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Key Stage 4 Courses of Study

June 2015

Birkdale High School

A great education

An outstanding future

Key Stage 4 Courses 2014-2016. www.birkdalehigh.co.uk

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The choice of options is often the first big decision in a secondary school student’s academic life and can have a huge impact on his future. It is vitally important that we work together to get this right. As a consequence we are providing a great deal of information and advice. We hope that each boy will be happy and successful in the subjects he finally selects. The aim is to combine what each pupil needs for their future with what they are best at and overall find the right combination for each individual.

This year we have designed our curriculum to provide for the changing needs of our pupils. Now that all students are required to continue in education or training until the age of 18, there is an increasing emphasis upon the right qualifications for future courses or employment. We plan to provide the best opportunities for students who have a focus of A Levels and then university degrees, but also those who may want to enter training and vocational courses.

This booklet provides you with information about all the Key Stage 4 courses that are available in school from June 2015.

The first few pages contain general information and advice. There then follows a section with information about each subject. Subjects described on the blue pages are ‘core compulsory’. The yellow pages have details that are available in the Ebacc qualifications. Those in the green pages are the GCSE subjects and orange pages are the BTec subjects available within the option process.

Each option course covers two years of work and we expect all students to complete the full course. Students and their parents/carers should read the information carefully and take time to determine the best combination of subjects.

Important Dates

Thursday 5th February 6:30 pm - 7:30 pm Year 9 Options Evening

Thursday 26th February 4:00 pm - 6:30 pm Year 9 Parents’ Evening

Friday 27th February by 9:00 am Option Forms handed into Mr Marshall

To our pupils

This is a very important stage of your school career. The decisions you make now could affect the

opportunities open to you in the future. So, read this information thoroughly and think carefully about the

choices you are going to make. Also, ask for advice from those in a position to help you - your parents/

carers, your teachers and the careers staff. We all want the best for you.

When making your choices be realistic! Here are some points to help you:

Do choose subjects that you enjoy and/or interest you.

Do choose subjects because you like them and not because your friend have chosen them or simply because you like a teacher,

Do seek advice and help if in any doubt.

Finally, please remember that the choices you make will not necessarily be possible. If too few people

choose a subject then it will be unlikely to run. However, we will do our very best to satisfy your choices.

Option Process 2015


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To our Parents/Carers

Please help and encourage your son in making his choices and feel free to ask the school for help and

advice.

However, please remember that it is son who has to do the studying for the next two years and choices

made unwillingly may prove problematic. We are confident that the partnership of school, parents/carers

and pupil will produce the best possible educational opportunity and we look forward to working with you

towards that goal.

The options system

The options system is intended to perform the following functions:

Provide some specialisation.

Give pupils some ownership of their learning.

Create a sense of responsibility amongst pupils.

Some subjects offered in the option choices are new to the students. Before any subject is chosen students should read carefully the information contained in this booklet and should talk to relevant staff to make sure that they understand what the subject is about, are confident in their choice and wish to study the subject for the next two years.

The options system operates within an important constraint - if insufficient numbers of pupils choose a particular subject within an option group it may not be offered.

If a subject is over-subscribed it may be necessary to allocate the reserve subject.

Please note: A great deal of advice is offered to all students regarding the choice of subjects. Once the final decision has been made and the option form is returned, we regret that it is not possible for students to change their choice, other than in very exceptional circumstances.

We would like all forms completed, signed and returned to Mr Marshall by

Friday 27th February 2015.


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English Language and English Literature

Examination Board: TBC

Qualification: 2 GCSE

What can I expect?

Students will be taught the new updated specification for GCSE and all students will follow an ‘English Language’ Syl-

labus. Study units include: ‘Explorations in creative Reading and Writing, explorations of writers’ viewpoints and per-

spectives and assessment of spoken language skills, incorporated into these units are a range of texts from our literary

heritage and also more contemporary texts including multi-media representations, such as spoken language and visu-

al portrayals. All students will also follow the English Literature syllabus. Study units include: ‘Shakespearean texts,

19th Century novel studies, modern prose or drama texts, an anthology of poetry as well as an unseen poetry unit.

Pupils will study:

Work by authors published before 1914

Work by authors published after 1914

Texts from other cultures

A Shakespeare play

Media and Multi-Modal texts

Fiction and Non-fiction material

Poetry

Creative writing skills

Spoken language skills

How are ‘GCSE English Language and Literature’ assessed?

Under the new guidance for GCSE English, from 2015 all students will be assessed through end of course

examinations. This means that 100% of their final GCSE grades will be determined by their performance in the

summer examinations. Unlike previous years, papers will no longer be tiered and all abilities will sit the same

examinations. The reporting of achievements at GCSE will now follow a numbered system, ranging from 9 to 1 where

9 will represent the top of the achievement scale and 1 the bottom.

Where can English lead?

GCSE English is an essential requirement for employers and further education and training courses. Access to many further education opportunities, such as A levels, National Diplomas and Degree courses, are reliant on successful completion of GCSE English, to the national recognised standard.

Beyond the academic world, English offers a range of essential transferrable skills to the world of work. Careers in areas such as: Journalism, Teaching, The Arts, Acting, Vocational Training.

For more information please contact:

Mrs E. Morgan, Head of English on [email protected]


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Mathematics and Statistics

Examination Board: Edexcel

Qualification: 1 GCSE for Maths and 1 GCSE for Statistics

What can I expect?

All Year 10 and 11 students study Mathematics. Pupils are set according to ability at the start of Year 10,

although the membership of a set does not remain static. Mathematics is an important subject and is both

challenging and rewarding. Pupils are encouraged to develop high standards of work practice, to work

independently, to gain confidence in their abilities and to succeed at the appropriate level.

How is Mathematics assessed?

All pupils follow courses leading to GCSE examinations, the examination board is yet to be decided. The

papers are differentiated into the higher and foundation tier. The Foundation Tier covers the new levels 1-5

and the Higher Tier covers levels 4-9. Each tier is assessed by 3 written examination papers, taken at the

end of Year 11. Each paper focuses on number, algebra, geometry and measures and statistics and

probability. A calculator is not permitted in the assessment for one of the papers. The weighting of each

paper towards the final grade is 33.3%.

How is Statistics assessed?

During Year 10, some pupils will be given the opportunity to study for an additional GCSE in Statistics,

alongside their preparation for their Mathematics GCSE. These pupils will be required to complete a

Statistical controlled assessment task representing 25% of their final GCSE grade. They take one

examination paper at the end of Year 10 which is worth the remaining 75%.

Where can Mathematics lead?

A GCSE qualification in Mathematics is required for the study of many subjects at further and higher

education, employment and life generally. Our main GCSE course provides a solid foundation for those

pupils who wish to specialise in this subject beyond the age of sixteen.


Mrs J. Thompson, Head of Maths on [email protected]


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Religious Education

Examination Board: WJEC

Qualification: Full Course - 1 GCSE, Short Course - 0.5 GCSE

What can I expect?

To consider moral and ethical issues, both from a religious and non-religious point of view. Topics covered

are:

Relationships (including marriage and divorce)

Justice and Equality

Looking for Meaning

Our World (including environmental issues)

Pupils follow the above GCSE course in Years 10 and 11.

How is Religious Education Assessed?

There will be one written exam paper lasting one hour 50 minutes. This will be taken in Year 11. It is worth

100% of the mark. There are no controlled assessments.

Where can Religious Education lead to?

Knowledge of different religions and cultures is valuable for careers that involve working with people.

These include Public Services such as the Police Force, Teaching, Social Services or Health. It is also

valuable for those pupils wishing to continue their studies in English Literature, History, Archaeology etc.

Religious Studies Full Course GCSE

This course may be followed by those boys who have an interest in RE. These students will require further

examination and cover the topics listed above, plus:

Religion and Conflict

Religion and Medicine

Religion and State

Religious Expression


Mrs P. Marshall, Head of RE on [email protected]


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Science

Examination Board: AQA

Qualification: 2 GCSEs

What can I expect?

Most students will study for 2 GCSE grades in Science (Science A and Additional Science) following the new

AQA GCSE Science 2011 syllabus. Science A is worth 1 GCSE and will be started and completed in year 10.

Students will then commence and complete their 2nd Science GCSE (Additional Science) in year 11.

Students will receive 9 lessons of Science per fortnight; 3 lessons of the 9 will be covering Biology, 3

Chemistry and 3 Physics. Students will have a specialist teacher for each area.

Each GCSE will be split up as shown below:

Year 10 - Science A (Core)

Biology 1 (25%)

Chemistry 1 (25%)

Physics 1 (25%)

Controlled Assessment 1 (25%)

How is Science Assessed?

75% of each GCSE will be external assessment examinations. There will be three 1 hour written papers

worth 60 marks (equal to 25% of the final grade) and will include closed questions, structured questions and

questions needing longer answers. The remaining 25% will be in the form of a practical controlled

assessment and corresponding papers.

Where can Additional Science lead?

Additional Science provides a platform for progression to A Level Science, other further education courses

or into employment. This qualification develops a variety of key skills that can be used in all areas of

working life beyond education.


Mr P. Caslake, Head of Science on [email protected]

Year 11 - Additional Science

Biology 2 (25%)

Chemistry 2 (25%)

Physics 2 (25%)

Controlled Assessment 2 (25%)


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Triple Science


Qualification: 3 GCSEs

What can I expect?

Some students will study for 3 GCSE grades in Science (Biology, Chemistry and Physics). These will be started in year

10 and completed by the end of year 11 (students will be awarded one GCSE for each subject on completion at the

end of year 11).

The time required to complete this course will use an option block to access extra lessons to ensure the boys have an

appropriate amount of allocated time to fully embed the difficult concepts covered in this course.

Students will receive 15 lessons of Science per fortnight; 5 lessons of the 15 will be covering Biology, 5 Chemistry and

5 Physics. Students will have a specialist teacher for each of these 3 areas of Science.

This is a demanding pathway to follow and we will be using data from the boys’ attitude to learning, homework and

attainment to decide on whether this is an appropriate route on an individual basis. We have suggested this as a

pathway to those boys who not only have the capability but also a strong desire to succeed in each individual element

of Science.

Each GCSE will be split up as shown in the diagrams below:

How is Triple Science assessed?

75% of each GCSE will be external assessments in the form of examinations. There will be three 1 hour written papers worth 60 marks (equal to 25% of the final grade) and will include closed questions, structured questions and questions needing longer answers. The remaining 25% will be in the form of a practical controlled assessment and corresponding papers.

Unlike the Science A and Additional Science ALL examinations will be sat at the end of the course. This will mean that students studying for these exams will sit 9 exams (3 exams per subject) spread over only 6 days during May/June of year 11.

Where can Triple Science lead?

Triple Science is a demanding academic course which will prepare the boys for pursuing Science at A Level and beyond. This qualification develops a variety of key skills that can be used in all areas of working life beyond education. Separate sciences may be required for the most sought after universities or very competitive courses such as medicine, dentistry and veterinary medicine.


Mr P. Caslake, Head of Science on [email protected]

Years 10/11—Biology

Biology 1 (25%)

Biology 2 (25%)

Biology 3 (25%)

CA 2/3 (25%)

Years 10/11—Chemistry

Chemistry 1 (25%)

Chemistry 2 (25%)

Chemistry 3 (25%)

CA 2/3 (25%)

Years 10/11—Physics

Physics 1 (25%)

Physics 2 (25%)

Physics 3 (25%)

CA 2/3 (25%)


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Computer Science

Examination Board: OCR


What can I expect?

The course will give you an in-depth understanding of how computer technology works including emerging

technologies. It will provide an insight into what goes on ‘inside the box’, including acquiring and applying knowledge,

for example, the understanding of algorithms in computer programming to solve problems. The course is theory and

practical based.

How is Computing assessed?

Written Examination Paper: 40% - Computer systems and programming – 1.5 hours

Controlled assessment:

30% - Practical investigation - approx. 20 hours plus teaching time

An investigative computing task, chosen from a list provided by OCR, which assesses the following: research, technical

understanding, analysis of problem, historical perspective, use of technical writing, recommendations/evaluation.

30% - Programming project - approx. 20 hours plus teaching time

A programming task. Design, develop and test a solution to a problem within the OCR-set scenario, which assesses the

use of the following: Boolean, string, integer, file handling, arrays, loops and sequencing.

What makes a good Computing student?

It is essential that pupils choosing this option are:

Very comfortable in using mathematics

Well motivated and able to meet deadlines

Mature enough to work with minimum supervision

Logical and keen on solving problems

Interested in finding out how things work

Where can Computing lead?

The course provides excellent preparation for higher study and employment in the field of Computer Science. The

increasing importance of information technologies means there will be a growing demand for professionals who are

qualified in this area. Students who’ve taken a GCSE in Computing and who then progress to study the subject at A

Level or university will have an advantage over their colleagues who are picking up the subject at these levels.

The course will develop critical thinking, analysis and problem-solving skills through the study of computer

programming. For many students, it will be a fun and interesting way to develop these skills, which can be transferred

to other subjects and even applied in day to day life. In this respect, the course will make an excellent preparation for

students who want to study or work in areas that rely on these skills, especially where they are applied to technical

problems. These areas include engineering, financial and resource management, science and medicine.


Mr S. Moss, Head of ICT on [email protected]


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French



What can I expect?

The course involves studying the following topic areas based on the four key skills.

Listening & Reading Speaking & Writing

Out and about Media and culture

Customer service and transactions Sport

Personal Information Holidays

Future plans Business and employment

How is French assessed?

The Edexcel GCSE in French requires all pupils to carry out controlled assessments in speaking and writing and

accounts for 60% of the pupil’s final grade.

Controlled assessment involves pupils doing two speaking tests and two written tests carried out under exam

conditions. The learning content for speaking and writing comes under the following four themes -

Media & Culture

Sport & Leisure

Travel & Tourism

Business, Work & Employment

Where can French lead?

A qualification in a modern foreign language for careers such as teaching, translating and interpreting is obviously

essential. However, there are also many other varied careers where a knowledge of a foreign language alongside

other skills can be of great advantage, opening up many opportunities in careers such as banking, journalism

computing, accounting, law, sales, advertising, marketing, engineering and lorry driving. The list is extensive! The

ability to speak a foreign language will enable you to communicate with other Europeans and provide the opportunity

to travel and work not only in Europe but also worldwide. The language learning skills you develop at GCSE level will

make you more adaptable in your future life and career.

Examples of further courses that GCSE would lead to are:

Advanced level GCE

Intermediate GNVQ in Travel, Tourism and Leisure

Advanced GNVQ – Health and Social Care


Mrs C. Wadhwa, Head of MFL on [email protected]


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Spanish



What can I expect?

The course involves studying the following topic areas based on the four key skills.

Listening & Reading Speaking & Writing

Out and about Media and culture

Customer service and transactions Sport

Personal Information Holidays

Future plans Business and employment

Spanish Exchange

All pupils who choose to study Spanish will be given the opportunity to visit Spain and use their language skills in a

relevant and purposeful context. We currently have an exchange programme with a partner school in Barcelona.

Pupils are given the chance to live with a Spanish family and experience for themselves the life and culture of Spain.

How is Spanish Assessed?

The Edexcel GCSE in Spanish requires all pupils to carry out controlled assessments in speaking and writing and

accounts for 60% of the pupil’s final grade.

Controlled assessment involves the pupil doing three speaking tests and three written tests carried out under exam

conditions. The learning content for speaking and writing comes under the following four themes:

Media & Culture

Sport & Leisure

Travel & Tourism

Business, Work & Employment

Where can Spanish lead?

Spanish is the third most popular world language and is spoken in almost all of Central and Latin America as well as in the Philippines and of course Spain itself! Spanish is also the most common language in the USA and is the language of the world’s largest city – Mexico City! As trade opportunities continue to increase with Spanish-speaking countries, more and more British companies need people who can speak Spanish. Language related careers include jobs in Travel and Tourism, Translating, Interpreting and Teaching. Languages are also valuable in careers in Law, Business and Medicine. Many companies have global links in Europe and Asia and look to employ staff who can speak foreign languages.

Examples of further courses that GCSE would lead to are:

Advanced level GCE

BTEC National Diploma in Travel and Tourism Level 3

National Certificate/Diploma in Health & Social Care Level 3


Mrs C. Wadhwa, Head of MFL on [email protected]


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Geography



What can I expect?

The course looks at key Human and Physical Geographical issues on a local, national and global scale. It provides a

clear overall view of the world in the first part of the 21st century and a sound foundation for those pupils who intend

to continue to study the subject to a higher level.

Human Geography

Changing Urban Environments

Population

Tourism

Physical Geography

The Restless Earth

Water on the Land

Rocks, Resources and Scenery

How is Geography assessed?

Paper 1 – Physical Geography – 3 questions – 37.55% of the total mark

Paper 2 – Human Geography – 3 questions – 37.55% of the total mark

Controlled Assessment – 20 hours of work including fieldwork – 25% of the total mark

Level of Entry

There are two tiers of assessment and candidates will be entered for one tier only. The tiers used are targeted.

Foundation (F) C – G and Higher (H) A* - D

What makes a good Geography student?


well motivated

able to meet deadlines

mature enough to work with minimum supervision.

It is essential that candidates have a good command of written English

Where can Geography lead?

Students who study Geography learn and develop a wide range of skills that are required for further study and in the

work place. These include Leisure, Travel and Tourism, Meteorology, Social Service, Business and Finance, Scientific

Service, Environmental Management and many, many more.


Ms S. Crosbie, Head of Humanities on [email protected]


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History

Examination Board: OCR


What will I study?

You will study four areas of History:

British History 1890-1918

USA: 1919-1941

International Relations: The Cold War 1945-1975

A Historical Enquiry: Germany 1918-1945

How will I be assessed?

There will be an examination paper of one and a half hours on British History 1890-1918.

There will be an examination paper of two hours which will be on USA 1919-1941 and The Cold War 1945-1975.

There will be a Controlled Assessment on A Thematic Study in 20th Century History: Warfare.

What can I expect?

A substantial amount of the work will be source-based so will require quite a lot of reading, but also observational skills as some of the sources will be visual. A study of political cartoons is particularly important in this course.

Students will have frequent opportunities to hone their exam skills during the course the two year course as exam questions will often be set either in class or as part of homework.

There is a strong emphasis on independent learning so students will often be given a question or a task and left to decide for themselves how they will research and present their ‘answer’.

There will be paired and group work which will require students to solve a problem or choose between several possible solutions or answers.

What makes a good GCSE History student?

A good History student needs to be:

well motivated and able to meet deadlines

willing and able to do independent research – VERY important for a historian

full of ideas

interested in a wide range of subjects and topical issues

willing to listen to and accept advice

good literacy skills

able to organise his ideas, write in paragraphs and use evidence to support his point of view

Where can History lead?

It fits in well with almost all combinations of subjects that you might want to do in further education.

It is acceptable as a non-vocational qualification for virtually any career or form of further education.

Even for science subjects, it is a good qualification to have since it shows that your education has been broadly based. Many universities, for example, prefer pupils who have a wide range of passes at GCSE.

History includes a large number of highly transferable skills that will be useful in a whole range of jobs. People with History qualifications are amongst the most sought after in the jobs market for this very reason.


Ms S. Crosbie, Head of Humanities on [email protected]


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Art and Design



What can I expect?

A 100% practical course

The opportunity to work with a wide variety of art equipment

To be influenced by other artists and cultures

To work in a variety of styles ensuring that you are continually challenged to achieve your maximum potential

How is Art assessed?

Pupils create a portfolio selected from work undertaken during the course.

The portfolio must include one extended project and other pieces of work. This unit is worth 60% of the overall mark.

The externally set task (examination).

Students are allowed a preparation period of about 5/6 weeks in order to gather their research and work towards a final piece (or pieces). Students then sit a 10 hour controlled conditions examination to enable them to produce their final piece(s) from their chosen starting point. This unit is worth 40% of the overall mark.

What makes a good Art Student?

Someone who is creative, imaginative and capable of generating their own thoughts, ideas and opinions

Someone who is dedicated and hardworking

Someone who is able to focus upon an area of study for a sustained period of time

The ability to direct your own coursework based on a given theme

Where can Art lead?

All of the skills which are continually utilised in Art, like being a good self-manager, an independent

enquirer and a creative thinker are life-long skills which are essential in many walks of life. Art specific

careers include:

Art Teacher, Graphic Designer, Fashion Designer, Illustrator, Art therapist,

Set Designer, Animation, Jewellery Designer/Maker, Architect


Mrs C. Carrington, Head of Creative on [email protected]


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Business Studies



How is Business Assessed?

Business will be following the Edexcel specification and students will take two written papers at the end of year 11 as

well as a controlled assessment. Topics covered over the two years include; Enterprise, Marketing, Finance, Human

Resource Management and Business Organisation.

Unit 1 – 25% (Introduction to Small Business)

Consists of 20 multiple choice questions from ‘Introduction to small Business’.

Unit 2 – 25% (Controlled Assessment)

Students will be given a pre designed task which will involve investigating a business. Students will spend time

researching their business and planning their task. Students will then be designated three one-hour sessions where

they have to draw up their own individualised presentation of findings.

Unit 3 – 50% (Building a Business)

Consists of a variety of small case studies which students have to read, interpret and analyse in order to answer

questions.

What makes a good Business student?

A student who is:

Self-Motivated

Creative

Interested in leadership or management

Interested in starting up their own business

Interested in how running a business works

Interested in enterprise

Where can Business lead?

Examples of further courses that GCSE would lead to are: GCE Business, GCE Economics, GCE Applied Business.

Whatever career path you choose in the future, you will be working in a business—whether that ‘business’ is a

solicitors, theatre company, hospital, insurance company, pharmacy or a vet. All of these businesses will have to

consider business concepts and ideas, and this subject will give you an understanding of them.


Mr K. Lynam, Head of Business Studies on [email protected]


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Drama



What can I expect?

GCSE Drama is about putting yourself in somebody else’s position. You will play many different parts in imaginary

situations. You will also learn practical skills associated with acting. You will have the opportunity to create your own

work as well as looking at plays written by other people.

The general aims of the GCSE course are to encourage pupils to:

Explore ways of realising plays on stage

Take part in performances

Study the art of play writing

Develop technical skills e.g. set design, lighting design & costume

How is Drama assessed?

Unit 1 – Written Examination 40%

Unit 2 – Drama Performance 60%

What makes a good Drama student?

You will enjoy this course if you want to study a subject that is both practical and creative. You will require:

The ability to work with other people – almost all of the work in Drama is in groups.

A good imagination and a willingness to experiment with different styles of performance.

The skills you have gained in English to enable you to analyse the plays you will read and perform.

Where can Drama lead?

You can go on to study—AS or A Level drama, Theatre Studies, Performing Arts. GCSE Drama is highly regarded by

colleges and universities because students are trained to be confident, creative, communicative and capable. They

learn to present topics with flair and imagination in front of their peers without hesitation and learn to become highly

skilled leaders and team players.

Drama advances students ability to ‘think on the spot’ and to read people. Therefore any careers requiring you to

work with clients face to face, deliver presentation, conduct interviews and manage people will benefit from this

course. Drama is recognised by a variety of college and university courses such as Youth and Community Work, Social

Work, Journalism, Marketing and Teaching.

Careers directly related to Drama—Media and Television, Drama Therapist, Arts Administrator, Drama Teacher, Radio

Presenter, Theatre Director, Actor, Theatre/Production Assistant.


Mrs C Carrington, Head of Creative on [email protected]


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Hospitality and Catering



Catering coursework

The coursework tasks and design problems that you are set will reflect the working practices currently employed both

in Michelin star restaurants and in industry in general. You will be designing meals and menus that address specific

nutritional needs and learning how to balance all aspects of culinary requirements. You will be expected to work

collaboratively with other students and to take control of your own working practices in the food technology room.

You will learn how to assess and judge all health and safety considerations both in your working, food preparation and

cooking methods as well as the healthy and good nutritional value of the food that you prepare.

Much of this will be practical based and it is essential that you have the organisational skills to ensure you arrive at

school with the ingredients needed for the recipe that you have developed. A large proportion of the course is

practical based but you must be able to complement this with good recording and evaluation of your working methods

and the food items you produce. In this way, the examiners will assess your decision making skills during the course.

What makes a good Hospitality & Catering student?

The ability to think ahead and organise both at home and in school.

Willingness to work with other pupils to realise a good final product.

A good imagination and the willingness to take risks in producing new recipes.

Practical work in school depends upon your ability to plan ahead and bring in the ingredients for cooking in school. If you have found this difficult in the past you need to consider carefully whether you should follow this course.

Designing and making can be extremely satisfying and rewarding with a real sense of achievement when the final

outcome is realised. A great deal of the marks for the coursework element of Catering are gained by communicating

your decision making thoughts to the examiner. Therefore the ability to annotate your work to inform the examiner

about these decisions is important. Catering has a considerable practical element but there is also a similar theoretical

content to all other GCSE subjects and therefore a full commitment to homework may be needed.

Where can Catering lead?

There is progression to related AS/A2 subjects in Southport, though these may not have exactly the same titles.

National Diplomas in Catering.

A Catering GCSE will contribute to any Further Education entry qualifications

The analytical and problem solving skills gained in Catering are highly regarded by many employers.

Subject specific careers include Catering, Food preparation, Food services, Food retail, Food technology and

manufacturing.


Mr A. Milner, Head of Technology on [email protected]


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Information Technology



What can I expect?

You will develop your:

interest and enjoyment in using ICT;

ability to analyse and solve problems;

ability to manage projects;

skills in the use of a range of Hardware and Software;

ability to choose the right software tools for the job;

understanding of how ICT is used in the world today, its capabilities and its limitations.

How is ICT assessed?

60% - 2 x Controlled Assessment Tasks – completed in Year 10 (22½ hours each). These consist of practical tasks to

create ‘professionally presented’ promotional materials such as a brochure, working spreadsheets, a multimedia

presentation and a database to aid businesses.

40% - 2x Examinations (Both examinations taken at the end of Year 11).

What makes a good ICT student?


well motivated

able to meet deadlines

mature enough to work with minimum supervision.

Although it is also essential that candidates have a reasonable command of written English, the qualities listed above

are more important than academic ability. However, no specific computer skills over and above those acquired in

school so far are required. GCSE ICT is an extremely rewarding course for those who are eager to improve their skills

in the use of technology. It provides an excellent foundation for further study and skills that are highly sought after by

many employers.

Where can ICT lead?

It provides a good basis for all further ICT courses at higher levels, such as courses in ICT, Computing or AS ICT. A

knowledge of ICT is also invaluable for almost all future courses, since many of them use ICT or require an

understanding for doing research or producing coursework. A working knowledge of ICT provides a head start for

careers almost everywhere in this country and around the world. ICT is truly global career and your work in ICT could

take you around the world. Some general job titles with ICT include a Information Technology Consultant, Database

Administrator or Multimedia Programmer.


Mr S. Moss, Head of ICT on [email protected]


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Music



What can I expect?

Music plays a huge part in everyday life. You will compose music and perform music to your highest standard.

You will learn about music from other cultures and times as well as having a free choice to perform in your own style.

You will be encouraged to:

Express yourself through music composition and performance

Prepare for the examination which embraces all styles of music

How is Music assessed?

Unit 1: Listening to and Appraising Music worth 20%

Unit 2: Composing and Appraising Music worth 20%

Unit 3: Performing Music worth 40%

Unit 4: Composing Music worth 20%

What makes a good Music student?

You must be:

Motivated and able to meet deadlines

be able to work independently i.e. regular instrumental practice

someone who enjoys Music!

There is no requirement for students to be competent instrumentalists/vocalists at this stage but a commitment to be

so is required. You will need to be committed to your music to gain the best from this course where you will be

required to perform with your peers. The vast majority of Music students profess to find the course rewarding and

enjoyable. You will be able to perform and compose in styles of your choice but you will be expected to link your

compositions to elements of music from the specification. These are called Areas of Study and cover elements such as

rhythm, metre, tonality, melody, harmony, structure, texture, timbre, dynamics and form.

There are three strands of learning;

The Western Classical Tradition, Popular Music of the 20th and 21st centuries and World Music

Each cohort has one strand assigned to their year group which is stated by AQA.

Where can Music lead?

Music is an excellent GCSE to have on your CV as it shows you have important qualities that ALL employers and

colleges are looking for such as self-discipline, organisational skills and the ability to work in a team. It can lead into

many different fields, here are just a few:

A-Level Music, degree courses and teaching qualifications, Music Technology courses, music producer or composer, working in a studio, recording artist, singer, actress or session musician. Journalism: music critic or radio presenter. Composer: advertising, film scores or jingles.


Mrs C Carrington, Head of Creative on [email protected]


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Physical Education



What can I expect in Physical Education?

In years 10 and 11 all pupils take core Physical Education. During this Key Stage, pupils will further develop their

tactical awareness in a range of activity areas and will learn to perform more advanced skills and techniques.

In addition to the core Physical Education lessons, the department offers GCSE PE and the BTEC Level 2 First Award in

Sport qualification.

GCSE Physical Education

We offer GCSE Physical Education to pupils at the end of Year 9 and boys undertaking the course currently follow the

Edexcel Syllabus. We pride ourselves on our excellent course delivery and our A*-C Pass Rates are always well above

the National Averages for boys.

In this course, pupils will take part in both theory and practical sessions and will be required to complete a

coursework study worth 12% of the overall qualification. Pupils are also assessed practically over four sporting

activity areas of study (48% of the total marks) and will sit a final examination in Year 11 (40% of the total marks).

Throughout Year 10 pupils will focus on developing their knowledge and understanding of the following topics:

•Healthy Lifestyles • Influences • Exercise and Fitness

They will also complete their internally assessed and externally moderated coursework task based around Analysis of Performance.

A range of practical units of work are also delivered in Year 10 and boys will provisionally receive practical scores for Football, Table Tennis, Softball and Badminton.

In Year 11 pupils will focus on developing their knowledge and understanding of the following topics:

• Cardiovascular System • Respiratory System

• Muscular System

A range of practical units of work are also delivered in Year 11 and boys will provisionally receive practical scores for Rugby, Tennis, Judo and Basketball.

Assessment arrangements will also be put in place to enable pupils to be graded in other practical areas that they may be involved in outside of the school context.

Where can GCSE Physical Education lead?

A Level Physical Education and/or BTEC National Diploma in Sport.

Ultimately potentially leading to careers in, Sports and Leisure Centres, FE Colleges, Secondary Education, Sports Development, Sports Science and Sports Coaching.


Mr J. Quirk, Head of PE on [email protected]

• Personal Health • Physical Activity • Mind and Body

• Skeletal System • Exam Skills • Effective Revision Techniques


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Product Design



Product Design Controlled Assessment – 60% of the over-all GCSE

This subject allows you to design and make products with creativity and originality using a range of materials and

techniques. The general aims for the GCSE course is to encourage pupils to:-

Design and make products

Experiment using different materials

Develop their technical skills such as designing, modelling, computer aided designing and manufacturing.

You will enjoy this course if you want to study a subject that is both practical and creative. You will be problem solving,

designing and making in the same way that the best design houses in industry work, giving you an insight into modern

working methods.

The Controlled Assessment content for Product Design requires you to be:

both well motivated and self-motivated

tenacious and able to meet short term and extended deadlines

well organised

able to make your own decisions and take risks in your work

Product Design Examination – 40% of the overall GCSE

This is a 2 hour written paper which focuses on a range of real life practical problems and scenarios. It assesses

knowledge and understanding of a range of materials, health and safety practices and environmental issues around

design and technology.

What makes a good Product Design student?

A good imagination and good graphical skills are useful but not essential, Pupils should be prepared to experiment

with different materials, the ability to work in a self-directed way, a willingness to set high standards in design and the

ability to communicate ideas and the ability to think outside the box.

Designing and making can be extremely satisfying and rewarding with a real sense of achievement when the final

outcome is realised. A great deal of marks are gained by justifying your decision-making process. Therefore, the

ability to annotate your work about these decisions is important. Product Design has a considerable practical element

which is complemented by a design portfolio. You will be encouraged to provide evidence of your thought processes

and decision making. You are required to do this through sketches, notes and photographs. This means that, at times,

a full commitment to homework may be needed.

Where can Product Design lead?

There is progression to related subjects in Southport, though these may not have exactly the same titles.

A Product Design GCSE will contribute to any Further Education entry qualifications




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Resistant Materials



Resistant Materials Controlled Assessment – 60% of the overall GCSE

This will require you to research, design and manufacture a range of 3-dimensional artefacts to solve particular problems. You will be expected to analyse and research around the chosen problem and then consider several different design solutions before refining your final design into the article you will make. You will be problem solving, designing and making in the same way that the best design houses in industry work, giving you an insight into modern working methods. You will need to be self-motivated and tenacious if you are to produce an accomplished portfolio and final article. Students following the course generally work in wood, metal and plastic although composite materials and more modern production methods are increasingly used. The use of computer-aided design and manufacture technologies are used throughout. You will be encouraged to provide evidence of your thought processes and decision making during the 40 hours of the controlled assessment element. You are required to do this through sketches, notes and photographs.

The Controlled Assessment content for Resistant Materials requires you to be:

both well motivated, self-motivated and well-organised

tenacious and able to meet short term and extended deadlines

able to make your own decisions and take risks in your work

able to work on your own initiative in practical situations

you must be able to work collaboratively with other students

Resistant Materials Examination – 40% of the overall GCSE

This is a 2 hour written paper which focuses on a range of real life practical problems and scenarios. It assesses

knowledge and understanding of a range of materials, health and safety practices and environmental issues around

design and technology.

What makes a good Resistant Materials student?

You will need to be able to plan and organise your work, be a good problem solver with the tenacity to see a long term project through to its fruition, have good analytical and evaluation skills and have good practical and making skills.

Designing and making can be extremely satisfying and rewarding with a real sense of achievement when the final outcome is realised. A great deal of marks are gained by justifying your decision-making process. Therefore the ability to annotate your work about these decisions is important. Product Design has a considerable practical element which is complemented by a design portfolio. This means that, at times, a greater commitment to homework may be needed.

Where can Resistant Materials lead?

There is progression to related AS/A2 subjects in Southport, though these may not have exactly the same titles.

National Diplomas in Engineering.

A Resistant Materials GCSE will contribute to any Further Education entry qualifications

The analytical and problem solving skills gained in Resistant Materials are highly regarded by many employers.




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BTec in Sport


Qualification: 2 BTecs Level 2 Award

BTEC Sport is a vocationally related qualification, where learners develop knowledge and understanding by applying

their learning and skills in a work-related context. These courses engage young learners to work independently and

within a team, take responsibility for their own learning and develop essential work-related skills. You must be

interested in sport but it is not essential that you have a high skill level in PE. You need to be able to communicate

well, both orally and in writing, with a wide range of people and possess basic ICT skills. In addition to written

coursework, this course involves lots of practical activities which you will need to enthusiastically participate in,

applying your good level of fitness. You will need to be well-motivated, be able to meet deadlines and be prepared to

work hard.

Why study BTEC Sport?

The course aims to encourage personal development through practical application and performance in a range of sports and exercise activities

Gives learners a wider understanding and appreciation of health-related fitness, sports and exercise through selection of optional core units namely Practical Sport and Health and Fitness for Sport and Exercise

Encourage learners to develop their people, communication, planning and team-working skills by having the opportunity to select optional specialist units available in the qualification structure

The course is taught through practical activities wherever possible

It introduces you to the employment area you may have chosen and provides a good basis for more advanced work-related qualifications

Provides for a smooth transition from Level 2 to Level 3 BTEC Sport

What will I study and how am I assessed?

Depending upon the progress of the student they will be entered for one of the following qualifications:

The Edexcel BTEC Level 2 First Award in Sport is taught over 120 guided learning hours (GLH). It has core and optional specialist units. Learners must complete the two core units and a choice of optional units to reach a total of 120 GLH. The BTEC First Award has units that are assessed internally and a unit that Edexcel sets and marks externally.


Mr S. Keary, Teacher in Charge on [email protected]

Edexcel BTEC Level 2 First Award in Sport

Unit Core units Assessment method GLH

1 Fitness for Sport and Exercise External Online Exam 30

2 Practical Sports Performance Internal 30

Optional Specialist Units

3 The Mind and Sports Performance Internal 30

4 The Sports Performer in Action Internal 30

5 Training for Personal Fitness Internal 30

6 Leading Sports Activities Internal 30


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BTec in Sport


Qualification: 1 BTec at Level 2 Award

Edexcel BTEC Level 2 First Certificate in Sport

This qualification is taught over 240 guided learning hours (GLH). It has core, mandatory and optional specialist units.

Learners must complete the two core units, the additional mandatory unit and a choice of optional specialist units to

reach a total of 240 GLH. If a learner has already achieved a BTEC Level 1/Level 2 First Award qualification, they may

carry forward their unit results for use in larger BTEC Level 1/Level 2 First qualifications within the same sector. The

BTEC First Award has units that are assessed internally and units that Edexcel sets and marks externally.

Further information can be found at http://www.edexcel.com/quals/firsts2012/sport/Pages/default.aspx

Where can BTec Sport lead?

A Level Physical Education and/or BTEC National Diploma in Sport.

Ultimately potentially leading to careers in, Sports and Leisure Centres, FE Colleges, Secondary Education, Sports Development, Sports Science and Sports Coaching.


Mr S. Keary, Teacher in Charge on [email protected]

Edexcel BTEC Level 2 First Certificate in Sport

Unit Core units Assessment GLH

1 Fitness for Sport and Exercise External 30

2 Practical Sports Performance Internal 30

Mandatory unit

7 Anatomy and Physiology for Sports Performance External 30

Optional specialist units

3 The Mind and Sports Performance Internal 30

4 The Sports Performer in Action Internal 30

5 Training for Personal Fitness Internal 30

6 Leading Sports Activities Internal 30

7 Promotion and Sponsorship in Sport Internal 30

8 Lifestyle and Well-being Internal 30

10 Injury and the Sports Performer Internal 30

11 Running a Sports Event Internal 30

12 The Sport and Active Leisure Industry Internal 30

http://www.edexcel.com/quals/firsts2012/sport/Pages/default.aspx

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