Compass Curriculum
FCAT Compass Curriculum – What is our offer?
We are thrilled to announce our exciting partnership with Blackpool and The Fylde College, Myerscough College, Blackpool Sixth Form, and Blackpool Community Football Club to enhance our Key Stage 4 curriculum and broaden progression pathways and career opportunities. This collaboration and Compass Curriculum allows pupils to select one option to study at these esteemed institutions. Both Level 1 and Level 2 pathways are available, with the Level 2 pathway ideally suited for pupils on track for a grade 4 in Maths and English. This initiative is designed to facilitate a smooth transition into post-16 courses, enhancing employability prospects. Additionally, a wide range of courses is offered to complement those already chosen at pupils' home schools.
At the Fylde Coast Academy Trust (FCAT), our guiding value is to strive for 'the best we can be' in everything we do. We are committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive educational environment, which enables us to make a transformative difference in the lives of our students.
By promoting an inclusive culture, we embrace a rich variety of perspectives, experiences, and skills. This creates a healthier, happier, and more productive environment where every member of our school community can thrive.
FCAT Compass Curriculum –
1) Construction (limited places)
2) Engineering
3) Hair & Beauty
4) Motor Vehicle (limited places)
5) Uniform Public Services
1) Animal Studies
2) Landscape design and construction (limited places)
GCSE in either
1) Economics (must be studying higher GCSE maths)
2) Psychology (must be in set 1 or 2 for English)
3) Sociology (must be in set 1 or 2 for English)
Construction
Build Your Future with B&FC!
Year 10 Course: Ascentis Level 1 Award in Introduction to the Construction Environment
Year 11 Course: Ascentis Level 2 Award in Skills for Employment in the Construction Industries
About This Programme:
Are you ready to lay the foundation for a successful career in the construction industry? This Construction programme offers a comprehensive pathway from introductory to advanced levels, equipping you with the essential skills and knowledge needed to thrive in this dynamic field.
Why Choose the Construction Skills Programme?
This is a really practical course. Across the two years, you’ll spend lots of time learning new skills and practising techniques in B&FC’s Construction Skills Centre, equipped with areas such as brickwork, plastering, plumbing, electrical installation and painting/decorating.
In Year 10, you’ll study the Ascentis Level 1 Award in Introduction to the Construction Environment to get started in construction. You’ll:
● Gain a solid introduction to the construction industry, preparing you for further training and employment.
● Develop Key Skills: Enhance your personal and employability skills, making you job-ready.
● Undertake Work-Related Learning: Understand the importance of workrelated skills in the construction sector.
In Year 11, you’ll progress to the Ascentis Level 2 Award in Skills for Employment in the Construction Industries and:
● Advance Your Knowledge: Dive deeper into the theory and practical skills required for various construction occupations.
● Make Informed Decisions: Learn to make educated choices about your career path in the construction industry.
● Undertake Comprehensive Training: Receive an excellent introduction to the skills needed to excel in construction roles.
Construction
How You’ll Be Assessed: Create a portfolio of your work to showcase your knowledge. Health and Safety in Construction:
How You’ll Be Assessed: Similar to the first unit, you’ll make a portfolio that will be reviewed by professionals, showcasing your knowledge and skills.
Introduction to Plastering Techniques: What You’ll Learn: The skills needed for plastering. How You’ll Be Assessed: You’ll do practical tasks and create a portfolio demonstrating all you’ve learned.
Progression and Career Opportunities:
Once you’ve completed this programme, you can progress to a range of different courses in college, depending on what career you’d like to get into. The construction industry offers a wide range of exciting careers, such as:
● Architect: Design buildings and spaces, bringing creative ideas to life.
● Civil Engineer: Plan and manage construction projects like bridges, roads, and buildings.
● Electrician: Install and repair electrical systems in homes, offices, and other buildings.
● Plumber: Fix and install pipes, water systems, and heating systems.
● Carpenter: Build and repair wooden structures, furniture, and fittings.
● Bricklayer: Construct walls, chimneys, and other structures using bricks and mortar.
● Construction Manager: Oversee construction projects to ensure they are completed on time and within budget.
● Surveyor: Measure and map land for construction projects.
● Site Supervisor: Manage workers and ensure safety on construction sites.
● Quantity Surveyor: Estimate costs and manage the financial aspects of construction projects.
Equipment and Clothing: You’ll need a pair of steel toe-cap boots (which the college will provide) and trousers suitable for a construction site (they will get mucky!).
Ignite Your Engineering Career with the Level 1/2 Technical Award
Year 10 and 11 Course: Level 1/2 Technical Award in Engineering
Why Choose This Qualification?
Are you fascinated by the world of engineering and eager to explore its endless possibilities? The Level 1/2 Technical Award in Engineering is your perfect starting point. This qualification offers a unique blend of vocational and project-based learning, making it ideal for those who want a hands-on introduction to the engineering industry.
● Comprehensive Study: Dive deep into the engineering sector with a curriculum that covers a wide range of topics and provides a solid core of knowledge.
● Practical Skills: Gain valuable practical and technical skills that are essential for a successful career in engineering.
● Career and Study Progression: Whether you aim to enter the engineering workforce or continue your studies, this qualification sets you on the right path.
About This Programme:
This is a really practical course. You’ll spend a lot of time over the two years in B&FC’s Advanced Technology Centre, equipped with industry standard manual and Computer Numerical Controlled (CNC) lathes and milling machines, manual (MIG TIG MMA) and Virtual Reality Welding stations, fully equipped Welding and Fabrication Workshop with the latest machines in industry.
What You’ll Learn:
● Engineering Basics: Understand the different types of engineering and how they work together.
● Science and Maths: Use science and maths to solve real-world engineering problems.
● Drawing Skills: Learn to read and create engineering drawings by hand and using CAD software.
● Materials and Tools: Discover the properties of different materials and how to choose the right ones for your projects.
● Planning: Learn how to plan and organise engineering projects from start to finish.
Why Choose The Engineering Programme?
This course combines hands-on projects with practical learning, making it fun and engaging while giving you a solid introduction to the engineering industry.
Engineering
● Explore Engineering: Dive into the exciting world of engineering and discover different fields like mechanical, electrical, and civil engineering.
● Hands-On Learning: Get practical experience with tools, machines, and computer-aided design (CAD) software.
● Build Your Future: Whether you want to start a career in engineering or continue studying, this course sets you on the right path. Assessment: This qualification has two assessments. One is a project you do during the course, and the other is a written exam.
Progression and Career Opportunities: The engineering field offers a wide range of exciting careers! These careers let you use your creativity and problem-solving skills to make a big impact on the world:
● Mechanical Engineer: Design and build machines and tools.
● Civil Engineer: Plan and construct buildings, roads, and bridges.
● Electrical Engineer: Work with electrical systems and power generation.
● Chemical Engineer: Develop new materials and processes for manufacturing.
● Aerospace Engineer: Design aircraft, spacecraft, and satellites.
● Biomedical Engineer: Create medical devices and equipment.
● Environmental Engineer: Find solutions to environmental problems.
● Software Engineer: Develop software and applications.
● Industrial Engineer: Improve production processes and systems.
● Marine Engineer: Design and maintain ships and underwater systems.
Equipment and Clothing: No need to purchase anything.
Hair & Beauty
Shine in the Hair and Beauty World!
Year 10 Course: VTCT Level 1 Certificate in Hair and Beauty Skills
Year 11 Course: VTCT Level 2 Certificate in Hair and Beauty Skills
About This Programme:
Are you interested in hair and beauty and want to learn more? B&FC’s VTCT Level 1 and Level 2 Certificates in Hair and Beauty Skills (VRQ) are perfect for you! These courses are designed to help you develop your skills and prepare you for further study or a career in the hair and beauty industry.
Why Choose The Hair and Beauty Programme?
What you will learn in Year 10 (VTCT Level 1 Certificate in Hair and Beauty Skills):
● Get Started: Learn the basics of hair and beauty, including creating a hair and beauty image using colour.
● Hands-On Learning: Choose from fun optional units like hand and nail care, make-up application, skincare, nail art, face painting, blow-drying, and more.
● Essential Knowledge: Understand important topics like health and safety, customer service, and hair and beauty products.
What you will learn in Year 11 (VTCT Level 2 Certificate in Hair and Beauty Skills):
● Advance Your Skills: Build on what you learned in Level 1 with more advanced techniques and knowledge.
● Creative Projects: Work on exciting projects like creating themed images and using semi-permanent hair colour.
● Career Preparation: Learn practical skills like eyebrow shaping, basic manicure and pedicure, and even basic hair cutting techniques.
Both qualifications will help you develop the skills you need to succeed in the hair and beauty industry. You’ll also learn important workplace skills like customer service and health and safety, which are essential for any job. You’ll be ready to shine in the exciting world of hair and beauty!
Assessment:
Your teachers will create and grade your assessment tasks. To make sure everyone is graded fairly, the college will check that all students meet the learning goals in the same way. You’ll have chances to practice and get feedback on your work, so you know what to improve before the final assessments.
Hair & Beauty
You can be assessed as many times as needed until the end of the course. The grades you have when you finish will count towards your final qualification. Sometimes, one piece of work can be used to meet the requirements of more than one part of the course. This is called holistic assessment.
Progression and Career Opportunities:
The hair and beauty industry offers a variety of exciting careers. These careers let you use your creativity and skills to help people look and feel great!
● Hairdresser: Cut, style, and colour hair to help people look their best.
● Skincare Specialist: Provide treatments and advice to help clients maintain healthy skin.
● Nail Technician: Create beautiful nail designs and provide manicures and pedicures.
● Barber: Specialize in cutting and styling men’s hair and grooming beards.
● Makeup Artist: Apply makeup for events, photoshoots, or everyday looks.
● Beauty Blogger: Share beauty tips, tutorials, and product reviews online.
● Salon Manager: Run a salon, managing staff and ensuring everything runs smoothly.
● Tattoo Artist: Design and apply tattoos.
● Aromatherapist: Use essential oils to provide therapeutic treatments.
● Beauty Therapist: Offer a range of beauty treatments like facials, waxing, and massages.
Equipment and Clothing: The college will provide your uniform; this includes a tunic trousers and footwear
Motor Vehicle
Motor Vehicle: Accelerate your learning with this two-year programme!
Year 10 Course: Level 1 Award/Certificate in Vehicle Maintenance and Repair
Year 11 Course: Level 1 Diploma in Vehicle Maintenance and Repair
About This Programme:
Are you interested in cars and how they work? Then the Level 1 Motor Vehicle Maintenance and Repair is created by the Institute of the Motor Industry and is perfect for you! It’s designed for anyone, even if you have no experience with cars:
● Learn New Skills: You’ll get to know all about fixing and maintaining cars and motorcycles.
● Boost Your Confidence: This course helps you feel ready for more advanced studies or a job in the car repair industry.
● English and Maths: You’ll also improve your English and Maths skills, working at your own level.
● Hands-On Learning: It’s a mix of practical work and written tasks, so you’ll get plenty of real-world experience.
● Wide Range of Topics: From Health & Safety to Vehicle Diagnostics, you’ll cover a lot of ground.
Think of it as your first step towards a career in the motor industry!
Why Choose The Motor Vehicle Programme?
This is a practical course. You’ll spend a lot of time over the two years in B&FC’s Advanced Technology Centre, with state-of-the-art Automotive Diagnostic and repair equipment such as the Hunter Hawkeye Elite Laser Wheel Alignment system, Snap-On Zeus Electrical Diagnostic equipment and fully loaded toolboxes filled with the latest Teng hand tools.
You’ll train in our Advanced Technology Centre with experienced teachers who will help you understand car engines, wheels, brakes, and even welding. Here’s what you’ll study:
● Car frames (chassis)
● Petrol and diesel engines
● Transmission systems
● Steering, suspension, and brakes
● Welding and making things (fabrication)
● Health and safety
● Car electrics
● Wheels and tyres
Assessment:
Motor Vehicle
To pass this programme, you need to do two things:
1. Practical Tasks: These are hands-on activities where you show what you’ve learned.
2. Online Assessment: This is an online test that covers all the important topics. There are special tasks for each part of the course to help you practice and show your skills. These tasks make sure you really understand the material and can do the practical work.
Progression and Career Opportunities:
There are lots of careers in the automotive industry! Here are some you might find interesting:
● Auto Mechanic: Fix and maintain cars, working on engines, brakes, and more.
● Auto Electrician: Specialize in the electrical systems of vehicles, like lights and alarms.
● Car Designer: Create new car designs and improve existing ones.
● Vehicle Inspector: Check cars to make sure they are safe and meet regulations.
● Auto Body Repair Technician: Fix the exterior of cars, like dents and broken windows.
● Auto Engineer: Develop and design new car technologies and systems.
You can also progress from this programme to a Motorsport course when you’ve left school! This can lead to jobs such as:
● Race Engineer: Work with drivers to optimize car performance during races.
● Mechanic: Maintain and repair race cars to keep them in top condition.
● Aerodynamicist: Design and test car shapes to improve speed and handling.
● Data Analyst: Analyze race data to help teams make strategic decisions.
● Driver: Compete in races and aim for the podium!
Equipment and Clothing: No need to purchase anything. The college will provide your uniform.
Uniformed Public Services
Gear Up for an Exciting Future with Uniformed Services Courses!
Year 10 Course: NCFE Level 1/2 Certificate in Uniformed Protective Services
Year 11 Course: ETCAL Level 2 Certificate in Preparation for Military Service
About This Programme:
Are you interested in a career in the uniformed services like the police, fire service, or armed forces?
In Year 10, you’ll start with the NCFE Level 1/2 Certificate in Uniformed Protective Services. This course gives you a sneak peek into what it’s like to work in these important roles and helps you develop the technical skills you’ll need.
In Year 11, you’ll move on to the ETCAL Level 2 Certificate in Preparation for Military Service. This course helps you understand what it takes to join the military as well as emergency services and prepares you with the skills and knowledge you’ll need.
Why Choose The Uniformed Services Programme?
● Explore Careers: Learn about different jobs in the uniformed services, such as the army, navy, RAF, prison service, fire and rescue service, and police.
● Hands-On: Gain practical skills that are essential for these careers.
● Transferrable Skillset: Develop skills such as confidence, leadership under adversity, and resilience.
● Future Opportunities: This course sets you up for apprenticeships in the uniformed services.
What You’ll
Learn:
● Military Life: Get an introduction to the skills and knowledge needed for military service.
● Emergency Services: Understand how the Police, Ambulance and Fire Service work together.
● Commitment and Requirements: Understand the commitments and requirements of a military career.
● Character Development: Strong emphasis on developing soft skills, such as integrity, calmness in adversity and leadership in tough situations
This programme is the start of your journey towards an exciting and rewarding career in the uniformed services. You’ll be ready to take on the challenges and make a difference!
Uniformed Public Services
Progression and Career Opportunities:
You can progress to a Level 3 (A Level equivalent) course in Uniformed Protective Services when you come to college. You’re also able to progress to Protective Services Apprenticeships such as policing, security, HM forces, fire service, paramedics.
There are many exciting careers in uniformed public services, each playing a vital role in keeping communities safe and functioning smoothly. Here are some examples:
● Police Officer: Enforces laws, investigates crimes, and helps maintain public order.
● Firefighter: Responds to fires, accidents, and other emergencies to protect people and property.
● Paramedic: Provides emergency medical care and transports patients to hospitals.
● Soldier: Serves in the army, participating in peacekeeping missions and combat operations.
● Coastguard: Helps prevent loss of life at sea and coordinates search and rescue operations.
● Prison Officer: Supervises inmates in prisons and ensures safety and security.
● Border Force Officer: Protects borders by enforcing immigration and customs regulations.
● Security Guard: Protects buildings, people, and valuables from theft and damage.
These careers offer the chance to make a real difference in people’s lives and often come with opportunities for advancement and specialised training.
Equipment and Clothing: You’ll need to wear a Plain black T-shirt. The college will provide black combat/cargo trousers, black combat boots and a plain black hoodie.
Land-based Studies – Animal Studies
Year 10: Level 1 Award in Land-based Studies – Animal Care
Year 11: Option to study either the Level 1 Certificate in Land-based Studies –Animal Care or the Level 2 Certificate NCFE Occupational Studies – Animal Care
Awarding Body- City and Guilds/NCFE
Assessment –
A portfolio of written work must be completed under controlled assessment conditions, practical assessments will take place on our purpose-built animal centre and a short on-line assessment in year one.
Course Outline - What will you learn?
This course provides a basic introduction to the care of a variety of domestic animals. Your areas of study will include feeding, cleaning and handling animals as well as modules covering work safety and skills development in the land-based industries. Time will be spent in the classroom and in the College’s Animal Studies Centre. You must have an interest in the subject and have some prior experience of working with animals. A portfolio of written work will be completed under controlled assessment conditions, practical assessments will take place on our purpose built animal centre.
Support Available
• Student handbook
• Practical classroom based resources
• 1-1 feedback
Who is this course for?
Land-based Studies – Animal Studies
For learners who want to acquire knowledge and technical skills through vocational contexts by studying the purpose and aims of animal care, and how they provide products and services to meet customer requirements, as part of their Key Stage 4 learning. If you are looking for a career that involves the care of animals, if you like to be active and use your practical skills and you are not afraid to get stuck in, then this is the programme for you!
Progression & Career Opportunities
• Learners may progress to Level 2/3 qualifications dependant on GCSE grades or apprenticeship programmes.
Employment opportunities include:
• Kennels
• Catteries
• Pet shops
• Grooming parlours
• RSPCA
Land –based studies - Landscape design and Construction
Landscape Design and Construction
Year 10: Level 1 Award in Land-based Studies – Horticulture
Year 11: Option to study either the Level 1 Certificate in Land-based Studies –Horticulture or the Level 2 Certificate NCFE Occupational Studies – Horticulture
Awarding Body- City and Guilds/NCFE
Assessment – Practical observations and online tests.
Course Outline - What will you learn?
This course provides an introduction to Horticulture and aims to give you the skills needed to start your journey to cultivating everything from fruit and vegetables to ornamental plants. You will learn how to establish and maintain plants, how to recognise plants and tools and weed planting areas. You will spend time in both classrooms and around the grounds of Myerscough College to develop your skill set in gardening and horticulture.
Support Available
∙ Student handbook
1-1 feedback
∙ Practical classroom based resources
Who is this course for?
Land-based Studies – Land based design and construction
Our Horticulture programme is for anyone who is thinking about or interested in a career working with growing food crops or managing our natural environment.
You do not need any experience or qualifications in land-based activities, just an enthusiasm and commitment to gain new skills and learn about the importance of the land-based industries. Be prepared to work outside in a very practical environment.
Progression & Career Opportunities
∙ Learners may progress to Level 1/2/3 qualifications dependant on GCSE grades or apprenticeship programmes.
Employment opportunities include:
Grounds Maintenance Operative Private and commercial gardening
∙ Landscaping
Awarding Body - OCR
Ancient History GCSE
Assessment – The OCR GCSE (level 2) Ancient History is made up of 2 mandatory components.
Component 1: Rome (section A - the Foundations of Rome, Section B - Cleopatra and Rome)
Component 2: Greece and Persia (section A - The Persian Empire , Section BAlexander the Great)
How it's assessed - Two written exams (both assessed in the same way and at the end of the course):
● 1 hour 45 minutes
● 105 marks
● 50% of GCSE
● Section A: Recall questions totalling 5 marks followed by a range of source questions and essay questions
● Section B: Recall questions totalling 5 marks followed by a range of source questions and essay questions
AO1 (knowledge) 45%
AO2 (analysis) 25%
AO3 (use of ancient sources) 30%
Course Outline - What will be learned.
The Foundations of Rome: The mythical foundation of Rome; the Roman kings from Romulus to Tarquinius; the origins of the Roman Republic
Cleopatra and Rome: Cleopatra’s early life; her relationship with Caesar; her relationship with Antony; Rome’s relationship with Egypt
The Persian Empire: The reigns of the Persian kings from Cyrus to Xerxes; the conquest of Babylon and Egypt; the Persian invasion of Greece
Ancient History GCSE
Alexander the Great: Alexander’s his character; his leadership and generalship; relationship with his friends, including the execution of Philotas and murder of Cleitus; the reasons for the conquest of the Persian empire Support available.
Students will be provided with bespoke course booklets for each unit as well as a wealth of revision resources. You will be taught by an expert in Ancient History.
Who is the course for?
Ancient History is for all those interested in the ancient world of Rome, Greece and Egypt. It is a fascinating story of the big events of history. From the Persian invasions of Greece to the assassination of Julius Caesar. This is a challenging academic course involving a large amount of reading of ancient texts. Students will develop skills of analysis and evaluation and will evidence this through high level written responses. As this is a reading and writing course, this would suit those students who enjoy these skills.
Progression pathway and career opportunities
GCSE Ancient History will prepare students very well for further academic study, not only in A Level Ancient and Modern History but also in many other written A Levels, such as Law, Religious Studies, Politics, Sociology, and English.
History prepares you for a wide range of university courses as it develops your skills of evaluation, analysis, and critical thinking. Our students progress to high tariff universities to study a range of academic courses which allow them to gain positions in journalism, management, local government, and law.
Pictures to use
To be supplied by Blackpool Sixth
Awarding Body - AQA
Economics GCSE
Assessment – The AQA GCSE (level 2) Economics is made up of two mandatory units.
Unit 1: How Markets Work.
Unit 2: How the Economy Works.
How it's assessed - Two Written exams (both assessed in the same way):
● 1 hour 45 minutes
● 80 marks
● 50% of GCSE
● Section A: 10 multiple choice questions followed by a range of calculation, short and extended response questions.
● Section B: five questions involving a mix of calculations, short and extended responses
Question Structures
- Section A (48 marks): 1 mark, 2 mark, 3 mark, 6 mark & 9 mark questions. Knowledge based.
- Section B (32 marks): 2 mark, 3 mark, 6 mark & 15 mark questions. All questions are linked to an extract.
AO1 (knowledge) & AO2 (application) each being 35% of the overall GCSE.
AO3 is worth 30%. Quantitative Skills = 10%.
This course is linear so both exams are at the end of the course.
Course Outline - What will be learned.
The course is split into Microeconomics & Macroeconomics; these are reflected in the assessments.
3.1 How markets work
3.2 How the economy works
Course Structure
The course gives students a basic understanding of the key economic concepts. This is a great way to introduce students to both micro and macroeconomics. It mirrors the A-Level course considerably and students who have been successful on this course are likely to be successful for the A-Level course.
Economics GCSE
Students can develop communication, critical thinking and analytical skills through tasks based on anything from ways to cut the budget deficit, to weighing up the pros and cons of inflation.
Support available -
As this course mirrors the A-Level Course there’s a plethora of resources available on the internet. Students will also have access to a textbook.
Useful online resources include Tutor2u, economicshelp, khanacademy & econplusdal. Students will be supported with study and revision strategies.
Who is the course for?
Economics is a challenging course and as such is best suited for high performing students. The need to critically evaluate complex economics issues, simplify and analyse them takes excellent problem solving skills. The theory is simplified using diagrams which can be a challenge to draw, understand and implement into certain economic scenarios, therefore quantitative skills are important.
Progression pathway and career opportunities
GCSE economics will set students up to be successful on A-Level Economics but will also be useful for other A-Level subjects such as Core Maths, Statistics, Geography, Sociology, Business Studies, Politics, History & Accounting.
Economics is an excellent subject to have for universities as it incorporates many different courses in its content. Pure economic degrees are mathematical and as such would need to be combined with A-Level Maths however other degrees combined degrees such as Business Economics, Management & Social Science. degrees.
Awarding Body - OCR
Psychology GCSE
Assessment – The OCR GCSE (level 2) Psychology is made up of 2 papers
Unit/module 1: Studies and applications in psychology 1 including topics of Criminal Psychology, Development, Psychological Problems and Research Methods
Unit/module 2:Studies and applications in psychology 2 including topics of Social Influence, Memory, Sleep and Dreaming as well as Research Methods .
How it's assessed - Two Written exams (both assessed in the same way):
● 1 hour 30 minutes
● 90 marks
● 50% of GCSE
● A minimum of 20% of the overall marks in both components are for the assessment of Research Methods
● A minimum of 10% of the overall marks across the two components are targeted at the assessment of mathematics relevant to research methods in psychology
The examination will be a written paper lasting 1 hour and 30 minutes and will consist of short and medium tariff questions, as well as one extended essay question worth 13 marks.
AO1 (knowledge) & AO2 (application) each being 35% of the overall GCSE. AO3 is worth 30%. This course is linear so both are at the end of the course.
Course Outline - What will be learned.
GCSE Psychology is designed to inspire and engage learners by providing a broad, coherent, and worthwhile course of study which develops an understanding of the ideas and values that characterise ‘self’ and others. Learners will be equipped with a psychological literacy that enables them to apply their knowledge and skills in their everyday lives, including making informed decisions about further study and career choices.
The course is divided into 8 different topics including;
- Criminal Psychology
- Development
- Psychological problems
- Research Methods
- Social Influence
- Memory
- Sleep and Dreaming - Research Methods
Psychology GCSE
01. Studies and applications in Psychology
02. Studies and applications in Psychology
Support available -
As this course mirrors the A-Level Course there’s a plethora of resources available. Students will also have access to a textbook.
There are also useful resources available online including Tutor2u & Time to change. Students will be supported with study and revision strategies.
Who is the course for?
This GCSE OCR Psychology course is ideal for students curious about human behaviour and thought processes. It suits learners who have a strong ability in science and maths, as these subjects support understanding research methods and data analysis. Transferable skills gained can lead to further studies in psychology or careers in healthcare, education, marketing, or social sciences, fostering versatile professional growth.
Progression pathway and career opportunities
Completion of GCSE Psychology provides a solid foundation for progression to A Level Psychology or Level 3 vocational qualifications in Health and Social Care or Applied Science. This pathway can lead to a vast range of university courses and further careers including clinical psychology, counselling, education, human resources, and marketing. Students gain critical thinking and analytical skills that are highly valued across various professions, inspiring them to explore impactful roles where understanding human behaviour is key.
Awarding Body - AQA
Sociology GCSE
Assessment – The AQA GCSE (level 2) Sociology is made up of 2 exams.
Paper 1: The Sociology of families and education
Paper 2: The sociology of crime and deviance and social stratification How it's assessed - Two written exams (both assessed in the same way):
● 1 hour 45 minutes
● 100 marks
● 50% of GCSE
● Section A: two multiple choice questions followed by a range of short and extended response questions.
● Section B: two multiple choice questions followed by a range of short and extended response questions.
Question Structures
- Section A (48 marks): 1 mark, 2 mark, 3 mark, 6 mark & 9 mark questions. Knowledge based.
- Section B (32 marks): 2 mark, 3 mark, 6 mark & 15 mark questions. All questions are linked to an extract.
AO1 (knowledge) & AO2 (application) each being 40% of the overall GCSE. AO3 is worth 20%.
This course is linear so both exams are completed at the end of the course. Course Outline - What will be learned.
The course is designed to develop students analytical skills and discuss contrasting perspectives on a variety of social issues through the study of families, education, crime and deviance and social stratification. The course is divided into 7 different topics including;
- The sociological approach
- Social structures, social processes and social issues,
- The sociology of families,
- The sociology of education,
- The sociology of crime and deviance,
- The sociology of social stratification
- Areas of social theory and research methodology.
Sociology GCSE
The information below is taken directly from the AQA specification.
3.1 The sociological approach
3.2 Social structures, social pressures and social issues
3.3 Families
3.4 Education
3.5 The social construct of crime and deviance
3.6 The functionalist theory of stratification
3.7 Sociological research methods.
Who is the course for?
GCSE Sociology is ideal for students who are curious about social structures, human behaviour, and societal changes. Sociology is an accessible course and enjoyed most by students with strong analytical, critical thinking, and communication skills. Students interested in exploring topics like inequality, culture, family, and education, and who enjoy debates and understanding diverse perspectives, would excel in this subject.
Progression pathway and career opportunities
GCSE Sociology will set students up to be successful across a range of level 3 programmes including but not limited to Social Sciences and Humanities. This pathway opens doors to careers in social work, teaching, journalism, law, and public services. University courses in sociology, criminology, or anthropology further expand opportunities, inspiring roles in policy-making, research, or community engagement.
Compass Values
