CURRICULUM CHOICES 2021 - KEY STAGE 4 - Worthing High School
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KEY STAGE 4 CURRICULUM CHOICES 2021
WHY IS NEXT YEAR DIFFERENT?
Dear Student,
You are about to enter a particularly exciting time in your education at
Worthing High. You will now be able to express a preference to study
a combination of subjects that will prepare you for the career you
wish to follow. However, not many students of your age know exactly
what they want to do when they leave school. At the moment it has
been found that most people who are joining the world of work will
end up having at least three different types of jobs during their life-
time. This means it is very important that you follow a wide range of
different subjects in case you change your mind about your long term
plans. Your choices, therefore, should allow you to gain a wide variety
of skills and knowledge to equip you for your future.
Our Key Stage 4 (Year 10 and 11) courses are all chosen to ensure
you have a balance of subjects. Some subjects must be studied as
a requirement of the core curriculum, and others, which are equally
as important, are the subjects you are able to express a preference
for. This booklet should ensure that you and your parents or carers
have a clear understanding of all the core and curriculum choices,
the qualification that each course leads to, and the importance of
choosing a balanced curriculum for your time in Key Stage 4.
Happy reading!
Pan Panayiotou
HEADTEACHERINTRODUCTION TO QUALIFICATIONS
IN YEARS 10 AND 11
Academic, Vocational and Work What are vocational courses?
Related Pathways for 14-19 Year
In Year 10 we will be offering vocational
Olds qualifications in Enterprise and Marketing
(Business), Music Practice, Performing Arts -
As you are aware, there is an increasing need for Dance, Child Care and Sports Studies. These
students to gain skills and qualifications that will qualifications require different skills from students
prepare them for study and work beyond the age than those needed for GCSE study but, crucially,
of 16. In an ever changing world, learners must are equivalent to GCSE level. The vocational
be able to show the flexibility to be successful in a courses are practical and have a work related
range of academic and work related environments. element of study. Students learn by completing
Accordingly, Worthing High School is providing projects and assignments based on realistic
a curriculum offer at Key Stage 4 that ensures workplace situations. Assessment is on-going and
students can maximise their potential both at the rigorous. External marking is required during the
end of Year 11 and beyond. We seek to enable course and part of the final grade will be decided
students to continue to follow nationally recognised by an external exam or task. These courses benefit
pathways when they leave school and follow students who have an interest in a particular subject
either a route of further education at college, and who may want to work in this field in the future.
apprenticeships or employment. The vocational courses are delivered in a more
practical way with a direct link to the practical area
What is a GCSE? and help prepare students for further vocational
study post 16.
This is the General Certificate of Secondary
Education. These are a traditional qualification. The English Baccalaureate (EBacc)
Some GCSEs have controlled assessments as
an assessed component and all require a final The English Baccalaureate was introduced as a
examination. Often these qualifications require performance measure in 2015. It is not a
students to carry out extended written tasks based qualification in itself. The EBacc currently
around classroom study. The GCSEs are assessed recognises where pupils have secured a grade 5 or
on a 1-9 scale, with 5 being as a “good pass” and 9 better across a core of academic subjects –
the highest. English, Mathematics, History or Geography, a
Science and a Modern Foreign Language. The
English Baccalaureate is intended to give pupils
greater opportunity to study in and beyond the vital
core of English, Mathematics and the Sciences.
Although students do not gain an extra certificate
for passes in these subjects, the EBacc would be
advantageous to students wishing to follow an
academic route post 16, which may lead later to
higher education.INTRODUCTION TO QUALIFICATIONS
IN YEARS 10 AND 11
Controlled Assessments/Coursework Independent Learning
Controlled assessments are completed over the In Year 10 and 11, you will be expected to complete
two year examination course in Years 10 and a significant amount of independent study because
11. Students are able to prepare for controlled so many of your courses require you to revise
assessments during guided learning time before effectively for final exams. Your teachers will support
the controlled assessment is completed in specified you to learn strategies to revise and will set you
lessons under exam conditions. homework to help you prepare for exams, as well as
to consolidate your learning of course content.
Some pieces of controlled assessment/coursework
may require individual research work such as a We have a number of interactive platforms to
survey; others will require you to look up information support your use of independent learning including
from a wide range of sources. This means that Tassomai for Science and GCSE Pod for lots of
the work may be spread out over a period of subjects.
several weeks and you will need to organise your
time very carefully so that you meet the deadline. One of the most important skills that you
Your teachers will give you a course outline at the
beginning of every term. will need to achieve academic success
in your GCSEs/vocational qualifications
You will be expected to complete your controlled is the ability to work independently and
assessment to a level which is appropriate to your complete independent learning tasks/
ability and teaching staff will support you to meet
high expectations, and to meet particular deadline
revision. Your teachers will expect
dates. you to complete a lot of work outside
school hours in order to be ready for the
demands of the new GCSEs and being
How much does controlled organised by using Show My Homework,
assessment matter? Microsoft Teams and your planner
effectively will be really important.
This depends on the subject. Your subject
teachers will be able to tell you how much the When are the final examinations?
controlled assessment is worth in each subject.
Most of these take place during May and June of
your final year (2023). However, all subjects have
regular assessments and therefore it is important
that parents do not organise holidays during Year
10 or Year 11 as this will conflict with preparation for
exams and controlled tasks.What do current Year 10 students think
of GCSE studies?
“There is more homework which is more challenging, but you get a better feeling
when you hand in a good piece of work you’re proud of.”
“You get lots of help and support from your teachers with your class work and
preparation for controlled assessments which is great when it counts towards your
GCSE.”
“Learning is more in depth and interesting.”
“There are lots of choices about what you can do and you get to learn lots more
about the subjects that you like.”
CHOOSING YOUR KS4 COURSES
In Years 10 and 11, all students study accredited Your choice of subjects may have very important
courses in English Language, English implications for your future. Teachers will try
Literature, Science and Mathematics. There are to guide you to the subjects which are most suited
also compulsory non-examination courses in to you as an individual and to your potential
Physical Education and Personal, Social and Health requirements for further and higher education.
Education.
After you submit your Key Stage 4 Curriculum
Other subjects are chosen, with the guidance of Choice form, careful consideration is given to
staff, from the choices given; however, you your preferred choices. We will always try to give
should try to ensure that, whichever subjects you as many students as possible their first choices.
choose, balance is achieved. However, this may not always be possible and you
may be asked to accept a reserve preference in
Balance means that you should opt some circumstances. You will be fully consulted
before a final decision is made.
for a range of subjects rather than
courses from similar subject areas.WHO MAKES THE CHOICES?
CHOOSING YOUR KS4 COURSES
You make the selection of subjects, but you do this
with the help and guidance of your teachers and with
the agreement of your parents.
How do I decide whether to
select a certain subject or not?
Important questions to consider when
choosing a subject:
Will the study of this subject help to
give you a well balanced timetable? Ask your teachers
Will it be a useful addition to those If you do not fully understand
other subjects you have definitely any of the points made so
decided to take? far in this booklet, there are
a number of teachers to help
Are you interested enough and you. Subject teachers, tutors,
prepared to spend time both in and our careers leader and your
out of school studying it? Community Leaders will be
pleased to give you advice to
Do you enjoy the subject? help make your decisions.
Have you done well in this subject
in the past? (Look back at your
reports).
If you do not include this subject, are
you limiting the range of university
courses/jobs/professions which may
be open to you in the future?COMPLETING THE CURRICULUM
CHOICE PROCESS
Once you have received confirmation of your pathway and taken all
the available advice, read this booklet thoroughly, look at the website
and make sure that you complete your online Key Stage 4 Curriculum
Choices form when you are ready...
To complete the form you must:
Complete all the choice boxes, giving your preferred choices and two
reserves.
All of the subjects and courses are described in this booklet.
For further specific information ask the teacher whose name is indicated against each
subject.
THE CORE SUBJECTS
ENGLISH
LANGUAGE
AND ENGLISH MATHS SCIENCE
LITERATURE
PHYSICAL
EDUCATION PSHECORE SUBJECT
ENGLISH LANGUAGE
GCSE BOARD: AQA
What is included in this course?
The English Language course will give you the
opportunity to study a wide range of fiction and
non-fiction and provide you with the skills to
communicate effectively in both the spoken and
written word. Through the study of classic and
contemporary texts, you will be able to interpret
and analyse texts from a critical perspective. What will I be expected to
do?
distinguish between fact and
Teacher to speak to for
further details:
opinion;
Miss S Palmer study the different ways
information is presented and
the impact of structural and
language devices;
follow an argument;
learn about the different forms
of language and the importance
How will I be assessed? of using a wide and varied
vocabulary;
English Language is now assessed entirely through
terminal examination. write to persuade, argue, inform
You will complete two examinations, both with a and describe;
reading and writing section.
write analytical essays on a
selection of texts;
use accurate spelling,
Are there any costs involved? punctuation and grammar;
No. However, you may wish to have your own copy complete a non-examination
of the key texts to support your studies. assessment in speakingCORE SUBJECT
ENGLISH LITERATURE
GCSE BOARD: AQA
What is included in this course?
The English Literature course will expose you to a
variety of canonical and contemporary texts as well
as encouraging you to read widely. You will study a
mixture of a novel, poetry and plays throughout the
course.
What will I be expected to
do?
Teacher to speak to for read widely and enthusiastically;
further details:
Miss S Palmer understand and engage with the
themes and ideas texts explore;
write critically about all aspects
of text;
understand how writers use
structure and language;
How will I be assessed? recognise and explain how
writers achieve effects;
English Literature is now assessed entirely through
terminal examination. You will complete appreciate the social, cultural
two examinations: one on Shakespeare and a 19th and historical context of texts;
Century Novel and one on a modern play
and poetry. explore reader responses
Are there any costs involved?
No. However, you may wish to have your own copy
of the key texts to support your studies.CORE SUBJECT
MATHEMATICS Course structure
GCSE BOARD: EDEXCEL
The GCSE Mathematics course
What is included in this course? is a 3-year course which students
began at the start of Year 9. They
Mathematics is an essential requirement for many
continue this course through Years
jobs and for college entry. Increasingly there
10 and 11. At the start of Year 9
is a need to recognise ‘functional maths’ in real life
students were placed in a new set
situations. Calculation and problem solving skills
for the GCSE course; the content of
learnt at school help students to be able tackle
the course depended on the level
these situations successfully. This theme runs
of achievement in Years 7 and 8.
throughout the maths taught in lessons, whenever
The Mathematics GCSE is divided
possible.
into two tiers: foundation and higher.
Tiers of entry will be finalised after
Teacher to speak to for the mock examinations in Year 11.
further details:
Grades 9-4 can be achieved on
Mr E Vale the higher tier and grades 5-1 on
the foundation tier (with 9 being the
highest grade).
How will I be assessed?
The programme of study is divided
GCSE Mathematics Linear Exams into six areas: Number, Algebra,
June 2023 Year 11 Paper 1 - Non-calculator, Ratio and Proportion, Geometry,
80 marks - 1hr 30mins Probability, and Statistics. Problem
June 2023 Year 11 Paper 2 - Calculator, Solving skills are embedded
80 marks - 1hr 30mins throughout the course.
June 2023 Year 11 Paper 3 - Calculator,
80 marks - 1hr 30mins Students will be required to work
independently and in groups to
develop their mathematical skills and
understanding of the concepts within
Are there any costs involved? the course.
It is essential to be properly equipped. This includes Students will receive weekly
a scientific calculator, ruler, compass, pencil and homework in order to consolidate
protractor. It is recommended students buy a revision their understanding of what they have
guide and/or workbook. Internet access is regularly learnt in the previous half term. This
required but is available in the school’s Learning will be set on Hegarty Maths.
Resource Centre.CORE SUBJECT
FURTHER MATHS
EXAM BOARD: AQA
Teacher to speak to for
further details:
What is included in this
Mr E Vale
course?
Some of our gifted Mathematicians who will achieve a grade 7
or above in GCSE Mathematics, will be offered the opportunity
to study for the Further Mathematics qualification.
This subject builds upon the maths covered in the GCSE
Mathematics course and offers a good grounding for future
college courses. This will be particularly useful for those
considering A levels in Maths or Further Maths.
This course requires some additional study beyond that
already covered for GCSE Mathematics and students will need
to commit to some sessions after school.
The subject can be taken at higher level, with grades C to A*
Distinction available.
A scientific calculator will be required.
How will I be assessed?
Linear Exam Part 1 - 1hr 45mins non-calculator exam
Linear Exam Part 2 - 1hr 45mins calculator examCORE SUBJECT COMBINED SCIENCE GCSE BOARD: EDEXCEL Course Code AQA Combined Science: Trilogy (8464) GCSE Combined Science is a linear course with all exams taken in June 2023, there is no coursework element. There are 20 required practical’s that Students will study in class and be examined in the terminal exams. Combined Science will have a 17 point grading scale, from 9-9, 9-8 through to 2-1, 1-1. With the majority of students being awarded the same grade for each of their two Science GCSEs. How will I be assessed? Six papers: two Biology, two Chemistry and two Physics. Each will assess different topics. Duration: all the papers are 1 hour 15 minutes. Tiers: Foundation and Higher. Weighting: the papers are equally weighted. Each is worth 16.7% of the grade and has 70 marks. Question types: multiple choice, structured, closed, short answer and open response. Are there any costs involved? No. However, the faculty strongly recommends the purchase of revision guides. What courses might link with this post 16? AS/A Level Biology, Chemistry and/or Physics. AS/A Level Environmental Science. AS Science for Public Understanding. Other courses with a science content. AS/A Level Biology, Chemistry and/or Physics. AS/A Level Environmental Science. AS Science for Public Understanding. Other courses with a science content.
What is included on the course?
BIOLOGY
- Biology
- Cell biology
- Organisation
- Infection and response
- Bioenergetics
- Homeostasis and response
- Inheritance, variation and evolution
- Ecology
CHEMISTRY
Teacher to speak to for - Atomic structure and the periodic table
further details: - Bonding, structure, and the properties of matter
Mr T Izod - Quantitative chemistry
- Chemical changes
- Energy changes
- The rate and extent of chemical change
- Organic chemistry
- Chemical analysis
- Chemistry of the atmosphere
PHYSICS - Using resources
- Forces
- Energy
- Waves
- Electricity
- Magnetism and electromagnetism
- Particle model of matter
- Atomic structureCORE SUBJECT What is included on the course?
TRIPLE AQA GCSE Chemistry (8462)
AWARD BIOLOGY
summary of content
SCIENCE - Cell biology
- Organisation
BIOLOGY, CHEMISTRY - Infection and response
AND PHYSICS - Bioenergetics
- Homeostasis and response
GCSE BOARD: AQA - Inheritance, variation and evolution
- Ecology
Course Code AQA Combined Science: Trilogy (8464)
TWO PAPERS
Each paper will assess knowledge and understanding
Triple Science is applied for by a separate application from different topics. The questions will use clearer
directly to the Head of Science. Any student who and simpler language to assess students only on their
applies to study Triple Science is considered using scientific ability.
the following criteria: work ethic (including completion What’s assessed in Paper one?
of homework), capability of completing the course,
Topics 1-4; Cell biology; Organisation;
and attitude to learning. Students will be notified if Infection and response and Bioenergetics
they have been successful by the end of year 9.
What’s assessed in Paper two?
About the course Topics 5-7; Homeostasis and response;
There is no coursework element. Each subject has 8 Inheritance, variation and evolution and
required practical’s that will be studied in class and Ecology.
will be examined in the terminal exams.
What courses might link with this
post 16? Teacher to speak to for
further details:
AS/A Level Biology, Chemistry and/or Physics.
Mr T Izod
AS/A Level Environmental Science.
AS Science for Public Understanding.
Other courses with a science content. AS/A Level
Biology, Chemistry and/or Physics.
AS/A Level Environmental Science. Are there any costs involved?
AS Science for Public Understanding.
No. However, the faculty strongly recommends the
Other courses with a science content.
purchase of revision guides.AQA GCSE Biology (8461) AQA GCSE Physics (8463)
CHEMISTRY PHYSICS
summary of content summary of content
- Atomic structure and the periodic table - Forces
- Bonding, structure, and the properties of matter - Energy
- Quantitative chemistry - Waves
- Chemical changes - Electricity
- Energy changes - Magnetism and electromagnetism
- The rate and extent of chemical change - Particle model of matter
- Organic chemistry - Atomic structure
- Chemical analysis - Space
- Chemistry of the atmosphere
- Using resources TWO PAPERS
Each paper will assess knowledge and understanding
TWO PAPERS from different topics. The questions will use clearer
Each paper will assess knowledge and understanding and simpler language to assess students only on their
from different topics. The questions will use clearer scientific ability.
and simpler language to assess students only on their
scientific ability.
What’s assessed in Paper one?
Energy; Electricity; Particle model of
What’s assessed in Paper one? matter and Atomic structure
Topics 1-5; Atomic structure and the
periodic table; Bonding, structure, and the What’s assessed in Paper two?
properties of matter; Quantitative chemistry; Forces; Waves; Magnetism and
Chemical changes; and Energy changes. electromagnetism and Space physics
What’s assessed in Paper two?
Topics 6-10; The rate and extent of
chemical change; Organic chemistry;
Chemical analysis, Chemistry of the
atmosphere and Using resources.
Duration: both papers are 1 hour 45 minutes Weighting: the papers are equally weighted.
Each is worth 50% of the grade and has 100 marks
Tier: Foundation and Higher available.
Question types: multiple choice, structured,
closed short answer and open responseCORE SUBJECT
PHYSICAL
EDUCATION The activities which may be
offered include:
- Aerobics
- Athletics
What is included in this course? - Badminton
In Years 10 and 11 you will reinforce and develop - Basketball
work done in Years 8 and 9. You will study - Cricket
a range of activities, which will include both individual - Dance
activities and team sports. You may also be offered - Fitness
the opportunity to experience working with outside - Football
coaches.
- Gymnastics
- Health related fitness
- Hockey
- Netball
Teacher to speak to for - Table tennis
further details:
- Rounders
Miss M Field - Rugby
- Softball
- Stool ball
- VolleyballCORE SUBJECT
THE PERSONAL,
SOCIAL AND
HEALTH EDUCATION
PROGRAMME (PSHE)
The Personal, Social and Health Education
Programme (PSHE) is a single lesson per
fortnight which operates as a series of
Teacher to speak to for further details:
Mrs H Schuler / Miss K Boyce
compulsory courses.
All of these important courses are designed to support your learning or
to help prepare you for life after school. They will do this by providing
opportunities to practise existing skills, extend them further, and learn new
ones.
The courses you will undertake over Years 10 and 11 will cover the
following themes:
- Citizenship
- Careers, Education and Guidance and Work Related Training
- Health and Well-being Education
- Relationships/Sex Education
- Enterprise and Economic Well-being
You will cover a range of topics within each of these
themes across Year 10 and 11.CURRICULUM CHOICES
THE CORE SUBJECTS
ENGLISH
LANGUAGE PHYSICAL
AND ENGLISH MATHS SCIENCE EDUCATION PSHE
LITERATURE
SUBJECTS
ENTERPRISE
ART COMPUTER DESIGN AND
DRAMA
SCIENCE TECHNOLOGY MARKETING
(BUSINESS)
MFL
FOOD (FRENCH /
PREPARATION GEOGRAPHY HISTORY MEDIA STUDIES GERMAN /
& NUTRITION SPANISH)
THE KS4
MUSIC PERFORMING PHILOSOPHY SPORTS CURRICULUM
PRACTICE ARTS AND ETHICS STUDIES CHOICE
DANCE PROCESS
CHILD
TEXTILES
DEVELOPMENTART
GCSE BOARD: AQA
Why should I take this course?
What is included in this course?
You will enjoy Art if:
The first two terms will be spent on a specific
project trying out different materials and - you enjoy practical work
techniques. These can include materials such - you complete homework
as drawing, painting, clay work, printing, and
diligently
photography, helping you to discover your
strengths and interests as well as give you the - you are imaginative and willing
opportunity to experiment with new methods and to try new ideas
media. This will form your first assessed unit of
coursework. As the course develops, you will - you can work on your own
be expected to make more choices about the - you have self motivation
direction of your own work and what materials
you use. You will be expected to investigate - you are interested in any kind of
and understand the work of other artists and design as a
designers as part of your coursework. possible career
- you enjoy drawing
How will I be assessed?
Teacher to speak to for
You will be assessed on everything you have further details:
produced: ideas, research and reference,
experiments, sketches, drawings etc, and your
Mrs M Hunt
“final” pieces. Assessments take place every and Mr R Whitaker
three weeks and all homework is assessed as
well. Your coursework counts for 60% of your
final grade.
Are there any costs involved?
You will also have an exam at the end of the
course, which carries 40% of your final grade. Sketch books are recommended for each unit of work
The examination is entirely PRACTICAL, not and art materials e.g. paints, pastels, pencils etc, are
written. Please note that although the controlled very helpful for working at home.
test does not involve writing, there will be a small
proportion of the course that involves some Are there any excursions involved?
written work. There is also an expectation that There will also be trips to the London galleries,
you attend after school enrichment activities. (where appropriate to coursework) for which we must
ask parents for a financial contribution to cover costs.COMPUTER SCIENCE
Why should I take this course? learned in the classroom to real-world problems.
It is an intensely creative subject that involves
This qualification, above all else, will be relevant invention and excitement. The qualification will value
to the modern and changing world of Computer computational thinking, helping learners to develop
Science. Computer Science is a practical subject the skills to solve problems and design systems that
where learners can apply the knowledge and skills do so.
OCR’s GCSE (9-1) in Computer Science will encourage learners to:
- understand and apply the fundamental - understand the components that make up
principles and concepts of Computer Science, digital systems, and how they communicate
including abstraction, decomposition, logic, with one another
algorithms, and data representation with other systems
- analyse problems in computational terms - understand the impacts of digital technology
through practical experience of solving such to the individual and to wider society
problems, including designing, writing and
debugging programs
- think creatively, innovatively, analytically,
Teacher to speak to for
logically and critically further details:
Mr S Uddin
Content Overview
Computer systems Computational thinking, algorithms Programming project
- Systems Architecture and programming
- Memory - Programming techniques
- Algorithms - Analysis
- Storage - Programming techniques
- Wired and wireless networks - Design
- Producing robust programs - Development
- Network topologies, protocols and layers - Computational logic
- System security - Testing and evaluation and conclusions
- Translators and facilities of languages
- System software - Data representation
- Ethical, legal, cultural Assessment Overview
and environmental concerns Assessment Overview - Totalling 20 hours
Assessment Overview - 80 marks - Non-Exam Compulsory Module
- Assessment Overview - 1 hour and 30 minutes
- Written paper (no calculators allowed)
Please note a GCSE Maths Grade 5 and above must be projected.DESIGN TECHNOLOGY
GCSE BOARD: AQA Should I take this course?
What is included in this course? Yes, if you really enjoy designing and making a range
of products to suit a particular client or target market.
The GCSE in Design and Technology offers a You will enjoy researching design theory, construction
unique opportunity in the curriculum for learners to methods and learning about the properties of materials
identify and solve real problems by designing and to make informed decisions. In Year 10, we cover a
making products or systems. Through studying range of projects that will develop your key skills and
GCSE Design and Technology, learners will be help you towards the many career paths DT offers from
prepared to participate confidently and successfully woodworking, graphic design, textiles, engineering,
in an increasingly technological world: be aware architecture, CAD to working with electronics.
of, and learn from, wider influences on design and
technology, including historical, social/cultural, Are there any costs involved?
environmental and economic factors.
You will be invited to make a £10 voluntary contribution
towards materials. You will need to purchase revision
materials and a folder to help keep your work organised.
How will I be assessed?
Component 1: Component 2:
A written exam paper Non-exam assessment
The Design and Technology exam is 2 hours long and (Coursework)
worth 50% of qualification (100 marks). Candidates will
be assessed on their knowledge and understanding of: The design and make task is approximately 35 hours
and 50% of qualification. It is a sustained design and
- Core technical principles (20 marks). A mixture of make task, based on a contextual challenge set by
multiple choice and short answer questions. exam board, assessing candidates’ ability to:
- Specialist technical principles (30 marks). Short
answer questions (2–5 marks) and one extended - Identify and investigate design possibilities
response. - Produce a design brief and specification
- Generate design ideas
- Designing and making principles (50 marks).
- Develop design ideas
A mix of short answer and extended response
- Realise design ideas
questions.
- Analyse & evaluate
Teacher to speak to for
further details:
Mr Rasarathnam
or Mr AllenTEXTILES
GCSE
What is included in this course?
The first two terms will be spent on a specific project
trying out different materials and techniques. These
can include working with woven, knitted and bonded
fabrics, helping you to discover your strengths and
interests as well as give you the opportunity to
experiment with a range of techniques from applique
to trapunto. This will form your first assessed unit of
coursework.
As the course develops, you will be expected to make
more choices about the direction of your own work
and what materials you use. You will be expected to
investigate and understand the work of other artists
and designers as part of your coursework.
Teacher to speak to for
How will I be assessed? further details:
You will be assessed on everything you have Mr K Rasarathnam
produced:
Miss Baptiste
You will be assessed on everything Why should I take this course?
you have produced:
idea’s, research and reference, You will enjoy Textiles if:
experiments, sketches, drawings - you enjoy practical work
etc, and your “final” pieces.
- you complete homework diligently
As an indication your coursework - you are imaginative and willing to try new ideas
usually counts for 60% of your final - you can work on your own
grade. - you have self motivation
- you are interested in fashion or textile design as a
You will also have an exam at the possible career
end of the course, which carries - you enjoy drawing and being creative
40% of your final grade.
Are there any costs involved?
You may need to bring in fabric for your project if it is
something we don’t usually use.ENTERPRISE & MARKETING
GCSE BOARD: OCR completing this unit will assist learners in the third topic of
this qualification.
What is included in this vocational
In the third topic, learners will develop the skills to create
course? a brand identity and promotional plan for their specific
business product proposal developed in the second
This Cambridge Nationals course is for learners who topic. You will develop pitching skills in order to pitch their
wish to develop applied knowledge and practical skills in business proposal to an external audience. Finally, you
enterprise and marketing. will utilise your pitching skills for your business proposal
and gather critical feedback. The knowledge and skills
developed by completing this topic will be transferable
to further, related learning in areas such as enterprise,
You will study the following marketing or business.
topics
- Enterprise and marketing
concepts Teacher to speak to for
further details:
- Design a business proposal Mr S Uddin
- Market and pitch a business
proposal
How will I be assessed?
The first topic underpins the wider learning in this The first topic is externally assessed via a written exam,
qualification. Learners will develop essential knowledge and the final two topics are controlled assessments
and understanding of enterprise and marketing internally assessed.
concepts, which can be applied to the other units within
the qualification. Through the first topic learners will What can I do after I’ve completed the
understand the main activities that will need to happen to course?
support a start-up business, and what the key factors are
This course provides a suitable foundation for further
to consider when starting up a business.
study within the business sector through progression
on to qualifications such as OCR’s Level 3 Certificate
In the second topic, learners will develop the skills to
in Preparing for a Business Venture, OCR’s Level
design a business proposal to meet a specific business
3 Cambridge Technicals in Business, Introductory
challenge. You will identify a customer profile for a specific
Certificates in Marketing or A Levels in related subjects.
product, complete market research to generate product
design ideas, and use financial calculations to propose
a pricing strategy and determine the viability of their
Are there any excursions involved?
product proposal. The knowledge and skills developed by Visits to businesses and visits from business people may
be part of the course.FOOD PREPARATION & NUTRITION
GCSE BOARD: AQA How will I be assessed?
The first topic is externally assessed via a written exam,
What is included in this course? and the final two topics are controlled assessments
which are internally assessed.
GCSE Food Preparation and Nutrition covers a wide
range of topics.
Paper 1:
A written exam paper
- Food, nutrition and health
- Food science Theoretical knowledge of food preparation
and nutrition.
- Food safety Written exam: 1 hour 45 mins
- Food choice 100 marks: 50% of GCSE.
- Food provenance
Paper 2:
During the 2 year course you will learn about nutrients, A written exam paper
different groups of people and dietary needs.
Task 1: Food investigation
You will also develop your skills with a range of food You will show your understanding of the
preparation skills and make a range of high quality working characteristics, functional and
chemical properties of ingredients (report
products.
1500—2000 words)
Should I take this course? Task 2: Food preparation assessment.
Yes, if you really enjoy cooking and preparing food You will demonstrate your knowledge, skills
products and enjoy learning about the properties of and understanding in relation to the planning,
foods and people’s dietary needs. preparation, cooking, presentation of food
and application of nutrition related to the
chosen task. You will prepare, cook and
Are there any costs involved? present a final menu of three dishes within a
You will be expected to bring in ingredients to cook on a single period of no more than three hours,
planning in advance how this will be achieved
regular basis and these will need to be taken home in a
(electronic portfolio with photographic
suitable container, provided by the student. evidence of three final dishes).
Teacher to speak to for
further details:
Mrs C WhitbyGEOGRAPHY
GCSE BOARD: AQA
Background to the course out on fieldwork activities both locally and internationally.
The fieldwork will allow you to interact with the world in
Geography is now the most popular GCSE choice, a which you live. You will be given the opportunity to jet off
fact that we are very proud of! to Italy where you can visit real life volcanoes.
The course you will follow is one that is sure to How will I be assessed?
capture your interest, leaving you with a sense of awe There will be three final examinations (worth 30 - 35%
and wonder about the world around you. In choosing each), each taking place at the end of Year 11. The
to study Geography at GCSE you will explore a wide materials for one of the exams is released before the
range of contemporary geographical issues, which exam so you get a chance to prepare!
will lead you to ask:
- whether climate change is really a Are there any costs involved?
new phenomenon? Only for international fieldwork activities, which are
optional.
- whether it really is a good idea to
be living on the slopes of an active Are there any excursions involved?
volcano? A mixture of optional and compulsory fieldwork activities
are offered throughout as an integral part of this course.
- whether it is possible for all
All compulsory fieldwork opportunities are local and free.
countries of the world to develop to We offer an optional four day residential trip to where
the same level as the UK? students will have the opportunity to have a real
geographical adventure.
In studying Geography at GCSE, you will complete
the course with a detailed understanding of the world
in which you live. However, perhaps more importantly, Teacher to speak to for
you will complete the course with a wealth of skills, further details:
which as statistics show, make Geographers the most Mr J Habershon
employable people around.
Mrs A Gannaway
Should I take this course?
In choosing Geography at GCSE, you are choosing to
study a course, which is current, practical, interactive
and above all good fun! You will have plenty of
opportunities to leave the classroom behind as you headHISTORY
GCSE BOARD: EDEXCEL
What is included in this course? How will I be assessed?
There are four main areas: Three exam papers varying in length from
Crime and Punishment in Britain 1hr 15 mins to 1 hr 45 mins.
(1000 - present) and Whitechapel in Should I take this course?
London (1870 - 1900)
Do you like investigating and piecing together evidence
An investigation into law enforcement and to make your own decisions? Are you good at
punishment in Medieval England, treason and understanding other points of view and motives? If so,
witchcraft in early Modern England and smuggling, you will enjoy GCSE History. If you are contemplating a
poaching and highway robbery in 18th and 19th career which requires you to make informed decisions,
century Britain. Study topics such as transportation, whether it is in law, politics, medicine, broadcasting and
execution and prisons alongside the development journalism or finance then History is the logical choice.
of the police force. Finish this topic off with issues
such as conscientious objectors in the World Wars, Are there any costs involved?
the abolition of the death penalty and race and drug
crime in the 20th century. Various trips are offered during the course of the
qualification, the costs of which will be kept to a
Early Elizabethan England minimum.
(1558 - 1588)
Are there any excursions involved?
Explore England with topics such as challenges to
Elizabeth’s reign, Mary Queen of Scots, The Spanish Berlin residential trip.
Armada and Elizabethan society.
Super Power relations in the Cold War
Teacher to speak to for
Understand the world we live in today by exploring further details:
the development of the Cold War including NATO, Mr J Oram
Warsaw Pact, Cuban Missile Crisis, Berlin Wall and
the collapse of Soviet control of Eastern Europe.
Weimar and Nazi Germany
(1918 - 1939)
An in depth study looking at the Weimar Republic ,
the rise of Hitler and the impact of Nazi policies on
the lives of ordinary Germans.MEDIA STUDIES
GCSE BOARD: EDUQAS
What is included in this course?
GCSE Media Studies explores various aspects of the
Media Industry and how it works:
TV, Film, Radio, Print Media,
Advertising, Music and online Media.
What will I be expected
to do?
Explore the four concept skills
1. Representations
2. Audience
3. Language
4. Institution How will I be assessed?
- Complete independent study on - 1 x controlled assignment (30%)
aspects of the media - 2 x 1 hour 30 minutes exam (70%)
- Be self-reflective about your
work Are there any costs involved?
- Link theory to practice No.
- Create imaginative and Are there any excursions involved?
sophisticated media products
Workshops, such as TV News and Film Classification.
- Use ICT
- Work in pairs/groups
- Use accurate punctuation,
spelling and grammar Teacher to speak to for
further details:
Miss N HoadFRENCH
GCSE BOARD: AQA
What is included in this course?
The context for learning the language is organised
under three broad themes: Teacher to speak to for
further details:
- Identity and culture Miss T Day
Mr M Beda
- Local, national, international and
global areas of interest
- Current and future study and
improve your job prospects and makes travelling
employment abroad more enjoyable.
Each broad theme is divided into sub-themes similar “Kolik jazyků znáš, tolikrát jsi člověkem.”
to the ones you have been studying in Key Stage
3. The four skills of listening, reading, speaking and You live a new life for every new language you
writing which you have been practising in the lower speak. If you know only one language, you live
school will be developed further in Years 10 and 11. only once. (Czech proverb).
How will I be assessed? To improve chances of entry into college or
university, to improve your employment potential,
You will sit exams in all four skills at the end of Year to sharpen cognitive and life skills (“We have
11. The exam for each skill is worth 25% of your GCSE strong evidence today that studying a foreign
grade. Speaking exams will be completed individually language has a ripple effect, helping to improve
by each student. Students will have to take part in student performance in other subjects.”
conversation tasks as well as role-plays where they
- Richard Riley, U.S. Secretary of Education under
have to be able to react to unprepared language tasks.
Bill Clinton).
Why should I take this course? Are there any costs involved?
As we live in an increasingly integrated world, the ability No, although students are strongly encouraged to
to communicate in another modern language becomes purchase our low-cost revision guides and exam
ever more important. It is a skill that will enhance your skills workbooks.
professional and personal life in the future. Being able to
speak a foreign language is a much admired skill and can Are there any excursions involved?
The faculty will organise study visits and
enrichment activities.GERMAN
GCSE BOARD: AQA
What is included in this course?
The context for learning the language is organised
under three broad themes: Teacher to speak to for
further details:
- Identity and culture Miss T Day
- Local, national, international and Miss O Ignat
global areas of interest
- Current and future study and speak a foreign language is a much admired skill
employment and can improve your job prospects and makes
travelling abroad more enjoyable.
Each broad theme is divided into sub-themes similar
to the ones you have been studying in Key Stage “Kolik jazyků znáš, tolikrát jsi člověkem.”
3. The four skills of listening, reading, speaking and
writing which you have been practising in the lower You live a new life for every new language you
school will be developed further in Years 10 and 11. speak. If you know only one language, you live
only once. (Czech proverb).
How will I be assessed?
To improve chances of entry into college or
You will sit exams in all four skills at the end of Year
university, to improve your employment potential,
11. The exam for each skill is worth 25% of your GCSE
to sharpen cognitive and life skills (“We have
grade. Speaking exams will be completed individually
strong evidence today that studying a foreign
by each student. Students will have to take part in
language has a ripple effect, helping to improve
conversation tasks as well as role-plays where they
student performance in other subjects.”
have to be able to react to unprepared language tasks.
- Richard Riley, U.S. Secretary of Education under Bill Clinton).
Why should I take this course? Are there any costs involved?
As we live in an increasingly integrated world, the ability No, although students are strongly encouraged to
to communicate in another modern language becomes purchase our low-cost revision guides and exam
ever more important. It is a skill that will enhance your skills workbooks.
professional and personal life in the future. Being able to
Are there any excursions involved?
The faculty will organise study visits and
enrichment activities.SPANISH
GCSE BOARD: AQA
What is included in this course?
The context for learning the language is organised
under three broad themes:
- Identity and culture
- Local, national, international and Teacher to speak to for
further details:
global areas of interest Miss T Day
- Current and future study and Miss O Ignat
employment
improve your job prospects and makes travelling
Each broad theme is divided into sub-themes similar
abroad more enjoyable.
to the ones you have been studying in Key Stage
3. The four skills of listening, reading, speaking and “Kolik jazyků znáš, tolikrát jsi člověkem.”
writing which you have been practising in the lower You live a new life for every new language you
school will be developed further in Years 10 and 11. speak. If you know only one language, you live
only once. (Czech proverb).
How will I be assessed? To improve chances of entry into college or
You will sit exams in all four skills at the end of Year university, to improve your employment potential,
11. The exam for each skill is worth 25% of your GCSE to sharpen cognitive and life skills (“We have
grade. Speaking exams will be completed individually strong evidence today that studying a foreign
by each student. Students will have to take part in language has a ripple effect, helping to improve
conversation tasks as well as role-plays where they student performance in other subjects.”
have to be able to react to unprepared language tasks. - Richard Riley, U.S. Secretary of Education under
Bill Clinton).
Why should I take this course? Are there any costs involved?
As we live in an increasingly integrated world, the ability No, although students are strongly encouraged to
to communicate in another modern language becomes purchase our low-cost revision guides and exam
ever more important. It is a skill that will enhance your skills workbooks.
professional and personal life in the future. Being able to
speak a foreign language is a much admired skill and can Are there any excursions involved?
The faculty will organise study visits and
enrichment activities.MUSIC
What is included in this course? What will lessons be like?
This exciting new course is designed for students Lessons will be focused on improving skills in
who are interested in all aspects of listening to, performing and composing. Understanding of diverse
composing and performing music. The opportunity to genres of music including Classical, Film Music and
learn about all types of music is an exciting prospect Rock/Pop will be developed through workshops,
for students who are passionate about the subject. performances and listening projects. We will also be
It is a very rewarding course and will best suit those rehearsing for showcases and performances.
that enjoy singing/playing an instrument, using ICT in
music or composing. As part of the course you will be How will I be assessed?
expected to take part in rehearsals for and participate
in public performances, e.g. Christmas concerts and
open evenings. Component 1: Exploring Music Products and
Styles
Do I have to be able to play an Learners will explore the techniques used
instrument or sing? in the creation of different musical products
and investigate the key features of different
Although performance skills are very important, musical styles and genres.
ICT can be used to create and perform your own Assessment: internally assessed assignments
compositions or realisations. The course is flexible - Weighting 30%
enough to allow you to choose to specialise in music
performance, production or composition. Hard work
Component 2: Music Skills Development
and practice will help improve the skills you already
have picked up in class in Year 7, 8 and 9. Learners will have the opportunity to develop
two musical disciplines through engagement
in practical tasks, while documenting
Do I have to read and write using their progress and planning for further
music notation? improvement.
You do not have to be able to read music notation Assessment: internally assessed assignments
- Weighting: 30%
fluently. We will however encounter several different
ways of writing music using staff notation or Guitar/
Drum Tab as part of the performing and composing Component 3: Responding to a Commercial
process. We will study music theory in class in order Music Brief
to notate and analyse pieces of music successfully. Learners will be given the opportunity to
develop and present music in response to a
given commercial mu-sic brief.
Teacher to speak to for
further details: Assessment: externally assessed task -
Weighting: 40% .
Mr MartinDRAMA
GCSE BOARD: AQA Should I take this course?
Yes, if you enjoy performing, being creative and trying
What is included in this course? out ideas practically. You will enjoy this course if you
enjoy working as part of a team as Drama involves a lot
During this exciting and highly creative course, of group work and afterschool rehearsals. If you enjoying
students are given the opportunity to develop an reading scripts and analysing theatrical potential.
imaginative approach to the making and studying
of theatre. Through a range of practical projects, Are there any costs involved?
students develop their skills in analysing Drama texts
and performance, responding to and evaluating There will be a subsidised cost for trips to the theatre and
Drama work, and communicating and expressing at least two trips should be taken during the course.
ideas. The course focuses on developing the
practical and theoretical skills of the actor through Are there any excursions involved?
both performance and written response. Theatre trips will be organised during the course to
give you experience of live performance and provide
the necessary opportunity to prepare for the live
How will I be assessed? performance exam question.
Component 1: 40% Component 2: 40% Component 3: 20%
A written exam paper Devising drama Performance of script
Section 1 Section 1 Section 1
Multiple choice questions Devised performance piece Performance of a piece of script
based on general theatre based on a theme. from a play contrasting
knowledge. your set text.
Section 2
Section 2 Written log, broken into three Section 2
Set text study, questions on sections. 2nd extract performed from the
your interpretations of the play. same play.
Section 3
Live performance review,
1 question on a theatre
review of a play you have seen. Teacher to speak to for
further details:
Mrs J Batchelor
Please be aware that you may be asked to attend a brief workshop
audition to establish your suitability for the course.PHYSICAL EDUCATION
GCSE BOARD: EDEXCEL
Team Activities Individual
What is included in this course? Activities
- Association Football - Amateur Boxing
The course compromises of 3 components: - Badminton - Athletics
- Basketball - Badminton
1. Physical Factors Affecting Performance - Blind Cricket - Boccia
(30%) Written Paper - Camogie - Canoeing
- Cycling - Cricket
2. Socio-Cultural And Sports Psychology - Dance - Dance
(30%) Written Paper - Gaelic Football - Diving
- Goal Ball - Equestrian
3. Performance within Physical Education - Handball - Golf
- Hockey - Gymnastics
(40%) Non Exam Assessments - (30% - Kayaking
- Hurling
Practical, 10% coursework) - Lacrosse - Polybat
- Netball - Rock Climbing
How will I be assessed? - Power Chair Football - Sculling
- Rowing - Skiing
- Non-examined assessments (NEA). Three practical - Rugby League - Snowboarding
performances (30%) - Rugby Union - Squash
- Squash - Swimming
- NEA One performance analysis task (10%)
- Table Cricket - Table Tennis
- A total of two hours assessment split over two examination - Table Tennis - Tennis
papers (2 x1 hour) taken at the end of the two year course. - Tennis - Trampolining
- Volleyball
- A wide range of question types, including: multiple - Wheelchair Basketball
choice, single mark, short answer and extended response - Wheelchair Rugby
questions.
- The opportunity to demonstrate your knowledge of the
theory and performance skills in both your NEA and through
the exams.
Are there any costs involved?
Possibly if there are specialist sports you wish to
Why should I take this course? participate in or if you join any of the excursions listed
Do you want to become a Personal Trainer or Sport below. You will be expected to purchase a revision
Coach? Think that Physiotherapy or PE teaching might guide at the start of the course
be a career choice for you? Want the knowledge to keep
yourself fit, healthy and active for life? Find the human body Are there any excursions involved?
fascinating? If so, GCSE PE is for you.
Yes, these may include visits to local sports centres
and clubs, national and international sporting
Teacher to speak to for
further details: venues and educational visits.
Miss M FieldPHILOSOPHY & ETHICS
GCSE BOARD: AQA
What is included in this course?
Teacher to speak to for further
There are two main areas: details:
- A study of the beliefs, teachings and practices Mr R Mashford
of Christianity and Judaism. This will include
key beliefs and practices so that there is an
understanding of what Christians and Jews believe
and do.
- A study of four religious, philosophical and ethical Why should I take this course?
themes from the list below:
You like asking questions and having discussions but you
also like writing. You want to have knowledgeable answers
- Relationships and families not just opinions. You are interested in learning what
- Religion and life religious people believe and how they behave because of
- The existence of God and revelation their beliefs.
- Religion, peace and conflict If you are contemplating a career which requires you to
make informed decisions, whether it is law, sociology,
- Religion, crime and punishment psychology, the armed forces, medicine and the caring
- Religion, human rights and social justice professions then RE is the logical choice.
The application of religious and non-religious
responses to the themes that are studied.
How will I be assessed?
100% exam based. Two exam papers of 1 hour 45 minutes
eachPERFORMING ARTS (DANCE)
BTEC LEVEL 2 FIRST AWARD - EDXCEL
What is a BTEC Tech Award in What does the course involve?
Performing Arts (Dance)?
The Edexcel BTEC Tech Award in Performing Arts
This course provides learners with the opportunity is a two year course taught throughout year 10 and
to develop a range of dance skills, techniques year 11.
and personal attributes essential for successful
performance in working life. The course consists of two internally assessed
components plus one additional, synoptic external
It is a practical, work-related course where the learner assessment.
completes dance projects and assignments based on
the performing arts industry. This course is 120 guided- Internally assessed components:
learning-hour qualification (equivalent in teaching time Component 1 - Exploring the Performing Arts
to ONE GCSE). Component 2 - Developing Skills and
The Edexcel BTEC Tech Award in Performing Arts has Techniques in the Performing Arts
a range of components to be studied and is examined Externally assessed component:
both internally and externally. Internal assessment will Component 3 - Performing to a brief
be based on assignment requirements such as written
reports, projects, logbooks, presentations, posters and
dance performances. What can I do at the end of the
The external assessment for Component 3 is course?
produced and marked by Edexcel and takes the form
of a response to a given set brief. Students will work This Performing Arts (dance) course enables
as part of a group to develop ideas for a workshop learners to develop the knowledge,
performance, applying skills and techniques to understanding and skills that enable progression
communicate creative intentions to a chosen audience. within specific areas of employment such as:
A student’s final grade will be determined on their level
of work completed over the two year study period. - Performing Arts administration
Each student will study three components of work and - Stage management
every component will have a points value. Points will
be awarded to a learner who has achieved the learning
- Choreography
outcomes of the component and the awarded points - Production
will help to determine their final grade.PERFORMING ARTS (DANCE) Continued
Additionally, this course provides a suitable foundation
for further study within the performing arts sector through
progression on to qualifications such as: What are the requirements
for student success?
- Edexcel BTEC Level 3 in Performing Arts To be successful in this course, a student
- AS or A Level in Dance must:
- AS or A level in Theatre Studies
- AS or A level in Performing Arts - enjoy performing and have an
enthusiasm for dance
- be organised, punctual and
How is the course assessed? committed
All coursework is internally assessed and a grading scale
of pass, merit and distinction is applied to all assignments - bring their dance kit to lessons
and units. Each assignment and each unit within the when required
qualification have specified grading criteria which must - be prepared to work hard for
be achieved and points are then awarded accordingly. two years
Each student will be given an overall grade for the
course, determined by the number of passes, merits and - have an adequate standard of
distinctions and associated points they have achieved. Unit literacy and numeracy
3 will be assessed by the exam board, Edexcel - be committed to meet deadlines
- complete homework when set
- be aware of the assessment
process and prepare accordingly
Teacher to speak to for
further details:
Miss A StrudwickYou can also read
