for their future in society

Course Content

Sociology is the study of society and the people within it.

Unit 1 – The Sociology of Families and Education

• The sociology of families and households
• The sociology of education
• Relevant areas of social theory, including Marxism, functionalism and feminism and research methodology.

Unit 2 – The Sociology of Crime and Deviance and Social Stratification

• The sociology of crime and deviance
• The sociology of social stratification including social inequality, power structures and poverty.
• Relevant areas of social theory, including Marxism, functionalism and feminism and research methodology.

Assessment

Assessment is 100% examination based at the end of the course of study.  Students will sit 2 examinations, both 1 hour and 45 minutes, covering the units studied above. Each exam is worth 50% of the GCSE.

Progression

The course offers excellent progression to A-Level courses. Studying sociology opens up a range of careers in areas such as welfare, education, social research and local and central government.

Travel & Tourism Tech Award Level1/2 (Pearson BTEC 603/7048/8)

Students will follow the Edexcel Tech Award in Travel and Tourism course. They will begin the course in Year 9 and will complete 3 Components/units by the end of Year 11.

The course is designed to provide learners with:

• A knowledge and understanding of the travel and tourism industry.
•  Skills such as research, specifically in relation to destinations and customer needs.
• Reflective practice.
• The ability to apply knowledge and understanding of travel and tourism to a variety of contexts.

Edexcel Level 2

Edexcel Level 2

The course is equivalent to 1 GCSE qualification during which students will be given the opportunity to develop a range of skills gaining access to a range of career and further education opportunities.

• Students will develop and apply their knowledge and understanding of travel and tourism, including trends and customer requirements.
• They will develop an understanding of travel and tourism organisations, destination features, types of visitors, travel, and accommodation.
• They will analyse the factors influencing travel and tourism and how organisations respond to these through application of their knowledge and understanding to specific contexts.

Course Content-Three Components

Component 1: Travel and Tourism Organisations and Destinations (Level 1/2).

Component 2: Customer Needs Travel and Tourism (Level 1/2).

Component 3: Influences on Global Travel and Tourism (Level 1/2).

Assessment

Component 1- Examine the types and aims of organisations, including different travel destinations.
Assessment: Internal Assessment (PSA) with 5 tasks. Externally Moderated. Weighting: 30% of total course (60 marks).

Component 2- Customer Needs in Travel and Tourism

Assessment:  Internal Assessment (PSA) with 4 tasks. Externally Moderated. Weighting: 30% of total course (60 marks).

Component 3- Influences on Global Travel and Tourism
Qualification Weighting: 40%.
Assessment: External synoptic written exam. External marked (60 Marks).

Progression

The course aims to give learners the opportunity to progress to higher qualifications such as the Edexcel BTEC Level 3 Nationals in Travel & Tourism, A-levels or Apprenticeship courses. This can lead to employment in the Travel and Tourism sector.

Science is a core subject which is studied by all students. The main areas of science can be broadly separated into biology, chemistry and physics and students will study all three disciplines whichever route is followed in the subject. Students will all be assessed in their knowledge and understanding of science through practical skills questions incorporated within the examination papers.

Students will follow one of two routes in science depending on their abilities, skills and prior attainment.  Students will be given the opportunity to study separate sciences (chosen as an option subject) or will follow the combined science pathway.

Science underpins the most fundamental aspects of everyday life, and a sound understanding of scientific principles is essential in our rapidly advancing 21^st century society.  Many of the skills taught are transferable to other subjects and will support learning throughout the curriculum.

Combined Science

Biology topics: Cell Biology; Organisation; Infection and Response; Bioenergetics; Homeostasis and Response; Inheritance, Variation and Evolution and Ecology.

Chemistry topics: Atomic Structure and the Periodic Table; Bonding, Structure, and the Properties of Matter; Quantitative Chemistry; Chemical Changes; Energy Changes; The Rate and Extent of Chemical Change; Organic Chemistry; Chemical Analysis; Chemistry of the Atmosphere and Using Resources.

Physics topics: Energy; Electricity; Particle Model of Matter; Atomic Structure; Forces; Waves; Magnetism and Electromagnetism.

Assessment

There are six papers: two biology, two chemistry and two physics.  Each of the papers will assess knowledge and understanding from each distinct topic area, as well as assessing students’ practical skills knowledge and understanding.   Exam questions will consist of multiple choice, structured, closed short answer, and open response

Progression

A good grade in trilogy combined science allows students to progress to A levels in biology, chemistry, physics or Level 3 Applied Science at Key Stage 5.

Level 1 Introductory Award in Vocational Studies

We offer the following course in one of our pathways for selected students.

The purpose of this qualification is to develop the transferable skills, attributes and behaviours needed for learners to progress to further study and ultimately to employment. The qualification is designed to be delivered in an applied way, bringing together appropriate content with practical and technical skills. 

Students will develop the skills that are sought after in the workplace and also in further study. There are a range of subjects who contribute towards this qualification and where possible we try to match students’ interests with their choice of subject for the units they cover. Learning will be fun, practical and engaging for the students who take part in this

Course Content

Year 9:

2 units of internally assessed coursework. Practical subject based.

Year 10:

2 units of internally assess coursework including the core compulsory unit.

Assessment

Assessment is designed to fit the purpose and objective of the qualification and all units are internally assessed – giving learners the opportunity to demonstrate skills developed in applied scenarios.

There is a range of assessment styles suited to skills- and sector-based qualifications at this level. All units are graded to encourage skills development and performance.

All units are assessed internally using a grading scale of Pass, Merit and Distinction.

Progression

The qualification will set up our students to continue their studies at Post 16 at either Level 2 or 3; especially within vocational subjects.

Students could then choose to go on to university or enter the world of work using the skills that they started to develop whilst studying this qualification.