PCSA Options Booklet 2024 - 2026

2024

GCSE OPTIONS

ASPIRATION ~ INTEGRITY ~ RESPECT

WWW.PCSA.ORG.UK

INTRODUCTION

Dear Year 9 Student,

There are a number of important decisions you have to consider as you come towards the

end of Key Stage 3. You will soon undertake a range of two-year courses leading to public

examinations at GCSE or Level 2 equivalents, which will in turn prepare you for the next step

in your ‘learning pathway’. This may be going on to study A Levels or other Level 3 courses at

college or perhaps employment with training opportunities (apprenticeships).

You need to be fully informed before making decisions and our Options Evening will help

you with this process. This is the first major opportunity that you have had to make choices

about the subjects you will study. There is not complete freedom when making these

choices, there are some compulsory elements of study.

It is vital that you consider your options carefully and objectively. Do not be influenced by the

choices of your friends or whether you like or dislike particular teachers. It is always useful to

speak with our Careers Team, Mr. Wilmot and Miss Silmon, to find out which qualifications

you require to achieve your goals and dreams.

You must make positive decisions that will ensure you are able to continue on your desired

learning pathway. As you embark on your chosen courses, you should also consider

developing a wider range of skills that will further enhance your future prospects.

These may include:

Negotiating a work experience placement and gaining real experience of the world of work.

Becoming a member of a school / local team, or taking up a sport that interests you.

Take an interest in music and the arts, join a theatre group or choir, or learn to play an

instrument.

Doing voluntary work.

Joining Army Cadets, Air Cadets or St. John’s Ambulance.

Getting a part time job / Saturday job (but limiting the hours).

Aiming to become a prefect or one of the Student Leadership Team.

Getting involved with a local charity e.g. the Foodbank

Aspire to achieve your best in your chosen subjects, aim high and take the initiative in

developing your personal, as well as academic skills. In two years’ time, you will be making

choices again. At that time, we want to be satisfied that you have achieved your full potential

and that you are well equipped to proceed to the next stage of your learning pathway.

Wishing you the best.

Mr. A Markoutsas

Principal

INTRODUCTION | PAGE 02

TIMELINE

FEBRUARY 2024

Options booklet published to parents/carers and

students

All Year 9 students and their families are invited to

the Options Evening on Thursday 22 February

2024

Students and their families have the opportunity

to further discuss their option choices with their

teachers at the Year 9 Progress Evening on

Thursday 29 February 2024

MARCH 2024

The deadline to return the GCSE Options Form is

Monday 11 March 2024

MAY 2024

Options blocks are published

Students will receive a confirmation letter of their

final choices

OPTIONS PROCESS | PAGE 03

AKING CHOICES

Advice for Parents/Carers,

We fully understand that this is a potentially stressful time for our students. This is the first

chance in their educational career that they have been able to make major choices about

what they study, making decisions that could affect their educational and career pathway.

Unless they have a specific and firm focus about their futures then the sensible advice is to

keep their choices as BROAD as possible, do not narrow the pathway too much at this stage.

To achieve the EBacc, which is an extra accreditation (not a GCSE), a grade 5 or above in

mathematics, English, science, history or geography and a language is required. However,

this may not be the correct route for all students and this is why we offer a broad selection of

subjects to choose from.

Advice for Students

Make your choices for the right reasons:

Research the internet to see what is

available to you and what you need to

study

Pop in to speak to our Careers Team or

email james.wilmot@pcsa.theplt.org.uk

or jodie.silmon@pcsa.theplt.org.uk

Consider subjects you enjoy and that

stimulate you

Speak to older students about the

subjects you are considering

Think about the subject combinations

and potential workload issues

Consider your ability in a subject, are

you capable of studying it at

examination level

Speak to your teachers

Keep your options BROAD and you will

narrow your pathway later in your

education

Click the link below to find out more information on the

options process

for students, parents and carers from Mr. Wilmot:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MMeTKajIk5E

DO NOT choose a subject just

because:

Your friends are doing it

You prefer a particular teacher


KS4 CURRICULUM

LEARNING GROUPS &

PATHWAYS AT PCSA

All students study Group 1

subjects


subjects


subjects


subjects

All students choose four

option subjects from Groups

5 and 6 (at least one option

subject must be from Group

5)

The English Baccalaureate – what is it?

The English Baccalaureate (EBacc) is designed to recognise achievement in a range of

subjects. It is not a qualification in its own right.

To achieve the EBacc you need a grade 5 or more in:

English, Maths, Science, a language and a humanity (History or Geography)

At PCSA, our option blocks system will allow students to choose the EBacc combination, if they

wish to do so.

Please look carefully throughout this options booklet for further information about each subject

and group.


PTIONS PROCESS

WHAT WE NEED FROM YOU

You will be issued with a link and login so the options form can be completed quickly and

easily online. You need to complete this form by:

MONDAY 11 MARCH 2024

Make sure you do your research thoroughly on option subjects when completing this

form. The form must be completed by a parent/carer. If you have any difficulties

completing this form, please see your Head of Year or Mr. Sills who will help you

through the process.

REMEMBER to speak with our Careers Team should you wish to find out which

qualifications you require to achieve your goals and dreams.


GROUP 1

ENGLISH LANGUAGE

Type of qualification: GCSE

Exam Board: AQA

Central Leader: Mrs A Wray

Head of Subject: Mrs A Wray

What will I study?

You will explore the way language is used to create meaning by writers and the different effects that can

be achieved through word choice, punctuation and grammar. You do this through reading and analysing a

wide variety of non-fiction and literary texts, investigating the generic conventions of different text types

and how writing is adapted to audience and purpose. You will also learn how to apply your findings in

your own writing, creating texts that are descriptive or persuasive in purpose, for a variety of contexts.

To do well you need to:

Read widely

Consider multiple layers of meaning within language

Write accurately

Write in detail and depth using evidence for your thoughts

Progression Pathways

A GCSE pass in English is required for a large number of post-16 courses, as it gives a grounding in writing

and reading that is necessary for higher levels of study. More specifically, it prepares you for English

Literature or English Language A Levels, which develop the skills from GCSE in more depth, looking at

more difficult and interesting texts.

English prepares you for all aspects of modern life, as it equips you with the ability to write in many

different contexts. Whether you are writing an application letter, a press release for your company’s

social media platforms or corresponding with potential customers, the skills you learn during this course

will lead to success.

Careers

How will I be assessed?

This qualification is 100% examined at the end of Year 11. There are two exam

papers, detailed below:

Careers based on

English studies

include publishing,

journalism, writing,

screenwriting,

academia, teaching,

advertising, PR,

TV/film production,

acting, web

content/social media

management,

proofreading and

many more!

Paper

Paper 1 (Fiction) 80mks

Explorations in Creative Reading

and Writing

Paper 2 (Non Fiction) 80mks

Writers’ Viewpoints and

Perspectives

What’s Assessed?

Section A: Reading 40mks

One literature fiction text

Section B: Creative Writing 40mks

Descriptive of narrative writing

Section A: Reading 40mks

One non-fiction and one literacy nonfiction

text

Section B: Formal Writing 40mks

Writing to present a viewpoint

ENGLISH LITERATURE


Exam Board: AQA



What will I study?

You will study a variety of texts from the English literary canon, including a play by Shakespeare, a

modern text and a nineteenth century novel. This will involve reading these texts as well as learning about

the historical contexts in which they were written. You will also engage with and study a selection of

poetry, both modern and from the past. You will learn how to construct an interpretation of a literary text

and express this in a persuasive, rigorous essay.


Read widely

Consider multiple layers of meaning within language

Write accurately

Write in detail and depth using evidence for your thoughts


A GCSE pass in English is required for a large number of post-16 courses, as it gives a grounding in writing

and reading that is necessary for higher levels of study. More specifically, it prepares you for English

Literature or English Language A Levels, which develop the skills from GCSE in more depth, looking at

more difficult and interesting texts.

English literature allows you to explore a wide variety of aspects of life, challenging you to consider things

from perspectives different from your own. Ultimately, it is the study of what it means to be human.

Careers

Careers based on

English studies

include publishing,

journalism, writing,

screenwriting,

academia,

teaching,

advertising, PR,

TV/film

production, acting,

web content

/social media

management,

proofreading and

many more!


This qualification is 100% examined at the end of Year 11. There are two exam

papers, detailed below:

Paper

Paper 1 64mks

Shakespeare

and the 19th

Century novel

Paper 2 96mks

Modern Texts

and Poetry

What’s Assessed?

Section A: Shakespeare: Romeo and Juliet 34mks

You will write in detail about an extract from the play and then

about the play as a whole

Section B: 19th Century Novel: A Christmas Carol 30mks

You will write in detail about an extract from the novel and

then about the novel as a whole

Section A: Modern Texts: Blood Brothers 34mks

You will answer one essay question about the text you have

studied

Section B: Power and Conflict Poetry 30mks

You will answer one comparative question on one named

poem and another chosen from the selection you have studied

Section C: Unseen Poetry 32mks

You will answer one question on one unseen poem and one

question comparing this poem with a second unseen poem

GROUP 2

MATHEMATICS


Exam Board: Edexcel

Central Leader: Mrs L Kerrison

Head of Subject: Mrs L Kerrison

What will I study?

During your GCSE years you will study a wide range of mathematical techniques covering the areas of;

number, algebra, geometry, statistics, probability and ratio and proportion.

Typically, students in sets 1 and 2 will aim to take the Higher GCSE, whilst students in set 3 will take

Foundation GCSE. However, we also consider the needs of individual students.

For students studying the Higher GCSE and who are targeted grade 7 or above, the opportunity may be

given to study Further Maths, which is a free-standing maths qualification (FSMQ) offered by AQA.

Students who we feel will benefit from this study will be given the opportunity to study Further Maths

through lessons and after school sessions. Students can choose whether they want to then sit the exams

at the end of Year 11.


Aim to achieve and progress in every

lesson, even when topics become

difficult.

Use Hegarty Maths regularly to help with

topics that you find difficult during

lessons.

Complete unlocked Method Maths GCSE

papers as part of your revision for your

end of cycle assessments.

Careers

Mathematics is a key

subject for many future

careers. It may not be

crucial; however, many

employers look for GCSE

mathematics as standard.

However, mathematics

also opens the doors to

many specific

mathematical careers,

from accountancy to

meteorologist and beyond.

https://www.careerpilot.or

g.uk/jobsectors/subject/maths

Complete home learning to the best of your ability.

Home learning in maths is designed to help you practice

core skills regularly.

Complete Method Maths papers for your GCSE tier. This

helps practice past paper questions on specific topics.

These are set as home learning across the cycle.

Revision is key to retaining mathematical methods.

Maths is all about practice; the more you practice, the

quicker methods move from short to long-term memory.


As one of the core subjects, mathematics is essential when applying to college

and many careers insist in having a GCSE pass. Currently, if you do not pass

GCSE maths you are expected to continue studying at college until you pass.

For those wishing to study A Level maths you will need to achieve a grade 7 or

above and for further maths, grade 8 or above.


All assessments for GCSE maths are at the end of Year 11 and are in the form of

three 1.5 hour long exams, one non-calculator and two calculator papers.

However, to help inform teaching and learning, students are assessed using

past GCSE papers at the end of every cycle from Year 10.

Please note that most Year 10 students will be entered for the GCSE Statistics to provide an

additional qualification and to prepare students for exams in Year 11.

GCSE Statistics will involve studying probabilities, manipulating datasets, exploring sampling

methods and forming scientific hypotheses. This will be done during the final five months of

Year 10 to prepare students to take the exam at the end of Year 10.

GCSE Statistics will be assessed with two, equally important, written exams. This has both

Foundation and Higher tiered exam papers. As with GCSE Maths, both tiers allow students to

access a Grade 5.

GROUP 3

SCIENCE


Exam Board: AQA Trilogy

Central Leader: Mrs K Roberts

Head of Subject: Mrs K Roberts

What will I study?

Through combined science students will study biology, chemistry and physics and will gain two science

GCSEs as a result. The course covers aspects from cells and atoms to understanding motors, digestion

and how the Earth has developed over time. Students will carry out a series of required practical

activities; developing use of scientific apparatus and the ability to evaluate results and techniques.


Read widely about science in the news, including

recent developments.

Evaluate recent scientific studies based on sample

sizes and evidence.

Have the ability to ask questions of the world

around them.


Science provides students with analytical, mathematical

and practical skills; it requires students to evaluate, and

ask questions of the world around them.


Understand the importance of practical

skills.

Work independently on aspects of the

course that are more challenging.

Careers

Studying science can lead to a plethora of

careers including: pharmacology, surgeon / GP,

dentistry, nursing, midwifery, animal care,

astronomy engineering, teaching, forensics,

healthcare, geneticist and environmental

science.

Subject Time Marks % of GCSE Topics

Biology

Paper 1

1hr

15m

70 16.7

Cell biology, organisation, infection and response, and

bioenergetics

Biology

Paper 2

1hr

15m

70 16.7

Homeostasis and response, inheritance, variation and

evolution, and ecology

Chemistry

Paper 1

1hr

15m

70 16.7

Atomic structure and the periodic table, bonding, properties

of matter, chemical changes and energy changes

Chemistry

Paper 2

1hr

15m

70 16.7

Rates, organic chemistry, chemical analysis, the atmosphere

and using resources

Physics

Paper 1

1hr

15m

70 16.7

Energy, electricity, particle model and matter, and atomic

structure

Physics

Paper 2

1hr

15m

70 16.7 Forces, waves, and magnetism and electromagnetism

GROUP 4

CITIZENSHIP

RELIGIOUS STUDIES

PHYSICAL EDUCATION (PE)

PSHE

(PERSONAL, SOCIAL, HEALTH AND ECONOMIC EDUCATION)

GROUP 5

FRENCH


Exam Board: AQA

Central Leader: Mrs C Parsons

Head of Subject: Mrs C Parsons

What will I study?

The new AQA GCSE course develops to a higher level the four skill areas of listening, speaking, reading

and writing. Students work for the main part in the foreign language, developing both their fluency and

their knowledge of vocabulary and language structure, including translation skills. They deal with up-todate

spoken and written materials, using video and the internet, as well as literary texts.


Memorise a range of key words, phrases and

structures.

Develop the ability to listen and respond to a range

of questions in French.

Read and write increasingly long paragraphs on a

variety of topics.

Practice translating longer passages from English to

French and vice versa.

Be resilient and prepared to take risks and

learn from your mistakes.

Keep an open mind and a positive attitude

about the subject.

Attend P0 / P6 sessions regularly in order

to practise speaking.


The obvious progression path after GCSE is A levels, then a degree in the language or translation course,

other courses would be relevant, such as Business, Travel and Tourism or even Law.


Listening

(25%)

Speaking

(25%)

Reading

(25%)

Writing

(25%)

Students will listen and respond to different types of spoken

language, with questions in English to be answered in English or

non-verbally.

Students will communicate and interact effectively in speech for a

variety of purposes. The assessment will be up to 9 minutes at

Foundation Tier or 12 minutes at Higher Tier, recorded in school by

a teacher-examiner and marked by the exam board.

Students will read and respond to different types of written

language. Questions will be in English, to be answered in English

or non-verbally. This includes a translation task from French to

English.

Students will be required to show they can communicate

effectively in writing for a variety of purposes. Students will be

asked to answer up to 4 questions, from writing simple sentences

to structured or open-ended writing tasks. This includes a

translation task from English to French at both Foundation and

Higher tier.

Careers

There are many careers

in which having a

degree in a language will

be essential. These

include the obvious:

Interpreter, translator,

secondary teacher, but

also teacher of English

as a foreign language

abroad, broadcast

journalist and tourism.

These are not

restrictive however and

many jobs will welcome

a knowledge of another

language as many

companies trade or

work with other

countries.

SPANISH


Exam Board: AQA

Central Leader: Mrs C Parsons

Head of Subject: Miss L Coleman

What will I study?

The current AQA GCSE course develops to a higher level the four skill areas of listening, speaking, reading

and writing. Students work for the main part in the foreign language, developing both their fluency and

their knowledge of vocabulary and language structure, including translation skills. They deal with up-todate

spoken and written materials, using video and the internet, as well as literary texts.


Memorise a range of key words, phrases and

structures.

Develop the ability to listen and respond to a range

of questions in Spanish.

Read and write increasingly long paragraphs on a

variety of topics.

Practice translating longer passages from English to

Spanish and vice versa.

Be resilient and prepared to take risks and

learn from your mistakes.

Keep an open mind and a positive attitude

about the subject.

Attend P0 / P6 sessions regularly in order

to practise speaking.


The obvious progression path after GCSE is A levels, then a degree in the language or translation course,

other courses would be relevant, such as Business, Travel and Tourism or even Law.


Listening

(25%)

Speaking

(25%)

Reading

(25%)

Writing

(25%)

Students will listen and respond to different types of spoken

language, with questions in English to be answered in English or

non-verbally.

Students will communicate and interact effectively in speech for a

variety of purposes. The assessment will be up to 9 minutes at

Foundation Tier or 12 minutes at Higher Tier, recorded in school by

a teacher-examiner and marked by the exam board.

Students will read and respond to different types of written

language. Questions will be in English, to be answered in English

or non-verbally. This includes a translation task from Spanish to

English.

Students will be required to show they can communicate

effectively in writing for a variety of purposes. Students will be

asked to answer up to 4 questions, from writing simple sentences

to structured or open-ended writing tasks. This includes a

translation task from English to Spanish at both Foundation and

Higher tier.

Careers

There are many careers

in which having a

degree in a language will

be essential. These

include the obvious:

Interpreter, translator,

secondary teacher, but

also teacher of English

as a foreign language

abroad, broadcast

journalist and tourism.

These are not

restrictive however and

many jobs will welcome

a knowledge of another

language as many

companies trade or

work with other

countries.

GEOGRAPHY


Exam Board: AQA

Central Leader: Mr M Gray

Head of Subject: Mrs K Empson

What will I study?

The course covers both the physical and human world and the interaction between the two. As part of

the physical environment unit you will study different landscapes including volcanoes, earthquakes,

rivers, coasts, ecosystems and the processes and changes that are taking place. As part of the human

environment unit you will study population growth, urban environments, industry and resources and the

challenges facing these areas in the modern world. As well as developing your subject knowledge and

understanding you will also learn and practice valuable geographical skills and apply them to issues and

fieldwork.


Be able to explain your reasons for your ideas.

Be able to express your opinions and share your

ideas.

Be prepared to work hard and be

enthusiastic in lessons.

Enjoy learning about lots of different

aspects of Geography.


A Levels: Geography, English Literature, Law, Economics, Sociology, Politics, History, Religious Studies.

BTEC: Environmental Science, Travel and Tourism, Public Services…

Studying GCSE Geography will give you vital skills like: excellent communication and writing; how to

construct an argument; research; investigation and problem-solving; analytical, interpretation and

decision-making skills.


Paper

Length of

Exam

Content Included

Careers

People who study

geography go on to careers

in many areas, not just

being a geography teacher!

1 1hr 30mins Physical Environment

2 1hr 30mins Human Environment

Lots of people who study

geography become

journalists, planners,

engineers, police officers,

environmental consultants,

housing officers, weather

presenters. The list is

endless.

3 1hr 30mins

Geographical Applications – skills,

fieldwork and decision-making task

The skills geography gives

you prepares you for many,

many jobs.

HISTORY


Exam Board: Edexcel


Head of Subject: Mr N Phelan

What will I study?

The course covers a broad range of British and world history over a period of almost 1000 years, from

Medieval Britain right up to the start of the 21st century. The topics include a breadth study focusing on

medicine through time; a depth study on the Western Front in the First World War; a depth study on

Elizabethan England; a period study on Weimar and Nazi Germany, 1919-1939; and a period study on the

Cold War.


Be able to explain your reasons for your ideas.


ideas.

Be prepared to work hard and be

enthusiastic in lessons.

Enjoy learning about lots of different

aspects of History.


A Levels: History, English Literature, Law, Economics, Sociology, Politics, History of Art, Religious

Studies…

BTEC: Travel and Tourism, Public Services…

Studying GCSE History will give you vital skills like: excellent communication and writing; how to

construct an argument; research; investigation and problem-solving; analytical and interpretation skills.


Paper

Length of

Exam

1 1hr 15mins

Content Included

Medicine through time and the Western

Front

Careers

People who study History

go on to careers in many

areas, not just being a

history teacher!

2 1hr 45mins Elizabethan England and the Cold War

3 1hr 20mins Weimar and Nazi Germany

Lots of people who study

History become lawyers or

journalists; museum

workers or archaeologists;

bankers or politicians… the

list is endless.

The skills History gives you

prepares you for many,

many jobs.

GROUP 6

FINE ART


Exam Board: AQA

Central Leader: Mr J Stanley

Head of Subject: Mr J Stanley

What will I study?

On this GCSE Fine Art course, you will be studying a combination of board-based media including

drawing, painting, sculpture, printmaking and mixed media through workshop-based projects and

selected areas of study. You will be learning how to explore an idea, respond to a theme or artist’s work in

creating your own visual artworks using a variety of media. The course educates you to explore your

imagination and creativity as an artist as well as teaching you how to be a reflective and critical learner.


Analyse the work of artists using subject specific

language.

Be confident in taking risks with your own learning

by experimenting with ideas, media, processes and

materials. To be able to reflect and evaluate your

outcomes and experiences to be able to progress

and refine ideas.

Have the ability to proofread work and have

excellent literacy skills.

Develop an understanding of art, craft and

design in historical, social, cultural and

contemporary contexts.

Have a positive attitude about the subject

and be prepared to invest your time into

creating artwork in and out of school.

Every lesson you will need art materials

provided by the school and your Google

Classroom code to access the home

learning tasks,


This course will prepare you to advance onto other courses; A Level Art and Design, BTEC Level 3,

Extended Diplomas in Art and Design, Level 3 Foundation (pre-degree), Textile Design, Animation and

Game, Photography and Media courses.

This subject has the potential to help you develop your academic language skills, critical thinking skills,

decision-making, risk-taking and creative skills in order to be a successful learner which is valuable for all

types of jobs.


AO1

AO2

AO3

AO4

Develop ideas through investigations, demonstrating critical

understanding of sources (artists).

Refine work by exploring ideas, selecting and experimenting with

appropriate materials and techniques.

Record ideas, observations and insights relevant to intentions.

Present a personal and meaningful response that realises

intentions.

Careers

Studying this subject can

lead to a variety of jobs

including animation,

illustration, fashion design,

printmaking, film

production, textiles and

surface design,

photography, sculpture and

construction, graphic

design, art and design

teacher and crafts maker.

DRAMA


Exam Board: Pearson Edexcel


Head of Subject: Miss H Harding

What will I study?

Throughout the two-year course, the learners will be given the opportunity to explore and develop a plethora of

performance skills and techniques, as well as studying in depth a variety of Theatre Practitioners and styles. The

course is broken into three assessment components; Components 1 and 2 are non-examined Components, however

in Component 2 the students will perform to a visiting practical examiner. Component 3 is a written exam that will

take place in the summer of the second year.

Component

1

Devising

Component 1 enables learners to gain, develop and demonstrate knowledge and

understanding of the skills and techniques needed to create, develop and refine

original performance work. Learners will have a stimulus as a starting point and use

the techniques of an influential practitioner or genre. Learners can choose to be an

actor or a designer for this component. This Unit is marked internally through

controlled assessment and is worth 40% of the final grade.

Component

2

Performance

from Text

Component 2 enables learners to gain a holistic knowledge and understanding of

the skills and techniques needed to reproduce two extracts from an existing piece

of professional/published work. Learners can choose to work on monologues,

duologues or group performances as an actor or designer. This component is

marked by a visiting examiner and is worth 20% of the final grade.

Component

3

Theatre

Makers in

Practice

Component 3 requires learners to articulate how they would perform or design

certain roles in production. This is a written exam (1hr 45 mins) that comprises 7

questions. It is split into two sections. For section A – Bringing text to life - the

learners will explore and study one complete performance text stipulated by the

exam board, then answer 5 questions based on an unseen extract of the play.

Section B – Live Theatre Evaluation – requires learners to watch a production of live

theatre. In the exam the learners will answer 2 questions analysing and evaluating

the live theatre performance that they have seen. For this they are allowed 500

words of notes to take into the exam room. This component is worth 40 % of the

final grade.


Develop the ability to analyse your work and be critical of the work of others using subject specific language.

Furthermore, our learners are required to show creativity, imagination and the ability to take direction. They need to

be independent and be able to show initiative. Learners will need to practise resilience and be prepared to take risks

in order to progress.


The Pearson Edexcel Level 1/2 GCSE (9-1) Drama course leads perfectly into A level Drama and Theatre Studies or

any of the Level 3 Performing Arts courses which are taught at college or sixth form. As an accredited qualification it

will count towards the entry requirements for whichever subjects our learners go on to study.


There are two parts to the assessment for Component 1, which is internally assessed and externally moderated. For

part one learners will be assessed on a 10 -20 minute original performance created from stimuli (A02). Part two is a

written or verbal portfolio covering their creating and development process and their ability to review and reflect on

their work through analysing and evaluating their final performance (A01 and A04). Component 2 the learners will be

externally assessed by a visiting examiner on their performance of an existing piece of professional/published work

(A02). Finally component 3 is the written external examination (1hr 45 mins) in the summer of Year 11 (A03).

MUSIC


Exam Board: Eduqas GCSE


Head of Subject: Miss G Curtis

What will I study?

TWe study the Eduqas GCSE Music which comprises three components; appraising (listening), composing

(writing music) and performing. These centre around the four areas of study:

AOS1 - Musical Forms and Devices

AOS2 - Music for Ensemble

AOS3 - Film Music

AOS4 - Popular Music


Have a passion for the subject. In order to succeed, students need to devote the same time and effort

to the written and theoretical aspects of music that they would to their performance skills.

Enjoy performing (either on an instrument, singer, DJ, rapper or beatboxer). In order to achieve the

highest grades at GCSE, students need to be able to perform on their instrument at grade 3 standard

or above by September of Year 11. Whilst a number of students opt for private tuition alongside these

courses, this is not a compulsory requirement - you can succeed in this course through the skills and

knowledge you have acquired through Key Stage 3 Music.

Get ready to write your own music. We will teach you how to do this, whether using computer

software or your instrument.


This course will prepare you to advance onto

other courses such as BTEC Level 3 National

Diploma and A Level Music. This course also

prepares students for a career in the creative

industries.

Careers

Studying music obviously leads to many jobs in the

music industry such as performing, composing,

teaching, sound, production, events management,

DJ etc. There are also multiple transferable skills

such as communication, teamwork, time

management, dedication and organisation that are

useful in a plethora of other jobs.


Performing Composing Appraising

1 x solo performance

1 x ensemble (group)

performance

1 x programme notes

1 x free composition

1 x brief composition (written to a

set brief set by EDUQAS)

1 x composition log

Listening exam of 8 questions.

6 x unheard extracts

2 x set works

Based on 4 areas of study.

Internally assessed Internally assessed Externally assessed

PHOTOGRAPHY


Exam Board: AQA


Head of Subject: Mr J Stanley

What will I study?

On this GCSE Photography course, you will be studying a combination of traditional and digital

photography methods including workshop-based projects and selected areas of study. You will be

learning how to explore an idea, respond to a theme or photographer’s work in creating your own visual

artworks using a variety of media. The course educates you to explore your imagination and creativity as

a photographer as well as teaching you how to be a reflective and critical learner.


Analyse the work of photographers using subject

specific language.

Be confident in taking risks with your own learning

by experimenting with ideas, media, processes and

materials. To be able to reflect and evaluate your

outcomes and experiences to be able to progress

and refine ideas.

Have the ability to proofread work and have

excellent literacy skills.


This course will prepare you to advance onto other courses; A Level Photography, BTEC Level 3, Extended

Diplomas in Photography, Level 3 Foundation (pre-degree), Animation, Game and Media courses. This

subject has the potential to help you develop your academic language skills, critical thinking skills,

decision-making, risk-taking and creative skills in order to be a successful learner which is valuable for all

types of jobs.


Have a positive attitude about the subject

and be prepared to invest your time into

creating work in and out of school.

Every lesson you will have a selection of

digital SLR cameras provided by the

Photography Department, sketch book and

computer. The ICT suite is equipped with

computers that offer Adobe Photoshop and

Lightroom. In addition, you will have your

Google Classroom codes to access home

learning tasks.

AO1

AO2

AO3

AO4

Develop ideas through investigations, demonstrating crucial

understanding of sources (photographers).

Refine work by exploring ideas, selecting and experimenting with

appropriate materials and techniques.

Record ideas, observations and insights relevant to intentions.

Present a personal and meaningful response that realises

intentions.

Careers

Studying this subject can

lead to a variety of jobs

including animation,

illustration, professional

photographer, film

production, photography

teacher and a wide range of

jobs within the media

industry.

HOSPITALITY & CATERING

Type of qualification: Vocational

Technical Award

Exam Board: Eduqas

Central Leader: Mr D Clay

Head of Subject: Mr D Clay

What will I study?

Ever wondered what it takes to work in a top hotel or restaurant? Does food and discovering new flavours

in the kitchen inspire you? Maybe you’re interested in developing the skills you need to work front of

house?

Unit 1: The Hospitality & Catering Industry

Learn about the hospitality and catering

industry, the types of hospitality and

catering providers and about working in the

industry.

Learn about health and safety, and food

safety in hospitality and catering, as well as

food related causes of ill health.

Unit 2: Hospitality & Catering in Action

Learn about the importance of nutrition and how

cooking methods can impact on nutritional value.

Learn how to plan nutritious menus as well as

factors which affect menu planning. You will learn

the skills and techniques needed to prepare, cook

and present dishes as well as learning how to review

your work effectively.


Enjoy working in a logical order

Be able to work individually and as part of a team

Be organised and a self-manager

Be creative and have an eye for detail

Have an interest in food, cooking and nutrition

Research and communicate your ideas clearly


Successful completion of this course could provide you with access to a

range of Level 3 qualifications including A Levels, Apprenticeships and

vocationally related qualifications, such as; Level 3 Food Science and

Nutrition, Level 3 NVQ Diploma in Advanced Professional Cookery, Level 3

Advanced Diploma in Food Preparation and Cookery Supervision and

Apprenticeships and employment in the hospitality and catering sector.

For those students who are

considering studying more than

one vocational subject within DT

(Construction, Engineering,

Hospitality and Catering), it is

important that this is discussed

with your DT teacher before

making your option choices.


Unit

1

Unit

2

Assessment

Written Exam

Worth 40% of

the qualification

Coursework

Project

Worth 60% of

the qualification

Content Included

You will have one exam. The exam will last 1 hr 30

mins, it will be made up of multiple-choice questions,

short answer and extended response answers.

In Unit 2 you will complete an assignment where you

will plan and prepare a menu in response to a brief.

This will be worth 60% of your qualification and take 12

hours to complete.

(Internally assessed and externally moderated)

Careers

Possible future

careers include:

Hospitality and

Catering, Baking,

Confectionery,

Armed Forces,

Events

Management, Food

Science and

Environmental

Health Officer.

ENGINEERING


Technical Award

Exam Board: Eduqas



What will I study?

This qualification is made up of 3 units:

Unit 1: Manufacturing Engineering

Products

Have the opportunity to interpret different

types of engineering information in order to

plan how to manufacture engineering

products.

Develop knowledge, understanding and

skills in using a range of engineering tools

and equipment in order to manufacture and

test a final product.

Unit 2: Designing Engineering Products

Explore how an engineered product is adapted and improved

over time. It offers you the opportunity to apply your

knowledge and understanding to adapt an existing

component, element or part of the product that you will have

manufactured in Unit 1.

Unit 3: Solving Engineering Problems

Introduced to a range of considerations that impact on

engineering design and how engineering has had an impact

on modern day life at home, work and in society.


Interpret engineering information and follow work plans

Be able to work safely and accurately using a range of tools and

equipment

Be organised


Successful completion of this course could provide you with access to

a range of Level 3 qualifications including A Levels, apprenticeships

and vocationally related qualifications, such as; A Level in Engineering,

A Level in Design and Technology and Apprenticeships in Engineering.


Be creative and a problem solver

Enjoy working in a logical order

Be enquiring and inquisitive

For those students who are considering

studying more than one vocational subject

within DT (Construction, Engineering,

Hospitality and Catering), it is important that

this is discussed with your DT teacher before

making your option choices.

Assessment

Content Included

Careers

Unit

1

Unit

2

Unit

3

Coursework Project

Worth 40% of the

qualification

Coursework Project

Worth 20% of the

qualification

Written Exam

Worth 40% of the

qualification

Unit 1 will involve producing a manufactured product using

basic hand tools and a range of complex machinery. The

product will need to be developed over 20 hours. (Internally

assessed and externally moderated)

Unit 2 will be assessed through project work. You will apply

your problem-solving skills to answer a given brief and

produce a solution. You will produce your solution over 10

hours. (Internally assessed and externally moderated)

You will have one exam. The exam will last 1.5hours and will be

made up of multiple-choice questions, short answer and

extended response answers.

Possible future

careers include;

Mechanical

Engineer, Service

Engineer,

Aeronautical

Engineer,

Toolmaker, Test

Engineer,

Machine

Operator, Armed

Forces, Robotics,

Service and

Infrastructure.

CONSTRUCTION & THE BUILT

ENVIRONMENT


Technical Award

Exam Board: Eduqas



What will I study?

Would you love the opportunity to transform the world around you? Are you looking to learn about new

technologies, materials and processes that are involved in construction projects? Do you want to develop

a good foundation for a successful career in construction?

Unit 1: Introduction to the Built Environment

Students will be introduced to the principles of the built

environment and have the opportunity to develop the skills,

knowledge and understanding in identifying, explaining and

evaluating different ideas and concepts of the built

environment. Students will also explore a range of

professional and trades roles as well as some of the different

structures and buildings of the built environment.

Unit 3: Constructing the Built

Environment

Students will study three

construction trade areas of the

built environment; joinery,

electrical and tiling. This unit

includes the planning, undertaking

and evaluating construction tasks.


Be able to communicate clearly and

effectively

Be able to work safely and accurately using a

range of tools and equipment

Be motivated, organised and meet deadlines


Successful completion of this course enables you

to progress and access a range of Level 3

qualifications including A Levels, Apprenticeships

and vocationally related qualification or

employment in the field of construction.

Be able to work individually and as a member of a

team

Be able to interpret information and follow work

plans

Enjoy learning through a range of practical projects

For those students who are considering studying more than one

vocational subject within DT (Construction, Engineering,

Hospitality and Catering), it is important that this is discussed

with your DT teacher before making your option choices.

Careers


Unit

1

Unit

3

Assessment

Written Exam – 1.5 hours

Worth 40% of the

qualification

Coursework Project

Worth 60% of the

qualification.

(Internally assessed and

externally moderated)

Content Included

You will have one exam. The exam will last 1.5 hours

and will be made up of short answer and extended

response questions.

You will be assessed through project work (no

exam). You will be asked to prepare and complete

three trade-based tasks e.g. creating a simple

lighting circuit, making a wooden planter, fitting a

door frame or tiling a splashback.

The construction

industry offers a

wide range of

exciting

opportunities, from

tradesperson to

leading large scale

construction

projects, and from

an architect to

renovator of our

historic built

environment.

INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY

Type of qualification:

Cambridge Nationals Level 1 - 2

Exam Board: OCR

Central Leader: Mr M Hodder

Head of Subject: Mr M Hodder

What will I study?

The Cambridge National in Information Technology will encourage students to understand and apply the

fundamental principles and concepts of IT, including the use of IT in the digital world, Internet of

Everything, data manipulation and Augmented Reality. In addition, students will develop an

understanding to apply and use IT appropriately and effectively for the purpose and audience. They will

also develop learning and practical skills that can be applied to real-life contexts and work situations.


Plan and design IT solutions and products for a given

purpose

Select the best tools and techniques to solve a

problem


Level 3 Technical and Applied General Qualifications,

such as the Cambridge Technical in Information

Technology and Cambridge Technical in Digital Media

T-Level in Digital Production, Design and

Development, Digital Support Services and Digital

Business Services

Use planning techniques to complete

tasks in an organised and timely way

Find imaginative ways to solve IT

problems

Digital Apprenticeships such as IT, Digital

and Technology and Data Analyst

Other Level 2 qualifications such as the

Cambridge Technical in Information

Technology and Cambridge Technical in

Digital Media


Students are required to successfully complete two mandatory units and a

practical project:

Careers

R050: IT in the Digital

World

R060: Data Manipulation

using Spreadsheets

R070: Using Augmented

Reality to Present

Information

Externally assessed

examination (70 marks)

Internally assessed

controlled assessment (60

marks)

Internally assessed

controlled assessment (60

marks)

Level 1 or 2 (Pass,

Merit, Distinction)

Level 1 or 2 (Pass,

Merit, Distinction)

Level 1 or 2 (Pass,

Merit, Distinction)

Possible career paths

could include:

App Developer /

CAD Technician

Computer Animator

/ CGI Designer /

Games Designer

ICT Support / ICT

Consultant

Data Analyst

Digital Media

Designer

BUSINESS STUDIES


Exam Board: AQA


Head of Subject: Mr J Brand

What will I study?

Students apply their knowledge and understanding to different business contexts ranging from small

enterprises to large multinational and businesses operating in local, national and global contexts.

Students develop an understanding of how these contexts impact on business behaviour.

Subject Content:

Business in the real world

Influences on business

Business operations


Careers

Possible career paths could include:

Starting your own business/marketing

Various business operation roles e.g.

accounting, marketing, human resources


Depending on the grade the student achieves in this qualification, they could progress to:


Human Resources

Marketing

Finance

Use business terminology to identify and explain

business activity

Apply business concepts to familiar and unfamiliar

contexts

Develop problem solving and decision making skills

relevant to business

Investigate, analyse and evaluate

business opportunities and issues

Make justified decisions using both

qualitative and quantitative data

including its selection, interpretation,

analysis and evaluation, and the

application of appropriate quantitative

skills

Level 3 qualification in; Enterprise and Entrepreneurship, Financial Studies, Business and Enterprise,

Applied Business

An Apprenticeship within sectors such as Finance, Marketing or Human Resources

Paper 1:

Influences of

operations and

HRM on

business activity

Externally

assessed

examination

(90 marks)

Section A has multiple choice questions and short answer

questions worth 20 marks.

Section B has one case study/data response stimuli with

questions worth approximately 34 marks.

Section C has one case study/data response stimuli with


Paper 2:

Influences of

marketing and

finance on

business activity

Externally

assessed

examination

(90 marks)

Section A has multiple choice questions and short answer

questions worth 20 marks.

Section B has one case study/data response stimuli with


Section C has one case study/data response stimuli with


COMPUTER SCIENCE


Exam Board: OCR


Head of Subject: Mr M Hodder

What will I study?

The qualification will build on the knowledge, understanding and skills established through the Key Stage

3 ICT Computer Science lessons. Content will include; problem solving, logic, algorithms, and data

representation. They will complete tasks that include designing, writing and debugging programs. They

will also learn about the components that make up computer systems, and how they communicate with

one another and with other systems.


Be able to think creatively, analytically, logically and

critically.

Apply mathematical skills relevant to Computer Science.

Be able to apply problem solving skills.

Be able to create programs using

the Python programming

language.

Work to deadlines.


Depending on the grade the student achieves in

this qualification, they could progress to:

Level 3 qualification in; Computer Science

or ICT

Level 3 vocational qualification in;

Computer Science, ICT, Animation and

Engineering

An apprenticeship within sectors such as

Engineering, ICT Support or Tech Support

Careers

Possible career paths could include:

App Developer, CA Technician, Cyber Security

Analyst or a Software Engineer

Computer Animator, CGI Designer or a Games

Designer

ICT Support, ICT Consultant, Engineer, Web

Developer or a Data Systems Analyst


Unit 1 Computer Systems 50% of total grade

Externally assessed

examination

Unit 2

Computational thinking,

algorithms and programming

50% of total grade

Externally assessed

examination

Programming

Project

20 timetabled hours in class Formal requirement for completion of the course

SPORT SCIENCE


Exam Board: OCR Cambridge

Nationals

Central Leader: Mr C Coombs

Head of Subject: Mr C Coombs

What will I study?

Students who choose OCR Sport Science will follow a structured route of classroom and practical based

lessons that will allow them to achieve one GCSE equivalent grade. The course is broken down into three

units.

Across the two years, the course will comprise of three units: Reducing the Risks of Sports Injuries,

Applying Principles of Training and Nutrition and Sports Performance. The exam will be sat in the summer

of Year 11 and the other units are coursework based and involves students completing and submitting a

series of assignments that will go towards their final grade.


Watch/listen to sport to increase knowledge of

sporting examples

Commit to attending P0/P6 sessions in the

lead up to the examination in the summer.

Be organised and have good time management

to ensure that assignment deadlines are met.

Use the keyword glossaries provided to increase

subject knowledge.


A Level PE

Public Services Uniformed, Extended Diploma (Level 3)

Sport and Exercise Science, Extended Certificate (Level 3)

Sport, Extended Certificate (Level 2)

Sport: Coaching and Physical Education, Extended

Diploma (Level 3)


Careers

Sport therapy, fitness instruction,

sports coaching, sports psychology,

physiotherapy, sports development, PE

teaching, personal training, firefighter

and exercise science.

Paper Length %

R180: Reducing the Risk of Sports Injuries and Dealing with

Common Medical Conditions

1 hour 15 minutes 40

(Externally-assessed, Written Paper)

R181: Applying Principles of Training

(Centre-assessed task, OCR moderated)

48 guided learning hours 40

R183: Nutrition and Sports Performance



SPORT STUDIES



Nationals


Head of Subject: Mr C Coombs

What will I study?

Students who choose OCR Sport Studies will follow a structured route of classroom and practical based

lessons that will allow them to achieve one GCSE equivalent grade. The course is broken down into three

units.

Across the two years, the course will comprise of three units: Contemporary Issues in Sport, Performance

and Leadership in Sports Activities and Sport and the Media. The exam will be sat in the summer of Year

11 and the other units are coursework based and involves students completing and submitting a series of

assignments that will go towards their final grade. The main difference between this and Sport Science is

that this course enables you to gain marks for your practical ability in a team, individual sport and leading

of a sport session.


Play a team and individual sport outside of

school.

Commit to attending P0/P6 sessions in the

lead up to the examination in the summer.

Watch/listen to sport to increase knowledge of

sporting examples.

Be organised and have good time management

to ensure that assignment deadlines are met.

Gain experience of leading a group of people

through a sporting session.

Careers


A Level PE

Public Services Uniformed, Extended

Diploma (Level 3)

Sport and Exercise Science, Extended

Certificate (Level 3)


Sport, Extended

Certificate (Level 2)

Sport: Coaching and

Physical Education,

Extended Diploma

(Level 3)

Sport therapy, lifeguarding,

fitness instruction, sports

coaching, sports psychology,

sports development, PE

teaching and personal

training.

Paper Length %

R184: Contemporary Issues in Sport



R185: Performance and Leadership in Sports Activities



R183: Sport and the Media



HEALTH & SOCIAL CARE



Nationals


Head of Subject: Mrs L Spence

What will I study?

Students will study the key aspects of Health and Social Care and have the opportunity to apply what

they learn through a number of practical experiences. This will involve the studying of three units:

Principles of Care in Health and Social Care, Supporting Individuals through Life Events and Creative and

Therapeutic Activities. The first of these involved students studying for and completing an exam. The

other two units are coursework based and involve students completing and submitting assignments.


Actively take part in potential visits to health

and social care and early years settings

Be good at working independently and

managing your time well to ensure assignment

deadlines are met.

Be prepared to research information and write

about it. There is a lot of writing on this course as

well as the practical element.

Commit to attending P0/P6 sessions in the lead

up to the examination.


Level 3 Health and Social Care

Apprenticeships

University

Careers

People will always need to be cared for, regardless of age. The

possibilities of jobs related to Health and Social Care and Early

Years are endless.

Opportunities to work within the Health and Social Care sectors

could include jobs such as: Nurses, Midwife, Doctors, Dentist,

Social Worker, Teacher, Carer, Childminder, Dietician,

Occupational Therapist, Physiotherapist, Surgeon and many

more.


Paper Length %

R032: Principles of Care in Health and Social Care



R033: Supporting Individuals through Life Events



R034: Creative and Therapeutic Activities



MEDIA STUDIES


Exam Board: AQA



What will I study?

You will study a variety of media texts from a wide range of different industries. You will apply the media

frameworks of Language, Industry, Audience and Representation to analyse how meaning is created in

the texts that surround us. This includes studying advertising of all kinds, film, television and print media

such as magazines and newspapers. You will also use the ideas you develop when studying these texts to

create your own texts, using industry standard programmes to manipulate and edit images.


Be interested in the media

Manage your time effectively

Use Photoshop to produce professional looking texts

Be analytical when looking at media texts


A GCSE in Media Studies will enable you to go

on to study a number of different media and

production courses at a higher level. These

include film studies and media studies A Levels,

as well as diplomas in media production, game

production and animation.


Careers

Careers based on Media Studies include publishing,

journalism, writing, screenwriting, academia,

teaching, advertising, PR, TV/film production, game

production, animation, graphic design, acting, web

content/social media management, proofreading and

many more!

This qualification is assessed through two exams and one piece of non-examined assessment (NEA). The

NEA is worth 30% of the GCSE and involves creating a media text of your own in response to a given brief.

The exams assess your ability to analyse a series of media texts that you will have studied over the course

of two years.

Paper

Length

Paper 1

Section A: Media Language and Representations

Questions will focus on language and representation in magazines, advertising, newspapers,

online, social and participatory media and video games

Section B: Media Industries and Audiences

Questions will focus on industries and audiences in radio, music videos, newspapers, film,

online, social and participatory media and video games.

Paper 2

Section A: Television

Section A will be based on a screening from an extract of one of the television Close Study

Products and can test any area of the theoretical framework.

Section B: Newspapers OR online, social and participatory media and video games

Questions will test any area of the theoretical framework.

RELIGIOUS STUDIES


Exam Board: AQA


Head of Subject: Mr M Gray

What will I study?

The course covers two main sections. You will study the beliefs and practices of Christianity and

Hinduism, which will allow you to gain an understanding into how religious teachings influence the lives of

religious followers in contemporary British society. This will include the study of what they believe and

why, how people worship and what people believe about related concepts such as the creation of the

world.

Secondly, you will study philosophical and ethical beliefs from a variety of religious and non-religious

perspectives. These exciting and topical units include the study of big questions such as: Does God exist?

Is war is ever acceptable? Should the death penalty still be used? Is animal testing still necessary despite

technological advances?


Be able to explain your reasons for your beliefs.


ideas.

Be prepared to work hard and be enthusiastic

in lessons.

Be able to compare a variety of views.


A Levels: Religious Studies, Sociology, History, Law, Philosophy.

Studying GCSE RS will give you vital skills like: excellent communication and writing; how to construct an

argument; analytical, interpretation and evaluation skills.

Careers

People who study Religious Studies go on to careers in many areas such as education, the police and

armed forces, government and social work. However, any job which works closely with people can

benefit from the skills obtained from an RS qualification. These transferable skills are considered

favourably by many employers even if they do not link directly to religion.


The course is assessed through two exams, both of which are sat at the end of Year 11.

Paper Length of Exam Content Included

Paper 1 1 hour 45 minutes Christian and Hindu Beliefs and Practices

Paper 2 1 hour 45 minutes Philosophical and Ethical Thematic Studies

SOCIOLOGY


Exam Board: AQA


Head of Subject: Mr M Gray

What will I study?

The course looks at four key sociological themes as well as studying research methods. You will look at

what sociology is and what sociological perspectives are. Then you will study different research methods

used by sociologists to understand how they actually do their work. Then we will spend most of the

course studying four themes: family, education, crime and social stratification (the way society is divided

up e.g. class, ethnicity, gender etc).


Be able to explain your reasons for your

opinions.

Have an interest in looking at the impacts of

different social processes.

Be prepared to work hard and be enthusiastic

in lessons.

Have an interest in society around you and

the reasons people fo the things they do.


A Levels; Sociology, Psychology, Religious Studies, History, Law, Philosophy

BTEC; Early years, criminology.

Studying GCSE Sociology will give you vital skills like: excellent communication and writing; how to

construct an argument; analytical, interpretation and evaluation skills. As well as a strong understanding

of the society we live in and how it functions.

Careers

People who study Sociology often go into a variety of careers. Lots of people who study Sociology

become teachers or lawyers; politicians or fundraisers; journalists or event planning… The list is endless.

The skills Sociology gives you apply to so many jobs.


There are two exams in GCSE Sociology, both of which are sat at the end of Year 11.

Paper Length of Exam Content Included

Paper 1 1 hour 45 minutes Families and Education

Paper 2 1 hour 45 minutes Crime and Social Stratification

CHILD DEVELOPMENT


Exam Board: OCR


Head of Subject: Mrs V Bush

What will I study?

Students will study child development from 0-5 years old. Students will explore key concepts of pre

conception, antenatal and postnatal care. The course also covers the roles and responsibility of

parenthood; creating safe environments for children; understanding the nutritional needs of children; as

well as developing an understanding of how the impact of play can affect developmental norms, such as

the social and intellectual development of a child. Students will carry out observations, research

projects, as well “hands on” learning using a variety of equipment.


Read widely about child development and how environments

can impact on this.

Complete two research assignments which will make up 50%

of your final grade.

Have the ability to research nutritional information for

healthy development.


Child Development provides students with analytical, practical

and research skills; it requires students to explore all aspects of

child development.

Health and Social Care Diploma

Education and Early Years Apprenticeship

Child Development Level 3

A Levels in Sociology and Biology


Understand the importance of

safety equipment used for

children’s development.

Work independently on aspects of

the course that are more

challenging.

Careers

Studying Child Development can

lead to a plethora of careers

including: An Early Years

Practitioner, Nursery Nurse,

Primary/Secondary and SEN

teaching, Nursing, Midwifery, Child

Care Worker, Nanny.

Paper Length % Key Concepts

Health and

Wellbeing for Child

Development

1 hour 15

minutes

(Exam)

50

This unit explores the roles and responsibilities of

parenthood, and key concepts that cover pre-conception,

antenatal care, and postnatal care.

Safe Environment

and Food Hygiene

Coursework 25

Compares a range of equipment required in creating safe

environments and explores nutritional and hygiene

requirements for early childhood development.

Understand the

Development of a

Child

Coursework 25

Explores impact of play on the developmental norms,

such as social and intellectual development of a child.

TRIPLE SCIENCE


Exam Board: AQA


Head of Subject: Mrs K Roberts

What will I study?

Students will obtain three GCSEs in biology, chemistry and physics. The course covers all areas included in

combined science with additional content including: microbiology in biology; analytical techniques in chemistry;

and electromagnetism and space in physics. Students will carry out a series of required practical activities,

developing use of scientific apparatus and the ability to evaluate results and techniques.

Requirements

Students are able to select Triple Science as an option if they have received an invitation; this is a demanding

course. Students will be required to confidently apply mathematical skills across all three sciences and be

dedicated to independent study. Students are not prevented from accessing science A Levels if they do not choose

or have not been invited to study Triple Science.


Read widely about science in the news, including recent

developments.

Evaluate recent scientific studies based on sample sizes and

evidence.

Be able to use mathematical skills in a scientific context.


Triple Science provides students with additional analytical,

mathematical and practical skills beyond the scope of combined

science. It is well suited to students who are passionate about

science and are considering further academic study beyond

GCSE.


Subject Length Marks % Topics

Understand the importance of practical

skills.

Work independently on aspects of the

course that are more challenging.

Careers

Studying science can lead to a plethora of

careers including: pharmacology, surgeon/GP,

dentistry, nursing, midwifery, astronomy

engineering, teaching, forensics, healthcare,

geneticist and environmental science.

Biology

Paper 1

1hr

45m

100 50 Cell biology, organisation, infection and response, and bioenergetics.

Biology

Paper 2

1hr

45m

100 50

Homeostasis and response, inheritance, variation and evolution, and

ecology.

Chemistry

Paper 1

1hr

45m

100 50

Atomic structure and the periodic table, bonding, properties of matter,

chemical changes and energy changes.

Chemistry

Paper 2

1hr

45m

100 50

Rates, organic chemistry, chemical analysis, the atmosphere and using

resources.

Physics

Paper 1

1hr

45m

100 50 Energy, electricity, particle model and matter, and atomic structure.

Physics

Paper 2

1hr

45m

100 50 Forces, waves, magnetism and electromagnetism and space.

ASPIRATION ~ INTEGRITY ~ RESPECT

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