Melbourn Village College Year 7 Handbook for Parents 2020-2021 Head of Year: Mr Barlow
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Melbourn Village College
Year 7
Handbook for Parents
2020-2021
Head of Year:
Mr Barlow
1
Welcome from Mr Simon Holmes,
Principal:
Thank you for reading this handbook for Year 7 pupils. This document is one of the
ways in which we can give you information about the different areas of the
interesting and wide-ranging curriculum that your child will be studying this year
We would be very pleased to hear any feedback about the kind of information that
parents and pupils would find useful.
If you would like any further information about your child’s education this term,
please don’t hesitate to get in touch with your child’s form tutor or Mr Barlow.
Contents
Welcome from Mr Simon Holmes, Principal:.............................................................................................. 2
2020-2021 MVC Calendar: .................................................................................................................... 3
Attendance: ........................................................................................................................................... 3
Communication: ..................................................................................................................................... 3
Homework: ............................................................................................................................................ 4
Year 7 tutor team: .................................................................................................................................. 4
Special Educational Needs and Disability. ............................................................................................. 5
Identification of Special Educational Needs and Disability ..................................................................... 5
English ...................................................................................................................................................... 6
Maths ........................................................................................................................................................ 8
Science ..................................................................................................................................................... 9
Spanish ....................................................................................................................................................11
Mandarin ..................................................................................................................................................13
History ......................................................................................................................................................15
Geography ...............................................................................................................................................16
Religious Education ..................................................................................................................................17
Social Studies ..........................................................................................................................................20
Computer Science ....................................................................................................................................21
Food and Nutrition ....................................................................................................................................22
Design and Technology ............................................................................................................................24
Music........................................................................................................................................................25
Drama ......................................................................................................................................................26
Art & Design .............................................................................................................................................27
PE ............................................................................................................................................................29
2
2020-2021 MVC Calendar:
Please refer to the school website for up-to-date information; we have a full calendar
accessible form the homepage:
www.melbournvc.org
Attendance:
Please help us to maximise your child’s progress at school by ensuring that he or
she attends punctually for every possible session. Please avoid making routine
appointments in school time whenever possible. We under-stand that pupils will
sometimes be unable to attend due to illness; in this case, please notify us by
08.45am on each morning of the absence, by phone 01763 22340 or by email:
absence@melbournvc.org
When notified that a pupil is absent through illness or other unavoidable
circumstances, the school will mark the absence as authorised on the pupil’s
records. In line with Government guidelines, the College is not able to authorise
absence for family holidays except under exceptional circumstances. For further
information on this and other attendance issues, please see the College website:
www.melbournvc.org
Communication:
MVC always welcomes contact with parents and wants to ensure that you always
have an appropriate and helpful response to your communications. Since staff may
be teaching up to 85% of the school week, it can be difficult to contact them directly
during the school day, and personal appointments must always be pre-arranged due
to teaching and other commitments.
Our Receptionists will attempt to connect your telephone calls for you and will pass
a message to the relevant staff member if he or she is not immediately available.
The staff member will try to respond as soon as possible. Urgent calls will be
transferred to the most appropriate member of senior staff if the teacher asked for is
not available.
Parents should not try to contact their child on the child’s mobile phone. In
emergencies, the Receptionist will pass on messages to pupils.
The school will always try to acknowledge letters and emails received from parents
within two working days. The school email is: office@melbournvc.org
Year 7 team contact information can be found on the back page of this document.
The school has adopted the SchoolPost system to send all standard forms of
communication home via email. Please ensure that any response forms required are
filled out by the deadline stated. For any more information please contact Reception.
MVC now seeks to put as much up-to-date information as possible on its website.
Most general information that parents would seek can be readily found at
www.melbournvc.org
3
Homework:
As parent or carer, you will help to make homework as effective as possible, if you
can:
• Provide a peaceful and suitable place in which pupils can do their work.
• Establish a routine for when homework is done.
• Make it clear to your children that you value homework and believe it can help them
to make good progress.
• Encourage your children in their homework tasks.
• Expect deadlines to be met and check that they are.
• Check Go4Schools regularly (at least weekly)
Please contact your child’s tutor in the first instance, if any aspect of completing
homework is causing problems for your child.
The school expects IT to play an ever-greater role in homework.
Homework is set using Go4Schools to share the task and instructions.
Pupils can access Office 365 to use programs/apps to complete their work; this
includes a school email account.
Pupils also have access to a vast library of lesson resources via the CATalogue.
The CATalogue is here: https://catrustorg.sharepoint.com/sites/mel-home .
From the ‘burger’ menu (three gold lines) pupils can access all of the subject
resources; from the ‘waffle’ menu (9 gold dots) pupils can access Office 365 and all
the programs and apps.
Year 7 tutor team:
Year Tutor Group Tutor Room
Team
HoY: Mr 7 Darwin Mr Kennedy HM04
Barlow 7 Franklin Mrs Giles IT2
7 Hawking Mr Rahman SC5
7 Lewis Mrs Gunner HM03
4
Special Educational Needs and Disability.
Melbourn Village College will support all pupils with Special Educational Needs and
Disability in a fully inclusive environment. Our Special Educational Needs and
Disability Co-ordinator (SENDCo), Mrs Anna Ghale, has responsibility for
coordinating SEND provision across the school and for managing the SEND
Department, known as ‘The Pupil Support Centre’. Members of staff include teachers
and teaching assistants (TA’s). We work very closely with outside agencies where
appropriate.
Identification of Special Educational Needs and Disability
We work with our partner primary schools to gather information about pupils. At the
start of the school year this information is shared with the staff who work with the
pupils.
We encourage parents to discuss concerns and insights about their children with the
school, so that information about a pupil can be shared and ideas exchanged. We
encourage pupils to request support if they feel that they are not making adequate
and appropriate progress.
We employ a variety of assessment methods to establish the nature and scope of
SEND, and work with teachers to carefully monitor individual progress. Most pupils
needs can be met within the mainstream classroom; however, a few pupils will be
identified as having SEN (SEND Code of Practice 2014), and may receive a
department or Pupil Support Intervention. This is in-keeping with the graduated
approach of for SEND, and we will follow Assess, Plan, Do, Review cycles and meet
with parents regularly to assess progress.
The SEND Department is able to carry out assessments and submit requests for
specialist support from the Local Authority or for access arrangements for
examinations.
For further information please see our SEND Policy which can be found in the SEND
section of our website.
5
English
Teachers: Miss King, Mrs Hallam, Ms Cooke, Mr Bacon, Mrs Seagrove.
Overview of the subject: At Melbourn Village College, our English team is
committed to inspiring young minds by encouraging pupils to be imaginative
and creative. We urge pupils to experiment with their writing; we reassure
pupils not to be afraid of making mistakes, but to have the determination,
perseverance and true grit to succeed in a broad subject that undoubtedly
opens many new doors and exciting opportunities for the future. Our pupils
develop self-expression and fluency in their writing; self-confidence in
presenting their ideas; and the capability to use language to communicate
effectively to present themselves to their best advantage.
How many lessons per cycle: 6 lessons per fortnight.
Term What is studied and how/when it is assessed
Autumn Reading – September Pupils will be introduced to the skills Pupils will be given
‘Private - October of identifying explicit and implicit a 20th century fiction
Peaceful’ by meanings from texts; analysing a source and they will
Michael writer’s use of language, structure answer a range of
Morpurgo and form; and how to give personal exam questions.
responses to texts through the skill of
evaluation.
Writing November Pupils will learn how to use Pupils will be asked
- persuasive writing in the form of text to write a
December for a leaflet and speech. persuasive speech.
Poetry December Pupils will prepare and perform a whole class poem in our
Festival school hall-on stage.
Spring Literature – January - Pupils will be introduced to the skills Pupils will be given
‘The February of interpreting and understanding an extract from the
Tempest’ by events, characters and themes in one play and asked to
William of Shakespeare’s plays, as well as write an essay in
Shakespeare looking at his use of language, form response to a
and structure. question.
Reading – March - Pupils will develop their skills at Pupils will be given
‘Beowulf’ April analysing a writer’s use of language, a 21st and 19th
form and structure and learn how to century non-fiction
identify similarities and differences source and they will
between texts. answer a range of
questions.
Summer Literature – May - Pupils will develop their skills of Pupils will be given
Modern June understanding and interpreting a question based on
Novel meaning(s); identifying and analysing a theme/character
features of language, structure and from the modern
form; and looking at how context novel and asked to
contributes to understanding of a text. write an essay
response.
Writing - June - Pupils will learn all about the features Pupils will be asked
narrative July to create a successful narrative, to write a story.
including using imaginative and
entertaining language; literary
techniques; and how to structure a
story.
6
Speaking & July Pupils will be introduced to the skill of Pupils will be asked
Listening oratory. They will learn how to give a to give an individual
successful speech for the purpose of presentation with
informing and explaining. the purpose to
inform/explain.
What form will homework take, and how often is it set?
Homework will take the form of literacy, wider reading, research, exam practice and will be set once a
week.
Do pupils need any particular equipment for this subject?
No
If pupils struggle in this subject, what can they do to help themselves?
The most important thing any pupil can do is to read as much as possible – fiction and non-fiction texts.
If pupils want to extend their learning what can they do?
Complete wider reading and research in line with the topics being taught.
7
Maths
Teachers: Mr Benson, Mrs Bentley, Mr Holder, Mr Lawrence-Jones, Mrs Neville, Mrs Patel, Mrs Rogers
Overview of the subject: At the beginning of year 7 we aim to identify the skills each student already
possesses and any areas of significant weakness which must be addressed in order to make rapid
progress. The outcome of these assessments will drive the setting of students and highlight if any
interventions are required. These sets are regularly reviewed to ensure students are in the best group to
make the most progress.
A small number of students who have been identified as requiring significant extra support can be taught
separately by our Skillsbase team with the aim to rapidly accelerate their progress allowing them to rejoin
mainstream classes.
The mathematical content which we cover during year 7 is differentiated into three schemes of work to
match the ability of the students. Each of the schemes is then split into the categories of number, algebra,
geometry, and data.
There are termly assessments to monitor progress and these results are made available on the
Go4schools website.
In the latter part of the year, more able students will have the opportunity to enter the UKMT Junior
Challenge. This is a national competition which stretches even the strongest mathematicians.
How many lessons per cycle: 6 lessons per fortnight
Topic What is studied
Number Order of operations
Factors and multiples
Units
Fractions/percentages/decimals
Ratio
Algebra Function machines Manipulation of expressions
Equations
Sequences
Geometry Angle rules
Tessellation
Area of 2D shapes
Area and circumference of circles
Transformations
Nets
Data Charts
Averages
Probability
What form will homework take, and how often is it set?
Students will all receive a weekly written homework which will normally be set on the HegartyMaths
website.
Do pupils need any particular equipment for this subject?
Apart from the usual writing equipment, if your child does not have a good scientific calculator, now would
be the time to get one. We recommend choosing a Casio FX 83 or FX 85 model. These can be bought
from the finance office.
If pupils struggle in this subject, what can they do to help themselves?
We give all students free logins to both the Times Tables Rockstars and HegartyMaths websites which
are great sources of practise and revision material.
If pupils want to extend their learning what can they do?
The HegartyMaths website contains support videos and exercises for all key stage 3 and 4 topics.
8
Science
Teachers: Mr Callow (HOD), Dr Wilson (2nd in Department), Mr Rahman, Mrs Mayhead, Mr Essien, Mr
Willder, Miss Boniface
Overview of the subject: Science at Key Stage 3 is currently taught
across Years 7 and 8. We use the ‘Big Ideas’ concept of delivering the
curriculum by teaching modules focussed around what is regarded to be
the most important scientific ideas. Within these topics we both cover the
Key Stage 3 national curriculum and include many ideas that are
subsequently built upon at GCSE (Key Stage 4) level. Each module is
taught within its subject area to give pupils a feel of the individual subject
areas, Chemistry, Physics and Biology, that will become more distinct as
they get older. We include investigations, practical, math skills and literacy
skills in parallel to the content taught.
How many lessons per cycle: 6 lessons per fortnight divided between 1, 2 or 3 teachers.
Term What is studied and how/when it is assessed
Autumn At the start of the year pupils will study an introductory series of lessons based around
developing science specific skills.
Once complete they will then study 4 modules in their discrete subject areas:
• Physics
o Speed and Gravity
o Sound
• Biology
o Cells and Movement
• Chemistry
o Particle Model and Separation Techniques
These are then assessed in final termly examination, equally weighted across the 4
modules, and with lead up lessons which introduce ideas and techniques focussing on
revision. Evaluation and feedback lessons then take place after.
Spring Pupil study the following modules:
• Physics
o Electricity: Current, Voltage and Resistance
• Biology
o Variation and Human Reproduction
• Chemistry
o Metals & Non-Metals and Acids & Alkalis
These are then assessed in final termly examination, equally weighted across the 3
modules, and with lead up lessons which introduce ideas and techniques focussing on
revision. Evaluation and feedback lessons then take place after.
9
Summer Pupil study the following modules:
• Physics
o Energy Costs and Energy Transfer
• Biology
o Interdependence and Plant Reproduction
• Chemistry
o Earth Structure and Universe
These are then assessed in final termly examination, equally weighted across the 3
modules, and with lead up lessons which introduce ideas and techniques focussing on
revision. Evaluation and feedback lessons then take place after.
What form will homework take, and how often is it set?
Homeworks are set in relation tasks, subject content and activities.
Do pupils need any particular equipment for this subject?
Pupils should bring all writing and mathematical equipment, including a calculator. Coloured pens/pencils
are useful.
If pupils struggle in this subject, what can they do to help themselves or want to extend their
learning what can they do?
There are some fantastic resources online that can help pupils both help, consolidate and develop
understanding. BBCBitesize has long been a good exam of a resource with information, games and mini
tests. SENECA Learning is a newer resource that pupils can sign up to with their school email accounts
and have an interactive resource with inbuilt assessment and artificial intelligence to direct pupils to
improve areas they need to develop.
10Spanish
Teachers: Mrs Stanley and Miss Correa
Overview of the subject: This is a subject which helps pupils to
communicate with the world and think about other cultures. It supports
literacy and makes connections between Spanish and the English
language. Pupils learn how to memorise information, which is a key
skill. Learning vocabulary every week and re-visiting it regularly
increases resilience and allows pupils to make good progress.
How many lessons per cycle: 4 lessons per fortnight
Term What is studied and how/when it is assessed
Autumn Autumn term 1:
Spanish alphabet
Describing places and location
Saying what someone is like, at the moment and in general
Saying what people have and do
Autumn Term 2
Saying what people do and don’t do
Numbers
Location of things
Giving and wanting (festive season)
Weekly vocabulary assessment.
Reading, listening, writing and speaking assessments (two per half-term)
Spring Spring Term 1
Describing family
Describing natural wonders of the Spanish-speaking world
Asking and answering questions
Spring Term 2
Talking about what you do with others
Saying what people can, must and want to do
Places and locations
Saying what people are like today vs in general
Weekly vocabulary assessment.
Reading, listening, writing and speaking assessments (two per half-term)
Summer Summer Term 1:
Describing activities (travel)
Describing what people do
Describing what people do (technology)
Summer Term 2:
Discussing what people do and don’t do
Describing when and where people go
Describing future plans
2nd half of summer term. Separate phonics, vocabulary and grammar achievement tests.
Total assessment time: 45 minutes.
What form will homework take, and how often is it set?
Homework is set every week and is usually to learn the vocabulary we use in the lessons. Pupils are
provided with a vocabulary booklet with all the vocabulary and grammar for each week.
11Do pupils need any particular equipment for this subject?
No.
If pupils struggle in this subject, what can they do to help themselves?
Ask the teacher, as we will always be happy to help. Use the vocabulary booklet to look at what will be
taught next so that you are more confident in class. Keep up with the vocabulary learning and ask a
parent or carer to help. We find that pupils benefit from teaching the vocabulary to someone at home. If
pupils want to re-visit the learning after a lesson, they can access the Oak National Academy lessons for
Year 7 Spanish which follow the same curriculum as Melbourn Village College.
If pupils want to extend their learning what can they do?
There are many useful websites and apps for Spanish. Duolingo is a very engaging app and all classes
are encouraged to use Quizlet to aid their vocabulary learning. There is an opportunity to take part in the
Modern Languages Spelling Bee, which is a national competition for Year 7 pupils. This really increases
confidence and there is the chance to compete against other schools.
12Mandarin
Teachers: Mr Fan and Mr Chen
Overview of the subject: This is a subject which helps pupils to communicate with the world and think
about other cultures. It supports literacy and makes connections between Spanish and the English
language. Pupils learn how to memorise information, which is a key skill. Learning vocabulary every week
and re-visiting it regularly increases resilience and allows pupils to make good progress.
How many lessons per cycle: 4 lessons per fortnight
Term What is studied and how/when it is assessed
Autumn Autumn term 1:
Numbers
Self-introduction with name and age
Greeting
Autumn Term 2
Describing family
Saying ‘have’ and ‘don’t have’
Using the correct ‘measure word’
Weekly vocabulary assessment.
Reading, listening, writing and speaking assessments (two per half-term)
Spring Spring Term 1
Describing pets
Saying date
Asking and answering the correct date of today, yesterday and tomorrow
Spring Term 2
Talking about hobbies and interests
Saying likes and dislikes
Using the ‘bounce back’ question word
Weekly vocabulary assessment.
Reading, listening, writing and speaking assessments (two per half-term)
Summer Summer Term 1:
Talking about sport
Talking about ‘can’ and ‘cannot’
Saying the days of the week
Summer Term 2:
Talking about school subjects
Saying the time
Reading, listening, writing and speaking assessments (two per half-term)
What form will homework take, and how often is it set?
Homework is set every week and is usually to learn the vocabulary we use in the lessons. Pupils are
provided with a homework booklet and a vocabulary booklet with all the vocabulary and grammar for each
week.
Do pupils need any particular equipment for this subject?
No
If pupils struggle in this subject, what can they do to help themselves?
Ask the teacher, as we will always be happy to help. Use the vocabulary booklet to look at what will be
taught next so that you are more confident in class. Keep up with the vocabulary learning and ask a
parent or carer to help. We find that pupils benefit from teaching the vocabulary to someone at home.
13If pupils want to extend their learning what can they do?
There are many useful websites and apps for Mandarin. We offer each student an online account to
access to the GoChinese website, which pupils can use a lot of reading, listening exercises to stretch
themselves.
14History
Teachers: Mr Tobutt and Miss Joyce
Overview of the subject: History looks at Medieval England from 1066 to 1485,
the Norman Conquest to the Battle of Bosworth Field. We study key events in
English History deploying a range of skills such as source analysis, the creation of
extended answers which discuss the causes and consequences of major events, as
well as look at the significance of historical figures such as Queen Matilda, King
John and Richard III.
.
How many lessons per cycle: 2 lessons per fortnight
Term What is studied and how/when it is assessed
Autumn History Skills and William of Normandy
How historians examine the past, the significance of the Norman Conquest, what
happened at the Battle of Hastings. Creating extended historical arguments.
Exam: King William I, an in-class exam on the importance and role of William I.
Spring Medieval Monarchs
How was England governed after the death of William I? Why was Matilda the
‘uncrowned queen’? Why did Henry II and Thomas Becket fall out? Why were castles
used to control the population of England?
Exam: The Hundred Years’ War, an in class written exam on who won the Hundred
Years’ War between England and France.
Summer Medieval People and the Church
We will study the impact of the Black Death on the English population, the reasons and
events of the Peasants’ Revolt of 1381 as well as the importance of the Medieval Church
to ordinary people.
Exam: The Church, an in class written exam on why did God matter to the English
people?
What form will homework take, and how often is it set?
Each month pupils take part in a programme of online learning. Pupils will be set assignments at the start
of each month that should take them approximately 60 minutes to complete.
Do pupils need any particular equipment for this subject?
Pen, pencils, colouring pencils, ruler, glue, scissors
If pupils struggle in this subject, what can they do to help themselves?
Pupils are encouraged to read around the topic areas – medieval monarchs, medieval church, the Black
Death, reading on these topics will boost both confidence and historical knowledge.
If pupils want to extend their learning what can they do?
We have a number of practical and written projects which are ideal for extending your child’s learning,
staff can be e-mailed about these and are always happy to assist.
15Geography
Teachers: Mr Kennedy, Mr Barnes and Mr Stagg
Overview of the subject: Geography is a subject that explains the past, illuminates the present and
prepares us for the future, nothing can be more important than that!
How many lessons per cycle: 2 lessons per fortnight
Term What is studied and how/when it is assessed
Autumn Our Place in Geography
Spring What is life like in the freezer?
Summer Where are the British Isles? How can the weather affect us?
What form will homework take, and how often is it set?
Researching tasks; set every other lesson
Do pupils need any particular equipment for this subject?
No just an enquiring and inquisitive mind
If pupils struggle in this subject, what can they do to help themselves?
Always ask the teachers and they will help you.
If pupils want to extend their learning what can they do?
Help yourself by making sure you keep up with current affairs by watching the news and make yourself
aware of what is going on in the world!
16Religious Education
Teachers: Mrs Gunner
Overview of the subject: Religious Education looks the varying beliefs and cultures in the world,
promoting understanding and tolerance within society. This builds upon the work completed in Primary
School and allows the pupils to investigate the history, teachings and beliefs that impacts believers both
local and worldwide.
How many lessons per cycle: 2 lessons per fortnight.
Term What is studied and how/when it is assessed
Autumn Year 7 complete a thematic study entitled ‘The Island’ which allows pupils to develop
their understanding of:
• Symbols
• Rites of Passage (Birth, Marriage, Death)
• Commitment
• Rules
• Prayer
• Pilgrimage
• Festivals
There is a formal assessment completed in class based on rites of passage, commitment
and rules at the end of half term.
A second assessment is completed before the Christmas holiday based on prayer,
pilgrimage and festivals.
Spring Year 7 complete a 10-lesson unit looking at the different ways religious groups express
their faith. This includes:
• Belief and Symbolic meaning
• How different religions started
• The characteristics of a good teacher
• Religious views on Jesus
• Places of Worship
• Religious objects in a home
• How different religions developed
At the start of every lesson there is a recap questioning session to check and consolidate
learning. A formal assessment is completed before the end of the second half of the
Spring Term.
Summer Year 7 will complete a unit to build their understanding on the importance of People and
Places for the 6 major religions. This includes:
• The significance of Pilgrimage and sacred sites
• The importance of Israel and Palestine
• Holy Places in India
• Religious Leaders and how they have influenced the world
• Religious Communities
At the start of every lesson there is a recap questioning session to check and consolidate
learning. A formal assessment is completed before the end of the second half of the
Summer Term.
1718
What form will homework take, and how often is it set?
Homework is a series of worksheets that are used to practice and develop skills that are useful in
Religious Education. This is set approximately every 3 weeks and is available on Go4Schools, Microsoft
Teams and the CATalogue.
Do pupils need any particular equipment for this subject?
No. They may find pencils, coloured pencils and a calculator useful on occasion.
If pupils struggle in this subject, what can they do to help themselves?
The PowerPoints are all available on the CATalogue for a pupil to review and check information. Pupils
are encouraged to discuss information with Mrs Gunner and their parents to collect different viewpoints.
Work is differentiated to allow pupils to access the tasks.
If pupils want to extend their learning what can they do?
Pupils can watch and use a variety of TED lessons and talks to support their learning, as well as read and
work through articles from ‘The Day’ which will help stretch and develop their understanding.
19Social Studies
Teachers: Mr Stagg and Miss Joyce
Overview of the subject: Social studies combines elements of Personal, Social and Health Education
(PSHE) and Citizenship. Pupils develop the knowledge, skills and attributes they need to keep
themselves healthy and safe, and prepared for life and work. The subject aims to develop skills and
attributes such as resilience, self-esteem, risk-management, teamworking and critical thinking in the
context of three core themes: health and wellbeing, relationships and living in the wider world (including
economic wellbeing and aspects of careers education).
How many lessons per cycle: 2 lessons per fortnight
Term What is studied and how/when it is assessed
Autumn The topics taught in this term focus on living in the wider world theme of PSHE. They
include the challenges and opportunities of Transition from Primary school. Having high
Aspirations and developing positive self-esteem. The difference between wants and
needs. Investigating the problems caused and ways of reducing prejudice and
discrimination. How to stay safe and the ethical use of social media. There is also a topic
that focuses on Personal budgeting, savings, loans and interest rates and financial
products and transactions.
Pupils will be assessed through ‘literacy focus’ tasks about the main issues and debates.
Spring The topics in the first half of this term investigate relationships, identity and safety. This
includes lessons on maintaining positive and genuine relationships and romance and
teenage love, different types of families and issues relating to bullying including online
bullying. In the second half of the term we introduce Citizenship and consider what
makes a good citizen and how we can develop British values.
Pupils will be assessed through ‘literacy focus’ tasks about the main issues and debates.
Summer The topics delivered in this term focus on physical and emotional health and wellbeing
and the lesson investigate the balanced diet and understanding food labels and the
danger of energy drinks, having an active life and the dangers of smoking and of illegal
drugs. There is also some sex education regarding puberty, periods and the menstrual
cycle and female genital mutilation.
Pupils will be assessed through ‘literacy focus’ tasks about the main issues and debates.
What form will homework take, and how often is it set?
None
Do pupils need any particular equipment for this subject?
Pen, pencils, colouring pencils, ruler, glue, scissors
If pupils struggle in this subject, what can they do to help themselves?
Pupils are encouraged to read around the topic areas and read articles online and in newspapers
regarding the key themes
If pupils want to extend their learning what can they do?
We have a number of practical and written projects which are ideal for extending your child’s learning.
20Computer Science
Teachers: Mr T Fung
Overview of the subject: Computing in year 7 aims to equip students with various IT, computing and life
skills, extending their knowledge in this discipline but also supporting other subjects taught at MVC.
Students will be taught how to use computer systems effectively and safety whilst developing their logical
reasoning through computational thinking. During year 7 we will introduce a range of introductory topics to
help students understand the fundamentals of using computers and programming.
The computing content which we cover during year 7 is split into 4 different categories of Digital Literacy,
Computational Thinking, Computing Knowledge and Programming.
There are termly assessments to monitor progress and these results are made available on the
Go4schools website.
Every year, all students will have the opportunity to enter the Bebras Challenge. This is an international
competition which aims to help develop logical thinking. Pupils that reach the top 10% of their age group
are invited to The Oxford Computing Challenge (TCSOCC) held during the spring term.
How many lessons per cycle: 2 lessons per fortnight.
Topic What is studied
Digital Literacy E-safety
Digital Awareness
Basic Computer Life Skills
Cyberbullying Awareness
Computational Thinking Decomposition
Algorithms
Bebras Challenge
Computing Knowledge Number Systems
Hardware
Origins of Computing
Pixels & Images
Programming Block-based programming
Text-based programming (Python)
Programming projects (Micro-Bits)
What form will homework take, and how often is it set?
Students will all receive fortnightly homework which is normally a small research tasks, logical thinking
task or a skills-based practice.
Do pupils need any particular equipment for this subject?
Students will need to complete homework using an internet readied desktop or laptop.
If pupils struggle in this subject, what can they do to help themselves?
Lesson resources will be posted on the CATalogue for catchups alongside a variety of resource for pupils
to revisit and consolidate their computing knowledge.
If pupils want to extend their learning what can they do?
There are a range of links on the CATalogue that are aimed at challenging and extending pupil’s learning
in computing including preparation tasks for the Bebras and TCSOCC challenges.
21Food and Nutrition
Teachers: Miss Giles and Mrs Teversham
Overview of the subject: In Year 7, pupils will get the opportunity to gain cooking, show creativity and
learn baking skills that are essential for life by undertaking three modules throughout the year; basic
cooking skills, eating for health and applied skills.
How many lessons per cycle: 2 lessons per fortnight when in the Food rotation.
Term What is studied and how/when it is assessed
Autumn Pupils learn basic skills in food and preparation, to include
Safe use of the cooker
Hygiene and safety principles
Safe knife skill and preparation
Using sensory evaluation
Each rotation, pupils are expected to use skills learnt to produce an independent
outcome (practical test).
Pupils will be required to complete a written based on the theory elements.
Spring Pupils will recap and develop skills within food and preparation lessons, to include
Understanding the heat transfer in food preparation
Food poisoning bacteria
Healthy eating, including Eatwell Guide
Each rotation, pupils are expected to use skills learnt to produce an independent
outcome (practical test).
Pupils will be required to complete a written based on the theory elements.
Summer Pupils will be more independent using gained skills within food and preparation lessons,
to include
Diet related illnesses
Key safety temperatures within food safety
Dietary requirements, including the 8 healthy living tips
Each rotation, pupils are expected to use skills learnt to produce an independent
outcome (practical test).
Pupils will be required to complete a written based on the theory elements.
What form will homework take, and how often is it set?
Homework is set per module; pupils will be expected to complete a project based on the subject which is
being studied in that module. Pupils are also encouraged to cook and bake at home to develop skills.
Pupils are asked to show creativity by bringing in extra ingredients, when required, e.g.
bringing in fruit to make the dish healthier.
Do pupils need any equipment for this subject?
A container for each lesson.
If pupils struggle in this subject, what can they do to help themselves?
Pupils are encouraged to ask questions in a safe environment, pupils can refer to notice boards for key
words and spellings. Pupils are encouraged to practise skills at home to improve confidence. Pupils can
also email asking for support. There is a range of resources on the CATalogue area.
22If pupils want to extend their learning what can they do?
Pupils can look at the CATalogue where they will locate a range of extra reading
materials. Furthermore, pupils can look at https://www.foodafactoflife.org.uk/ for
excellent resources and further reading.
23Design and Technology
24Music
Teachers: Mr Thomson
Overview of the subject: In Year 7, pupils’ learning and assessment is modelled around the three core
areas of British National Curriculum Music. These are Performing, Composing and Understanding.
How many lessons per cycle: 2 lessons per fortnight
Term What is studied and how/when it is assessed
Autumn Instruments of the Orchestra (keyboard assessment)
Introduction to World Music (keyboard assessment)
Spring Western Art Music (based on formative assessment of written work done in class)
Summer Solo Musical Performance (based on formative assessment of practical work done in
class)
What form will homework take, and how often is it set?
Weekly tasks, often involving some research based on the learning done in class.
Do pupils need any particular equipment for this subject?
Personal headphones (with large jack cable) are a plus but not essential.
If pupils struggle in this subject, what can they do to help themselves?
Further reading and research in-between lessons – BBC Bitesize is excellent for explaining Musical
Terms and Language for Learning.
If pupils want to extend their learning what can they do?
Extension tasks will be provided, especially during practical i.e. keyboard activities. BBC Bitesize can be
used between lessons to extend learning.
25Drama
Teachers: Mrs Nicholls
Overview of the subject: Creative and performing arts
How many lessons per cycle: 2 lessons per fortnight
Term What is studied and how/when it is assessed
Autumn Introduction to Devising & History of Theatre - Practical Performance
Spring Live Theatre Performance (Written assessment)
Summer Political Theatre & Script – Practical performance
What form will homework take, and how often is it set?
Dependent on requirement of Task set, when required.
Do pupils need any particular equipment for this subject?
No.
If pupils struggle in this subject, what can they do to help themselves?
Listen to instructions and try their best. Confidence will grow and develop when they try all parts of the
tasks set to the best if their ability.
If pupils want to extend their learning what can they do?
They can do further reading on any playwrights studied, this will develop their imagination.
26Art & Design
Teachers: Mrs Heeks, Mrs Ward
Overview of the subject: Pupils will encompass a wide range of art and design techniques, themes and
creative concepts over the course of the year. Sometimes these are supplemented by additional projects
that respond to current events or opportunities that appear within the school year. Throughout year 7, we
aim to show pupils how embedded learning in Art and Design can increase both their skills and creativity
and act as a secure building block for future artistic study. We also want pupils to enjoy their creativity.
Year 7 schemes of work will cover:
Drawing skills
The key focus of the year is to increase confidence in drawing. Pupils will be learning the process of drawing
including how to hold the pencil; how to use contour and tone to record shape accurately and how to build detail and
texture in stages. They will also experience drawing with a range of materials and to both small and large scales.
The Formal Elements
Line, tone, perspective, proportion, composition etc. These skills are taught and consolidated over much of the
year’s work.
Paint and Colour
Pupils will explore atmosphere, memory, emotion and feeling through mark making and colour mixing. They will
develop a knowledge and understanding of different painting techniques and use of pastel, ink and pencil to express
colour in a creative way.
3D
Pupils will explore construction techniques using Pottery in the Ceramics Studio, learning how to use the correct
techniques and work as a team within a ceramic studio environment. (this may not be available due to Corvid
restrictions)
Collaboration
Pupils will work collaboratively when appropriate.
Printmaking – pupil will cover basic elements of printing Typography – Pupils will learn about creative fonts and the
design skills required to produce interesting design-based work.
How many lessons per cycle: 2 lessons per fortnight
Term What is studied and how it is assessed
Autumn Year 7 learn about:
Core Skills
Project Seashore used to reinforce a broad range of core art skills
• Observation
• Tonal
• Design
• Format
• Layout
• Colour Theory
Research into Artists
Homework one large project research the termly theme in depth with both written
research, design layout and creative art skills
27Spring Year 7 learn about:
Core Skills
Project Lettering and Illuminated Manuscripts used to reinforce a broad range of core art
skills
• Observation
• Tonal
• Design
• Format
• Layout
• Colour Theory
Research into Artists
Homework one large project research the termly theme in depth with both written
research, design layout and creative art skills
Summer Year 7 learn about:
Core Skills
Project Scarab Beetle Egyptian Art and Culture to reinforce a broad range of core art
skills
• Observation
• Tonal
• Design
• Format
• Layout
• Paint Theory
• Colour Theory
Research into Artists
Homework one large project research the termly theme in depth with both written
research, design layout and creative art skills
What form will homework take, and how often is it set?
Homework will be in the form of researching an artistic topic and producing creative artwork independently
based on a termly theme. It is a long research project (7 weeks) in order to develop project management
skills. It will be handed in in a form of a creatively presented booklet. If paper is required pupils should
request it from their teacher. Homework should be well presented and handed in flat not folded or
crumpled.
Do pupils need any equipment for this subject?
Art Equipment – including coloured pencils, paint, fine liner etc. Art packs can be ordered from the school.
They can ask for art paper for homework. A plastic wallet to store homework and protect it from damage.
If pupils struggle in this subject, what can they do to help themselves?
Seek advice from subject teacher, look up techniques such a tonal drawing on You-tube, visit museum
and gallery websites for ideas.
If pupils want to extend their learning what can they do?
Seek direct advice and extension work from teacher or HOD.
28PE
Teachers: Mrs Coghlan, Miss Evans, Mr Barlow and Mr Barnes
Overview of the subject: Physical Education lessons aim to develop the physical skills and fitness of
pupils as well as their knowledge and understanding of the rules and tactics of different sports and how to
lead a healthy and active lifestyle.
How many lessons per cycle: 4 lessons per fortnight
Term What is studied and how/when it is assessed
Autumn In the Autumn term we focus on rugby; hockey; gymnastics and badminton
Spring In the spring term we focus on football; netball; swimming; basketball and fitness
Summer In the summer term we focus on athletics; rounders and cricket
What form will homework take, and how often is it set?
Pupils are encouraged to take part in enrichment activities and to do sports outside of school to develop
their skills and performance.
Do pupils need any particular equipment for this subject?
Pupils may need sports specific equipment, gum shields, shin pads, football boots would be of a benefit
for some sports and swimming kits for swimming lessons.
If pupils struggle in this subject, what can they do to help themselves?
Pupils can attend enrichment to aid their development.
If pupils want to extend their learning what can they do?
Pupils can attend enrichment, play for the school teams and attend clubs outside of school.
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