Where learning has NO limits…

Key Stage 4Year 8 Option Course Booklet

Options Evening Tuesday 24th March, 6.00pm

“Choosing your options is a really important step on the way to getting the job you want in the future. Think about it carefully and get help from your family, school and people you know who may be doing what you want to do. It’s a good idea to take subjects you know you are good at and will get good grades in and you will always do well in something you enjoy so take those subjects also. But does that leave something that you think you will need but you are not sure about? Speak to your teacher in that subject and work out if you can succeed - if you want it badly you will!Don't forget that employers and colleges look for more than just good grades so how are you going to get those good employability skills? What are they? Your school's staff will know, so ask them. Keep asking until you are happy that you have made the best choice for you! “

Ian Watson, Chief Engineer, New Product Introduction, Cummins Darlington.

ForewordDear Student,This booklet, together with help from your parents, tutors, teachers, Further Education and Training Providers and Careers Advisors should help you to make informed choices which are appropriate for you as an individual and also allow sufficient flexibility to cope with any changes of direction that you might have in the future.Future employers and university admissions officers will want to see that you have a range of qualifications, skills and knowledge. They will also want to be sure that you can communicate effectively in discussion and on paper, preferably in more than one language, solve problems logically, manipulate numbers, use information technology efficiently and involve yourself in activities. Achieving your potential at Key Stage 4 provides important evidence that they will use to make judgments about you.During key stage 4 you will study a range of subjects; some you can choose to do, others are compulsory. Choosing the right subjects and getting the right qualifications will give you a better chance of getting the career of your choice. It is important to think about your option subjects carefully to ensure that your choices give you a broad education, give you the best chance of success and provide you with a range of good qualifications needed for progression when you finish Year 11. The Education Village has extremely strong links with a variety of businesses and industries looking for students with a range of skills, abilities and qualifications. Here is what Ian Watson, the Chief Engineer of Cummins, and Lynda Winstanley, Arts Manager at Darlington Civic Theatre, had to say…

“This is an exciting time in your school life. You are about to choose the subjects you will focus on for the remainder of your time at school and will be wondering how best to go about making your decision. Whilst it is often the subjects that you are most passionate about that you are also best at, it is also worthwhile thinking about what subjects will best equip you for your future education and career. Don’t worry if you aren’t sure what direction you will be going in, but if you do have some ideas, try to talk them through with anyone and everyone who might be able to advise you. Also don’t forget that as employers we are also looking for well-rounded staff, who not only have good, relevant qualifications but also have a positive approach to work and make an active contribution to their community. So make the most of all the varied and exciting activities, which are open to you at the Education Village, as this will help you prepare for the world of work. Good luck!”

Lynda Winstanley, Arts Manager, Darlington Civic Theatre.

Why Options at Year 8?This has been a careful and deliberate decision, taken to meet the needs of our students. It has involved: Careful reflection on the success, and sometimes the barriers to success, experienced at our school. The research of curriculum models used in other schools. Consultation with students who have experienced life at key stage 3 and key stage 4. Consultation with staff. A careful consideration of how best to ensure our students achieve to the highest level they possibly can. A desire to ensure every student can engage with a curriculum which motivates them to succeed. A desire to ensure every student has the opportunity to follow a broad curriculum to help meet their needs in a constantly changing global economy

and an increasingly technological world.

What lessons did we learn and what have we done to address them?Students and staff told us that progress was sometimes not as good as it should have been in year 9 in some areas because students ‘weren’t taking this subject next year!’ By bringing options in to year 8 other schools had seen improvements here. Our older students saw this as a good way forward too.

Our older students supported the idea of starting key stage 4 in year 9 - they felt it would give extra time to build up their skills, knowledge and confidence for examinations and help to ensure that their controlled assessments (coursework) were completed to a high standard. In fact, for this reason, we had already started key stage 4 learning in year 9 in several subjects where this was possible. If we further consider that high grades seem to be becoming more important to employers, colleges and universities in their selection processes, then extending this approach to all subject areas seems quite logical. It should indeed help all students to learn in a deep and meaningful way over a longer period, allowing them to achieve and hopefully exceed their targets across their whole curriculum.

Our older students would have welcomed the opportunity to have studied more option subjects to broaden their curriculum or allow them to follow other interests they had. Beginning key stage 4 in year 9 allows us to do just that. It may also provide an opportunity for some students to do some volunteering or non-accredited activities, or receive extra help in some subjects, if they complete courses before the end of year 11.

The Options ProcessThe Options Evening will be held on Tuesday 24th March, beginning at 6.00pm. A brief introduction and explanation of the options process for year 8 students and parents will take place at 6.00pm in the Performance Hall. Students and parents will then have the opportunity to talk with teachers and view the type of study, work and learning undertaken in the option courses available. Can I please ask that you take the time to read through the option course booklet carefully before the options evening so that you know the right questions to ask the right people. Of course, Haughton Academy staff will be happy to discuss queries with students and parents at any convenient time if you overlook something on the evening – parents can contact them via telephone or e-mail. Additionally, students will have the opportunity to make an appointment with our Careers Advisor Penny Hudson) in school, and they will participate in ‘taster sessions’ for all KS4 courses. Following the Options Evening, each student will receive a personalised option course preference sheet to bring home. These must be completed and returned after the Easter break (by Friday, 17th April at the latest), following the instructions on the sheet. The Easter break will give time to study the options booklet further, do some additional research and discuss appropriate courses at home. Students or parents can then follow this up by talking to Course Leaders or our Careers Advisor during the first week back to school.Once preliminary option blocks are created from the information returned, all students will meet with a senior teaching colleague or careers advice colleague to discuss the relevance of their chosen courses against their preferred learning styles, academic performance and future aspirations. Once this process has been completed, the final option blocks and student groupings will be verified.

Changes to the school curriculum and qualifications

You will probably be aware of the current Government’s ongoing National Curriculum and qualifications review, and the review of Vocational Education reported in the Wolf Report. Some key points are highlighted below and will be explained further at the options evening:GCSE:

A move to linear assessment – examinations taken only at the end of the course. A focus on spelling, punctuation and grammar (SPaG) for GCSEs in English, Geography, History and Religious Studies. Controlled assessment (sometimes called coursework) is under review. Emerging importance of the English Baccalaureate (EBacc) subjects: English, Mathematics, History or Geography, two sciences and an ancient or modern foreign

language. Vocational / Applied courses:

A move to some form of external assessment (e.g. examination, on-line test, controlled practical assessment) as part of the assessment of all applied courses. This element is included in all course specifications which are accredited by the Government’s qualifications agency, Ofqual.

How do my Option Choices Impact on my Future?The following websites provide a range of information that will help you plan your future after your time at Haughton Academy. Your option choices should, where possible, link to what you would like to do for a career. Careers including teaching, midwifery, medicine, veterinary science, and dentistry require you to undertake specific GCSE’s to prepare you for these vocations, therefore please check with Penny Hudson, our careers advisor, if you intend taking these career paths, to ensure your GCSE options match entry requirements for sixth form and university.

What happens when I am 16?

At 16 you will move from Haughton Academy to a local sixth form college to study A levels, or choose other vocational courses at Further Education Colleges. You may also decide that you would prefer to apply for an apprenticeship with a local employer.

What happens when I am 18?

At 18, having gained suitable qualifications, you can go to university for three to four years, to study a subject of your choice to support your future career, or you can remain in college to study for a higher qualification. You may choose at this point to apply for a higher level apprenticeship.

If you had chosen the apprenticeship route at 16, you may have the opportunity to go to university or progress onto a higher apprenticeship with your employer.

COLLEGE AND COURSE INFORMATION

www.carmel.org.uk/sixthform Carmel RC College – you can study AS and A levels here after EVwww.darlington.ac.uk Darlington College – you can study apprenticeships and vocational courses here after EVwww.qeliz.ac.uk Queen Elizabeth Sixth Form College - you can study AS and A levels here after EVwww.edhcc.ac.uk East Durham College and Houghall College – you can study here for careers in animal care,

horticulture and other land based environmental courseswww.stockton.ac.uk Stockton Riverside College – you can study AS and A levels and vocational courses herewww.bacoll.ac.uk Bishop Auckland College - you can study AS and A levels and vocational courses herewww.ccad.ac.uk Cleveland College of Art & Design – you can study Art and Design courses here

APPRENTICESHIPSwww.apprenticeship.org.uk The National Vacancy Matching Servicewww.tvwbl.net Tees Valley Learning Provider Network http://www.direct.gov.uk/en/Employment/ Information on the minimum wage

JOB PREPARATIONwww.evolutiondarlington.com Darlington Volunteering Opportunitieswww.do-it.org.uk Volunteering Opportunitieshttp://www.direct.gov.uk/en/YoungPeople/ Advice on CVs and getting your first job

HIGHER EDUCATION

Students and parents/guardians are welcome to make an appointment with the Education Village Careers Advisor. Please e-mail Penny Hudson (phudson@educationvillage.org.uk) if you wish to further discuss your options and post-16 education / career plans.

www.ucas.com Lists University courses and Tariff Pointswww.aimhigher.ac.uk Tips on choosing courses, university life etcwww.prospects.ac.uk Your options after your Degree.www.14theweb.co.uk Colleges and Universities in the North East

Key Stage 4 CurriculumAs you move from KS3 to KS4 you are given the opportunity to make some decisions about what you would like to study. However, you are not given a completely free choice. Your compulsory timetable in Years 9, 10 and 11 might look something like this:

You should discuss with your parents and school what to do in the other 10 lessons. The 10 lessons will be made up of 5 courses depending upon which pathway you are on:

GCSE CoursesArt & Design DT: Textiles Technology Geography Physical EducationBusiness Studies Food Preparation and

NutritionHistory Religious Education

Computing ICT SpanishDT: Resistant materials French Music

Applied Courses (e.g. BTEC First Award)Creative Digital Media Production Engineering Health & Social Care Performing Arts

Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday FridayLesson 1 English Maths PE (core) Science MathsLesson 2 Maths English English MathsLesson 3 Science EnglishLesson 4 Science ChallengeLesson 5 Science

All students follow the core curriculum:English, Mathematics, Science and PE

EBacc / Performance 8 Courses ‘Free Choice’ Option CoursesALL students MUST choose ONE of the following GCSE courses:

French Geography History Spanish

Students will also choose ANY FOUR ADDITIONAL courses (but no more than three from the Applied Courses section) from the table below:

Option Course DetailsCourse TitleLevelExam BoardAssessment

Course Leader

GCSE Art and Design1 & 2 (Grade A* - G)AQA60% Coursework Portfolio, 40% Examination (Externally set task)Mrs V Gorton

This exciting and successful course allows pupils to explore different art specialisms, study artists and develop practical skills. 60% of the course is based on a coursework portfolio which comprises 2 units of work based around interesting themes which allow for creativity and independence. This course has a 10 hour externally set task at the end of year 11 which counts for 40% of the final grade. During the course you are free to explore drawing, painting (including acrylics on canvas), lino printing, graphics, digital photography and ICT. Anyone taking the Art & Design GCSE will be expected to research and write about the work of famous artists including evaluating their work. This subject is a sound starting point for a career in design, fashion, multimedia, textiles or graphic based industries. Pupils will be expected to produce work which will be exhibited across the school in a variety of ways including an end of year exhibition. Pupils are encouraged to attend workshops and a weekend residential during the course.

Course TitleLevelExam BoardAssessment

Course Leader

GCSE Business Studies 1 & 2 (Grade A*-G)AQA25% Controlled Assessment, 75% ExaminationMrs C Larsen

Business Studies is aimed at anyone interested in the world of business. It encourages students to consider the practical application of business and economic concepts. Students will explore the activities of business and reasons for success and failure. This course provides progression for students wishing to continue their studies to A-Level or Diploma at college.It comprises of three units: Setting up a Business, Growing as a Business and Investigating Businesses.Examinations are taken at the end of Year 11, with the controlled assessment being completed at the beginning of Year 11.

Course Title LevelExam BoardAssessment

Course Leader

GCSE Computing1 & 2 (Grade A*-G)OCR60% Controlled Assessment40% ExaminationMr A Hinnigan

Since 2011, the government has invested in the development of an educational platform which supports the transformation of us from simply being the users of ICT, towards us becoming the creators of the software, programs and applications we use. GCSE Computing can inspire, encourage and support you to follow a challenging, relevant and satisfying career in this growing and thriving sector.If you’re interested in becoming a Software Engineer, Computer Games Programmer, App Developer, Software Analyst or you aspire to become the next Bill Gates, then Computing is the course for you*.(*Due to its content, the course is suitable only for students with predicted grades of A*-C in Mathematics)

Course Title

Level

Exam BoardAssessment

Course Leader

BTEC First Award in Creative Digital Media Production1 & 2 (Grades: Level 1 Pass < C, Level 2 Pass = C, Merit = B, Distinction=A, Distinction*=A*)Pearson: BTEC75% Assignment Portfolio, 25% External AssessmentMiss S Hall

Filmmakers, games developers and graphic designers are just a few of the skilled people necessary to produce the digital media we consume daily and for which there is a global audience. The course provides a foundation for these occupations and for progression onto further and higher education courses. Our Media Department has a fabulous on-site facility including a suite of Apple Mac computers dedicated to digital media production, a professional standard TV Studio and a 3D virtual reality studio, all of which are utilised on this course. The units studied include:Unit 1- Digital Media Sectors and AudienceUnit 2 - Planning and Pitching a Digital Media ProductUnit 3 - Digital Moving Image ProductionUnit 7 - Digital Games ProductionFor those completing the Award early, to a high standard, there will be the opportunity to extend the qualification to the larger Certificate level by completing the additional Unit 11(Animation for Digital Media) and Unit 10 (Digital Photography for a Media Product).

Course Title

LevelExam BoardAssessment

Course Leader

GCSE DT: Resistant Materials1 & 2 (Grade A* - G)AQA60% Controlled Assessment, 40% ExaminationMr G Taylor

This course will involve the study of a range of design and manufacturing techniques and principles suitable for resistant materials (e.g. woods, metals and plastics). You will be expected to use a range of techniques, tools and machinery safely to design, develop and make quality products in various woods, metals and plastics. The type of products you will design and make include: stools, money boxes, phone holders and various small products, to build up your skill base, and finally a major project of your own design, based around a theme. This course will be useful if you are considering a career in product design, engineering or the building industries. Please note that there will be a cost implication for the materials used during the course.

Your controlled assessment (major project) is worth 60% of the total marks with the remaining 40% being exam based. Please bear in mind that most of the controlled assessment is written work in the form of a design portfolio that will require a good level of literacy and drawing skills and personal commitment.

Course Title

LevelExam BoardAssessment

Course Leader

GCSE DT: Textiles Technology 1 & 2 (Grade A* - G)AQA 60% Controlled Assessment, 40% ExaminationMiss N Tapper

This course involves the study of fibres and fabrics, including their properties and uses, pattern making, assembling fabrics, designing and making textiles products, and the clothing and textiles industry. It involves creating a range of products, to build up your designing and making skills, and the completion of a textiles design and make portfolio which accounts for the 60% controlled assessment element of the course.You will need to provide an A3 graphics/art folder to transport and store your class work and coursework assignment. You may also need to provide fabric for your design and make assignments if your chosen fabric is not kept in school.

This course would give a solid grounding for progression, for anyone with an interest in fashion, fabric design, tailoring or the textiles industry.

Course Title

LevelExam BoardAssessment

Course Leader

GCSE Food preparation and nutrition1 & 2 (Grade A* - G)AQA50% Controlled Assessment, 50% ExaminationMrs L Watts

This challenging course equips students with the knowledge, understanding and skills required to apply the principles of food science, nutrition and healthy eating; combining the scientific principles behind cooking and theory of nutrition. This is a course in which you will be expected to demonstrate a high level of personal organisation, resilience, creativity and motivation.Students will be expected to learn course content through a balance of theory work and practical tasks, for which you will need to provide a variety of ingredients in order to further your learning.

When ready, normally around the end of the first year, you will commence an extended piece of coursework, the controlled assessment, which is worth 50% of your overall grade. This controlled assessment will last for a large part of the remainder of the course. At the end of the course you will be required to sit a written exam which will make up the other 50% of the GCSE assessment.This qualification will help you gain access into Food Science, Nutrition or Catering based further education, training or careers and aid the understanding of nutrition in Child Development and Health and Social Care sectors.

Course Title

Level

Exam BoardAssessment

Course Leader

BTEC First Award in Engineering1&2 (Grades: Level 1 Pass < C, Level 2 Pass = C, Merit = B, Distinction=A, Distinction*=A*)Pearson: BTEC75% Assignment Portfolio, 25% External AssessmentMr P Bartle

This course is designed to develop the skills and qualities you need for working and for further learning in the engineering sector. The course consists of core and optional specialist units with each one studied in the context of real life and careers in the engineering sector. Core Units:Unit 1 – The Engineered World (externally assessed unit). Unit 2 – Investigating an Engineered Product. Specialist Units:Unit 3 – Health and Safety in Engineering.Unit 6 – Computer Aided Engineering.You will learn by completing projects and assignments that are based on realistic workplace situations, activities and demands. Assignment portfolio evidence (all units except for unit 1) will include written, drawn, observed and practical outcomes. The external assessment for unit 1 is through an ‘on-screen' test.This course is a good starting point for anyone wanting to work in engineering, product design, manufacturing, automotive engineering or maintenance /service engineering. It will provide a good foundation for further study of engineering either via the A-level or vocational route at college, or through an apprenticeship.

Course Title

Level

Exam BoardAssessment

Course Leader

BTEC First Award in Health & Social Care1 & 2 (Level 1 Pass < C, Level 2 Pass = C, Merit = B, Distinction=A, Distinction*=A*)Pearson: BTEC75% Assignment Portfolio, 25% External AssessmentMrs C Larsen

This course supports progression to a wide variety of further education and training pathways for students interested in a career in the Health or Social Care sectors in particular. For students interested in a career as a paramedic, physiotherapist, social worker, or in working with the elderly, children, teenagers or individuals with disabilities, this is an ideal course. The course studies mental health, physical health and emotional wellbeing, together with the rights and needs of individuals and how they can be supported.Core units, which must be studied are:Unit 1: Human Lifespan Development – which is externally assessed by a written examination.Unit 2: Health and Social Care Values – which is assessed through assignment portfolio evidence.Two further ‘specialist units’ complete the course and are assessed through assignment portfolio evidence.Unit 3 – Effective Communication in the health and social care sector.Unit 4 – Social influences in the health and social care sector.

Course Title

LevelExam BoardAssessment

Course Leader

GCSE French / GCSE Spanish(Choose the language you currently study)1 & 2 (Grade A* - G)Exam board: AQA60% Controlled Assessment (Speaking and Writing),40% Examination (Listening and Reading)Mr M Hornsby

Today’s economy is increasingly globalised, and this means that many of us are interacting across cultures in a way we never have before. In such an economy, the importance of learning additional languages becomes clear. Learning another language helps you to communicate across cultures and to conduct business in countries you may never have previously considered viable markets. It also helps you to address customers in the language that they understand best and in which they are most comfortable communicating. Spanish is the second most widely spoken language in the world after Mandarin and is the first language in Spain and most South and Central American countries as well as being widely spoken in the United States. French is the ninth most spoken language in the world, the second language of the internet, and important in the fields of medicine and international relations. English represents only 6% of the world’s speakers as a first language. Surprising isn’t it?

Scientific studies have shown that learning a second language improves brain function and stimulates creativity. When you know a new language, you start to see connections you didn’t see before because every language approaches the world in a slightly different way. As a result, you have the opportunity to understand the world from the perspective of another culture and gain a greater appreciation of human society in all its diversity. As a consequence, the importance of learning a second language is again reinforced. You become not just equipped to communicate across cultures but empowered to understand others’ points of view. Once you have picked up one language, it becomes easier to pick up more.

A languages qualification will enhance any career path that you choose, as it demonstrates an ability to think on your feet, to be able to think creatively and logically, and the aptitude to have a socially and culturally open mind. Studying a language will also support and enhance your studies in other subjects. UK business is losing out at present due to lack of employees with even basic linguistic skills, so get ahead! Language learning promotes communication skills which are essential in the vast majority of careers, and can enhance career opportunities not just in the wider world but also locally. A language qualification is a unique selling point when applying for jobs and will improve your chances of securing a place in Further and Higher Education. It also shows you can achieve in one of the more rigorous academic subjects and forms part of the EBacc qualification so is well worth having!

For further information regarding languages, further education and careers visit: www.languageswork.co.uk or speak to: Mr M Hornsby - Subject Leader for International Communications

(mhornsby@educationvillage.org.uk), or Miss S West - teacher of French and Spanish (swest@educationvillageorg.uk).

Course TitleLevelExam BoardAssessmentCourse Leader

GCSE Geography1 & 2 (Grade A* - G)AQA100% ExaminationMiss A Houghton

Through Geography, students will study modern issues which will provide them with a clear overall view of the world in the first part of the 21st Century. They will study Physical and Human Geography, and will participate in Fieldwork Investigation. The development of a wide range of skills including: problem solving, literacy and numeracy, and technological methods, including ICT and GIS, and graphical and cartographical skills, will provide candidates with a well rounded understanding and diverse skills set. This course would be a suitable choice for anyone wishing to pursue a career in management and administration, information and scientific services, leisure, travel and tourism, education, the armed forces, business and finance or environmental management. It will also provide a sound foundation in understanding the modern world.

Course TitleLevelExam BoardAssessmentCourse Leader

GCSE History1 & 2 (Grade A* - G)TBC100% ExaminationMiss L Snowdon

Students will be studying three eras of history: Medieval (500–1500), Early Modern (1450–1750) and Modern (1700–present day). The course will be 100% externally examined with no controlled assessment and all exams at the end of the course. There will be a minimum of 3.5 hours assessment. There is a requirement to study at least 40% British History, a study incorporating the history of a locality and the wider world. There will be a thematic study over time; a period study of at least 50 years; at least one British and one wider world depth study and a study of a historical environment. This course will give you an excellent understanding of some of the key historical developments, so that you can develop a better appreciation of the world we live in today. You will learn life long, employer-friendly skills such as personal research, structured writing and the ability to analyse pictures and text. These are all invaluable as you move forward into further education and the workplace.History is always a popular subject especially with students aiming for people-orientated careers such as Human Resources, Education, Journalism, Public Services, Law and Media.

Course Title LevelExam BoardAssessment

Course Leader

GCSE ICT 1 & 2 (Grade A* - G) Pearson: Edexcel 60% Controlled Assessment40% ExaminationMr A Hinnigan

Over the last 30 years ICT has changed the world of work beyond recognition; some industries would have ceased to exist without employing some form of ICT. ICT will support you in further education and employment, and in a multitude of careers and businesses including multimedia design, printing, office work, banking, accountancy, retail, engineering and teaching. Perhaps you are simply interested in the impact of ICT on the world we live in. If so, then this is a course for you to consider.The Edexcel GCSE ICT course consists of two units:UNIT 1: Living in a Digital World - In this unit, students explore how digital technology impacts on the lives of individuals, organisations and society. UNIT 2: Using Digital Tools - This is a practical unit. Students broaden and enhance their ICT skills and capability. They work with a range of digital tools and techniques to produce effective ICT solutions in a range of contexts.

Course TitleLevelExam BoardAssessment

Course Leader

GCSE Physical Education1 & 2 (Grade A* - G) AQA40% Practical Assessment (based on 3 activities: 1 individual, 1 team and 1 other)60% ExaminationMiss R Moody

The GCSE specification requires students to study: Applied Anatomy and Physiology Movement Analysis Physical Training Use of Data in sport Sports Psychology Socio-Cultural Influences Health, Fitness and Wellbeing Practical Performance.

While there are many practical aspects to the PE course, the classroom work is equally important as it forms 60% of the overall grade. Therefore a commitment to both aspects of the course is essential.

Practical performance is a crucial part of the assessment procedure, and there is an expectation that all GCSE PE students regularly participate in extra-curricular clubs and represent the school teams where requested.

Course Title LevelExam BoardAssessment

Course Leader

GCSE Music1 & 2 (Grade A*-G)Pearson: Edexcel60% Controlled Assessment, 40% ExaminationMrs L Armstrong

The GCSE Music course is divided into three sections, these are: Performing (30% controlled assessment), Composing (30% controlled assessment) and Listening (40% final exam). Performance: You will choose an instrument to perform on (voice is an option). You will receive lessons with a specific instrumental teacher to improve your skills and confidence on that instrument/voice. As you progress through the GCSE we will record performances, allowing us to select your best 2 pieces, solo and group, to send off as coursework at the end of year 11. Composing: You will have to write two pieces of your own music that relate to one of the pieces we study in the GCSE. This will be done with the help of technology using GarageBand on iMac and Sibelius on PC. Listening and Appraising: You will learn about 12 specific pieces through the GCSE course. They cover 4 different areas of music: 1600-Present Day, Twentieth Century, Popular Music and Music of Other Cultures. At the end of year 11 you will sit a 1½ hour listening exam on all of the pieces that you have studied throughout the course.

You do NOT have to play a musical instrument already to do music. If you opt for music then you can choose which instrument you would like to learn and school will pay for you to have individual lessons provided by Durham Music Service.

This course can lead to careers in the music and performing arts industry.

Course Title LevelExam BoardAssessmentCourse Leader

GCSE Religious Education1 & 2 (Grade A* - G)TBC100% ExaminationMiss A Bell

In today’s global economy and multi-ethnic societies, it is perhaps more important now than ever before that we have an appreciation, understanding, and tolerance of, and respect for, other cultures and religious beliefs. Religious Education will explore this through the study of the factual and philosophical elements of different world religions. Although the Religious Education specification is still to be confirmed, the consultation suggests that there will be an in-depth study of 2 world religions; this study would include studying religious founders, religious text, places of worship, etc.

Course TitleLevel

Exam BoardAssessment

Course Leader

Performing Arts2 (Level 2 Pass = C, Merit = B, Distinction=A, Distinction*=A*)Pearson: BTEC or NCFE (TBC)Performing, portfolio of evidence (written), audition performance.Ms C Taylor

What skills or personal interests do I need?• You will need to be a critical and reflective thinker with an enquiring mind.• You will need to be able to share your opinion and listen to the opinion of others.• You will need a positive interest in the performing arts.• You will need to show commitment to performance and rehearsal time.• You will need to be prepared to perform in front of others.

What will I do?• Develop skills, knowledge and understanding that can be applied to performing.• Devise performances of unscripted and scripted work.• Go out of school to watch a live theatre performance.• Study real life events both historically and culturally and explore them dramatically.

What key skills will I develop on the course?• Communicating ideas.• Co-operation and working collaboratively with others.• Confidence.• Creativity and working imaginatively.• Competency in a range of practical, creative and performance skills.• Reflection and evaluation of your own work and the work of others

What can I do afterwards?You will develop a basis for your future role as an active citizen in employment and society in general, as well as for the possible further study of Performing Arts at any college or Sixth Form offering AS/A Level or BTEC. Whether or not you choose to continue along the acting route and are skilful enough to make a career out of Television, Radio or Theatre, this course will give you the basic skills through nurturing confidence.