Our Curriculum
Our Options Process
Making informed choices
Our Options process is the gateway for our students to achieve qualifications at the end of their time at Little Lever which are the essential springboard for our students’ life chances post-16. It provides them with the chance to study at college, university and achieve careers and opportunities which they never thought they could.
Our curriculum allows all students to combine a core of English Baccalaureate subjects with others from a broader range to ensure that they keep their future options open.
The English Baccalaureate (Ebacc)
This qualification will automatically be awarded to any pupil who achieves a GCSE grade 5 or above in Maths, English, Science and either a Modern Foreign Language, Separate Science, Computer Science, Geography or History. The idea of this is to identify pupils who have a broad spread of academic qualifications. If you are considering going to University and in particular the Russell Group Universities, then this qualification is highly recommended and the appropriate GCSE choices must be made.
The Key Stage 4 Curriculum
The ‘Core’ curriculum, meaning compulsory subjects that are taken by all pupils, is as follows:
English Language and English Literature, Mathematics, Combined Science, Physical Education and Life Chances.
In addition, the ‘options’ curriculum offers pupils a range of learning choices giving access to:
Computing, Business and Media, Separate Sciences, Creative Subjects, Humanities, Modern Foreign Languages, Sport and Technology.
Equality & Opportunity
All GCSE courses and subjects are open to EVERY student at Little Lever School. There are no barriers on the grounds of gender, race or disability, and where possible, we endeavour to provide all students with the opportunity to study the subjects of their choice at an appropriate level to their abilities.
Our 2023 Options Process Explained
How to make your Option Choices
Firstly read through and watch the Option Subject videos to help your child make an informed choice about which three subject they would like to study as GCSE qualifications.
Your child will be given a paper Option Choice form to bring home and complete. The form will ask you to tick the three subjects your child would ideally like to study as options. This form can also be downloaded and completed from the blue tab below.
You will be asked to choose one subject from the list below.
Computer Science, French, Geography, History, Separate Sciences, Spanish, French
You then select two different subjects from the list below. You will also choose two different subjects as reserve choices from this list
Art & Design, Hospitality and Catering, Business Studies, History, Geography, Computer Science, Music, Creative Media, Performing Arts Technical Award, Design Technology, Separate Sciences Sport Studies, Digital Information Technology (DIT), Photography, Drama, RE, Fashion, French, Spanish.
Making Your Choice
In making the choices, students should consider:
- Which subjects are their best
- Which subjects they enjoy
- Which subjects their teachers recommend
- If they have checked with everyone who can help and advise them.
How not to choose
- Don’t choose a subject just because they like the teacher. It may be that they do not have the same teacher next year!
- Don’t choose a subject because their best friend chooses it. It may be right for them but not for you!
- Don’t choose a subject because it looks easy – all subjects involve two years of continuous hard work and commitment.
Remember
- No system of GCSEs can please everybody
- Pay careful attention to all GCSE choices, as they could end up with any combination of the subjects picked
- Although every effort will be made so students can follow their first choices, it may not always be possible.
Examination Courses
Most courses are offered for examination at GCSE level. Most subjects will be graded from 9 to 1. The 9 grade is designed to identify the most able pupils. In maths, science, French and Spanish, there are two tiers of examination, higher and foundation. Technical Awards are equivalent to one GCSE and graded as pass, merit, distinction, distinction*. In some subjects your child will be placed in a set which best suits his or her ability.
Parents should note that the final examinations take place in the period mid – May to end of June of Year 11. However, some subjects will have official assessment pieces during Year 10 and 11.
Controlled Assessments / Coursework
Some GCSE / Technical Awards involve the completion of set assignments, which are formally assessed with the marks contributing towards the final grade. It is essential that the controlled assessments / coursework be completed as failure to do so could jeopardise final examination entry.
Option Process Timeline
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Wednesday 15th November 2023: Year 9 Options Assembly
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Thursday 16th November 2023: Launch of our Option Process through our communication channels
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Friday 17th November 2023: Option Choice Form 2023/24 First Version distributed to all Year 9 students in their morning Prep time
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Friday 15th December 2023: Deadline for First Version of the Option Choice Form 2023/24 to be returned to school
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Thursday 18th January 2024: Year 9 Parents’ Evening 4.30pm – 7.30pm
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Thursday 14th March 2024: Year 9 Option Evening 4.30pm – 7.30pm – Appointments with the Subject Leaders of your child’s option choices before final choices are made
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Wednesday 27th March 2024: Deadline for Final Version of the Option Choice Form 2023/24 to be returned to school for timetabling
OUR OPTIONS CHOICE SUBMISSION FORM
Option Choice Form Final Version: to be submitted by Wednesday 27th March
ViewCore Subjects
GCSE English Language & Literature
Examination Board: AQA
All pupils will study GCSE English language and literature. The three-year course will include a range of fiction, non-fiction and literary texts. Pupils will uncover a range of skills across reading, writing and speaking and listening.
How will I be assessed?
GCSE English Language:
There are two final examinations worth 100% of the total marks, which test:
- Your exploration of creative reading and writing
- Your understanding of writers’ viewpoints and perspectives
GCSE English Literature:
There are two examinations for English literature which are worth 100% of the total marks. These examinations test your knowledge and understanding of:
- Shakespeare and the 19th-century novel
- Modern texts and poetry
How can I progress from this?
English provides the crucial foundation for a wide range of other subjects. Key stage 5 qualifications in related subjects include: AS and A level English language, AS and A level English literature, AS and A level English language and literature, AS and A level Creative writing. These qualifications could lead to a wide variety of job opportunities including teaching, copywriting, journalism, business and advertising, public speaking and administration.
GCSE Mathematics
Examination Board: Edexcel
The course is designed to develop a wide range of mathematical skills and techniques, which can be used in everyday life, as well as fostering the ability to solve problems and reason logically. The course content includes:
• Number
• Algebra
• Ratio, Proportion and Rates of Change
• Geometry and Measures
• Statistics and Probability
There’s an emphasis on problem solving and mathematical reasoning, with the majority of marks now being allocated to these higher-order skills.
Assessment criteria:
The course is assessed 100% by examination across three papers as detailed below:
- Paper 1 Non-Calculator, 80 marks, 1 hour and 30 minutes
- Paper 2 Calculator, 80 marks, 1 hour and 30 minutes
- Paper 3 Calculator, 80 marks, 1 hour and 30 minutes
Those pupils sitting the Foundation paper will be able to achieve grades 1-5 whilst those sitting the Higher tier will be able to achieve grades 3-9.
How can I progress from here?
Maths is one of the best subjects to develop your analytical, research and problem-solving skills. Not only will studying maths help give you the knowledge to tackle scientific, mechanical, coding and abstract problems, it will also help you develop logic to tackle everyday issues like planning projects, managing budgets and even debating effectively. People who achieve strong Maths qualifications can go into: accounting, medicine, engineering,
forensic pathology, finance, business, consultancy, teaching, IT, games development, scientific
research, programming, the civil service, design, construction and astrophysics to name a few.
GCSE Combined Science Trilogy
Examination Board: AQA
GCSE Combined Science is studied in years 10 – 11. Science is a dual award and you will gain two GCSE grades from this subject. Science topics include:
- Atomic structure
- Chemical Change
- Infection and response
- Electricity
- Quantitative chemistry
- Homeostasis and response
- The rate and extent of chemical change
- Waves
- Inheritance, variation and evolution
- Ecology
- Organic chemistry
- Chemical analysis
- Forces
- Chemistry of the atmosphere
- Using resources
- Magnetism and electromagnetism
How will I be assessed?
You will sit six examinations – 2 each from biology, chemistry and physics – each lasting 1 hour and 15 minutes. All exams carry equal weighting (16.7% of your final grades), and all will take place at the end of year 11. From these, you will be awarded two GCSE grades.
How can I progress from here?
Science is an important subject for career paths such as electrician, pharmacy, teaching (both primary and secondary!), veterinary nursing, environmental careers, sports science, psychology, hairdressing, robotics,
game theory, etc. the list is endless. With a minimum of two 6 grades in combined science you can go on to study an A level in a science discipline and then on to study a degree in an area of science, or a science related discipline (e.g. nursing, dentistry, medicine, engineering). In a recent survey of the top paying jobs based on specialisms, 6 out of the top 10 highest paying careers were in science or science related disciplines (STEM).
Physical Education (Core PE)
At Key Stage Four, it is compulsory for all pupils to participate in Physical Education.
The PE department aims to provide an enjoyable, satisfying and balanced programme with opportunities for all pupils to develop spiritually, mentally, socially and culturally. It is our intention to cultivate pupils’ natural enthusiasm and although enjoyment is high on our list of aims, all areas of work must be taught and not ‘played at’. Lessons should be structured and progressive and the pupils should gain their enjoyment as a result of their high effort, hard work, team play and participation.
At Key Stage Four, pupils are offered football, netball, dance, bench ball, dodge ball, table tennis, HRF, badminton, cricket, rounders, softball and athletics.
Pupils will be encouraged to improve:
- Their ability to plan, perform and evaluate games and individual activities.
- Their knowledge, skills and understanding of a range of activities.
- How to develop and maintain a healthy and active lifestyle to support physical and mental health.
Our long term goal must be that all pupils will understand the importance of Physical Education and a healthy active life style. They should leave school with a committed interest in some physical activity or at the very least have an appreciation of what is involved in skilful performance so that they may become knowledgeable spectators.
Option Subjects
- GCSE Art, Craft & Design
Exam board AQA
To study art at GCSE you must have a genuine interest in the subject. You must be hardworking, dedicated, self-motivated and enthusiastic about the subject and have the self-discipline to work to the best of your ability.
You must have shown an aptitude and an interest in the subject during Years 7, 8 and 8. You will have the opportunity to develop a wide variety of skills and techniques during Year 10 and 11. You will be taught in mixed ability groups. You will be required to work independently at home and attend an extra session at art club in school at least once a week. During the first term of your GCSE Art and Design course you will be taught a variety of drawing techniques, produce a variety of research on certain artists and develop your work into a final personal outcome. All pupils will be required to use a sketchbook for recording and developing ideas, research and independent work. An appreciation for art is a key part of the course and a dedication to working independently under the guidance of your teacher. You will be required to relate to the work of artists, designers and craftspeople from past and present to enhance your work and also art work from different cultures. We have a good variety of equipment to help support you in your learning but you will be required to provide a variety of materials over the duration of the course.
How will I be assessed?
The subject is coursework based with pupils working towards a portfolio of evidence which will include:- Coursework, made up of at least two assignments, carrying 60% of the final mark
- Controlled Test (Exam) over a ten hour period, carrying 40% of the final marks in Year Y11
How can I progress from this?
You can progress onto further study at AS and A level as well as vocational pathways. Careers include: concept artist, illustrator, photographer, animator, teacher, graphic designer and many others. - GCSE Business
Examination Board: Edexcel
You might have an interest in business and want to start your own business one day. You may have an enquiring mind and be interested in learning about the world around you, how businesses are set up, and what it is that makes someone a great entrepreneur. This course will help you to understand all this and more. You will learn how small businesses are developed and discover how businesses promote themselves and keep their customers happy. You will learn how businesses manage both their finances and the people who work for them. The course is broken down into two themes:
- Theme 1 concentrates on the key business concepts, issues and skills involved in starting and running a small business. It provides a framework for students to explore core concepts through the lens of an entrepreneur setting up a business.
- Theme 2 examines how a business develops beyond the start-up phase. It focuses on the key business concepts, issues and decisions used to grow a business, with emphasis on aspects of marketing, operations, finance and human resources. Theme 2 also considers the impact of the wider world on the decisions a business makes as it grows.
How will I be assessed?
- Theme 1: Investigating small business – written examination 50%
- Theme 2: Building a business – written examination 50%
Both examinations consist of a mixture of calculations, multiple choice, short-answer and extended-writing questions.
How can I progress from this?
GCSE Business Studies will provide a solid foundation for further academic or vocational business-related subjects.
GCSE Business Studies will also support you in a wide range of careers including marketing, human resources, sales, accounting, customer service, commercial lawyer and business management and of course; starting your own business! - GCSE Computer Science
Examination Board: Edexcel
There’s more to Computer Science than simply programming. Computer Science is the study of how computer systems work, how they are constructed and programmed. It consists of a body of knowledge, a set of techniques / methods for solving problems, as well as practical programming skills. What this means is that a GCSE course in Computer Science has to cover a lot of theory, as well as plenty of practical problem solving and programming.
The subject content of the specification is divided into six topics:
Problem Solving (Algorithms), Communication and the Internet, Programming, Computers, Data, The Bigger PictureHow will I be assessed?
This GCSE has three assessment components:- A 1 hour 40 minutes written exam paper, with a weighting of 50%, on the principles of computer science. This tests a candidate’s theoretical knowledge of Computer Science, covering a range of topics including: Encryption; The Internet; The Impact of Technology, and more.
- A 2 hour practical exam paper, with a weighting of 50%, on the application of computational thinking. This tests a candidate’s ability to understand and write algorithms, as well as testing their ability to develop program code.
How can I progress from this?
GCSE Computer Science will provide a solid foundation for further academic computing related subjects. It will also support you in a wide range of careers including: software development, computer engineering, cyber security and games design. Career prospects for students with Computing qualifications are strong with many sectors stating they are struggling to find suitably qualified candidates. Therefore, giving all students who undertake Computing qualifications a very good chance of securing well paid, rewarding work in the future. In particular, women are currently under represented in Computing industries with many companies seeking to improve this gender inbalance. - GCSE Design Technology
Examination Board: Eduqas
To study Design Technology at GCSE you must be hardworking, dedicated, selfmotivated and enthusiastic about the subject and have the self-discipline to work to the best of your ability.
Students are expected to:
demonstrate their understanding that all design and technological activity takes place within contexts that influence the outcomes of design practice
develop realistic design proposals as a result of the exploration of design opportunities and users’
needs, wants and valuesuse imagination, experimentation and combine ideas when designing
develop the skills to critique and refine their own ideas whilst designing and making
communicate their design ideas and decisions using different media and techniques, as appropriate for different audiences at key points in their designing
develop decision making skills, including the planning and organisation of time and resources when managing their own project work
develop a broad knowledge of materials, components and technologies and practical skills to develop high quality, imaginative and functional prototypes
be ambitious and open to explore and take design risks in order to stretch the development of design proposals, avoiding clichéd or stereotypical responses
consider the costs, commercial viability and marketing of products
demonstrate safe working practices in design and technology
use key design and technology terminology including those related to: designing, innovation and communication; materials and technologies; making, manufacture and production; critiquing, values and ethics.
How will I be assessed?
Written exam: 2 hours and 50% of GCSE
Non-exam assessment: 30 – 35 hours approx and 50% of GCSE.How can I progress from this?
Academic Vocational Career Opportunities, A level, Degree, GNVQ, BTEC/Foundation, Product designer, Engineer, Civil engineer, Software engineer, Carpenter. - BTEC Digital Information Technology (DIT)
Examination board: Edexcel
Many jobs available today will not exist in the future, many of the jobs of the future have not even been thought of yet. This is due to the ever changing world of technology and the way we interact with it. With a BTEC in Digital Information Technology, you will learn knowledge and skills that demonstrate to an employer that you can work in a business environment and prepare professional digital products to suit a range of business needs. Businesses need a new generation of employees and leaders to have practical knowledge and skills combined, the BTEC in Digital Information Technology can give you that.
Course content
Component 1 is split into three parts, which cover the reasons why computerised devices, ranging from smartphones, to microwaves, to car dashboards, are designed the way they are. You must show that you understand why they are suitable and what factors have been considered in their design. Then you will prepare your own application or user interface. The design process will give you desirable, transferrable skills, providing you with an insight into how products are designed, from initial ideas, to the testing and evaluation stages.
Component 2 is also split into three parts, but this component looks at presenting information in a clear manner in order to meet the needs of the user. You will also learn to understand how data helps organisations in decision-making. You will use data manipulation methods to create a dashboard to present and draw conclusions from the information. You will learn how to use spreadsheets effectively in this component.
Component 3 is an externally assessed exam that will explore how organisations use digital systems and the wider affects associated with their use. This is a theory unit and covers topics such as how to manage modern teams, threats to computer systems, environmental concerns and many more!
How will I be assessed?
Component 1 – School Based Assessed Assignment 30%
Component 2 – School Based Assessed Assignment 30%
Component 3 – Practical examination 40%How can I progress from this?
Level 3 vocational qualifications, such as BTEC Level 3 in Information Technology
Related A Level Qualifications
Employment/Apprenticeships within the Digital IT industry. - GCSE Drama
Examinations board: AQA
70% written / 30% performance
**You must be able to work in groups with different people**The subject content for GCSE Drama is divided into three components:
Component 1: Understanding drama
Component 2: Devising drama (practical)
Component 3: Texts in practice (practical)How will I be assessed?
Component 1: Knowledge and understanding of drama and theatre. Study of one set play (Blood Brothers). Analysis and evaluation of the work of live theatre makers. Written paper (80 marks) – 40% of GCSE
Component 2: Process of creating devised drama. Performance of devised drama. Analysis and evaluation
of own work.Devising log (60 marks). Devised performance (20 marks). 80 marks in total – 40% of GCSEComponent 3: Performance of two extracts from one play. Free choice of play but it must contrast with the
set play chosen for. Performance of Extract 1 (20 marks) and Extract 2 (20 marks). 40 marks in total – 20% of GCSEWritten exam 1 hour and 45 minutes
How can I progress from this?
Further education: ‘A’ Level Drama, ‘A’ Level Theatre Studies, ‘A’ Level Theatre Production, BTEC Performing Arts.
Jobs: Drama therapy, drama teaching, acting, work in theatres (technical makeup, costumes, props and set), work in drama schools and many more.
Life skills: Confidence, teamwork, creativeness, communication, leadership, empathy, following instruction, problem solving and responding to feedback. - GCSE Fashion & Textiles
Exam board AQA
To study art at GCSE you must have a genuine interest in the subject. You must be hardworking, dedicated, self-motivated and enthusiastic about the subject and have the self-discipline to work to the best of your ability.
You must have shown an aptitude and an interest in the subject during Years 7, 8 and 8. You will have the opportunity to develop a wide variety of skills and techniques during Year 10 and 11. You will be taught in mixed ability groups. You will be required to work independently at home and attend an extra session at art club in school at least once a week. During the first term of your GCSE Art and Design course you will be taught a variety of drawing techniques, produce a variety of research on certain artists and develop your work into a final personal outcome. All pupils will be required to use a sketchbook for recording and developing ideas, research and independent work. An appreciation for art is a key part of the course and a dedication to working independently under the guidance of your teacher. You will be required to relate to the work of artists, designers and craftspeople from past and present to enhance your work and also art work from different cultures. We have a good variety of equipment to help support you in your learning but you will be required to provide a variety of materials over the duration of the course.
How will I be assessed?
The subject is coursework based with pupils working towards a portfolio of evidence which will include:- Coursework, made up of at least two assignments, carrying 60% of the final mark
- Controlled Test (Exam) over a ten hour period, carrying 40% of the final marks in Year Y11
How can I progress from this?
You can progress onto further study at AS and A level as well as vocational pathways. Careers include: concept artist, illustrator, photographer, animator, teacher, graphic designer and many others. - GCSE French
Examination board: AQA
Learning another language is a life skill and GCSE French is designed to further develop skills you have learnt in KS3 enabling you to communicate in French. You will be able to convey your thoughts and opinions verbally and in writing and understand the viewpoints of others using your reading and listening skills.
During the course, you will study topic areas such as leisure, free time, holidays, home and local area, environment, school and future plans and current and future jobs. As you become more proficient in French you will also see your English improve.How will I be assessed?
In GCSE French all the skills are assessed separately with each being worth 25%. Final exams will be sat at the end of Year 11 and you will get the opportunity to refine your reading, writing, speaking and listening skills throughout the course on a variety of different topics on the curriculum. Learners will also be given access to online modules to learn vocabulary and improve reading and listening skills.How can I progress from this?
Academic – you can continue studying to ‘A’ level and could then move on to university, where you could study the language, or even combine it with another subject such as Business or Law if you are looking for a really well paid job.
Vocational – having a language qualification will be beneficial to anyone wanting to continue onto courses in industry, particularly the travel and tourism industries.
Career prospects – we live in a world where global trade is common place and having a language qualification makes you highly employable as it is incredibly useful in the workplace since many businesses operate on a multinational level. It will also be useful if you need to travel abroad for work. Careers using languages are widely found within journalism, banking, industry, sales, construction, and engineering, not to mention language based professions such as translation, interpreting and teaching. - GCSE Geography
Examination Board: AQA
‘Cherish the natural world, because you’re a part of it and you depend on it’ David AttenboroughGeography GCSE is an exciting and topical subject where you will work towards developing knowledge and understanding of a range of places and their environments all over the world. You will learn about the fascinating ways in which our world has been shaped and explore how humans plan and manage the built world around us. You will develop geographical skills and understanding through independent research, group work and independent learning. ICT features regularly to develop your knowledge and you will take part in a field trip where you can put into practice practical geography skills such as map reading, taking measurements and collecting data to present your findings geographically.
How will I be assessed?
Paper 1: Living with the physical environment (35%) – This unit is concerned with the dynamic nature of physical processes and systems, and human interaction with them in a variety of places and at a range of scales.
Paper 2: Challenges in the human environment (35%) – This unit is concerned with human processes, systems and outcomes and how these change both spatially and temporally.
Paper 3: Geographical Applications (30%) – This unit is designed to be synoptic in that students will be required to draw together knowledge, understanding and skills from the full course of study. To assist with this paper, pupils will attend a fieldwork excursion. 50% of this unit is based on a seen booklet, a real advantage for exam preparation.How can I progress from this?
Geography is a broad, all-encompassing subject; it lends itself well to many college, university and career pathways. Learning Geography can develop skills for careers in the fields of Travel and Tourism, Leisure and Entertainment, Business, Development and Global Issues, Sustainability and Climate Change and many more. - GCSE History
Examination Board: AQA
Paper 1: Understanding the modern world. On this paper we study modern world history. The topics you will be examined on are:
America, 1920–1973: Opportunity and Inequality. This topic focuses on both social and political history in the USA.
Conflict and Tension in Asia, 1950–1975. This topic focuses on the Korean and Vietnam wars.
Paper 2: Shaping the nation. This paper focuses on British history. The topics you will be examined on are:
‘Britain: Health and the People’. This is a study of how medicine and health has changed from the Middle Ages to the present day.
Elizabethan England, c1568–1603 in depth. This section includes an investigation of a historic site.
How will I be assessed?
Paper 1—written paper 50% 2 hours taken in May/June of year 11
Paper 2—written paper 50% 2 hours taken in May/June of year 11How can I progress from this?
History can be studied further at A level and to degree courses at University.
The study of history develops the skills of enquiry, argument and judgement, many of the key skills that employers are looking for. These are some of the jobs which require these skills: advertising executive, analyst, archivist, broadcaster, Foreign Service officer, journalist, lawyer, politics, MI5, MI6 and GCHQ. - Level 1 / 2 Hospitality & Catering
Examination Board: Eduqas
To study Hospitality and Catering at Level 1/2 you must be hardworking, dedicated, self-motivated and enthusiastic about the subject and have the selfdiscipline to work to the best of your ability
This course concentrates on the hospitality and catering industry. You will develop the knowledge and understanding related to a range of hospitality and catering providers; how they operate and what they have to take into account to be successful. You will have the opportunity to learn about issues related to nutrition and food safety and how they affect successful hospitality and catering operations. In this qualification, you will also develop food preparation and cooking skills as well as transferable skills of problem solving, organisation and time management, planning and communication.
You will learn about the hospitality and catering industry by:Carrying out lots of practical work to learn new skills with weekly practical lessons. Therefore, it is
essential that you are prepared to bring ingredients at least once a week.Visiting speakers/ case studies.
How will I be assessed?
This course is assessed on two mandatory units.
Unit 1: The Hospitality and Catering Industry will be externally assessed.
Duration: 90 minutes (90 marks)Unit 2: Hospitality and Catering in Action is internally assessed:
Learners apply their learning to safely prepare, cook and present nutritional dishes. They will draw on their learning of different types of provision and kitchen and front of house operations in Unit 1, as well as personal safety in their preparations. The content is relevant not only to employees within food production, but also those with a responsibility for food safety in the industry, nutritionists and managers and owners.How can I progress from this?
Academic Vocational Career Opportunities, A level, Degree, GNVQ, BTEC/Foundation.Dietician, Chef, Waiter/Waitress, Molecular Gastronomist, Food Photographer, Journalist, Farmer
- GCSE Music
Examination Board: Eduqas
Through both individual instrumental and class lessons, and by participating in extra-curricular musical activities, students will improve in the key areas that they have already studied in Key Stage 3: performing, composing and listening to different types of music from club dance remix, musicals, African drumming to the music of Purcell and Beethoven. Music learning develops students’ critical skills, their ability to listen, to appreciate a wide variety of music, and to make judgments about musical quality. It also increases self-discipline, creativity, aesthetic sensitivity and fulfilment. GCSE Music is about performing, composing and appraising music.
The course breaks down into the following four main sections:
Performing – Students must play one piece of their own and one piece with at least one other person. Students can perform on an instrument, keyboard or sing.
Composing – Students receive lessons in melody making, adding a harmony part, making up a song and writing for different instruments. They will compose one composition of their own choice and one composition relating to an area of study selected by the EDUCAS exam board.
Controlled Assessment – The controlled assessment is a composition sent by the examination board where the students can choose from one of four areas of study to compose from.
Listening Paper – Students will learn a variety of different aural skills over the three years and these are tested in a Listening Paper exam. This exam involves students listening to a variety of different excerpts and answering set questions about each excerpt.How will I be assessed?
The units are weighted different and are assessed either by an external examiner or the class teacher.
Unit 1 – Coursework Composing – 15% – internally assessed / externally moderated
Unit 2 – Controlled Assessment – 15% – internally assessed / externally moderated
Unit 3 – Coursework Performance– 30% – internally assessed / externally moderated
Unit 4 – Listening and Appraising – 40% – externally assessedHow can I make progress from this?
This particular course lends itself to pupils wishing to study A-Levels in Music, Music Technology or Performing Arts. It would also be a useful qualification for pupils looking to take BTECs or vocational courses at college. - Music Technology
Examination Board: Eduqas
The course is for those students who are interested in Music Technology & the Music Industry. During this course, you will develop composition, coursework, editing & research skills using a variety of equipment, including software. This qualification mainly focuses on students’ ability to respond creatively to tasks, using their Music Technology skills whilst also responding, reflecting & evaluating through coursework. As the qualification also explores the types of employment available within the Music Industry (during Year 11), students will develop an awareness of business practice & employment skills, those interested would benefit from development in this area.
The Music Technology course can be broken down into 3 units, that will be completed throughout Y10 & 11. Music Technology students are not required to sit any written exams, they will instead complete written coursework exams in class throughout the course & create music using technology. This course is a Technical Award which is an equivalent qualification to GCSE.
Unit 1 is called ‘Performing’ & is worth 30% of the final grade. Students can choose any piece of music to recreate or remix in their own style using GarageBand. Students program the music using Music Technology skills into software, then present their already created piece at the end of the unit to a small audience. Students will also have to complete coursework tasks such as researching, responding to a brief, completing a journal & evaluating their success.
Unit 2 is called ‘Creating’ & again worth 30% of the final grade – this unit is completed first in Year 10. Students will be asked to use GarageBand, to create a piece of music in any style, then eventually present their work to a small audience. Students will again have to complete coursework tasks such as researching, responding to a brief, completing a journal & evaluating their success.
Unit 3 is called ‘Performing Arts In Practice’ and is worth 40% of the final grade. Students will need to create a portfolio of evidence in response to a ‘real world’ brief. So students could come up with original ideas for a performing arts event, like a festival. The portfolio will include; research, responding to the brief, a detailed plan for the event, an advertising strategy and example compositions, created using GarageBand, that might be heard at the event, finally students will again evaluate their success.
- GCSE Photography
Examination board: AQA
To study photography at GCSE you must have a genuine interest in the subject and have a digital camera or a recent model smart phone on which photographs can be taken in your own time as part of the course. You must be hardworking, dedicated, self-motivated and enthusiastic about the subject and promote the self-discipline to work to the best of your ability. You will be required to work independently at home and attend an extra session after school once a week. You will have the opportunity to develop a wide variety of skills and techniques during Year 9, 10 and 11. You will be taught photographic shooting skills with a focus on composition and photographic terminology. You will be required to edit and enhance your images based on research carried out on current professional photographers and genres. You will use computer packages such as Adobe Photoshop to edit photos you have taken. It is a requirement of the course that you write about the processes you have used to create your images through PowerPoint workbooks which are assessed as part of the course. Finally, you will present your final prints in a range of mediums such as photo albums, framed photographs or other presentations of your choice.
How will I be assessed?
The subject is coursework based with pupils working towards a portfolio of evidence which will
include:Component 1: Coursework, made up of at least two projects, carrying 60% of the final mark
Component 2: Exam Project with a Controlled Test (Exam) over a ten hour period, carrying 40% of the final marks in Year 11
How can I progress from here?
You can progress onto further study at AS or A level as well as vocational pathways. Careers can include: Portrait photographer, scientific photographer, media planner, stylist, film/video editor, journalist, fashion, architecture, nature and wildlife conservation, plus many others. - GCSE Religious Education
Examination Board: AQA
Students who opt to take RE as a GCSE will study RE for three lessons across the 2 week timetable in Year 10 & 11. The content we cover prepares students for the AQA: `Religious Studies A` GCSE examination. In the course we reflect upon and explore questions about the meaning of life and religious responses to moral issues, introduce pupils to the challenging and varied nature of religion and help them to appreciate the contribution of religion to the formation of patterns of belief and behaviour and develop empathetic skills and promote mutual understanding and tolerance of other people’s viewpoints.
Why is RE a useful GCSE ?
It provides students with information about the diversity of culture and lifestyle within the United Kingdom, which in turn prepares them for working in any profession in which they will be expected to deal with members of the public, many of whom will have a different background to themselves. It also encourages students to think about moral issues such as war, abortion, capital punishment and euthanasia and learn how to express a balanced argument on each issue, which also considers the views of Christianity and Islam.How will I be assessed?
Unit 1 (50 % of total mark) – Christianity, IslamUnit 2 (50 % of total mark) – Relationships and Families; Religion and Life, Religion; Peace and Conflict; Religion, Crime and Punishment
1 written paper ( 1 hour 45 minutes) 1 written paper ( 1 hour 45 minutes)
How can I progress from this?
Clear and logical thinking Public Service Industries e.g. Police
Critical evaluation Education
Organisation Law
Planning Social Services
Research Ministry
Team working Nursing / Medicine
Participation Local Government
Reflection / Counselling - GCSE Separate Sciences
GCSE Separate science
Examination board: AQA
The GCSE Separate science course is designed to bridge the gap between GCSE science and ‘A’ level science and is therefore an ideal course for those who wish to study science at college. The areas covered are:
- The brain
- The eye
- Monoclonal antibodies
- Aseptic techniques
- Transition metals
- Fuel cells
- Nano particles
- Atom economy
- Volumes of gases
- Static electricity
- Pressure in gases
- Nuclear fusion and fission
- Moments and gears
- Space physics
- Pressure in fluids
- Sound waves
- Waves for detection
The pupils will also cover the Trilogy Science units as mentioned on the science page in the core subject section.
How will I be assessed?
You will be required to sit examinations at the end of the course. For Separate Science, there will be six papers – 2 each from Biology, Chemistry, and Physics – and each paper will last for 1 hour 45 minutes. All exams will be taken at the end of year 11. You will receive three separate grades from this course – one each for Biology, Chemistry and
Physics.How can I progress from here?
You can study an ‘A’ level in a science discipline but you must get at least a grade 6 in your GCSE science examinations in the area you want to study, for example if you want to study A level Chemistry, then your GCSE Chemistry grade must be a minimum of a grade 6. From here you can study a degree in an area of science. Science graduates are amongst some of the highest earners of all graduates in the UK. - GCSE Spanish
Examination board: AQA
Learning another language is a life skill and GCSE Spanish is designed to further develop skills you have learnt in KS3 enabling you to communicate in Spanish. You will be able to convey your thoughts and opinions verbally and in writing and understand the viewpoints of others using your reading and listening skills. During the course, you will study topic areas such as leisure, free time, holidays, home and local area, environment, school and future plans and current and future jobs. As you become more proficient in Spanish you will also see your English improve.
How will I be assessed?
GCSE Spanish will be studied over 3 years where all the skills are assessed separately with each being worth 25%. Final exams will be sat at the end of Year 11 and you will get the opportunity to refine your reading, writing, speaking and listening skills throughout the three year course on a variety of different topics on the curriculum. Learners will also be given access to online modules to learn vocabulary and improve reading and listening skills.How can I progress from this?
Academic – you can continue studying at AS and A2 and could then move on to university, where you could study the language, or even combine it with another subject such as Business or Law if you are looking for a really well paid job.
Vocational – having a language qualification will be beneficial to anyone wanting to continue onto courses in industry, particularly the travel and tourism industries.
Career prospects – we live in a world where global trade is common place and having a language qualification makes you highly employable as it is incredibly useful in the workplace since many businesses operate on a
multi-national level. It will also be useful if you need to travel abroad for work. Careers using languages are widely found within journalism, banking, industry, sales, construction, and engineering, not to mention language based professions such as translation, interpreting and teaching. - Cambridge National Award Sports Studies
Examination Board: OCR
The Cambridge Nationals in Sport Studies takes a more sector-based focus, whilst also encompassing some core sport/Physical Education themes. Students have the opportunity to apply theoretical knowledge about different types of sport and physical activity, skills development and sports leadership to their own practical performance. They will learn about contemporary issues in sport such as funding, participation, technology, ethics and role models, and sport and the media. Students will develop an appreciation of the importance of sport locally and nationally, different ways of being involved in sport and how this shapes the sports industry. Students are assessed on their practical ability in two sports and their ability to lead a coaching session. The physical education classes will consist of pupils who have shown an aptitude and enthusiasm for PE during Key Stage 3. It is important that you have reached a high level of performance and completed their retrieval theory tasks by the end of year 9.
You will have ONE practical and TWO theory lessons a week. You will:
- Have a responsible and independent attitude towards participation in sport.
- Have a keen interest in sport and take part in sport outside of class time
- Want to know more about the benefit of sport and exercise
- Want to improve your own performance in a range of sports
What will I learn?
- Develop your knowledge and practical skills in a range of physical activities and roles.
- Develop your leadership skills in a range of physical activities and roles.
- Develop your knowledge of the sports industry including national governing bodies, media and technology.
How will I be assessed?
Students must complete three units: One mandatory externally assessed unit (exam)
R184: Contemporary issues in sport
One mandatory centre-assessed unit (NEA)
R185: Performance and leadership in sports activities
One optional centre-assessed unit (NEA) from a choice of two.
R186: Sports and the media
How can I progress from this?
As well as being the ideal preparation for the A Level Physical Education course. The Cambridge Nationals in Sports Studies allow for progression to related vocational qualifications, such as BTEC (Level 3) and Nationals in Sport or Sport and Exercise Sciences. The course develops the transferable and key skills that employers are looking for and can lead to a wide variety of employment opportunities. This can include further training in such areas as recreational management, leisure activities, coaching, officiating, the fitness industry, the armed forces and the Civil Services.