GCSE Options

GCSE PROSPECTUS

GCSE Prospectus

This prospectus provides information that will help you understand why studying GCSEs and/or BTECs at the British School of Bahrain is the best choice for you, and guide you in making some important subject choices for the two years ahead of you. The two years ahead of you are crucial steps in your journey towards Sixth Form, university, and beyond, and making intelligent, informed decisions is essential. If you have any questions that cannot be answered by this prospectus, then we will be very happy to answer them personally.

The British School of Bahrain

Founded in 1995, the British School of Bahrain has grown into its purpose-built campus in Hamala, on the Western edge of the Kingdom of Bahrain. With over 90 nationalities represented in the student body, we are a truly international school focused on delivering an outstanding British curriculum. We are on accredited ‘British School Overseas’, verified via an outstanding inspection, as well as rated outstanding by the Bahrain Education and Training Quality Authority.

A WELCOME FROM

MR. WAYNE RIDGWAY - HEAD OF

SENIORS

Curriculum Choices

You will need to choose which courses you wish to study. You can use the information in this booklet; consider your interests and strengths; take into account the advice of your teachers; and discuss your preferred courses with your family and friends. It is important that, as an individual, you also carry out independent research into Sixth Form, university and employment, because choices you make this year may determine what you can and cannot study later in life.

The choices you make impact on your future, so it is vital that you play the leading role in planning them; but of course, the BSB will provide you with a great deal of advice and assistance. Please note that many of our courses require you to reach a certain level of knowledge and skills in Year 9: this is to ensure that you do not enrol on a GCSE course and later regret it, as you find it difficult to cope with its demands. Ultimately, the final decision as to whether you can enrol on a course rests with the school, and our judgment is based on vast experience with hundreds of students. Please also note that there is a minimum number of students required for a course to run. All students take English, Mathematics, and Triple Award Science

(what we call ‘Core’ subjects). On top of this, students can choose three optional subjects from a wide range of options. The options at the BSB allow students to follow paths that interest them, while still maintaining a decent breadth of subjects. Most BSB students will obtain eight or nine GCSEs or equivalent, though seven or more is normally what universities will look for (of course, A-levels or equivalent are more important for determining acceptance onto a university degree course).

YEAR 10

AT THE BSB

Teaching and Learning

GCSEs are much more demanding than previous courses, and students must be prepared to put in a great deal of hard work to succeed. Extra reading at home, regular revision sessions from the start of Year 10, 100% completion rate of homework, and attention to detail in class and tests, are what distinguish those students who obtain top grades from the rest. If you expect the teachers to tell you all of the answers, you will be disappointed!

That said, our experienced staff body have immense experience designing and delivering interesting programmes of study that strike the right balance between preparing students for the final exams, developing their understanding of a subject, and cultivating the skills necessary for the twenty-first century. You will find them supportive and dedicated; they will also hold you to the high standards that we, the school, have of them.

One thing we are very proud of is the excellent relationship that our students and staff have throughout these important two years.

Pastoral Care

The transition into GCSEs is more than simply moving up a year group. You are entering a very different environment where your success is heavily dependent on how hard you are willing to work. For the first time, you will be taking a course where the results will stay with you for life. This does make your life more pressurised, particularly when you are trying to juggle a number of demanding courses and also continue to involve yourself in extracurricular and social activities. Your tutors will work closely with you on a daily basis, providing sound advice and helping you to manage your workload and commitments. The Head of Year 10 will step in when additional help is needed while, if you need it, our School Counsellor is dedicated full-time to your welfare.

Progress Reviews and Intervention

Every BSB student regularly reviews their progress with subject teachers, and after the cycle tests, will have dedicated time for reflection on their work, and improvement of it. The Head of Year oversees this process, being kept aware of any academic issues that arise and putting in place relevant, effective intervention for students who need a little more support.

In most cases, however, students respond to feedback, develop their subject knowledge and understanding of the exams they will face, and improve throughout the one or two year courses they take. Grade cards and narrative reports ensure that you and your parents can see your progress, and your parents will also have opportunities to speak face to face with your teachers at parent evenings. However, our door is always open to you and your family should you wish to speak about a particular concern; simply contact the Head of Year in the first instance to arrange a meeting.

GCSEs, (I)GCSEs & BTECs

What are GCSE and (I)GCSE Courses?

The General Certificate of Secondary Education (GCSE) is the secondary education qualification of choice for almost all schools and students in the UK. Each qualification is in a particular subject, and a student will take a number of them as their record of achievement throughout secondary school at the age of 16. The International General Certificate of Secondary Education ((I)GCSE) is equivalent to a GCSE, but is slightly more internationally minded and is very popular with schools outside of the UK. Whichever one you end up doing, you can be sure that they are, essentially, the same.

For all the GCSE courses, extra fees payable are for entry to the exams. For BTEC courses, a regstration fees is payable at the start of the course.

What are BTEC Courses?

The Business and Technology Education Council was created in 1984, and offers further education qualifications at a number of levels. They are different to GCSEs as they are more coursework orientated and focus on ‘real-world’, practical experience of a subject rather than theory. That said, most BTECs are moving towards a combined coursework-and-exam framework.

At BSB we offer BTEC Sport and BTEC IT Level 2 to pupils in years 10 and 11.

So Which Options Should I Take?

The answer to this question is very personal, but some general guidelines may help you:

• Try to choose subjects that interest you and that you have been good at;

• Remember that you can take a blend of GCSEs and BTECs if you wish;

• Discuss your choices with lots of people, but remember that this is your education and you should be the primary decision maker;

• If you do not like the examination experience, consider BTECs as a viable option that will not prevent you from accessing a great course at a great university;

• Above all else, talk with your teachers, your Head of Year and if necessary, the university counsellor. They are the professionals in the field, and not only do they know best, they genuinely have your best interests at heart too.

A FINAL WORD

Making the Most of your Time at the BSB

If you want to enjoy your time at the BSB, you need to do a lot more than simply study for your academic subjects. Our Year 10 and 11 students throw themselves into many fantastic extracurricular and social opportunities, from sporting to creative, charitable to musical, and everything else in between. Our expectation is that you will contribute to the school community, acting as a role model to younger students and contributing to the success of the school. We will provide opportunities for you to get involved, and encourage you to do so.

What Happens Between Now and August 2022?

You are at the beginning of a five month process to choose your GCSE and BTEC subjects. The first stage is to continue your studies, work hard, and do as well as you possibly can in all of your subjects.

The options process begins with you starting to investigate the range of subjects on offer here at BSB. In year 10 we offer fifteen optional courses of which you will take 3. The first thing is therefore to investigate all the courses to decide if they are right for you, The options website is available for your to look through where all the subjects we offer have included a video which explains the course, the assessments and the things you will learn.

Once the school has created suitable option blocks, you will be asked to make a decision about the blend of subjects you wish to take. This will take place in March. Please note that we will not be able to satisfy everyone with the option blocks, and remember that subjects that do not make the minimum number of students may not run. We will inform you if we feel that one or more of the subjects you have chosen may not run in August.

Who Should I Contact If I Have Further Questions?

MS. VANESSA WILLIAMS Head of Year 9 williamsv@thebsbh.com

MR. Kenneth Winstanley Deputy Head winstanleyk@thebsbh.com

MR. THOMAS WEEKS-BARNITT Director of Sixth Form barnittt@thebsbh.com

IGCSE ENGLISH LANGUAGE

What will students learn?

• Read a wide range of texts fluently and with good understanding.

• Read critically and use knowledge gained from wide reading to inform and improve their own writing.

• Write effectively and coherently using Standard English appropriately.

• Use grammar correctly, punctuate and spell accurately.

• Acquire and apply a wide vocabulary alongside knowledge and understanding of grammatical terminology, and linguistic conventions for reading, writing and spoken language.

Skills and understanding

Exam Board Edexcel Syllabus code 4EA1

• Develop skills to analyse how writers use linguistic and structural devices to achieve their effects.

• Explore links and connections between writers’ ideas and perspectives.

• Develop transactional writing skills for a variety of purposes and audiences.

• Use spelling, punctuation and grammar accurately.

• Develop imaginative writing skills to engage the reader.

IGCSE ENGLISH LITERATURE

What will students learn?

• Engage with and develop the ability to read, understand and respond to a wide range of literary texts from around the world.

• To develop an appreciation of the ways in which writers achieve their literary effects.

• To develop the skills needed for literary study.

• To explore, through literature, the cultures of their own and other societies.

• To find enjoyment in reading literature and understand its influence on individuals and societies.

Skills and understanding

• Develop skills to analyse unseen poetry.

Exam Board Edexcel Syllabus code 4ET1

• Develop skills to analyse how language, form, structure and contextual factors can be used to create meanings and effects.

• Develop skills to maintain a critical style and informed personal response.

• Develop comparison skills.

MATHEMATICS

IGCSE MATHEMATICS

What will students learn?

The Pearson Edexcel International GCSE in Mathematics (Specification A) requires students to demonstrate application and understanding of the following:

Number

Use numerical skills in a purely mathematical way and in real-life situations.

Algebra

• Use letters as equivalent to numbers and as variables.

• Understand the distinction between expressions, equations and formulae.

• Use algebra to set up and solve problems.

• Demonstrate manipulative skills.

• Construct and use graphs.

Geometry

• Use properties of angles.

• Understand a range of transformations.

• Work within the metric system.

• Understand ideas of space and shape.

• Use ruler, compasses and protractor appropriately.

Statistics

Exam Board Edexcel of textbook Syllabus code 4MA1

• Understand basic ideas of statistical averages.

• Use a range of statistical techniques.

• Use basic ideas of probability.

Skills and understanding

Students should be able to demonstrate problem-solving skills by translating problems in mathematical or non-mathematical contexts into a process or a series of mathematical processes.

Students should be able to demonstrate mathematical reasoning skills by:

• Making deductions and drawing conclusions from mathematical information.

• Constructing chains of reasoning.

• Presenting arguments and proofs.

• Interpreting and communicating information accurately.

Accelerated class will be determined at the start of Year 10.

These chosen students will finish their iGCSE exams in Year 10 and start their A level in Year 11.

Entry requirements

Maths is a core component. However, there are two different papers which students could be entered for, Higher or Foundation. In a Higher paper the highest possible score is a 9 and the lowest possible score a student can score is a 4, a lower score than that will result in a U grade. In Foundation the lowest score is a 1, the highest however is a 5. These papers are designed to allow for all students to achieve a score in Maths rather than scoring a U grade. The higher paper consists of 40% grade 4-5 questions and 60% grade 6-9 questions. The foundation paper consists of 40% grade 4-5 questions (exactly the same questions as in the higher paper) and 60% grade 1-3 questions. Students and parents will be contacted at the end of the Mock exams in Y11 to discuss the best options moving forward for the upcoming final examinations. To further assist students in their preparations for these examinations we will set students according to their ability. This will allow staff to provide the appropiate level of support to all students.

Click here to see more course specifications.

LANGUAGES

GCSE FRENCH

What will students learn?

This is an engaging and inspirational course of study that will enable students to manipulate and use the target language to comunicate effectively, confidently, independently and creatively in authentic situations, so that they have a solid basis from which to progress to A Level or employment. Students will also develop awareness and understanding of the culture and identity of the countries and communities where the target language is spoken. The course will cover the following topics:

• Identity and culture

• Local area, holiday and travel

• School

• Future aspirations, study and work

• International and global dimension.

Skills and understanding

Exam Board Edexcel Syllabus code 1FR0

Students will develop their ability to communicate confidently and coherently with native speakers in speech and writing, conveying what they want to say with increasing accuracy; deepen their knowledge about how language works and enrich their vocabulary in order for them to increase their independent use and understanding of extended language in a wide range of contexts; acquire new knowledge, skills and ways of thinking through the ability to understand and respond to a rich range of authentic spoken and written material, adapted and abridged, as appropriate, including literary texts.

Entry requirements

Working at’ the expected skills levels by the end of Year 9. Click here to see more course specifications.

GCSE SPANISH

What will students learn?

This is an engaging and inspirational course of study that will enable students to manipulate and use the target language to comunicate effectively, confidently, independently and creatively in authentic situations, so that they have a solid basis from which to progress to A Level or employment. Students will also develop awareness and understanding of the culture and identity of the countries and communities where the target language is spoken. The course will cover the following topics:

• Identity and culture

• Local area, holiday and travel

• School

• Future aspirations, study and work

• International and global dimension.

Skills and understanding

Exam Board Edexcel

Syllabus code 1SP0

• Students will develop their ability to communicate confidently and coherently with native speakers in speech and writing, conveying what they want to say with increasing accuracy.

• Deepen their knowledge about how language works and enrich their vocabulary in order for them to increase their independent use and understanding of extended language in a wide range of contexts.

• Acquire new knowledge, skills and ways of thinking through the ability to understand and respond to a rich range of authentic spoken and written material, adapted and abridged, as appropriate, including literary texts.

Entry requirements

Working at’ the expected skills levels by the end of Year 9. Clic Click here to see more course specifications.

Exam Board Cambridge Syllabus code 7184

What will students learn?

Reading:

• To demonstrate understanding of words within extended texts.

• To scan for and extract specific information.

• To identify main and subordinate topics, summarise, paraphrase, re-express.

• To show some sense of how writers achieve their effects.

• To recognise and respond to simple linguistic devices including figurative language.

Writing:

• To express thoughts, feelings and opinions in order to interest, inform or convince the reader.

• To show some sense of audience.

• To demonstrate adequate control of vocabulary, syntax and grammar.

• To exercise care over punctuation and spelling.

• To write accurate simple sentences.

• To attempt a variety of sentence structures.

Entry requirements

Working at’ the expected skills levels by the end of Year 9. Click here to see more course specifications.

• To recognise the need for paragraphing.

• To use appropriate vocabulary.

Skills and understanding

Reading: students are assessed on their ability to:

• understand and collate explicit meanings.

• understand, explain and collate implicit meanings and attitudes .

• select, analyse and evaluate what is relevant to specific purposes.

• understand how writers achieve effects.

Writing: Students are assessed on their ability to:

• articulate experience and express what is thought, felt and imagined.

• order and present facts, ideas and opinions.

• understand and use a range of appropriate vocabulary.

• use language and register appropriate to audience and context.

• make accurate and effective use of paragraphs, grammatical structures, sentences, punctuation and spelling.

iGCSE FOREIGN LANGUAGE ARABIC

What will students learn?

The syllabus content is organised around five broad topic areas which provide contexts for the acquisition of vocabulary and the study of grammar and structures. Through the study of these topic areas, candidates gain insight into target language countries and communities.

The topic areas are:

• Everyday Activities

• Personal and Social Life

• The World Around Us

• The World of Work

• The International World Skills and understanding

The aims of the syllabus outline the educational purposes of a course in a foreign language for the Cambridge IGCSE examination. They are not listed in order of priority.

This syllabus aims to:

Exam Board Cambridge Syllabus code 0544

• Develop the ability to communicate effectively using the target language.

• Offer insights into the culture and civilisation of countries where the language is spoken.

• Encourage fuller integration into the local community, where relevant.

• Develop awareness of the nature of language and language learning.

• Encourage positive attitudes towards speakers of other languages and a sympathetic approach to other cultures and civilisations.

• Provide enjoyment and intellectual stimulation.

• Develop transferable skills (e.g. analysis, memorising, drawing of inferences) to complement other areas of the curriculum.

• Form a sound base of the skills, language and attitudes required for progression to work or further study, either in the target language or another subject area.

Entry requirements

Working at’ the expected skills levels by the end of Year 9. Click here to see more course specifications.

ARTS

GCSE ART & DESIGN

What will students learn?

Students will develop an appreciation of the creative process through practical responses, using a variety of two-dimensional and three-dimensional media, materials, techniques and processes.

Students will explore critically how artists, craftspeople and designers from diverse cultures, times and societies have arrived at solutions and communicate meaning through formal elements. Students should use this knowledge to develop new ideas, recording observations and creating outcomes which fully realise their personal intentions. Students will base their work around the four main learning objectives, Contextual Studies, development and experimenting, recording observations and final outcomes.

Skills and understanding

Exam Board Edexcel

Syllabus code 1FA0

Students will develop a practical knowledge and understand of:

• The use of formal elements and visually communicate through a variety of approaches.

• The use of observational skills to record from sources and communicate ideas.

• Characteristics of media and materials such as wet and dry, malleable and digital.

• Properties of colour and light such as hue, tint, saturation and tone.

• The effects and creative potential of combining and manipulating different two-dimensional and three-dimensional materials and media.

• The use of digital and/or non-digital applications.

Entry requirements

Working at’ the expected skills levels by the end of Year 9. Attitude to learning must be 2 or above. Click here to see more course specifications.

GCSE DRAMA

What will students learn?

• Devising process.

• Using stimuli to create new piece of theatre.

• Interpreting and exploring texts for performance.

• Bringing Texts to Life - including exploring historical/social context.

• Live Theatre Evaluation.

Skills and understanding

Exam Board Edexcel Syllabus code 1DRO

• Analyse and evaluate the work of theatre-makers.

• Recognise specific challenges for performers, directors based on their own experiences in exploring the chosen text.

• Analyse and evaluate the ways in which different performance and production elements are brought together to create theatre.

• Use subject-specific terminology in discussing their work as theatre makers.

Entry requirements

Attitude to learning needs to be 2 or above. Click here to see more course specifications.

GCSE MUSIC

What will students learn?

Performance Skills:

• Solo performing

• Ensemble performing

• Approaches to performing

Composition Skills:

• Developing musical ideas

• Compositional techniques and strategies

• Ensuring technical control and coherence

• Methods of notating composition scores

Appraising: Musical elements, musical contexts and musical language.

Areas of study:

• Instrumental Music 1700–1820

• Vocal Music

• Music for Stage and Screen

• Fusions

Entry requirements

Skills and understanding

Exam Board Edexcel Syllabus code 1MU0

• Develop performing skills individually and in groups to communicate musically with fluency and control of the resources used.

• Develop composing skills to organise musical ideas and make use of appropriate resources.

• Recognise links between the integrated activities of performing, composing and appraising and how this informs the development of music.

• Broaden musical experience and interests, develop imagination and foster creativity.

• Recognise contrasting genres, styles and traditions of music, and develop some awareness of musical chronology.

All students will need to be a minimum of Grade 3 or equivalent standard, students do not have to be taking traditional grades, and willing to be working towards Grade 4 by March of 2024. Performance accounts for 30% and 60 marks, and we recommend a weekly individual instrumental or vocal lesson of at least 30 minutes. Click here to see more course specifications.

Non-examined assessment. Internally marked. Externally Moderated. Non-examined assessment. Internally marked. Externally Moderated.

SCIENCES

IGCSE BIOLOGY

What will students learn?

1. The nature and variety of living organisms.

2. Structures and functions in living organisms.

3. Reproduction and inheritance.

4. Ecology and the environment.

5. Use of biological resources.

Skills and understanding

• Acquire knowledge and understanding of biological facts, terminology, concepts, principles and practical techniques.

• Learn about unifying patterns and themes in biology and use them in new and changing situations. The aims will enable students to apply the principles and concepts of biology, including those related to the applications of biology, to different contexts.

• Appreciate the practical nature of biology, developing experimental and investigative skills based on correct and safe laboratory techniques.

• Analyse, interpret and evaluate data and experimental methods, drawing conclusions that are consistent with evidence from experimental activities and suggesting possible improvements and further investigations.

• This course prepares students for more advanced courses in biology and for other courses that require knowledge of biology.

Exam Board Edexcel Syllabus code 4BI1 Entry requirements

Core. Click here to see more course specifications.

IGCSE CHEMISTRY

What will students learn?

1. Principles of chemistry

2. Inorganic chemistry

3. Physical chemistry

4. Organic chemistry

Core.

Click here to see more course specifications.

Skills and understanding

Exam Board Edexcel Syllabus code 4CH1

• Acquire knowledge and understanding of chemical facts, terminology, concepts, principles and practical techniques.

• Learn about unifying patterns and themes in chemistry and use them in new and changing situations and apply the principles and concepts of chemistry, including those related to the applications of chemistry, to different contexts.

• Appreciate the practical nature of chemistry, developing experimental and investigative skills based on correct and safe laboratory techniques.

• Analyse, interpret and evaluate data and experimental methods, drawing conclusions that are consistent with evidence from experimental activities and suggesting possible improvements and further investigations.

• Prepare for more advanced courses in chemistry and for other courses that require knowledge of chemistry.

IGCSE PHYSICS

What will students learn?

• Forces and Motion

• Electricity

• Waves

• Energy Resources and Transfers

• Solids Liquids and Gases

• Magnetism and Electromagnetism

• Radioactivity and Particles

• Astrophysics

Exam Board Edexcel

Syllabus code 4PH1

Skills and understanding

• Acquire knowledge and understanding of physical facts, terminology, concepts, principles and practical techniques.

• Learn about unifying patterns and themes in physics and use them in new and changing situations and apply the principles and concepts of physics, including those related to the applications of physics, to different contexts.

• Appreciate the practical nature of physics, developing experimental and investigative skills based on correct and safe laboratory techniques.

• Analyse, interpret and evaluate data and experimental methods, drawing conclusions that are consistent with evidence from experimental activities and suggesting possible improvements and further investigations.

• Prepare for more advanced courses in physics and for other courses that require knowledge of physics.

Entry requirements Core. Click here to see more course specifications.

IGCSE PHYSICAL EDUCATION

What will students learn?

The students will study a variety of topics as outlined below:

• Health, fitness and well-being (physical, social and emotional benefits of sport and what is a balanced diet)

• Applied anatomy and physiology (bones and muscles of the body and the effects that exercise has on the body)

• Sports Psychology (classification of skills, the use of goal setting and mental preparation for sport)

• Physical Training and data (components of fitness, how to optimise training to prevent injury, effective use of warm up)

• Socio-cultural differences in sport (engagement patterns of different social groups and the commercialisation of sport)

• Movement Analysis (Lever systems, planes and axes of motion)

• Students will also play and be practically assessed in three sports of their choice (1 Team, 1 individual and 1 team/individual sport) in addition to completing a practical fitness unit regarding how they can improve their fitness over a period of time.

Skills and understanding

Information processing: This course prepares you for a career either in professional sport or the general world of work where you will need to condense information into an understandable way.

Practical applicaton: You will use a variety of methods to investigate each area of study such as analysising your own sporting performance using video and statistics. You will not just be learning about each topic in a classroom.

Statistical Analysis: You will interpret performance data to investigate the strengths and weaknesses of your own fitness performance.

Knowledge and understanding: You will focus on and be able to explain key concepts precisely.

Entry requirements

This course links well with Biology and prospective students should have a keen interest regarding the role science plays in sport. Students should have a very keen interest in a variety of sports and represent the school and/or local teams in competitive sport due to the practical assessment of the course. Students need to play both individual and team sports on a regular basis both in and outside of school as they will be assessed in three different sports. Students are strongly advised to purchase a personalised exam t-shirt at the start of the course so that they can be clearly identified when filming the practical parts of the course. Click here to see more course specifications.

BTEC SPORT SCIENCE

What will students learn?

Students will complete two units which are:

Unit 1

- Principles of Fitness and Fitness Testing

Students gain an understanding of the requirements of fitness testing and training, learn how to conduct a range of fitness tests for different components of fitness safely. Students will complete a variety of fitness tests and relate their findings to a player of the same age.

Unit

2

- Training for Personal Fitness

Students will consider how personal training programmes can be used to improve personal health and fitness. Students will design, create and review their own fitness training programme.

Unit 5 - Practical Sport

Students will study the rules, regulations, skills, techniques and tactics through participation and application of these in a team or an individual sport. Students will focus on one team sport and one individual sport, analysing the key requirements needed to be.

Skills and understanding

Exam Board Edexcel Syllabus code 500/6644/4

The Pearson BTEC International Level 2 Certificate, Extended Certificate and Diploma qualifications in Sport have been developed in the sport and active leisure sector to:

• Give full-time learners the opportunity to enter employment in the sport and active leisure sector or to progress to Level 3 vocational qualifications.

• Provide education and training for sport, leisure and recreation employees.

• Give opportunities for sport, leisure and recreation employees to achieve a Level 2 vocationally specific qualification.

• Give learners the opportunity to develop a range of skills and techniques, personal skills and attributes essential for successful performance in working life.

Entry requirements

Students should have an average attitude to learning grade in PE of at least 2 during the course of Year 9. In addition to this, it is strongly advised that students take part or have a strong interest in sport outside of school for a club or team to be successful on this course. Students are strongly advised to purchase a personalised exam t-shirt at the start of the course so that they can be clearly identified when filming the practical parts of the course. Click here to see more course specifications.

HUMANITIES

IGCSE GEOGRAPHY

What will students learn?

Did you know there are reasons why shopping malls are located where they are? Ever wondered about how Bahrain’s coastline is protected from the effects of climate change? What about how we protect and develop water resources for the future? These are some of the aspects we consider in iGCSE Geography!

Students of Geography will develop a ‘sense of place’ through looking at the world around them on a local, regional and global scale. Students will examine a range of natural and man-made environments, and study the processes which affected their development. They will also look at the ways in which people interact with their environment, and the opportunities and challenges an environment can present, thereby gaining a deeper insight into the different communities and cultures that exist around the world.

Skills and understanding

Geographical themes including:

• Human geography

• Physical geography

• Economic geography

Geographical skills including:

• Use and analysis of topographic maps

Exam Board Cambridge Syllabus code 0976

• Interpretation and analysis of visual and written sources

• Application of knowledge of geographical themes

• Fieldwork skills – the practical application and investigation of Geographical concepts

Entry requirements

Students should have an average attitude to learning grade in Humanities of 2 or better during the course of Year 9. The course includes a residential field work element which is important for Paper 4; estimated additional cost 700BD. Click here to see more course specifications.

GCSE PSYCHOLOGY

What will students learn?

Memory and cognition

• Memory

• Perception

• Development

• Research Methods

Social Context and Behaviour

• Social Influence

• Language Thought and Communication

• Brain and Neuropsychology

• Psychological Problems

Skills and understanding

Exam Board AQA

Syllabus code 8182

• Use specialist vocabulary, psychological concepts, terminology and convention to engage in the process of psychological enquiry.

• Acquire knowledge and understanding of psychology, developing an understanding of self and others, and how psychological understanding can help to explain everyday social phenomena.

• Understand how psychological research is conducted, including the role of scientific method and data analysis.

• Present information, develop arguments and draw conclusions through a critical approach to psychological evidence, developing as reflective thinkers.

• Develop an understanding of the relationship between psychology and personal, moral, social and cultural issues, and develop an understanding of ethical issues in psychology.

Entry requirements

Good score in EOY exam for both English, Biology and maths. Click here to see more course specifications.

IGCSE HISTORY

What will students learn?

iGCSE History students will learn about twentieth century international relations from the peace treaties which concluded World War One through to the beginning of World War Two, and how these two key world events were linked. From 1945, the end of World War Two, we examine the causes and effects of the Cold War.

Students will also study the rise of Hitler as the depth study; how did he come to prominence, why did people vote for him, how were people affected by Hitler’s actions? These are all questions we seek to answer in iGCSE History.

Skills and understanding

Exam Board Cambridge

Syllabus code 0977

Understanding students need to have the ability to understand modern historical topics that will build upon and foster new historical perspectives. Students will also need to understand how to use this knowledge to create a detailed answer which indicates their depth of understanding.

Skills; students will need to develop source analysis skills for Paper 2 including nature, origin and purpose. Students will need to make inferences, be detailed and reliable with note taking. Paper 1 and Paper 4 require extended writing skills.

Entry requirements

Students should be ‘working at’ the expected skills levels by the end of Year 9. Click here to see more course specifications.

GCSE

RELIGIOUS STUDIES

What will students learn?

1. Critical thinking

The idea of religious studies is to understand different viewpoints and be able to analyze certain opinions from prominent figures and be able to critically rebut certain concepts that your mind may not agree with conceptually. A study showed religious education improved the critical mind for a better understanding of life in general.

“A pivotal study claiming that the more people learn to think analytically, the less religious they become, has been proven false”

2. Religious knowledge

Students will learn, recognise, deal with, distinguish between, and organise religion. World religions will be discussed and studied, how each religion has a different viewpoint based on nuances that eventually made them differ with each other, while still having many similarities. The main focus is:

• Christianity • Judaism • Islam

3. Liberal world view understanding

We study religion to delve into how religion interacts with all of these aspects of our world. Studying religion increases cultural awareness. Being able to understand key concepts in the major religions of the world develops you as a more broadly educated citizen, whatever your career path. Certain topics are never really discussed or understood how they should be, and Religious Education gives the student opportunities to discuss and debate

Exam Board Edexcel

Syllabus code 1FA0

topics from a young age that become very relevant as they go through adulthood.

• To be able to make moral decisions based on different scenarios.

• To understand the concept of religion and justice.

• To critically debate on various topics.

• Students will understand the problem of evil.

• Students will look at causes of evil and suffering.

• Students will debate the inconsistent elements of life in general (natural order of the earth).

• Students will look at positive achievements of Thomas Aquinas and other relevant figures.

• Students will explain the problem of Evil (Theodicy).

• Students will understand the Black community and other ethnic minorities.

• How religion plays a role in the life of the community of the poor.

• How religion encourages the rich to help and support the poor.

Skills and understanding

• Critical Thinking

• Local and global citizenship

• Numeracy skills

• Technological literacy

• Seeing patterns, trends and relationships

• Respecting difference

TECHNOLOGY

GCSE ICT

What will students learn?

The aims and objectives of this qualification are to enable students to:

• Explore how digital technology impacts on the lives of individuals, organisations and society.

• Learn about current and emerging digital technologies and the issues raised by their use in a range of contexts by individuals and organisations.

• Develop awareness of the risks that are inherent in using ICT and the features of safe, secure and responsible practice.

• Broaden and enhance their ICT skills and capability.

• Work with a range of digital tools and techniques to produce effective ICT solutions in a range of contexts.

• Learn how to reflect critically on their own and others’ use of ICT and how to adopt safe, secure and responsible practice.

Topics to be covered: 1. Digital Devices 2. Connectivity

Operating Online

Online Goods and Services

Exam Board Pearson Edexcel Syllabus code 4IT1

Students will also learn to use the following software

effectively:

• Word processing

• Database management

• Spreadsheet

• Web authoring

• Presentation (multimedia)

• Graphics Skills and understanding

• Gain knowledge and understanding of Information and Communication Technology.

• Develop skills to apply knowledge and understanding to produce ICT-based solutions.

• Develop skills of analysis and evaluation, making reasoned judgements and presenting conclusions.

• Develop skills in spreadsheets, word processing, presentation software and databases.

GCSE

COMPUTER SCIENCE

What will students learn?

• What algorithms are; what they are used for and how they work; ability to interpret, amend and create algorithms.

• The requirements for writing program code.

• Binary representation, data representation, data storage and compression, encryption and databases.

• Components of computer systems, ability to construct truth tables, produce logic statements and read and pseudo-code.

• Computer networks, the internet and the world wide web.

• Emerging trends in computing technologies, the impact of computing on individuals, society and the environment, including ethical, legal and ownership issues.

Skills and understanding

Exam Board Edexcel Syllabus code 1CP2

• Develop knowledge and understanding of the fundamental principles and concepts of computer science.

• Develop and apply computational thinking skills to analyse problems and design solutions across a range of contexts.

• Gain practical experience of designing, writing, and testing computer programs that accomplish specific goals.

• Develop the ability to reason, explain and evaluate computing solutions.

• Develop awareness of current and emerging trends in computing technologies.

• Develop awareness of the impact of computing on individuals, society and the environment, including ethical, legal and ownership issues.

• Communicate computer science concepts and explain computational solutions clearly and concisely using appropriate terminology.

Entry requirements

Working at’ the expected skills levels by the end of Year 9. Click here to see more course specifications.

INTERNATIONAL

This Qualification is design to support learners who want an introduction to the IT sector though applied learning. This is equivalent to one International GCSE.

What will students learn?

Students will need to complete two units: Unit one is Mandatory and any one of the option units:

• Unit 1 - Using IT to Support Information and Communication in Orginisations

This unit focuses on exploring how IT meets the needs of organisations, the students will also plan an information campaign for an identified organisation and produce an information campaign for an identified organisation. One of these option units:

• Unit 7 – Introduction to Website Development focuses on investigate the features and uses of websites

• Unit 8 - Introduction to App Development focuses on Development of Mobile Apps

• Unit 9 - Introduction to Games Design focuses on investigate the features Games design

Units are assessed using a grading scale of Distinction (D), Merit (M) and Pass (P).

Exam Board Edexcel

Syllabus code International BTEC in IT Level 2

Skills and understanding

The Pearson BTEC International Level 2 Certificate, Extended Certificate and Diploma qualifications in IT have been developed in Technology & Business sector to:

• Give full-time learners the opportunity to enter employmentin the IT and Computing sector or to progress to Higher Education such as Level 3 qualifications.

• Provide education and training for Technology, Applications, Hardware and Software.

• Give opportunities for developing skills in IT and computing that are required for the 21st Century.

• Give learners the opportunity to develop a range of skills and techniques, personal skills and attributes essential for successful performance in working life.

Higher Education and Career Paths

BTEC-IT International Level 2 qualification is designed to support learners who wish to study information technology progression to further study at Level 3/pre-tertiary education and higher education, lead on to university courses based around IT, Computer Studies, Business and more.

Alternatively, it is an opportunity for early employment within the IT industry.

BUSINESS & ECONOMICS

IGCSE ECONOMICS

What will students learn?

• The basic economic problem

• The allocation of resources

• The individual as producer, consumer and borrower

• The private firm as producer and employer

• The role of the Government in economy

• Economic indicators

• Developed and developing economies

• International economics

Skills and understanding

Exam Board Cambridge Syllabus code 0987

• Develop knowledge and understanding of economic terminology, principles and theories.

• Develop basic economic numeracy and literacy and their ability to handle simple data including graphs and diagrams.

• Develop ability to use the tools of economic analysis in particular situatiions.

• Identify and discriminate between differing sources of information and how to distinguish between facts and value judgements in economic issues.

• Use economic skills (with reference to individuals, groups and organisations) to understand better the world in which they live.

• Understand the economies of developed and developing nations and the relationships between them.

Entry requirements

Students must have an ATL average of at least 2.5. Students should also be working at or above Y9 in maths. Click here to see more course specifications.

Exam Board Edexcel Syllabus code 1BS0

What will students learn?

Theme 1 Investigating Small Business:

• Topic 1.1 Enterprise and entrepreneurship

• Topic 1.2 Spotting a business opportunity

• Topic 1.3 Putting a business idea into practice

• Topic 1.4 Making the business effective

• Topic 1.5 Understanding external influences on business

Theme 2 Building a Business:

• Topic 2.1 Growing the business

• Topic 2.2 Making marketing decisions

• Topic 2.3 Making operational decisions

• Topic 2.4 Making financial decisions

• Topic 2.5 Making human resource decisions

Skills and understanding

• Know and understand business concepts, business terminology, business objectives, the integrated nature of business activity and the impact of business on individuals and wider societyapply knowledge and understanding to contemporary business issues and to different types and sizes of businesses in local, national and global contexts.

• Develop as enterprising individuals with the ability to think commercially and creatively to demonstrate business acumen, and draw on evidence to make informed business decisions and solve business problems.

• Develop as effective and independent students, and as critical and reflective thinkers with enquiring minds.

• Use an enquiring, critical approach to make informed judgements.

• Investigate and analyse real business opportunities and issues to construct well-argued, well-evidenced, balanced and structured arguments, demonstrating their depth and breadth of understanding of business.

Entry requirements

Students should have an average attitude to learning grade in all subjects of 2 or better during the course of Year 9. Click here to see more course specifications.