Pathways Guide Year 9 - @RASAcademy www.theallsaints.net

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Pathways Guide Year 9 - @RASAcademy www.theallsaints.net
Year 9

Pathways
Guide
@RASAcademy

www.theallsaints.net
Pathways Guide Year 9 - @RASAcademy www.theallsaints.net
Introduction
Your son/daughter is approaching another very important
stage in their educational journey. With the beginning of
Key Stage 4 only 2 terms away, it is now necessary for us all
to spend a considerable amount of time, to support your
child as they consider which qualification routes to follow.

Rossington All Saints Academy provides a broad and
balanced curriculum which engages and challenges our
students so that they achieve the best possible range of
qualifications to enable their future aspirations to be
fulfilled. The curriculum is designed to offer students a
diverse and coherent choice of courses and learning
experiences so that they develop skills and knowledge that
remain with them long after examinations. This is so our
students leave school as confident and independent
life-long learners, equipped with the transferable skills
needed to thrive in a changing world.

Students will take a suite of compulsory core subjects at
GCSE however they will also be able to choose from a
wide range of optional subjects. Some of the subjects
will be familiar to you, some will be new. This pack and the
parents evening on 17th March are designed to give you
the information to help you make the best choices.

It is important that you read through this pack and speak to
your son/daughter and their teachers; and if they are
thinking of a career path, talk to the careers staff at the
academy. The choices have to be right for your child so
they need to think about the subjects they need, enjoy or
interest them. They also need to think about the ways in
which they learn best.

Aim high, choose wisely and work hard.

Regards,
Dr Stokes

02 | Introduction
Pathways Guide Year 9 - @RASAcademy www.theallsaints.net
Timeline of events:
       1st Pathways Assembly
28th   Introduction of the pathways process
       28th February 2022

       Subject Areas

 7th   Introduce courses to students in lessons
       7th March 2022

       Pathways Evening
17th   Video’s from subject areas and live Q&A session
       17th March 2022

       Deadline
28th   For submission of pathways form
       28th March 2022

       One to one meetings
19th   (If required)
       19th April 2022

                                                         Timeline Of Events | 03
Pathways Guide Year 9 - @RASAcademy www.theallsaints.net
Students Moving From
Students will select an option from each of the option blocks that are outlined below. It is
important that students consider their options carefully and ensure they have asked any
questions they may have about subjects before making their options.

     EBacc pathway

                          Geography
           CORE            or History
                                              MFL            Other            Other

     Non-EBacc pathway

                                Geography
              CORE               or History
                                                       Other                Other

04 | Year 9 Options
Pathways Guide Year 9 - @RASAcademy www.theallsaints.net
Y9 into Y10
∙ All students will be asked to pick either
  History or Geography, as we believe           If there are questions around this
  this ensures students have a broad and        then please speak to Dr Stokes or
  balanced curriculum which employers           any other senior colleagues on the
  and further education establishments          evening.
  value highly. (see later section on the
  English Baccalaureate)

∙ Students who wish to progress on to         Completing the pathways form
  leading Universities would need to
  follow the EBACC suite of qualifications    All students will be issued with a link to a
  which would mean that they would            pathways form on Teams in advance of
  need to study Spanish and select            the pathways evening. Students will be
  either History or Geography within their    asked to choose their first and second
  options set.                                choice. Please follow the instructions on
                                              the form. Forms should be completed by
∙ We have ensured that the options            no later that Monday 28th March 2022.
  available provide as much flexibility as
  possible so that students are able to
  select the courses they wish to study.
  Please note however that not all
  courses may run if student numbers are
  insufficient.

∙ The subjects offered in our blocks
  include GCSEs alongside other level
  1/2 qualifications which may include
  BTEC First Awards, BTEC Tech Awards or
  OCR Cambridge National Certificates.

                                                                          Year 9 Options | 05
Pathways Guide Year 9 - @RASAcademy www.theallsaints.net
Year 9 Options
Course offers to students
                                                Course offers to students
We offer a ‘free choice’ of subjects
at Rossington All Saints Academy                GCSE’s are graded on a 9-1 scale rather than
and have done so for a number of                the previous A*-G scale. The reformed GCSE’s
years now with a very high success              are more demanding and designed so that all
rate of students getting their wishes.          the examinations are taken a the end of the
We try to ensure that you obtain all            course. Non exam assessment is mainly reduced
your choices; however, I wish to                or in some cases removed completely.
make it very clear that in some
cases it will not be possible to meet           The table outlines the governments view on how
the combination of subjects chosen              the 9-1 scale looks when compared to the A*-G
by some students. Whether or not                scale.
we can meet your choices
depends on:

(1) the number of students that choose
   each option - we can only offer a
   limited number of places in any
   given subject due to staffing
   considerations or indeed if too few
   choose the subject it may be
   unviable.

(2) your aptitude and record in the
   subject – if there is a history of lack of
   engagement in the subject then you
   may be questioned as to the
   reasons behind your choice

(3) in some cases, the combination of
   subjects chosen by a small number
   of students will not work due to their
   final place on the timetable. In
   these cases, the student will be
   advised about the problem and
   given a chance to reconsider their
   choice. One to one meetings will be
   arranged to discuss any of these
   issues if they arise.

06 | Year 9 Options
Pathways Guide Year 9 - @RASAcademy www.theallsaints.net
Current GCSE Grade                 Current GCSE Grade
A* (Top 20% of current A*)         9
A* (Bottom 80* of current A*)      8

A                                  7
B                                  6
C (Top third of current C)         5
C (Bottom 2 thirds of current C)   4
D                                  3
E                                  2
F                                  1
G (Top half of current G)          1
U                                  0

                                                        Year 9 Options | 07
Pathways Guide Year 9 - @RASAcademy www.theallsaints.net
Year 9 Pathways
English Baccalaureate               Making good choices
The English Baccalaureate           Making the right choice of courses at Key Stage 4 is very
(EBacc) is a performance            important because it may affect a student’s progression
measure in school league            after Year 11 and possibly their future career
tables that was introduced in       opportunities. Option choices will also determine the
2010. The measure recognises        number, type and grade of qualifications a student will
those students who achieve a        achieve as well as their enjoyment of Years 10 and 11.
GCSE grade “standard pass”          Therefore, the decision making involved in the options
in English, Maths, two sciences     process deserves careful consideration of the
(not including vocational           information, advice and guidance provided by the
science), a modern foreign          school. Students should also remember the following
language and either                 three questions to help them choose the best
Geography or History. It is not     combination of courses:
a qualification in itself and is
currently not certificated for
students achieving the EBacc           1.      What am I good at and what
combination of subjects.                       courses will I succeed in?
The purpose of the EBacc, as                   Recent progress reports and scores in
stated by the Government, is                   assessments will help students to identify
to encourage students to                       their areas of strength. If students are
achieve a broad set of                         unsure about their ability to succeed in a
academic GCSE                                  particular course, they should ask their
qualifications. At Rossington All              subject teacher.
Saints, students have always
been able to study the EBacc
combination of subjects and
this will continue as it means
students gain experience in a          2.       What am I interested in and enjoy?
broad range of subjects at Key
Stage 4. However, for some                      Most students can quickly identify their
students a different                            favourite lessons but it is important to
combination of subjects may                     make sure students choose a course
be better suited to their                       because they find the subject interesting
strengths and interests and the                 rather than just because they like the
requirements of their post-16                   teacher or the group of friends in their
route.                                          current Year 9 class.

08 | Year 9 Options
Pathways Guide Year 9 - @RASAcademy www.theallsaints.net
3.   What qualifications do I need for my next step after Year 11 and
     beyond?
     One of the most important outcomes of Key Stage 4 is that students achieve
     the qualifications that they need for progression to their desired next step
     after Year 11 and in their long term aspirations. If students are clear about
     what career they wish to pursue they should seek advice about relevant
     courses. At this stage, many students will not know exactly what career they
     want to pursue so it is important to choose a broad and balanced
     combination of courses to keep their future options open, as explained
     above. However, it is important that students think ahead as much as
     possible and find out what qualifications they may need for their desired
     post-16 education. However, at this stage, students should not be overly
     concerned if they are unsure about what they want to do after Year 11, so
     long as they follow the advice of choosing a balanced curriculum to help
     keep their post-16 options open.

                                                                       Year 9 Options | 09
Pathways Guide Year 9 - @RASAcademy www.theallsaints.net
KS4 Pathways
Information, advice and guidance
The next section of this booklet provides subject
specific information about the courses on offer.
During Year 9 Parents and Pathways evening you
will have the opportunity to have discussions with
subject teachers about your child’s suitability for KS4
courses, there will also be taster events planned for
your child to attend during the school day. I have
included a list of relevant key staff who you may
also want to speak to. In the meantime, students
should be proactive in discussing their option
choices with their parents and seek advice and
guidance as appropriate.

   Staff Name                    Area of expertise

                                 ∙ Subject specific information   ∙ Taster sessions
   Subject Teacher               ∙ Suitability for course         ∙ Student Data

   Learning Manager
                                 ∙ Booking guidance meetings

   Miss Wainwright               ∙ SEN information

                                 ∙ Careers advice and guidance
   Careers Professional            (meetings are held on Wednesday in the small room next to the LRC)

                                 ∙ Options process                ∙ Curriculum model
   Dr Stokes                     ∙ One to One meetings            ∙ GCSE Reforms and Grading
                                 ∙ Technical Support                Structure

10 | Year 9 Options
Subject
Information
              Year 9 Options | 11
OCR GCSE

Computer Science
Course Summary                           Possible Progressions                    Assessment Methods

This exciting GCSE gives you an          This course follows the new              this qualification is assessed
excellent opportunity to investigate     National Curriculum for the subject      through 2 units.
how computers work, how they’re          of Computing. After completing
used, and to develop computer            the course pupils will have the skills   Unit 1: Computer Systems
programming and problem-solving          required to further study a              Written Paper: 80 Marks (1:30) (50%)
skills. You’ll also do some              Computer Science A level or work
fascinating in-depth research and        in a Computing orientated                Unit 2: Computational thinking,
practical work. The course builds        apprentice-ship. The course leads        algorithms and programming
upon skills learned through units        into many areas of Computing,            Written Paper: 80 Marks (1:30) (50%)
such as Scratch Games                    problem solving, games
Programming from Key Stage 3             development and programming.
and pupils would be expected to
further their skillset.
                                         Course Structure

Students suited to the course
                                         The course is made up of 2 units of
                                         work as follows.
Programming involves a lot of
problem solving and the ability to       Unit 1:
think logically. Pupils who enrol on     Written paper: Computer Systems -
this course will benefit from strong     The unit embraces the theory of
mathematical skills though this is       Computer Science and pupils will
not absolutely necessary. The            work through a mixture short and
ability to learn by reading text         long answer questions, some of
however, is an essential skill.          which will expect the pupils to write
Programming involves learning a          program code. The topics include;
new language, that although uses         systems, software, hardware, data
English keywords requires new            representation, databases,
syntax or rules, so reading ability is   networking and programming.
paramount. Pupils will need to
have certain amount of autonomy          Unit 2:
and self discipline and be willing to    Written paper: Computational
attend after school sessions when        thinking, algorithms and
necessary. Homework is set for           programming Pupils look at how to
every topic of study and is usually a    problem solve in a logical manner.
revision topic to help solidify          We look closely at algorithms,
learning from the classroom and          computational logic, language
boost end of unit test scores.           facilities and data representation.        Contact:
                                                                                    Mr Birkinshaw

12 | Computer Science
Eduqas GCSE

English Language and English
Literature
Course Summary                         Course Structure

This course is worth two GCSEs and     The course will compose of two
incorporates a wide range of skills    written exams for GCSE Language
and techniques. Studying English       which will cover creative writing,
Language and Literature should         transactional writing and reading
allow students to:                     of fiction and non-fiction texts. In
                                       GCSE Literature students will be
∙ Identify and interpret information   exposed to a range of literature
  from a text.                         across the 19th, 20th and 21st
                                       centuries and will include poetry,
∙ Explain and comment on how           novels and drama.
  writers use language and
                                       Again, literature will be assessed
  structure to achieve effects.
                                       through two external examinations.
∙ Compare writer’s ideas and
  perspectives.                        Assessment Methods
∙ Critically evaluate texts and
  support ideas with relevant
  textual support.                     English will be assessed by 100%
                                       terminal examination at the end of
                                       KS4.
∙ Communicate clearly and
  effectively by selecting an
  adapting tone.                       Possible Progressions
∙ Use a range of vocabulary,
  sentence structures, spelling and
  punctuation accurately.              This course will provide a
                                       foundation for a variety of
∙ Plus a range of speaking and         progression routes. Virtually all 6th
  listening skills.                    form courses and employers
                                       require a GCSE in English and this
                                       course would provide access to
Students suited to the course          Level 3 courses. Also, you would
                                       need a B grade to study A level in
                                       6th Form. Good English
                                       qualifications are also sought after
All students by the end of Key         when applying to university.             Contact:
Stage 3 will be expected to
complete GCSE English Language                                                  Mr Hooton
and Literature.

                                                                         English Language and English Literature | 13
AQA GCSE

Geography
Course Summary                         A level subjects. Students who         different levels of wealth around
                                       have done well in Geography            the world and the changes that
                                       often study higher qualifications in   are occurring in the UK as a result
                                       subjects such as Environmental         of its changing wealth).
The new AQA GCSE accredited in         studies, Geology, Economics,and
2016 offers a variety of different     Sociology.                             ‘The challenge of resource
topics covering both human and                                                management’(how food, water
                                       There are also many areas more
physical Geography, as well as                                                and energy supplies can be
                                       directly related to Geography,
allowing students to experience                                               managed globally and nationally
                                       such as Travel and Tourism, the
fieldwork in different locations. It                                          to allow future generations to
                                       environment, transport
aims to give students the chance                                              survive).
                                       management, town planning,
to investigate the link between the
                                       careers in airports and the armed      Geographical applications
human and physical themes and
                                       services.                              contains 2 sections:
examine the battles between the
natural and man-made worlds.
                                                                              ’Issue evaluation’ (interpreting a
Learners will develop the skills       Course Structure                       wide variety of sources to make an
necessary to conduct framed
                                                                              informed decision)
enquiries in the classroom and in
the field in order to develop their
                                       Living with the physical               ’Fieldwork’ (complete 2 different
understanding of specialised
                                       environment is split into 3 main       types of fieldwork enquiry)
geographical concepts and
current geographical issues.           topics:

                                       ‘Natural hazards’ (tectonic and        Assessment Methods
Students suited to the course          weather hazards’ causes and
                                       impacts on the world)

                                       ‘The living world’(how ecosystems      Unit 1: Living with the Physical
∙ Confident in exam situations and     work in rainforests, deserts and       Environment written exam 1h 30.
  enjoys academic subjects             polar regions)                         —35% of the awarded grade

∙ Enjoys fieldwork visits and          ‘Physical landscapes’(the way the      Unit 2: Challenges in the Human
  carrying out investigations          UK has been shaped by its coasts,      Environment written exam 1h
                                       rivers and past glaciers).             30—35% of the awarded grade
∙ An interest in environmental
                                       Challenges in the human                Unit 3: Geographical Applications
  issues and the way the world
                                       environment is also split into 3       written exam 1h 15 30% of the
  works
                                       sections:                              awarded grade

Possible Progressions                  ‘Urban issues and challenges’ (the
                                       impact that the world’s rapidly
                                       increasing population is having on
                                       the way we live and the world
Apart from enjoying the course         around us).                              Contact:
and being a lot more aware of the
world around you, GCSE                 ‘The changing economic world’            Miss Ross
Geography is a solid basis for many    (the causes and impacts of

14 | Geography
Edexcel GCSE

History
Course Summary                          knowledge, working in a classroom        ∙ How and why did Germany lose
                                        environment and self study and               the First World War?
                                        research. You should be confident        ∙ Who took control of Germany
                                        in exam situations and working in a          after the war? What were their
Pupils will follow the 2017 Edexcel     guided, structured way.                      success and failures?
specification which explores many
different periods and themes of
                                                                                 ∙   When did Hitler come to power?
history. Pupils develop and extend      Course Structure                             Who voted for Hitler?
their knowledge and                                                              ∙   What did the Nazi state look like
understanding of specified key                                                       – Who did they persecute and
events, periods and societies in                                                     why?
                                        Paper 1) Medicine through time
local, British, and wider world
                                        1250-2000 (30% of the GCSE 1
history; and of the wide diversity of
human experience. They will
                                        hour and 15 minutes)                     Possible Progressions
engage in historical enquiry to
develop as independent learners         ∙ Medieval / Renaissance /
and as critical and reflective              Industrial Age / Modern Era
                                                                                 Apart from enjoying the course
thinkers, whilst building on their      ∙   The Black Death – Responses to
                                                                                 and being a lot more aware of the
confidence to ask and answer                Pandemics / The Church /
                                                                                 world around you, GCSE History is a
relevant questions about the past.          Improvements in surgery / The
                                                                                 solid basis for many A level
Alongside this pupils will develop          NHS
                                                                                 subjects. Students who have done
an awareness of why people,             ∙   Deep focus on the First World War    well in History often study higher
events and developments have                – Injuries and Treatments            qualifications in subjects such as
been accorded historical                                                         Politics, Law, Economics, and
significance and how and why                                                     Sociology. History also goes well
different interpretations have been     Paper 2) American West and               with subjects such as English and
constructed about them.                 Elizabeth I (40% of the GCSE 1 hour      languages. Many people working
                                        45 minutes)                              in law and accountancy have
Students suited to the course                                                    studied History because of the skills
                                        ∙ The challenges facing Elizabeth –      that can be developed in
                                            Was the Elizabethan Age a ‘          reasoning and arguing your point.
                                            Golden Age’?                         There are also many areas more
If you enjoy or are interested in
                                        ∙   The Spanish Armada and the           directly related to History, such as
studying History through the eyes of                                             Travel and Tourism, museums, the
                                            successes of Elizabeth
people who lived through the                                                     media industry, libraries,
period, finding out about how           ∙   How did white settler take control
                                            of America                           government research, academic
people’s lives have changed and                                                  research and, of course, history
how people in the past may have         ∙   Who are the Native Americans /
                                                                                 teaching.
thought differently from us,                What are their beliefs?
debating and understanding why
they are sometimes different, but
equally valid points of view on the     Paper 3) Weimar Germany and the
same subject then the GCSE              rise of the Nazi Party (30% of the           Contact:
History is the ideal subject for you.   GCSE 1 hours and 20 minutes)
You need to enjoy applying your                                                      Mr Greenin-Whitehead

                                                                                                            History | 15
Edexcel GCSE

Mathematics

Course Summary                       they are to get the most out of the    Essential Equipment
                                     course. Learners will achieve a
                                     Grade 1 to 9 by the end of Year 11.
                                                                            Scientific Calculator—this is of
A GCSE in Mathematics should
allow students to:                   Assessment Methods                     paramount importance. The new
                                                                            GCSE specification makes it
                                                                            essential that students have their
∙ Develop knowledge, skills, and                                            own calculator and they become
  understanding of mathematical      There is one assessment period for     familiar with how to use it.
  methods                            the Linear exam — in June at the
                                     end of Year 11.                        The recommended calculator of
∙ Acquire and use problem-solving                                           choice is Casio FX83.
  strategies                         The assessment comprises of three
                                     exams (2 with calculator), each        Students are advised to make use
                                     paper could assess any aspect of       of Hegarty Maths
∙ Select and apply mathematical      the course content.                    (www.hegartymaths.com) this will
  techniques and methods to                                                 consolidate their class work
  real-world situations              Students will be on a higher or        through both weekly homework
                                     foundation pathway. The pathway        and independent study.
∙ Reason, make deductions, and       chosen will allow the student the
  draw logical conclusions           best opportunity to maximise their
                                     potential within the subject.
∙ Interpret and communicate
  mathematical information in        Students taking the foundation
  various ways                       pathway will be able to achieve
                                     up to a grade 5, which is
                                     considered a good pass.
Students suited to the course
                                     Students taking the higher
                                     pathway will be able to achieve
                                     up to a grade 9.
All students by the end of Key
Stage 3 will be expected to          Students will be sitting their final
complete Edexcel GCSE                examinations using the Edexcel
Mathematics.                         exam board.

Course Structure                     Possible Progressions

Learners will be equipped with the   Students who complete the Maths
skills to break down complex         GCSE at grade 6 or better are well
functional problems and solve        equipped to continue their study of
through a variety of methods and     Maths at A-level. Good Maths            Contact:
styles. The increase in content      qualifications are also sought after
requires learners to show greater    when applying to University.            Mr Karns
independence in their studies if

16 | Mathematics
AQA GCSE

Art & Design (Photography)

Course Summary                        Course Structure                       Assessment Methods

Learners will be introduced to a      Area of study                          ∙ 40% External Assessment
variety of experiences and                                                   ∙ 60% Portfolio
                                      Candidates should work in one or
techniques when exploring a
                                      more areas of lens-based and
range of photographic disciplines.                                           Useful Websites: Pinterest
                                      light-based media such as those
We will explore media, techniques
                                      listed below. They may explore
and processes, including both
                                      overlapping and combinations of
traditional and new technologies.
                                      areas:
We will explore relevant genres,
styles and images found within the    ∙ Portraiture
disciplines of art and design. We
will gain inspiration from others     ∙ Landscape photography
both past and present. We will          (working from the built or natural
draw for purpose and annotate to        environment).
share our thoughts and opinions
about our own work and the work       ∙ Still Life photography (working
of others. Responses to these           from natural or manufactured
examples will be shown through          objects).
practical and critical activities
which demonstrate the learners        ∙ Documentary photography,
understanding of different styles,      photo journalism, narrative
genres and traditions.                  photography, reportage.

                                      ∙ Fine Art photography,
Students suited to the course           photographic installation

                                      ∙ Photography involving a moving
                                        image (television, film and
Students who want to gain:              animation).

∙ A personal interest in              ∙ New media practice such as
  photography and an                    computer manipulated
  understanding of why art and          photography and photographic
  design matters.                       projections.
∙ Experience of the work practices
  of individuals, organisations and   Possible Progressions
  creative and cultural industries

∙ Understanding of art, craft and
  design processes, associated        Students who take GCSE
  equipment and safe working          photography can progress to              Contact:
  practices                           higher level courses within
                                                                               Mr White
                                      photography or within other
                                      visual arts.

                                                                                                Photography | 17
Eduqas GCSE

Religion and Ethics

Course Summary                          Level 3 qualification. Employment       Example topic questions:
                                        opportunities in many areas where
                                        skills such as empathy,                 ∙ Should we allow the death
                                        understanding, respect, tolerance         penalty?
GCSE Religion and Ethics allows         and good communication are
students to open up their mind          welcomed. Philosophy and Ethics is      ∙ Should we all have the right to
when considering the world and          a highly regarded subject by top          euthanasia?
the people around them. It allows       university's due to the skills it
students to debate and explore                                                  ∙ When does life start? Should we
                                        develops. Many Religion and Ethics
the rights and wrongs. GCSE                                                       allow abortion?
                                        students have progressed onto
Religion and Ethics will also give      careers in law, politics,
students the chance to explore          primary/secondary teaching and
divergent beliefs and teachings         the forces.
                                                                                Assessment Methods
from around the world and from
throughout history when
considering ultimate questions          Course Structure                        All students will complete three
such as what happens when we                                                    exams (two x one hour and one x
die? What’s our purpose? Why do                                                 two hour)
we suffer?
                                        Students will undertake three main
                                        units during this topic with the
Students suited to the course           exam board Eduqas.
                                        Paper one
                                        The study of Christianity (1 hour 25%
Students with a passion for             of qualification)
debating and exploring ethical
dilemmas are highly suitable for this   Example topic questions:
course. Students with an interest in    ∙ What happens after we die? Do
and enthusiasm for religion,              people really have near death
philosophy, ethics and                    experiences?
independent enquiry who are not
necessarily religious themselves but    ∙ How did we come into
have an interest in how the world         existence? What was the big
works; how people within it share         bang?
the same or different
understanding of different topical,     ∙ Is there such a thing as
historical and life issues.                doomsday? Will the world ever
                                           end?

Possible Progressions                   Paper two
                                        The study of Islam (1 hour 25% of
                                        qualification)
                                                                                  Contact:
Students will have the option to go
on the sixth form and study A level     Paper three                               Miss Parish
Philosophy and Ethics leading to a
                                        Ethics (2 hours 50% of qualification)

18 | Religion and Ethics
AQA GCSE (Biology, Chemistry & Physics)

Separate Sciences

Course Summary                         Course Structure                       veterinary science, forensics,
                                                                              environmental science and
                                                                              specialist research opportunities.

This well-respected academic           The course will last three years and
pathway consists of three separate     be taught by specialist science
GCSEs: Biology, Chemistry and          teachers. Lessons in each subject
Physics. At Rossington All Saints      will include scientific theory,
Academy you will follow the AQA        practical applications and How
specification. You will be awarded     Science Works. A sample of topics
a grade for each GCSE, one in          include evolution, genetics, atomic
each of the sciences. This course is   structure, nanotechnology, space
particularly suited to students that   and electronics.
wish to study Science at higher
and further education.
                                       Assessment Methods
Essential Equipment
                                       Biology, Chemistry and Physics
                                       GCSEs consists of two equally sized
Scientific Calculator - this is of     units that focus upon different
paramount importance. The new          content. Each subject is assessed
GCSE specification makes it            through two terminal examinations
essential that students have their     (one for each unit) at the end of
own calculator and that they           Year 11. Within these examinations
become familiar with how to use it.    you will be assessed on your
The library sells calculators (£8      subject knowledge, application of
each) but they can also be             knowledge, data interpretation
purchased elsewhere. The               and practical investigation skills.
recommended calculator of              Students will be awarded grades
choice is Casio FX83.                  using the new numerical 9 – 1
                                       system.
Students suited to the course
                                       Possible Progressions

Triple Science is suited to high
attaining students in Science and
Mathematics. Students should           These qualifications can lead
demonstrate a flair for science,       directly to A-Level Biology,
enjoy discussing topical issues and    Chemistry and Physics and
have an enquiring mind about the       eventually to a wide range of
world around them.                     university and college courses.          Contact:
                                       Possible career options may
                                       include: medicine, dentistry,            Mr Moody

                                                                                           Separate Sciences | 19
AQA GCSE

Combined Sciences Trilogy

Course Summary                            through two terminal examinations
                                          (one for each unit) at the end of
                                          Year 11, hence you will be assessed
                                          through 6 examinations in total.
This pathway offers you the               Within these examinations you will
chance to study Biology, Chemistry        be assessed on your subject
and Physics modules. At the end of        knowledge, application of
the three year course you will be         knowledge, data interpretation
awarded with 2 GCSE grades in             and practical skills. Students will be
Combined Science.                         awarded grades using the new 9 –
                                          1 numerical system.

Students suited to the course
                                          Possible Progressions

Students should enjoy learning
science in a classroom                    This qualification allows you to
environment. Students will have           access A-Level and equivalent
studied Science at Key Stage 3            courses, progressing to Degree
and have an inquisitive nature            level. This is ideal for students
about the world they live in.             wishing to pursue a career in:
                                          medicine, veterinary nursing,
                                          laboratory work, physiotherapy,
Essential Equipment                       forensic science, environmental
                                          work, dentistry, teaching and
                                          skilled trade work.
Scientific Calculator—this is of
paramount importance. The new
GCSE specification makes it               Useful Websites
essential that students have their
own calculator and they become
familiar with how to use it. The          ∙ BBC Bitesize
library sells calculators (£8) but they
                                          ∙ AQA Science
can also be purchased elsewhere.
The recommended calculator of
choice is Casio FX83.

Assessment Methods

Each module (Biology, Chemistry                                                    Contact:
and Physics) is split into two equally
sized units that focus upon different                                              Mr Moody
content. Each module is assessed

20 | Combined Sciences (Trilogy)
GCSE

Spanish

Course Summary                         Assessment Methods                       Possible Progressions

The course is divided into 4 skills:   Each skill (listening, reading,          Students can carry on to A level
listening, reading, speaking and       speaking and writing) counts for         Spanish or pursue a career in one
writing, enabling students to          25% of the final GCSE grade and          of the professions mentioned.
develop language skills in a variety   will be examined at the end of
of contexts. Students cover topics     Year 11. All four exams cover all
which come under the headings          topic areas.                             Useful Websites
of:
                                       Listening paper
∙ Identity and Culture                 35 minute exam (F tier), 45 minute
                                       exam (H tier)                            www.linguascope.com
∙ Local, national, international and
  global areas of interest             Reading paper                            es.maryglasgowplus.com/students/
                                       45 minutes (F tier), 1hr (H tier)        features (Spanish news stories,
∙ Current and future study and                                                  updated weekly)
  employment
                                       Speaking exam
                                       7-9 minutes (F tier), 10-12 minutes (H   www.bbc.co.uk/education/subjec
                                       tier). Role-play, photo card and         ts/z4dqxnb
Course Structure                       conversation.

                                       Writing paper
Students will be taught content        1hr (F tier), 1hr 15 minutes (H tier)
from the above three themes
including topics such as social
                                       Students suited to the course
media, mobile technology, eating
out, cinema and TV, sport and
music. They will also learn about
global issues, the environment,        Students of all abilities with an
healthy living and poverty,            interest in the Spanish culture as
focusing in particular on Spanish      well as the language will be
speaking countries. Finally students   interested in this course. Students
will have a chance to explore their    who wish to work in industries such
future opportunities and how           as Business, Leisure, Travel and
learning a language may benefit        Hospitality sectors will find this
them in the future.                    subject a valuable asset as Spanish
                                       is the second world language in
Together with developing their
                                       international communication and
topic based vocabulary students
                                       the third as an international
will work on grammar skills and
                                       language of politics, economics
develop their ability to translate
                                       and culture.                              Contact:
along with having an opportunity
to study authentic Spanish             Students who have studied KS3
                                                                                 Mrs Hudson
literature.                            Spanish will be in a position to take
                                       this course.

                                                                                                       Spanish | 21
BTEC Level 1/Level 2 Tech Award in

Music Practice

Course Summary                          Components 1 and 2 are internally       music journalism, music producer,
                                        assessed and externally                 performing musician, recording
                                        moderated. In component 3               artist, composer.
                                        students will respond to a brief
A BTEC level 1 is equivalent to a
                                        which is externally set by Edexcel
GCSE grade 3 to 1 (D to G), a BTEC
                                        and externally assessed.
level 2 is equivalent to a GCSE
grade 9 to 4 (A* to C).
Through completing this BTEC            Course Structure
students will gain an overview of
the performing arts industry and
learn how to create a
performance. Students will have         Component 1 - Exploring Music
opportunities to explore                Products and Styles (30%):
performance skills, and be given        Explore the techniques used in the
support to develop their skills as an   creation of different musical
actor.                                  products and investigate the key
                                        features of musical styles.
Students suited to the course           Component 2 - Music Skills
                                        Development (30%):
                                        Develop two musical disciplines
Students who:                           from Music Performance, Creating
                                        Original Music and Music
∙ Have an interest in MUSIC             Production through practical tasks
                                        while documenting progress.
∙ Enjoy PERFORMING in front of
  others want to develop skills in      Component 3 (40%):
  PLAYING AN INSTRUMENT OR              Responding to a music brief. Put
  SINGING                               skills into practice by responding to
                                        a brief as a composer, performer or
∙ Are committed and independent
                                        producer. Choose an area of the
  outside of lessons when
                                        industry to focus on and come up
  developing their work and skills.
                                        with responses to the brief using the
∙ Are willing to develop a critical     resources available to you, then
understanding of music                  present your final response either
                                        solo or in a group.

Assessment Methods
                                        Possible Progressions

This BTEC is made up of a                                                        Contact:
combination of coursework and           This course would allow students to
                                        explore job opportunities within the     Mr Bowers
controlled assessment.
                                        industry such as video game music,

22 | Music
BTEC Level 1/Level 2 Tech Award in

Performing Arts (Acting)

Course Summary                          task provided by Edexcel and is
                                        externally assessed.

A BTEC Level 1 is equivalent to a       Course Structure
GCSE grade 3 to 1, a BTEC Level 2
is equivalent to a GCSE grade
9 to 4.
Through completing this BTEC            Component 1 - (30%):
students will gain an overview of       Exploring the Performing Arts
the performing arts industry and
learn how to create a                   Develop an understanding of the
performance. Students will have         performing arts by examining the
opportunities to explore                work of professionals and the
performance skills, and be given        processes used to create
support to develop their skills as an   performance.
actor.                                  Component 2 (30%):
                                        Developing Skills and Techniques in
Students suited to the course           Performing Arts
                                        Reproduce various repertoire as
                                        performers or designers to develop
                                        a range of skills and techniques.
∙ Have an interest in DRAMA
                                        Component 3 (40%):
∙ Enjoy PERFORMING in front of
  others                                Responding to a brief. Consider
                                        how practitioners adapt their skills
∙ Want to develop skills in VOICE       for different contexts, and put this
  AND MOVEMENT in drama                 into practice in a performance.

∙ Are committed and
  independent outside of lessons        Possible Progressions
  when developing their work and
  skills.
                                        This course would allow students to
                                        explore job opportunities within the
Assessment Methods
                                        industry such as: choreographer,
                                        writer, director, theatre technician,
                                        lighting/sound technician, actor,
This BTEC is made up of a               stage crew, stage manager.
combination of coursework and
controlled assessment.                                                          Contact:
Components 1 and 2 are internally
assessed and externally                                                         Mr Bowers
moderated. Component 3 is a set

                                                                                            Performing Arts | 23
Cambridge Nationals

Health and Social Care

Course Summary                         completed during year one and
                                       the exam in year two.

This course has been developed to      Assessment Methods
recognise learners skills, knowledge
and understanding of the health
and social care sector and the
                                       Mandatory: Principles in Health and
settings, job roles, principles and
                                       Social Care settings (Exam- 40%)
values involved. The learners carry
out a range of tasks that have         Mandatory: Supporting Individuals
been designed to recognise their       through Life Events
achievements in a modern,              (Coursework-40% )
practical way that is relevant to
                                       Optional: Creative and
the workplace. Whilst not involving
                                       Therapeutic Activities OR Health
work experience directly they are
                                       Promotion Campaigns
work-related qualifications which
                                       (Coursework- 20%)
will support progression to an NVQ
once a candidate is in the
workplace.                             Possible Progressions

Students suited to the course
                                       ∙ Health, Social Care & Early Years
                                         Level 3
Cambridge Nationals are
                                       ∙ NVQ (Level 3) in the work place
vocationally related qualifications
that take an engaging, practical       ∙ CACHE Level 3 Diploma in
and inspiring approach to learning       Childcare
and assessment. They’re industry
relevant, geared to key sector
requirements and very popular
with schools and colleges because
they suit such a broad range of
learning styles and abilities.

Course Structure

To achieve this qualification
candidates must complete a total
                                                                             Contact:
of three units consisting of two
mandatory units and one optional                                             Miss Fewster
unit. The coursework units will be

24 | Health & Social Care
Cambridge Nationals

Sports Science - Level 2

Course Summary                          Course Structure                       Furthermore, some aspects of the
                                                                               course link with Practical sport and
                                                                               leadership, with particular focus on
                                                                               the role that Sport plays within
This course is worth 1 GCSE and         If you are entered for this            society.
incorporates a wide range of skills     qualification you will complete a
and techniques. The course is           range of practical and written
modular and so allows for students      assessments alongside an exam
to move through units at different      unit. The practical elements will
times, completing a number of           focus on the different principles of
assignments. The course requires        training and how the body
students to develop and then            responds to varying styles of
demonstrate their theoretical           exercise. The written assignments
knowledge around the selected           will support your practical element
units highlighted below. There will     in addition to demonstrating your
also be an expectation to               understanding of the core units.
demonstrate their understanding
of key assessment criteria through
practical performance.                  Assessment Methods

Students suited to the course
                                        Mandatory- Reducing the Risk of
                                        Sports Injuries and Dealing with
                                        Common Medical Conditions (40%
This course would suit students who     -externally assessed)
are enthusiastic about Physical
                                        Mandatory- Applying the Principles
Education and Sport and are keen
                                        of Training (coursework- 40%)
to learn more about the
theoretical aspects behind it. The      Optional- The Body’s Response to
course will suit students who have      Physical Activity and how
an existing understanding of the        Technology informs this OR Nutrition
importance of nutrition, types of       and Sports Performance (20%)
injuries that can occur within sport,
how the body responds when
exercising and types of training.       Possible Progressions
Furthermore, the course will require
students who are determined to
work hard and complete a high
                                        This course would provide a solid
number of assignments to achieve
                                        foundation for students who
the best grade possible.
                                        wanted to progress to study BTEC
                                        Sport level 3 at 6th form level.
                                        Additionally, the course has strong
                                                                                 Contact:
                                        links with English, where students
                                        will be required to formulate            Miss Fewster
                                        coherent assignments.

                                                                                                Sports Science | 25
Cambridge Nationals

Sport Studies - Level 2

Course Summary                         unit. The practical elements will      Optional:
                                       focus on your performance and
                                       the performance of others within       R186: Sport and the media
                                       the class. The written assignments
The course is worth 1 GCSE and
                                       will support your preparation for      or
incorporates a wide range of skills
                                       the practical elements. You will be
and techniques. The course is
                                       able to take part in a number of       R187: Increasing awareness of
modular and so allows for students
                                       practical activities and leadership    outdoor and adventurous activities
to move through units at different
                                       opportunities throughout this
times, completing a number of
                                       process to refine your skills and
assignments. The course requires
                                       knowledge. There are three units
students to develop and then
                                       over the two year course.
demonstrate their theoretical
knowledge, practical performance
and leadership skills, as well as      Possible Progressions
evaluating and improving their
own and others performances.

                                       This course would provide a solid
Students suited to the course          foundation for students who
                                       wanted to progress to study BTEC
                                       Sport level 3 at 6th form level.
                                       Additionally, the course has strong
This course would suit students who
                                       links with English, where students
are enthusiastic about Physical
                                       will be required to formulate
Education and Sport and are keen
                                       coherent assignments.
to learn more about the
theoretical aspects behind it. The     Furthermore, some aspects of the
course will suit students who have     course link with Practical sport and
good practical ability, leadership     leadership, with particular focus on
skills and have knowledge of rules     the role that Sport plays within
and regulations in different sports.   society.
Furthermore, the course will require
students who are determined to
work hard and complete a high          Assessment Methods
number of assignments to achieve
the best grade possible.

                                       Mandatory:
Course Structure
                                       R184: Contemporary issues in sport

                                       R185: Performance and leadership
If you are entered for this            in sports activities
qualification you will complete a                                                  Contact:
range of practical and written
                                                                                   Miss Fewster
assessments alongside an exam

26 | Sport Studies
WJEC Level 1 / 2 Technical Award

Hospitality and Catering

Course Summary                        Course Structure                      Possible Progressions

The course is worth 1 GCSE and        The course will be organised to       Continue to study at A Level with
incorporates a wide range of skills   enable students to build the skills   options available including Food,
and techniques. The course is         required to prepare them for          Nutrition or Business. Other
modular and so allows for students    external assessment (exams) and       opportunities include worked
to move through units at different    the controlled assessments            based apprenticeships and
times, completing a number of         (coursework). Level 1/2 Hospitality   employment in the hospitality,
assignments. The course requires      and Catering requires learners to     catering and tourism industry.
students to develop and then          demonstrate knowledge and
demonstrate their theoretical         understanding of:
knowledge, practical performance                                            Assessment Methods
and leadership skills, as well as     ∙ The industry: accommodation;
evaluating and improving their          food and beverage; front of
own and others performances.            house
                                                                            Unit 1 The Hospitality and Catering
                                      ∙ The types of products and
                                                                            Industry: 40% exam
                                        services provided
Students suited to the course
                                                                            Unit 2 Hospitality and Catering in
                                      ∙ The range of customer groups        Action: 60% Controlled Assessment.

Students who:                         ∙ Job roles, career opportunities
                                        and relevant training
∙ Have an interest in food and the
  food industry                       ∙ Appropriate forms of
                                        communication within the
∙ Are able to work collaboratively      industry
  with others and enjoy practical
  tasks                               ∙ The importance of record
                                        keeping
∙ Who have an interest in
  customer care and also in more      ∙ The range of equipment used in
  practical (cooking elements)          the hospitality and catering
                                        industry
∙ Are willing to prepare and cook
  foods for an audience other than    ∙ Nutrition and cooking methods
  themselves and are prepared to
  be adventurous                      ∙ Functions of ingredients

∙ Have an interest in hygiene and     ∙ Types of food poisoning, where
  safety, including legislation and     they are found and
  consequences of a business            consequences
  having poor understanding in this                                           Contact:
  area                                ∙ The Hospitality industry
                                                                              Miss Sims

                                                                                     Hospitality and Catering | 27
OCR Cambridge National

Engineering (Manufacture)

Course Summary                            a keen interest in the subject and      Assessment Methods
                                          who have the aspiration to
                                          succeed. Pupils will also need to
                                          have the ability to work safely
The OCR Level 1/Level 2                                                           The course is comprised of three
                                          under their own direction and
Cambridge National in Engineering                                                 areas, one external exam and two
                                          demonstrate resilience to progress
Manufacture will develop                                                          non-examined assessments (NEA).
                                          their learning. An analytical mind
knowledge, understanding and
                                          would be beneficial and the ability     R014 Principals of Engineering
practical skills that would be used
                                          to work under time pressures and        Manufacture: An external exam
in the engineering, manufacturing
                                          to meet deadlines are essential.        counts for 40% of the qualification
sector. You may be interested in
this if you want an engaging                                                      R015 Manufacturing a one-off
qualification where you will use                                                  product: NEA counts for 30% of the
                                          Course Structure
what you learn in practical, real-life                                            qualification
situations, such as:
                                                                                  R016 Manufacturing in Quantity:
∙ The materials used in                   Unit R014 : Principals of Engineering   NEA counts for 30% of the
  engineering manufacture                 Manufacture                             qualification

∙ Safely producing a one-off              In this unit you will learn about the
  product                                 different types of manufacturing        Possible Progressions
                                          processes, and the different
∙ The use of Computer Numerical           materials that can be used with
  Control (CNC) to produce in             manufacturing.
  quantity.                                                                       This course can lead to a range of
                                          Unit R015: Manufacturing a one-off      possible areas that pupils can
The qualification will also help you
                                          product                                 aspire to that include level 3
to develop learning and skills that
                                                                                  courses, apprenticeships, and
can be used in other life and work        In this unit you will learn how to      careers within the engineering
situations, such as problem solving       safely plan and accurately              sector. Pupils can go on to further
and planning.                             produce a one-off product by            education by extending their
                                          using appropriate processes, tools      studies to A Levels or level 3
                                          and equipment.                          vocational courses, like the new
Students suited to the course                                                     government Technical levels.
                                          Unit R016: Manufacturing in             These can in turn lead onto higher
                                          Quantity                                education in HND/HNCs or degree
This course would suit pupils who                                                 level qualifications.
                                          In this unit you will learn how to
are enthusiastic about Engineering        manufacture using jigs and
and are keen to discover the              templates to support
theoretical aspects involved in the       manufacturing in volume using
subject. Although this course has a       computer aided design software
practical element, there is still a lot   and computer numerical
of theory that pupils will need to        control equipment
understand and apply in                                                             Contact:
contextual situations. The course is                                                Mr. D Birkinshaw
therefore suited to those who have

28 | Engineering (Manufacture)
Notes

30 | Notes
Notes | 31
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