senior school & gcses - olcs.leics.sch.uk · pdf fileyou will follow the edexcel 9-1 gcse...

Senior School & GCSEsAt Our Lady’s Convent School

Our Lady’s Convent School

Online Prospectus

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Senior SchoolAt Our Lady’s Convent School

19 Introduction u

20 Overview Years 7-9 u

21 Curriculum Years 7-9 u

22 Overview Years 10-11 u

23 Curriculum Years 10-11 u

24 Sports Leadership u

25 GCSE Prospectus u

26 Achieving Success u

27 Courses u

45 Preparing for Sixth Form u

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IntroductionFor those pupils in their teenage years, we deliver the excellent academic provision that you would expect from a leading independent school.

But, above and beyond that, we have a particularly strong emphasis on close partnerships with families. That means fostering close personal relationships with long-standing tutors who really know your daughter and her individual needs. We also offer staff-parent workshops that help bridge the gap between School and home – addressing challenges such as screen time, revision strategies and body image issues. Not to mention all the other factors that modern teenagers have to grapple with.

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Throughout the School, the pupils display an excellent attitude to their studies and an active involvement in the process of learning.Independent Schools Inspectorate

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Age 11-16 | Girls


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OverviewAt this key stage of development, our main academic aim is to embed all the skills and habits required for study success in later years. By laying firm foundations, your daughter will be far better prepared for subsequent exam demands.

Our approach to pastoral care is similar – by Year 10, we want our girls to have achieved a balanced and relatively mature attitude to the many conflicting social and academic pressures they face.

Through facing potential problems and issues early in Senior School life, we can help your daughter prepare for GCSEs and beyond with personalised help and support.

Years 7–9Senior School Ages 11 to 14

GCSE Prospectus u

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CurriculumIn a similar way to our Preparatory School, we offer a broad and balanced curriculum for your daughter with ability settings in the core subjects of Maths and English.

In addition to French and Latin, pupils also have the opportunity to study Spanish.

In the creative and practical subject areas, pupils have a myriad of exciting options to explore everything from Fine Art through to the latest coding techniques.


GCSE Prospectus u

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OverviewDuring these GCSE years, we continue honing study skills but with a natural shift in focus towards the specific requirements of exams.

Likewise, our pastoral care develops from basic lessons about handling work and personal pressures to more specific guidance on exam and career related challenges.

Wherever appropriate, we put in place individual academic mentors for any pupils needing additional help after their mock exam results.

It’s all about delivering the right support at the right time.


GCSE Prospectus u

The small class sizes allow girls to develop strong relationships with staff.

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CurriculumIn Year 10, your daughter will continue with her core subject areas and will also be able to choose three additional subjects from the published GCSE option blocks.

All pupils have the opportunity of studying up to ten subjects to GCSE and most will include a language at GCSE level (although this isn’t compulsory).

Our pupils also sit the Religious Studies (a core curriculum subject) GCSE exam during Year 10, which provides valuable experience of performing under exam conditions.


GCSE Prospectus u

The pressures of the exam years can be overwhelming at times. We feel the School were always ready to help, listen and offer guidance and kindness to our daughters when needed.

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24GCSE Prospectus u

Sports Leadership

Sports Leadership is an exciting, fun and practical course which develops vital skills for employment, further education or training. The course develops skills such as self-confidence, organisation, planning, communication and teamwork through the medium of sport.

In Year 10, within the core PE lesson all pupils will get the opportunity to gain the Sports Leaders Level 1.

Sports Leaders is a nationally recognised awarding body that enables learners to assist in leading purposeful and enjoyable sport and physical activity.

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GCSE ProspectusOur Lady’s Convent School


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Achieving GCSE successWe offer all the standard ranges of core and optional GCSE courses.

Making GCSE choices is often more difficult than decisions at A Level – because your daughter is obviously at a much earlier stage of her educational journey with us.

To reach the best decision, we encourage you and your daughter to come in and talk to us about her future A Level, degree and career aspirations.

Where appropriate, after mock results, we can arrange individual academic mentors for anyone struggling with revision or exam technique.

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YEARS 10 – 11 | GCSE PROSPECTUSSe

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Core subjects

English Language 28

English Literature 29

Mathematics 30

Religious Studies 31

Sciences 32

ICT (Level 2 ECDL) 33

Games 34

PSHE, Careers, Citizenship

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Optional subjects

Art, Craft & Design & Textiles 36

Design & Technology 37

Food & Nutrition 38

French 39

Geography 40

German 41

History 42

Music 43

Physical Education 44

Additional Information

Preparation for Sixth Form 45

GCSE coursesSe

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English LanguageEnglish Language is a creative and engaging subject. Equipping you with core skills in reading, writing, speaking and listening; it is integral to success across the curriculum as well as in future life.

Over the duration of the GCSE English course, you will have the opportunity to engage with a wide variety of fiction and non-fiction texts from across the 19th, 20th and 21st centuries. You will have the chance to find your own ‘voice’ when writing creatively or expressing a viewpoint. Approaches to learning in lessons are varied, with experienced and enthusiastic teachers tailoring lessons to the needs of the individuals within their groups, preparing you to meet the challenge of the 100% terminal examination.

In addition, you will have the opportunity to make a formal spoken language presentation in class and be awarded either a pass, merit or distinction in addition to your final GCSE grade.

NEXT COURSEt uCOURSE CONTENTS

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YEARS 10 – 11 | GCSE PROSPECTUS | CORE SUBJECTSe

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English LiteratureEnglish Literature is a subject that affords you the opportunity to travel to different times, places and cultures, without ever having to leave the classroom. Throughout the GCSE course, you will explore a rich variety of texts from Shakespeare’s chilling tale Macbeth to Blake’s dystopian representation of ‘London’ to Dennis Kelly’s modern tragedy DNA.

Through a diverse range of activities, you will be encouraged to express your interpretations of the texts you encounter, supporting these with close analysis. Lessons are tailored carefully to the needs of the individual and enable a robust preparation for the 100% terminal examination, which is the means by which the course is assessed.

Perhaps most crucially, literature is about deepening our understanding of the world in which we live and what it is to be human. Consequently, our aim is to inspire a love of literature that will last a lifetime.

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YEARS 10 – 11 | GCSE PROSPECTUS | CORE SUBJECT

NEXT COURSEt uPREVIOUS COURSE

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MathematicsThe course consists of a wide range of topics including: number work (percentages, standard form, proportionality); algebraic work (expansion of brackets, rearranging formulas, sequences); spatial work (transformations, angles and area) and data handling topics (probability, averages and spread).

You will acquire and develop a variety of skills including problem solving and decision making. You will learn how to process information efficiently in order to follow strategies that lead to successful solutions and you will be able to present solutions within the context of a problem.

You will follow the Edexcel 9-1 GCSE Mathematics course. This consists of three equally weighted papers each 1 hour 30 minutes in duration, the first of which is a non-calculator paper.

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The knowledge of which Mathematics aims is knowledge of the eternal.

Plato

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Religious StudiesWhilst studying Religious Studies you will develop an enquiring, critical and sympathetic approach to the study of at least two living religions (Judaism and Christianity) and how they express themselves in individual and social life.

You will be introduced to the challenging and varied nature of religion, and to the ways in which this is reflected in experience, belief and practice. You will identify and explore questions about the meaning and purpose of life and consider such questions in relation to religious traditions. You will have to produce evidence and arguments to support your points of view on religious concepts, beliefs and practices.

Exam board: AQA GCSE RE Judaism and Christianity

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SciencesThe study of GCSE Science helps you to understand how Science works in the world around you. It will allow you to improve your practical skills, critical thinking and encourage you to develop your opinions through debate.

You will be introduced to the ethics behind current affairs and encouraged to evaluate scientific theories that have been developed throughout the history of Science.

YOU WILL FOLLOW ONE OF TWO SCIENCE GCSE ROUTES:

1. Separate Sciences This route leads to three examinations in each of the Science disciplines: Biology, Chemistry and Physics and to three separate GCSE grades.

2. Combined Science: Trilogy This route includes two examinations in each of the disciplines: Biology, Chemistry and Physics with two GCSE grades awarded for Science.

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Whether you are a budding astronaut, doctor, vet, midwife, forensic criminologist or physiotherapist of the future, the study of Science will inspire you to follow your dreams.

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ICT (Level 2 ECDL)

We offer the ECDL (European Computer Driving Licence) Certificate in IT Application Skills which provides you with a good foundation in digital literacy. The content for each unit is taught through a variety of practical and theoretical activities during lessons and homework.

The course covers four units which will teach skills in the following areas:

• Word processing software

• Spreadsheet software

• Presentation software

• Improving productivity using IT

Assessment is through an online practical test at the end of each unit. These assessments are spaced out during Years 10 and 11. You should have completed your ECDL qualification before you start your final exams in Year 11.

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GamesGames is important for the physical wellbeing and character formation of all pupils. As such it is considered important enough to be a compulsory subject in Years 10 and 11.

You will experience a range of activities which cater for those pupils who may prefer individual sports/activities - such as badminton, aerobics, athletics and tennis - and for those whose preference is team sports - such as basketball, football and volleyball.

The aim of the PE Department for Year 10 and 11 pupils is to ensure that you not only develop your sporting skills, but also learn to lead others and appreciate the benefits and enjoyment to be derived simply from ‘taking part’.

Teamwork, cooperation, competition, enjoying victory, coping with defeat may be seen as integral aspects of Games, but they can be carried over into other areas of School life and indeed into the wider world outside - making this subject very important indeed.

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PSHE, Careers, CitizenshipCareers Education is an important part of the curriculum. Throughout the School you are encouraged to become aware of the world of work and gain the knowledge and skills needed to manage your own lifelong learning and career development.

The Justham Library affords access to careers information. University prospectuses and UCAS information is also available via the School network.

Computer aided guidance programmes enable you to investigate your

individual likes and dislikes and consider appropriate career pathways.

All pupils are encouraged to take the Morrisby Psychometric Tests of ability, aptitude and personality in Year 10 and benefit from participating in a work experience placement in Year 11.

A full programme of Personal, Social and Health Education operates throughout Years 10 and 11, covering topics such as healthy living, drug awareness and sex and relationships education. Experienced professionals come into School to give guidance and advice. In addition to this the Citizenship programme deals with issues including law, democracy, human rights and fundamental British values.

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SENIOR SCHOOL

YEARS 10 – 11 | GCSE PROSPECTUS | OPTIONAL SUBJECT


Creativity is allowing yourself to make mistakes. Art is knowing which ones to keep.

Scott Adams

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Art, Craft & Design & TextilesStudying Art and Textiles allows you to explore your creativity, stretch your imagination, increase confidence in your own ideas and engage with a highly visual society.

Throughout the course you are encouraged to experiment with wide ranging materials and techniques, evaluating work as it progresses; developing your ideas through to a conclusion. This course requires you to be experimental, to be able to plan; refine your ideas and be selective, it will enhance your learning and provide lifelong confidence in self-expression.

Techniques often explored include painting, printmaking, 3D studies, photography, multimedia, surface decoration, batik, silk painting, fabric manipulation and fashion studies.

Assessment is via portfolio (60%) and an externally set task (40%), which is a project based on a chosen subject, with a final 10 hour practical exam.

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Design & TechnologyDo you love solving problems and being creative? Then studying Design and Technology (AQA 8552) could be for you. You will be given the opportunity to develop your designing and making skills using both manual and computer aided techniques.

You will study new and emerging technologies, energy use, systems design, mechanical devices and a range of materials; considering their working properties and how they are used in manufacturing. The course is taught through practical activity where possible and will involve the designing and making of a number of products.

Focusing on planning, designing and creating products; this course will enable you to develop your problem solving, planning, organisation, communication, manufacturing and evaluation skills.

Assessment is based upon a written examination paper (50%) and a non-exam assessment in the form of a substantial design and make task (50%).

I made 5,127 prototypes of my vacuum before I got it right. There were 5,126 failures. But I learned from each one. That’s how I came up with a solution. So I don’t mind failure.

James Dyson

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Food & NutritionThis is an exciting and largely practical GCSE course; excellent if you have an interest in food preparation and science.

It provides a sound basis to move on to higher level qualifications and a wide range of careers, including food marketing, nutrition, product development, nursing or teaching. The course promotes time management skills and an analytical approach to problem solving and decision making, thereby enabling you to become an effective independent learner.

You will master practical cookery skills while developing your knowledge and understanding of the scientific principles involved. You can undertake: cooking, product analysis, experimental work and sensory analysis of dishes made. You will also develop a deeper understanding of the importance of diet, health and wider environmental issues associated with living in today’s multicultural society.

ASSESSMENT TAKES PLACE IN YEAR 11:

• Food Science investigation, 10 hours (15%)

• Food practical task, 20 hours including a 3 hour practical (35%)

• Food Preparation and Nutrition, written exam (50%).

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Development is where my heart is focused because eating is the only thing that we do that involves all the senses. We eat with our eyes and our ears and our noses.

Heston Blumenthal

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FrenchStudying French not only provides you with the basics of a lifelong skill, it also introduces you to the culture of this great European civilisation.

During the course you will be encouraged to immerse yourself in the target language as often as possible. With the use of modern technology it is easy to watch French videoclips or programmes to help the understanding of the language. Furthermore we always strive to offer trips to France to give you a real flavour of life there.

The assessment, at either Foundation or Higher Level, will be in four skills which have an equal weighting of 25%: speaking, listening, reading and writing.

THE CONTENT IS DIVIDED INTO FIVE THEMES:

Theme 1: Identity and culture

Theme 2: Local area, holiday and travel

Theme 3: School

Theme 4: Future aspirations, study and work

Theme 5: International and global dimension

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GeographyAt the heart of studying Geography is the desire to find out more about why, and how, different elements of the world work.

DURING THE GCSE COURSE YOU WILL STUDY:

Physical Geography topics: The Challenge of Natural Hazards; The Living World; Ecosystems, Tropical Rainforests and Hot Deserts; Physical Landscapes in the UK.

Human Geography topics: Urban Issues and Challenges; The Changing Economic World; The Challenge of Resource Management.

The key to understanding the world around us is to get out and experience it first hand, which is why fieldwork is vital. You will develop a range of key, transferable skills such as how to analyse data, evaluate different ideas and reach informed conclusions, and how to research effectively.

The Geography GCSE is assessed by two written examinations each of which are 1 hour and 30 minutes in length and worth 35% of the GCSE. You will also complete a third written paper which examines your fieldwork skills. This paper is 1 hour and 15 minutes in duration and is worth 30% of the GCSE.

Geography is the subject which holds the key to our future.

Michael Palin

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GermanStudying German not only provides you with the basics of a lifelong skill, it also introduces you to the culture of this great European civilisation.

During the course you will be encouraged to immerse yourself in the target language as often as possible. With the use of modern technology it is easy to watch German video clips or programmes to help the understanding of the language. Furthermore, we always strive to offer trips to Germany to give you a real flavour of life there.

The assessment, at either Foundation or Higher Level, will be in four skills areas: speaking, listening, reading and writing.

THE CONTENT IS DIVIDED INTO FIVE THEMES:

Theme 1: Identity and culture

Theme 2: Local area, holiday and travel

Theme 3: School

Theme 4: Future aspirations, study and work

Theme 5: International and global dimension

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HistoryThe GCSE course offers a varied and exciting study of the world in which we live and will help you to understand why it is the way it is. You will study four very different topics: Germany 1890-1945; Elizabethan England 1558-1603; Conflict and Tension in Asia 1950-1975; Britain, Health and Medicine through Time.

You will also learn to use, understand and assess evidence, to analyse sources such as posters, photographs and diary entries, and to sift important information from the trivial in order to formulate judgements and construct logical arguments. These are transferable skills which are of vital importance in higher education.

You will be assessed through two examinations, each of which are 1 hour and 45 minutes and worth 50% of the GCSE. Each examination includes a combination of source analysis and essay questions.

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MusicThis course builds on the central musical skills explored in Years 7 to 9 – performing, composition, listening and analysis. Music at GCSE level is accessible to all pupils; the key to success is to meet the demands of the Performance module.

Performances can be recorded at any stage of the course. Compositions are submitted near the end of the second year.

An exciting part of this new course is the Set Work, which you will study in great detail in order to understand the background, structure and compositional process. This piece changes from year to year.

You will be given an electronic copy of all notes, PowerPoints and specific musical examples to illustrate all topics covered. This will also contain lots of revision aids and sample examination questions.

ASSESSMENT:

• Performance (both solo and part of an ensemble) 30%

• Composition (two contrasting pieces) 30%

• Listening and analysis 40%

All art constantly aspires towards the condition of music.

Walter Pater

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Physical EducationThis is a practical and engaging course. You will develop your knowledge, understanding, skills and values to enhance your performance in physical activities, and understand the benefits to health, fitness and wellbeing.

Through studying four key theoretical components you will develop your knowledge and understanding of factors underpinning physical activity and sport and use this knowledge to improve performance.

YOU WILL DEVELOP AN UNDERSTANDING OF:

• How the physiological and psychological state affects performance in physical activity and sport

• The positive contribution which physical activity and sport make to health, fitness and wellbeing

• The key socio-cultural influences, which can affect people’s involvement in physical activity and sport

• How to analyse your own and others’ performances in great detail, highlighting strengths and weaknesses in performance and developing strategies to ensure that improvements can be achieved

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This qualification is suitable for anyone intending to pursue A Levels, Higher Education or any career for which an understanding of the human body or human behaviour is desirable.

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Preparing for Sixth FormDuring Year 10 and 11, your daughter has the opportunity to experience Sixth Form lessons and spend two full days as a member of Year 12 – which is a thoroughly worthwhile process for everyone.

Throughout the GCSE years, we offer extensive expert guidance on A Level choices.

It’s about creating a gradual and natural transition into the next stage of your daughter’s educational journey.

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LEGAL DISCLAIMERThe prospectus and further information booklets describe the broad principles on which the School is presently run. Although believed to be correct at the time of printing, the prospectus or further information booklets are not part of any agreement between parents and Loughborough Endowed Schools. Parents wishing to place specific reliance on matters given in the prospectus or further information booklets should seek written confirmation of that statement before accepting the offer of a place. September 2017

Our Lady’s Convent School Gray Street Loughborough Leicestershire LE11 2DZ

01509 263901 [email protected] www.olcs.leics.sch.uk

Loughborough Endowed Schools is a Company Limited by Guarantee, number 4038033 and is registered in England and Wales. It is also a Registered Charity, number 1081765.

The Registered Office is 3 Burton Walks, Loughborough, Leicestershire LE11 2DU

senior school & gcses - olcs.leics.sch.uk · pdf fileyou will follow the edexcel 9-1 gcse...

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