Updated March 2012

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Dear Parents/Carers As Year 10 approaches, all Year 9 students have an opportunity to make some choices about their course of study in Key Stage 4. Certain subjects remain compulsory, but as this guide shows, there is scope to choose from a selection of pathway subjects also. The pathways we offer are arranged in such a way to encourage students to study as broad and balanced a curriculum as possible, in line with the aims and philosophy of this school. Choosing such subjects means that students should think about what they are good at and enjoy, as well as possible future career paths. Above all, it is important to keep options open, so that no doors remain closed in the coming years. Over recent years we have widened the range of course opportunities considerably and make every effort to ensure that each child has a personal curriculum appropriate to achieving maximum potential We strongly encourage students to talk over their choices with both parents and teachers at this time, so that subjects are chosen for sound reasons. We hope you find this booklet both clear and useful. Mrs D Spence Headteacher

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The Curriculum in Years 10 and 11 The curriculum in Years 10 and 11 is made up of compulsory and optional elements. The compulsory core comprises English, Mathematics, Science, Design and Technology and ICT for some. Religious Education and Physical Education are also included as part of the students’ general education and in line with National Curriculum requirements. The English Baccalaureate is a certificate to recognise students who have achieved 5 good GCSEs (A*-C) in English, Maths, Science, a Language (French, German or Spanish) and a Humanities subject (Geography or History). Students who aspire to university are advised to consider this combination of subjects. There is also a ‘guided choices’ element and details of these courses are outlined. It is important that students keep their future as open as possible and we strongly advise that the subjects considered ensure that a balanced curriculum is followed. There are a number of people who can help and give advice. These include form tutors and individual subject teachers. It is imperative that students talk to the right people to clear up any queries. Mr Thompson and Mrs Elms will monitor students’ choices and advise if any difficulties are foreseen.

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The Pathways Process The pathways process is complex and the school is committed to guiding students towards suitable choices. However, limitations on class size and available resources can inhibit complete freedom of choice. Final decisions about subject availability in relation to student choice will rest with the school. We do our best to give each student all appropriate choices Timeline Monday 12th March, 2012 – Pathways issued to students Monday 19th March, 2012 - Pathways sheet returned to Student Services on or before this date From Thursday 22nd March, 2012 - Individual pathways interviews. We will offer you a range of dates and times. Parents and students are advised to attend Do not hesitate to contact Mr Thompson or Mrs Elms if you have any queries

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For more information The following staff will be able to provide further information about arrangements, courses and subjects

Mr Thompson - General information Mrs Mallon - English Mr Eyre - Mathematics Mr Radcliffe - Science Mrs Mitchell - ICT Mr Drury - Design and Technology Mr Ross - Catering and Hospitality Ms Bentley - RE Miss Lynch/Mrs Kendrick - Geography Ms Bentley - History Mrs Mallon - Media Studies Miss Howie - Music Miss Howie - Music Technology Mrs Eyre - Modern Foreign Languages (MFL) Mrs Gadsby-Mace - Art Mrs Gadsby-Mace - Expressive Arts Miss Neill - Business Studies Mr Dolan - BTEC Sport and GCSE PE Mrs Johnson - Health & Social Care Mr Kilroy - Construction Mr Kojder - Asdan Mr Thompson - Preparing for working life

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Compulsory courses In Years 10 and 11, all students follow the National Curriculum and will study:

Course

GCSE English Language and GCSE English Literature or

GCSE English GCSE Mathematics

GCSE Triple Science or

GCSE Double Science or

GCSE Single Science or

BTEC Science Design and Technology

GCSE Product Design

or GCSE Graphic Products

or GCSE Resistant Materials

or BTEC Music Technology

or GCSE Catering

ICT*

OCR National in ICT or

GCSE ICT GCSE Religious Education

Physical Education

*Students studying Triple Science will only study ICT if they choose it as a pathway choice

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Design and Technology Choices

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Design and Technology Product Design

Accreditation: GCSE Subject Leader: Mr N Drury

Information The majority of students will study AQA Product Design. This GCSE course involves students in activities which develop innovation and flair when designing products. The course does not have a material bias and anticipates that students will develop their skills through project work that encourages them to explore and develop, experience and express their design and making capabilities and make effective use of ICT. Students are exposed to a wide variety of materials and manufacturing techniques including computer aided design and manufacture (CAD/CAD). Projects undertaken give students the opportunity to develop their understanding in the areas of Product Design, Electronic Control and Graphics using a variety of materials. Upon completion of these preparatory projects, students will be able to confidently undertake their assessed coursework. In previous years students have developed interactive projects based on educational learning aids, charity collecting boxes, mood lighting, advertising displays and board games. How you will be examined The assessment of students is determined through coursework (60%) and external examination (40%). The coursework is a large component of this syllabus and takes a considerable time to complete. Therefore, meeting deadlines is one of the most important skills students need to demonstrate.

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Design and Technology Graphic Products

Accreditation: GCSE Subject Leader: Mr N Drury

Information This GCSE course encourages students to think about designing and modelling. Students will use ICT, CAD/CAM, paper, card and lots of different graphic media to look at how graphics can be used to communicate ideas and themes. Sketching and freehand drawing techniques, enhancement techniques, using colour and different methods of presenting ideas will be explored. Some formal methods of drawing will also be taught and how to illustrate thoughts and ideas effectively. Students will look into commercial packaging methods and create 3-dimensional outcomes in different materials. Practical skills will need to be developed and new methods of construction and modelling explored. There are clear links between the Art and Design curriculum and the study of GCSE Graphic Products. In combination, the two subjects complement each other and are a good launch pad for those students who might want to study Art or Product Design for AS or A level. How you will be examined The assessment of students is determined through coursework (60%) and external examination (40%). The coursework is a large component of this syllabus and takes a considerable time to complete. Therefore, meeting deadlines is one of the most important skills students need to demonstrate.

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Design and Technology Resistant Materials

Accreditation: GCSE Subject Leader: Mr N Drury

Information On this course students acquire and apply knowledge, skills and understanding through: analysing and evaluating products and processes; engaging in focused practical tasks to develop and demonstrate techniques; engaging in strategies for developing ideas, planning and producing products; considering how past and present design and technology, relevant to a designing and making context affects society; recognising the moral, cultural and environmental issues inherent in design and technology; designing and making a quality final product from a range of suitable materials. This course would particularly suit students who enjoy working in the workshop using wood, metal and/or plastic and a range of machines and hand tools. How you will be examined The assessment of students is determined through coursework (60%) and external examination (40%). The coursework is a large component of this syllabus and takes a considerable time to complete. Therefore, meeting deadlines is one of the most important skills students need to demonstrate.

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Design and Technology Catering

Accreditation: GCSE Subject Leader: Mr J Ross

Information Taught and assessed within school, this course follows the WJEC specification. It provides you with the opportunity to: improve your food preparation and cooking skills; gain a knowledge of how the catering industry operates; develop an understanding of nutrition and healthy eating; develop an understanding of how food choice is affected by lifestyle, budget, ethical and time factors; gain an understanding of the importance of working safely and hygienically; carry out a detailed investigation of a catering outlet; fast track on to Level 2 NVQ food courses when leaving school; gain a grade that can be used to support an application for any post-16 course. Entry requirements Students will be required to complete a food hygiene certificate before starting the course. This will be done in lesson and students’ own time during the first two weeks of Year 10 Teaching 60% Practical 40% Theory How you will be examined A combination of coursework, practical assessment and a final written exam are used to assess students; 25% practical assessment; 75% written assessment. Who is it for? This course suits all ability levels but students must understand that written work accounts for a considerable part of the assessment and must be committed to the subject Anyone that enjoys cooking and is prepared to work hard.

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Design and Technology

Music Technology Accreditation: BTEC

Subject Leader: Miss L Howie Information Students who wish to study this subject cannot chose GCSE music as one of their pathway choices. Why Music Technology? Do you enjoy ICT activities and want to develop IT skills? Do you enjoy Music? Do you have an interest in recording techniques? Do you enjoy pop/rock/jazz/hip hop music? Do you fancy yourself as a DJ? You don’t have to be able to play an instrument as it is an ICT based course! There is also no exam, only moderated coursework. What is involved? This is an Edexel BTEC Extended Certificate qualification which requires students to work through 4 units of work. The units available cover a wide range of interests including; DJ Technology, Creating a Music Product, Producing a Musical Recording, Working as a Musical Ensemble, Computer systems, Solo Performance and many more. Students will choose four units to complete in two years. What skills will it develop? Music Technology gives a fantastic experience in music and technology. It allows you to explore many different music pathways from live sound engineering to studio producer and gives an insight to working within the music profession. It also provides pupils with a great platform who then wish to continue onto the BTEC Diploma course at college. How you will be examined There is no exam; the assessment of students is through coursework only. The coursework is marked at Pass (C Grade) Merit (B Grade) Distinction (A/A* Grade) and can be improved at any time throughout the two year course.

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Curriculum Choices

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Art and Design Accreditation: GCSE

Subject Leader: Mrs A Gadsby-Mace Information Syllabus A. (General) This syllabus is intended for those students who wish to follow an exciting, broad and varied course. It encourages a variety of creative experiences and employs a wide range of media, processes and techniques. The course encourages students’ personal responses to initial starting points in all areas. It provides a sound basis for all college courses and careers in Art, Design, Graphics, Fashion, Photography, Fine Art, 3-D and Textiles as well as careers in Stage Design, the Media and Architecture. Coursework consists of a folder including a minimum of 3 practical assignments. Students may choose to include any of the following: Drawing and Painting (Fine Art), Textile Design (including 3D / Soft Sculpture), Graphic Design (Printmaking is included in all of the above areas.), 3D – Design,. At Least 2 areas from the above list must be included in their coursework folder. (Students may wish to include all areas however!)

Homework and personal art work is an essential part of the course. This may be ongoing classwork, or a special assignment. Students will be encouraged to visit exhibitions and galleries, and will have the opportunity to gain insight into the work of other artists.

Students are kept informed of further education and career opportunities in all areas of Art and Design. College visits will be arranged to acquaint students with currently available courses. Art college students are invited to the department to advise our students and give information on available courses. How you will be examined This takes place at the end of the 2 year course via a student exhibition. Work is graded by students’ course tutors plus an external moderator: Coursework = 60% (Minimum of 3 assignments + preparation) Examination = 40% (10 hours unaided work with a theme set by the exam board over 2 days).

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ASDAN

Accreditation: Foundation learning Subject Leader: Mr R Kojder

The ASDAN course offers imaginative ways of developing, recording and certificating a wide range of young people’s personal qualities, abilities and achievements, as well as introducing them to new practical activities and challenges. Students can achieve the Bronze Award and the file of work produced can be used to help gain entry to work placements and college courses. Although the ASDAN course is a non-GCSE course, some students may continue it further to complete the CoPE Level (Certificate of Personal Effectiveness), which is equivalent to GCSE Levels B or E, by the end of year 11.

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Business Studies

Accreditation: GCSE Subject Leader: Ms K Neill

Information Business Studies is a dynamic subject which blends a number of specialist fields such as marketing, human resources, accounting and finance and operations management, which together make up a course which is highly relevant to the modern world. The syllabus gives students an opportunity to develop knowledge and understanding of the features and dynamics of business activities. Some of the areas covered during the course are business ownership, different industrial sectors, communication, customers and financial documentation. The course structure enables students to develop a variety of skills including organisation, communication, numeracy and research skills. This popular subject combines practical and written work and helps students make sense of the economic realities of the world in which they are going to live and work. Industry related activities, outside visits, visiting speakers, field and market research and the extensive use of information technology features strongly in the course. At the end of the two year course, the students will be in an excellent position to move into further education, whether that is an A level or a vocational qualification in a Business Studies related course. How you will be examined The Business Studies GCSE is equivalent to 1 GCSE and consists of two units. Unit 1 is completed in Year 10 and is worth 60% of the final GCSE. Students investigate 2 different businesses based upon themes such as aims and objectives, stakeholders, ethics and the rights and responsibilities of employers and employees. Unit 2 is worth 40% and is examined externally which is taken in the summer of Year 11. This exam focuses on business finance and the students will learn about cash flow, profit and loss and different types of costs a business may experience. Students will be required to undertake one in-depth study into two contrasting businesses which will be assessed through coursework and one external examination which will be sat in Year 11.

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Business, Retail and Admin Accreditation: BTEC

Subject Leader: Miss K Neill

Information The BTEC Introductory Certificate in Business, Retail and Administration is designed to: • Develop a range of employability skills and techniques, understanding, personal qualities and attitudes essential for success in working life. • Develop learners’ ability in business, retail and administration through effective use and combination of the knowledge and skills gained in different parts of the qualifications • Provide specialised studies directly relevant to business, retail, administration and related sectors in which learners are working or intend to seek employment • Provide a stepping stone into employment in the business, retail and administration

This area encompasses a broad range of fields, including retail, finance, sales, marketing and

administration.

The BTEC Level 1 Introductory Certificate and Diploma in Business, Retail and Administration provides

a basic introduction to working in the sector and offers opportunities for accessing further study,

such as a BTEC First qualification.

Units Unit 1: Starting Work in Business, Retail and Administration 3 Unit 2: Working in Business, Retail and Administration 3 Unit 3: Introducing Customer Service 3 Assessment is 100% coursework but some internal tests will also be undertaken.

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Construction

Accreditation: Foundation learning Subject Leader: Mr P Kilroy

Information: This is a foundation course that is aimed at providing an introduction to a wide variety of trades within the construction industry. These include: bricklaying - building a variety of structures in both brick and block and setting out an extension; plastering - cutting and fixing plasterboard, mixing plaster and skimming with finish coat; tiling - cutting to size and shape, fixing with adhesive and grouting; fixing fixtures and fittings - door locks, gutters and downspouts, shelves and brackets and skirting and architrave; painting and decorating - mixing and applying undercoats, gloss and emulsion by brush and roller. In each area students will be introduced to the tools, materials and equipment that are associate with each trade. Health and Safety is an important aspect of the course. Students will be provided with overalls and safety footwear that must always be worn. As part of the assessment students will be required to demonstrate that they can complete the tasks to a basic standard following all safety measures put in place. The vast majority of the course is practical. However, each student is required to have knowledge of equipment, materials and construction methods. Students will demonstrate their learning through portfolio evidence and end of unit tests. Some formal classroom tuition is required to achieve this. At the end of the course there is a compulsory on-line multiple choice test that students must pass in order to be awarded the certificate.

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Expressive Arts Accreditation: GCSE

Subject Leader: Mrs A Gadsby-Mace Information Expressive Arts enables students to broaden and deepen their imagination, creative knowledge and gain understanding of their cultural heritage through the study of two or more art forms, including Art, Drama, Music and Creative Writing. Students acquire a range of skills across two or more artistic disciplines. They will make comparisons across the art forms and relate practices in different art forms. This course offers new ways of working. For a wide range of students, the integrated arts approach opens new doors and creates new opportunities to work collaboratively on projects. It enables students to access a variety of arts experiences and to explore new subjects and issues with confidence. Through a process of critical analysis and through their own creative work they will be encouraged to develop the potential to identify and comment on some of their own concerns. The course encourages self-motivation and independent learning. How you will be examined Coursework = 60% (Minimum of 3 assignments + preparation) Examination = 40% (10 hours unaided work with a theme set by the exam board over 2 days).

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First In Sport Accreditation: BTEC

Subject Leader: Mr J Dolan

The Edexcel BTEC Level 2 First Award in Sport has been designed primarily for young people aged 14 to 19 who may wish to explore a vocational route throughout Key Stage 4, but it is also suitable for other learners who want a vocationally focused introduction to this area of study. It has been developed to: ● encourage personal development through practical participation and performance in a range of sports and exercise activities ● give learners a wider understanding and appreciation of health-related fitness, sports and exercise through a selection of optional specialist units ● encourage learners to develop their people, communication, planning and teamworking skills by having the opportunity to select from optional generic units available in the qualification structure ● provide education and training for sport, leisure and recreation employees ● give opportunities for sport, leisure and recreation employees to achieve a nationally recognised level 2 vocationally-specific qualification ● give full-time learners the opportunity to progress to other vocational qualifications, such as the BTEC Level 3 Nationals in Sport or Sport and Exercise Sciences, or on to GCE AS or A level, and, in due course, to enter employment in the sport and active leisure sector ● give learners the opportunity to develop a range of skills and techniques, personal skills and attributes essential for successful performance in working life. Assessment approach The BTEC Level 2 First Award in Sport includes an externally assessed unit. The assessment approach for the internally assessed units in the qualification structure enables learners to receive feedback on their progress throughout the course as they provide evidence towards meeting the unit assessment criteria. Evidence for assessment can be generated through a range of activities, including workplace assessment, role play, practical performance and verbal presentations.

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First In Sport (continued) Accreditation: BTEC

Subject Leader: Mr J Dolan

Learners will look at the nature of work within the sport sector and be encouraged to research and carry out assessment in the workplace, or in simulated working conditions, wherever possible. Learners will be encouraged to take responsibility for their own learning and achievement, taking into account industry standards for behaviour and performance. Learners must complete the two core units, and a choice of optional units to reach a total of 120 GLH. This can include up to 30 GLH of optional generic units*. This BTEC First Award has units that your centre assesses (internal) and a unit that Edexcel sets and marks (external). Edexcel BTEC Level 2 First Award in Sport Unit Core units Assessment method GLH 1 Fitness for Sport and Exercise External 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 Optional generic units* G1 Active Community Volunteering Internal 30 G2 Work Experience Internal 30 G3 Carrying out a Vocationally-related Project Internal 30 * Learners may select only one of the optional generic units.

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Geography

Accreditation: GCSE Subject Leader: Miss J Lynch/Mrs R Kendrick

Information Two of the main advantages of studying Geography are that it enables people to make sense of the rapidly changing world in which we live and it helps with many careers such as the Tourist and Leisure Industries, Business Management, Redevelopment, Environmental management, hazard management plus a host of other opportunities. Geography is a subject that both universities and employers value. This is due to the skills that you develop whilst studying the course, which include: decision making, problem solving and handling data. On top of this it is considered very highly by all colleges and universities due to its academic status. It would be impossible to study Geography without seeing other places in the world for yourself. Therefore, there will be opportunities to undertake field work in the UK, including a residential in the Yorkshire Dales. How you will be examined The course studied is GCSE OCR B. This contains three sections: Sustainable Decision Making (25%); Controlled Assessment (25%); Terminal exam (50%). The syllabus studied is based on 4 themes: Rivers and Coasts; Population and Settlement; Natural Hazards; Economic Development. The controlled assessment comes in two parts. The first is fieldwork based which will involve conducting your own fieldwork tests and creating a written report on your findings. The second is the geographical investigation based on topics such as world sport, the global fashion industry, conflict diamonds and the overuse of valuable resources. GCSE Geography covers many topics which have already been looked at briefly at Key Stage 3. However, they are covered in more depth. This means that our students are already aware of the basics included in each topic and can develop their knowledge further.

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Health and Social Care Accreditation: GCSE

Subject Leader: Mrs S Johnson Information This GCSE (Single Award) is made up of two mandatory units, one of which is externally assessed and the other internally assessed and externally moderated. Health, Social Care and Early Years Provision is the unit where a portfolio is produced and internally assessed. It includes the study of service users, the services that are offered and the people who work within the health and social care sectors. Learners produce a study about the services within the sectors. Understanding Personal Development and Relationships is the examined unit. Topics covered include the stages and pattern of human growth and development, how people develop their self-concept and major life events and sources of support. Learners also consider relationships and the effect they have on people throughout their lives. Examples of appropriate employment to which a GCSE in Health and Social Care learner might progress include: Nursery Nurse, Care Assistant, Child minder, Pre-school/Nursery School Assistant. The GCSE could contribute towards meeting the entry requirements for training for nursing and professions such as occupational therapy, physiotherapy and pharmacy, for example. It could also contribute towards meeting the entry requirements for teaching and working with people with disabilities

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History Accreditation: GCSE

Subject Leader: Ms K Bentley Information The course studied is the Modern World (Edexcel) You will study Outline study, Peace and war 1901—1991. This unit includes World War One and Two, The Cold War and the collapse of the Soviet Union. A depth study about Germany 1918-1939. This unit focuses on The Weimar Republic, Hitler and the rise of the Nazi Party and Nazi controlled Germany. A source enquiry about The USA 1945-1970. This unit include the Civil rights movement and Martin Luther King, Malcolm X and Black Power and anti-war protests and the 1960’s. Representations of History - Crime, Policing and Punishment in England c1880-c1990. This unit includes the abolition of the death penalty with a case study on Derek Bentley, Law and order with a focus of the miners strikes and on developments in policing and a case study on Jack the Ripper. How you will be examined Unit 1 - Outline study - Exam worth 25%; Unit 2 - Depth Study - Exam worth 25%; Unit 3 - Source enquiry - Exam worth 25%; Unit 4 - Representations of history - Controlled assessment worth 25%. Is it for me? The course is academic in nature. It leads on to AS and A2 levels, and is useful for any career where valuable skills like thinking skills, analysis and organisational skills are needed. In History you deal with real people and work out why they did what they did. You will improve your ability to judge how much of the truth you are being told. It will suit anyone who is interested in finding out more about the world they live in as the events of the last 100 years help to explain the problems and opportunities of the world today.

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Hospitality

Accreditation: GCSE Subject Leader: Mr J Ross

Information We follow the WJEC specification for this qualification. This is a fun and exciting course for students who are willing to work hard as part of a team. The topics we will cover are: • The industry – hospitality • Types of service provided and the related client groups. • Job roles, employment opportunities and relevant training. • Menu planning, preparation and presentation. • Planning for functions and events. • Costing menus and events. • Customer care. • Standards of service. • Communication and teamwork. • Environmental considerations The majority of this course will be delivered through project work. Students will work as part of a team to put on a variety of events and complete individual assignments. We will make full use of the brand new hospitality suite (included in the BSF new build). Events will include: • Afternoon tea • Catering for Governors meetings • Celebratory lunches/baby showers • Leaving parties • Fine dining (Evening functions and restaurant service) • Catering for visitors to school As part of this course students will have the opportunity to visit a variety of hospitality locations including: • The Lowry Hotel • The ibis Hotel • Room Restaurant • Chain restaurants (e.g. Pizza Hut, Chiquitos etc.) • Coffee shops (e.g. Starbucks)

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Hospitality (continued) Accreditation: GCSE

Subject Leader: Mr J Ross Learning: • 40% written • 40% practical (serving skills and other hospitality tasks) • 20% practical (cooking) Assessment: • 60% written • 40% practical Not sure if this is the course for you? Search ‘Michele Roux’s Service’ on BBC iplayer. Watch an episode and decide if you would want be one of the trainees! Please note students will need to pay towards the cost of ingredients where they are taking dishes home and for transport to any businesses we visit. As a reflection of the hospitality industry students will be required to attend a small number of sessions outside of normal school hours to complete some of the assignments set.

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ICT

Accreditation: OCR National Subject Leader: Mrs R Mitchell

Information The OCR Nationals qualification provides our students with a high quality, industry relevant qualification. It is vocationally-related study which provides valuable opportunities for students to develop skills and gain underpinning knowledge and understanding which will support entry into work or progression to further studies through Further or Higher education. This qualification holds no timetabled exam, and the units are graded as Pass, Merit of Distinction (equivalent to Grade C, B, and A at GCSE). The OCR Nationals qualification will be particularly useful for students wishing to eventually enter a job role where there is an expectation to use IT and communication skills, liaise with customers and carry out ICT operational roles. Students are encouraged to use a USB Memory Stick to back up their work whenever possible, and to enable easy transfer of work between school and home. The course covers a wide range of topics delivered through up to seven units. Topics include working with spreadsheets, database, multimedia, desk top publishing web design, graphics and other ICT activities. All Year 10 and 11 students study one of the four different versions of this qualification - these are shown in the table below. How you will be examined There is no examination for this qualification. All units are assessed through a portfolio of work. There are four different versions of this very flexible qualification - the qualification chosen will depend on the pathway identified for each student, their ability in ICT, their motivation to complete all work required and their attendance to lessons. Qualification Equivalent GCSE First award in ICT 1 Award in ICT 2 First certificate 3 National certificate in ICT 4

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ICT Accreditation: GCSE

Subject Leader: Mrs R Mitchell

Information GCSE ICT is for everybody. Whatever choice you make in life you will need know how to operate computers. When you leave school in 2015 what type of ICT digital world will you be joining? ICT@Hyde prepares you for the digital age and teaches you many different skills you will need to be successful with computers from how to set up a home network to why different mobile phones are suitable for different people. The course is broken down as below: - How you will be examined UNIT 1: Living in a Digital World In this unit, students explore how digital technology impacts on the lives of individuals, organisations and society. Students learn about current and emerging digital technologies and the issues raised by their use in a range of contexts (learning and earning, leisure, shopping and money management, health and well-being, on the move). They develop awareness of the risks that are inherent in using ICT and the features of safe, secure and responsible practice. 40% of marks and a written paper 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. Students learn to reflect critically on their own and others’ use of ICT and to adopt safe, secure and responsible practice. They put into practice what they learned about digital technology in Unit 1. 60% of marks, a controlled assessment Not only will you study all the exciting theory behind ICT, but as part of this thrilling ICT qualification you will study design elements. In “Using digital tools” you will be tasked in planning and creating interactive assessments within the schools iMac suite. You not only learn all the features of a Windows environment but you will also get to grips with the Mac environment.

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Media Studies

Accreditation: GCSE Subject Leader: Mrs L Mallon

Information Media Studies is an exciting subject in which you will be encouraged to gain in-depth knowledge of newspapers, magazines, television, film, radio and popular music. You will be expected to analyse the different media as well as using your knowledge to make your own media texts. Media Studies will help you to develop a better understanding of the world around you. As part of your Media Studies course you will learn how to use video and tape recording equipment. You will look at how newspapers are made, study the development of popular music genres and analyse a variety of films. You will apply what you have learned to making your own media texts such as newspapers, magazines and television programmes. It is important to have a real interest in this subject. Enthusiasm and hard work will be rewarded. Media Studies is one of the fastest growing courses in this country and as media is so much a part of all our lives it is very useful to learn how the industry works. How you will be examined You will complete three pieces of coursework and a practical project over the two years. This coursework will make up 50% of your final mark. You will also sit a controlled test at the end of Year 11 which will make up the other 50% of your award. You will know in advance what the test is about and will have prepared the work in class. Coursework is an essential part of Media Studies GCSE so you will need to be committed to the subject.

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Modern Foreign Languages

Spanish and French Accreditation: GCSE

Subject Leader: Mrs D Eyre

Information Students follow a two year course in French or Spanish covering four areas of experience - ‘Lifestyle’, ‘Leisure’, ‘Home and Environment’ and ‘Work and Education’. There are many International companies with branches here in the UK who prefer applicants to have a language. It enables employees to work in, or with people from, many different countries.

If you have language skills you really can have a successful career in many different fields. A language can add 10–15% to your salary and really make you stand out from the competition. More than 30% of UK businesses employ people specifically for their language skills. 72% of UK international trade is with non-English-speaking countries. Most employers do not require complete fluency. They want conversational ability, which will give a good impression, help to build relationships and make new contacts. How you will be examined The GCSE exam consists of 4 elements: listening, speaking, reading and writing. Writing and speaking are examined by controlled assessment. Writing is examined by submission of 2 pieces of coursework (30%) and speaking is examined by carrying out two extended dialogues (30%). Listening (20%) and reading (20%) are examined by formal exams at the end of Year 11. Candidates may be entered for foundation or higher tier for listening and reading only, controlled assessments are untiered. This is dependent on student attainment.

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Music

Accreditation: GCSE Subject Leader: Miss L Howie

Why GCSE Music? Do you enjoy music, ICT and practical based lessons? Are you keen to learn an instrument or how to sing? Have you got good listening skills? Do you prefer coursework rather than sitting an exam? What is involved? 40% Performance - perform two pieces of music which will be recorded on CD and sent to the examination board for assessment. 20% Composition – create one piece of music in any style you choose. This is recorded and sent to the exam board. 20% Listening – this is related to the areas of study. 20% Composing and Appraising – create one composition using ICT – then evaluate the process. What type music is it? During the two years you will cover five Areas of Study: Rhythm and Metre Harmony and Tonality Texture and Melody Timbre and Dynamics Structure and Form These will be explored through 3 strands The Western Classical Tradition Popular Music of the 20th & 21st Centuries World Music

What skills will it develop? Even if you don’t want to plan a career in the music industry, employers favour key skills which are developed in a subject like music: Commitment, concentration, coordination, learning a new language, patience, dedication, numeracy skills.

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Music (continued) Accreditation: GCSE

Subject Leader: Miss L Howie What if I don’t play an instrument? You have two years to develop these skills further and get one extra lesson a week with a visiting teacher (which is paid for by the school). Most students have good keyboard skills or can sing so this is not a problem! How you will be examined 40% of the marks for GCSE Music is Performance coursework, which will include one piece as a Solo and one as an Ensemble (group). In addition there will be a listening exam, where students will be required to answer questions after listening to excerpts played from a CD (20%). There will also be a Controlled Assessment for Composing and Appraising (20%). Students will compose a piece of music then evaluate the process. The final marks are made up from a second composition that links two of the areas of study. (20%)

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PE

Accreditation: GCSE Subject Leader: Mr J Dolan

This specification follows on from the Key Stage 3 Physical Education programme of study by providing students with exciting opportunities to lead a healthy and active lifestyle by choosing from a variety of roles and activities in which to participate in physical activity. • The content of this GCSE Physical Education specification is designed to enable students to enjoy and understand the benefits of living a healthy and active lifestyle; to provide a route to further study in Further Education awards, such as A levels and/or the new Diplomas, and to Higher Education in PE as well as to related career opportunities. • The style of the question paper in the Full Course has been designed to include a mixture of multiple choice questions, some structured questions, and extended written answer questions set in response to a pre-released scenario. We believe this will be accessible and appealing to all students. • Students can choose from the following ways to participate: player/performer; organiser, leader/coach, choreographer or official The course may include the following units. Unit :Knowledge and Understanding PLUS Unit: The Active Participant for the Active Participant Written Paper – 1 hour 30 mins Controlled Assessment - 80 marks – 40% 90 marks – 60% Scenario issued to centres in Students can choose from the advance of the examination following ways to participate; player/performer;organiser/leader Choreographer or official.

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PE (continued) Accreditation: GCSE

Subject Leader: Mr J Dolan

Range of activities

Students should understand that regular physical activity that is fit for purpose, safe and enjoyable has the greatest impact on physical, mental and social well-being. This can be achieved through planning the targeted selection from the following physical activities as part of a balanced healthy lifestyle. Students should understand the reasons for and benefits of choosing different types of activities.

Skill Type of Activity Success is… Outwitting opponents games activities overcoming opponents in

competition by directly affecting each other’s performance

Accurate replication of actions, phrases and sequences

gymnastic activities the ability to repeat actions, phrases and sequences of movement as perfectly as possible

Exploring and communicating ideas, concepts and emotions

dance activities how well a performer or choreographer expresses ideas, feelings, concepts and emotions to communicate artistic or choreographic intentions to an audience

Performing at maximum levels in relation to speed, height, distance, strength or accuracy

athletics activities achieving personal best scores or times, and in competition with others’ scores or times

Identifying and solving problems to overcome challenges of an adventurous nature

life saving, personal survival and outdoor and adventurous activities

overcoming challenges effectively and safely

Exercising safely and effectively to improve health and well-being

fitness and health activities improving feelings of health, fitness and wellbeing

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Preparation for Working Life

Information This programme is designed to improve the employability skills of students and promote independence and motivation. Although not a formal qualification in itself, the programme includes general short courses in: Job application Interview techniques Teamwork Communication Students will also get the opportunity to follow a course that is specific to their career aspirations – this could be a short course in, for example, plumbing. It could also be a long term work placement that again would be specific to the career aspirations of the student. The nature of assessment will vary from one course to another although most include some external assessment