St Mary’s Catholic College
Key Stage 4 Options Book
Year 10 Option Choices 2010 Dear Parents Your child has now reached the age at which important decisions have to be made about the subjects he or she will study in Years 10 and 11 (Key Stage 4). The purpose of this booklet is to explain the curriculum we offer and to give you the information necessary to make an informed choice, based upon your child’s individual interests and talents.
KS4 Curriculum 2010 As a Catholic Comprehensive School, St Mary’s curriculum has been organised to produce a balanced programme, which allows all pupils the full expression of their abilities. Each pupil has the opportunity to achieve up to 10 GCSE qualifications or their equivalent; other routes are available to pupils who need to study fewer subjects to maximise their chances of success. We offer a full range of GCSEs including Separate Sciences and second Modern Foreign Language. Our Specialist Arts College status means that we can offer a rich choice of courses in the Arts. This has become a real strength in our provision. Our new status as a Specialist Applied Learning College has allowed us to broaden the choices available and make sure that students are able to develop additional skills in a number of occupational areas. To understand the full range of courses available to your child you will need to look at the following areas of the curriculum:
The Core subjects that most pupils will study The Science courses available The Optional subjects from which pupils choose
How to make the right decisions for YOU You are about to move into Key Stage Four and we are going to ask you to make some important decisions. All pupils will study courses in Religious Education, English, Mathematics, Science, PE and PSHE (Personal Social and Health Education) but beyond this you will need to choose the courses that best suit your talents and hopes for the future. When making your choices, consider:
What subjects do you enjoy or find interesting? You are more likely to do well at something you like.
What are your best subjects? You should develop your strengths.
Do you have a course after 16 or a career in mind? What qualifications will you need to do this?
Will your choices give you a balanced curriculum? If you are specialising in an area is that the best area for you?
If you are not sure what you would like to do in the future Don’t worry. You should try to keep your options open to decide later.
It is important to remember that to be successful and achieve the best you need to:
Attend all lessons regularly
Keep up to date with all classwork, homework and coursework assignments.
On all courses – you need to be prepared to become a partner in your learning and to work hard to achieve success.
“How do I find out about the Year 10 courses and my choices?” We all need help with our decisions
what to do next… READ
this booklet carefully
TALK
to your parents to your subject teachers to your form tutor to pupils in Years 10 & 11 or Sixth Form
LOOK
at information about courses and careers after 16
ASK
everyone will try to help and advise you
Important Dates Wednesday
10th March
Options talk in the theatre (PSHE)
Thursday
18th March
Options evening
Friday
19th March
Options forms issued to year 9
Thursday
25th March
Options forms to be handed in
What do I study in Years 10 and 11? Core Subjects All pupils study these subjects
Religious Education English Mathematics Science
GCSE exam subjects
Physical Education PSHE
Non-exam part of the core
(Personal, Social & Health Education)
Optional Subjects In addition to the subjects above pupils choose to study 4 of the following (3 if choosing Separate Sciences). Underlined subjects count as a double choice. The Creative & Media Diploma takes three choices.
Art Business Studies (GCSE or BTEC) Dance Design Technology (Resistant Materials or Graphics) DT Food Drama Geography GCSE Subjects History Graded A* - G Information Technology Modern Foreign Language Music Physical Education Creative & Media
Higher Diploma
Health & Social Care
Double GCSE
Motor Vehicle Studies
Level 1 or Level 2 Certificate
Beauty Therapy Hairdressing
Level 1 Certificate & Level 2 Diploma
Construction
Level 1 BTEC
Uniformed Services
Level 2 Certificate
Details of Courses in English, Science, P.E. and Languages Subject
Details
English
This includes English Language and English Literature (2 GCSEs)
Science
Most pupils will study Double Science (2 GCSEs) = 5 hours / week Some pupils can opt for Separate Sciences (3 GCSEs) = 7 or 8 hours / week Some pupils will study Single Science (1 GCSE) = 3 hours / week Pupils studying the Creative and Media Diploma and the Level 2 Motor Vehicle course will study for the BTEC Extended certificate in Science for 3 hours per week. All of these courses cover Biology, Chemistry and Physics
Physical Education
Modern Foreign Languages
All pupils will have 2 hours of core P.E. Within this, pupils can opt to study for a JSLA (Junior Sports Leader Award) or a BTEC extended certificate in Sport This is either French or German It is possible to choose to study 2 languages taking 2 Option choices
Details of arrangements for Applied Courses Course
Details This is a double option Applied GCSE course. It counts as 2 GCSE grades from A* - G. You will be able to make 2 other choices in addition to this. Some students will study for the Level 1 Childcare qualification after consultation with staff.
Health & Social Care Childcare Motor Vehicle Studies Level 1 (studied with Resistant Materials GCSE)
This is a double option. At Level 1 It is a practical course studied for a 3 hour block at the 12 Quays site of Wirral Metropolitan College. We are combining this with GCSE Resistant Materials in school GCSE grades A*-G. You will be able to make 2 other choices in addition to this.
Motor Vehicle Studies Level 2 (studied with Resistant Materials GCSE)
This is a double option, delivered at Wirral Metropolitan College for one full day each week. It is combined with GCSE Resistant Materials which is delivered in school. Students must achieve the Level 1 award before they can progress to Level 2, You will be able to make 1 other choice in addition to this.
Beauty Therapy
This is a double option Level 1 Diploma, with the opportunity to progress to Level 2. It is a practical course and will be studied at St. Mary's new Hair and Beauty Academy in Wallasey Village. You will be able to make 2 other choices in addition to this.
Hairdressing
This is a double option Level 1 Diploma, with the opportunity to progress to Level 2. It is a practical course and will be studied at St. Mary's new Hair and Beauty Academy in Wallasey Village. You will be able to make 2 other choices in addition to this.
Construction
This is a double option Level 1 Diploma. It is a practical course studied for a 3 hour block at the 12 Quays site of Wirral Metropolitan College. Construction skills are developed at college. This is supported by the development of personal skills in school sessions. You will be able to make two other choices in addition to this.
Entry to Uniformed Services
This is a double option Level 2 Certificate. It is a practical course which will offer a wide range of activities including classroom sessions, sports activities and outdoor expeditions. You will be able to make two choices in addition to this.
Combinations of these courses You cannot combine any of the following courses as they will be taught at the same time as each other: Beauty Therapy Hairdressing Motor Vehicle Studies
Construction
Uniformed Services
Creative & Media Diploma
What are these qualifications equivalent to in GCSEs? Level 1 = Foundation Level (GCSE grades D – G) Level 2 = Intermediate Level (GCSE grades A*-C) As these courses are developing new practical skills students start at level 1 and may then progress to level 2. There will be an application process, taster experience and an interview process to allocate places on these courses.
GCSEs: Exam Grades & Coursework GCSE subjects are TWO YEAR courses. Everything that you study in both years 10 and 11 will be needed for the examinations and coursework assessments. This is why attendance and effort across both years are so important. Holidays taken during school time during these two years should be avoided as they will detract from your performance. Exams will be taken throughout years 10 and 11. GCSEs are graded from A* to G. In some subjects there are tiered papers (e.g. Foundation Tier & Higher Tier), which mean that you can get a certain range of grades. In others you can access the full range of grades on one common paper. All these grades are passes but the grades relate to the level of qualification you achieve:
Grade
Level of Qualification
A* A B C
These grades give you a Level 2 or Intermediate qualification. You could do a Level 3 or Advanced qualification next.
D E F G
These grades give you a Level 1 or Foundation qualification. You could do a Level 2 course next
The Double Award Course in Health & Social Care is graded in the same way, but is worth 2 GCSEs.
Coursework/Controlled Assessments There will not be any coursework in GCSE Maths. In all other subjects there is some coursework or controlled assessment. The amount of this varies (see subject information). Coursework is done during the course and counts towards the final result, it is moderated by someone outside the school to make sure that it is set and marked in line with the exam board’s policies. Controlled assessments are replacing coursework in many areas. They are similar to coursework tasks but the work is done under teacher supervision.
Teachers recognise the value of coursework but experience has shown that it can be a burden when a number of projects, assignments or other types of coursework have to be completed by a specific date. Pupils and parents need to be aware of the pressures that can build up when a number of subjects contain substantial elements of coursework.
Looking at the overall balance of your choices: “Families” of subjects We have tried to create as much room as possible for pupils’ choices in our options process. With so much choice pupils can become confused about the overall picture. It is sometimes useful to think of subjects in ‘families’ that develop similar types of skills. It is not possible to take a subject from each family and you may decide to specialise strongly in one area. Looking at subjects this way may help you to see the overall pattern you are choosing for KS4.
Motor Vehicle Studies Beauty Therapy Hairdressing Construction Uniformed Services P.E.
Art Dance Drama Music Creative & Media
DT Graphic Products
Option Subjects “Families”
DT Resistant Materials
French German
DT Food
Business Studies Health & Social Care I.T.
Geography History
What will my timetable look like? To give you an idea what the KS4 timetable will look like, here is a diagram to show the way the week will be split for most students. There are 25 hours of lessons in a week. The chart shows how many hours there will be for each subject. (PSHE is taught as a rolling programme as in KS3)
Maths 3 Option 2
Maths 3
Option 2 English 3
English 3 Science 5 RE 2
Option 3
PE 2 Option 3
Option 3
Science 5 PE 2
Option 3 Option 2
RE 2
Option 2
Some of your choices will affect the overall shape of your timetable. If for example you chose to do the three Separate Sciences (see Science page) it would look like this:
Separate Sciences Maths 3 Option 2 Option 3
Maths 3 English 3
English 3 Science 7 RE 2
Option 3
PE 2 Option 3
PE 2 Science 7 RE 2
Option 3 Option 2
You could do a similar chart to show how your timetable would look if you chose a Double Award applied GCSE in Health & Social care, the Creative and Media Diploma, two Languages or three Arts subjects. The important thing is to think about how your choices will affect your weekly timetable and whether you are happy with your timetable.
What will the Options form look like? Options forms will be issued during afternoon registration on Friday 19th March Here is a sample Options form to help you think about your choices
St Mary’s Catholic College Year 10 Options 2010 Name: Form: Parent/Guardian Signature: Most students should circle FOUR choices. The Creative and Media Diploma takes 3 options. If choosing this choose ONE other option (not underlined) Subjects underlined are double option choices - if choosing one of these make THREE choices in total. * = You can only choose ONE of these courses. You can only choose ONE Design Technology course.
Art
Beauty Therapy*
Business Studies
Creative & Media Diploma*
Construction *
Dance
Drama
DT Food
DT Graphic Products
DT Resistant Materials
Entry to Uniformed Services*
French
German
French or German (2nd MFL)
Geography
Hairdressing*
Health & Social Care
History
Information Technology
Motor Vehicle Studies*
Music
Physical Education
Separate Sciences
COURSE INFORMATION
English GCSE (Language & Literature) About the course Studying English (one GCSE) OR English Language and Literature (two GCSEs) provides students with opportunities to explore a rich variety of texts over a period of two years. The wide range of learning experiences also provides students with the necessary communicational and functional skills they will need for the future, as well as an appreciation of a range of literature texts
How it will be assessed English: Units 1 & 2: examinations (40%) Unit 3: controlled assessment (40%) Unit 4: controlled assessment (20%) Language: Units 1 & 2: examinations (40% each) Units 3 & 4: controlled assessments (30% each) Literature: Unit 1:examination (35%) Unit 2: examination (40%) Unit 3: controlled assessment (25%)
What it prepares you for Success in English is vital for the future. Whether wishing to study for A Levels and other qualifications, or leaving school to seek employment, all students benefit greatly from success at GCSE level.
I really had a lot of dreams when I was a kid and I think much of that grew out of the fact I had a chance to read a lot Bill Gates Founder of Microsoft
Me fail English? That’s unpossible!! Ralph Wiggum The Simpsons
English GCSE (Lang & Lit)
English Units 1 & 2: English in the daily world - the study of a range of non-fiction texts Unit 3: English in the world of the imagination - a variety of fiction texts (Shakespeare, heritage poetry, different cultures poetry) Unit 4: Speaking and Listening - communicating and adapting language English Language Unit 1: Studying written language - reading nonfiction texts Unit 2: Using written language - writing for a range of audiences and purpose Unit 3: Literary reading and creative writing studying a Shakespeare play or set text; descriptive and narrative writing Unit 4: Spoken language - using language and studying spoken language English literature Unit 1: Different cultures prose and unseen poetry comparison Unit 2: Literary heritage drama and contemporary prose OR contemporary drama and literary heritage prose Unit 3: English/Irish/Welsh literary heritage poetry and a play by Shakespeare
Mathematics GCSE About the course In Years 10 and 11 all pupils study Mathematics at Key Stage 4 of the National Curriculum. This will take the form of modular GCSE examinations during those school years. The GCSE examination now consist of three written papers. There is no longer any coursework element so “Using and Applying Mathematics” is now assessed through examination throughout the other modules. Elements of functional mathematics have been embedded into the units which ensures that pupils have the skills they need to use mathematics in real life contexts. Unit 1 will be taken in November of Year 10 and will examine the Probability, Statistics, Number, Algebra, Geometry and Measures content of the course (30% of the total assessment). Calculator allowed. Unit 2 will be taken in June of Year 10 and will examine the Number, Algebra, Geometry and Measures content of the course (30% of the total assessment). Non calculator. Unit 3 will be taken in June of Year 11 and will examine the rest of the Number, Algebra, Geometry and Measures content (40% of the total assessment). Calculator allowed.
Did you know that people with maths qualifications at level 2 and above earn around £50,000 more over their lifetime than someone without these qualifications?
We follow the Edexcel GCSE modular course. There are two tiers of entry: Higher Level allows the grades A* - D Foundation Level allows grades C - G Pupils will be set in Year 10 according to their level achieved at Key Stage 3.
What it prepares you for Success on this course will provide you with the necessary skills and knowledge to enable you to successfully study a range of level 3 courses at Key Stage 5, or enter employment that requires a level 2 qualification in Mathematics
Mathematics GCSE
How it will be assessed
Science GCSE About the course GCSE Science can be accessed by a variety of routes all covering the same topics. Route Choices The majority of pupils will take the Double Award course with the most able taking the Higher route, accessing A* - C grades. For those pupils who find the Double Award course too demanding, Single Award Foundation, accessing grades C - G, will be the route to take. Pupils who enjoy the three Sciences and achieve at least level 6 in their end of year exams have the opportunity to choose Separate Sciences. Topics Studied Year 10 introduces students to how Science interacts with the real world. The course involves looking at the wider picture on issues such as global warming, air pollution and genetics. There is a great emphasis on practical and investigational work and pupils will enjoy producing a case study on a Science issue currently in the news. In Year 11 students look into “How Science Works” with particular emphasis placed on the theory of Science. A full practical investigation is carried out as part of coursework
The most exciting phrase to hear in Science, the one that heralds new discoveries, is not “Eureka!” but “hmm…..that’s funny” Isaac Asimov
How it will be assessed
author of I, Robot
Modular examinations in January and June of Years 10 and 11 - 67% of total mark
What it prepares you for Success on this course will provide you with the opportunity to successfully study a range of Level 3 courses in 6th form and open the door to a vast array of employment opportunities in health, leisure, science and industry
Science GCSE
Coursework - 33% of total mark
Religious Studies GCSE About the course Religious Education at Key Stage 4 aims to provide students with a knowledge and understanding of the Christian faith within the Roman Catholic tradition. It promotes Christian values as the means by which young people can properly fulfil their own unique potential, through service to others and through the sharing of their many and varied gifts. In particular, students are encouraged to adopt an enquiring, open and critical approach to the study of religion, beliefs and practices, to reflect on fundamental questions about life, and to engage with ideas and values intellectually and to respond personally.
The course is taught in such a way as to promote the development of the whole person and to contribute to the health and well being of each individual student. Above all, students are encouraged to reflect on and develop their own values, opinions and attitudes in the light of their learning. There is only one level of entry, providing all students with the possibility of achieving grade A*- G
How it will be assessed Students will be externally assessed through two, one and a half hour, written examinations. There is no coursework element
What it prepares you for Religious Studies enables students to develop a range of transferable skills for further academic study and for life in general. It prepares young people for the world of work and encourages personal and social responsibility. There is the opportunity to continue to A Level in the Sixth Form
In RE you are encouraged to think for yourself and develop your own ideas about important issues that affect everyone’s life. I enjoyed the GCSE course and have recently been accepted to study theology at university Former St Mary’s GCSE pupil
Religious Studies GCSE
A range of social and moral issues are covered, including marriage and family life, justice and equality of opportunity, matters of life and death and community cohesion.
Personal. Social and Health Education About the course
Personal, Social and Health Education is delivered through sessions during six-period days and an enrichment week at the end of the summer term. In addition many subjects cover elements of PSHE.
The development of social skills and responsibilities Emotional and physical well-being, including a programme of drugs education Exploring what it means to be enterprising Economic understanding Guidance in careers and post 16 choices Preparation for work experience Citizenship including crime, homelessness, human rights and democracy
This course provides opportunities for involvement in the school and local community.
I thought the PSHE sessions were interesting. When the exaddicts came to talk about drug abuse it really made us all think about the reality and consequences of drugs St Mary’s pupil
Course Co-ordinator: Mrs G McAloon Deputy Co-ordinator: Mrs G Belal
What it prepares you for Undertaking activities in the PSHE programme contributes towards achieving the aims for all young people to become confident individuals who are able to live safe, healthy and fulfilling lives as well as being responsible citizens who make a positive contribution to society.
Personal, Social and Health Education
In years 10 and 11 pupils engage in activities covering areas such as:
Creative & Media
Level 2 Higher Diploma
What is the Creative and Media Diploma? The Diploma is a new type of course which blends academic learning with real life learning outside the classroom. The Creative and Media Diploma will mix learning about the Creative and Media industry with working alongside professionals from these industries in their working environments, exploring the local creative and media scene and the skills that lead to success in this field. Course Description The Creative and Media Diploma is designed to let you try lots of different creative disciplines, from ideas to practical work. You will cover creative processes alongside conceptual ideas and practical skills. You will get to try different disciplines like Drama, Dance, Music, TV, Film, 2D and 3D visual art, graphic design, product design, fashion, textiles, advertising and more, and find out more about the ones that interest you. By doing practical activities and small projects, usually combining two or more disciplines, you will get to use these skills to create something real. This
course is for you if you want to Use your creative skills and ideas to make something Learn how to work up ideas alone and in a team Learn about the work of other artists and how it relates to your own work Find out what you are passionate about: from music to drama, film to textiles, 3D visual art to advertising See a project through from start to finish Identify an audience and their needs and how this affects your work Find out about the business side of a creative project, like budgeting, team working and marketing your ideas and products
This is a demanding course which will stretch and challenge you. You need to achieve a level 2 (A* - C) in both functional English and functional Maths to achieve the full Diploma. You should be predicted a level 5 in English and Maths for the end of Year 9. How will this fit into my options? The Diploma will take three of your options. The fourth is up to you and could be a complementary GCSE in the Arts (Art, Dance, Drama, Music) or Business GCSE or BTEC, or a totally contrasting course. You will study the BTEC Science course for three hours a week which is a practical course covering all three Sciences. You will also study the core subjects of Maths, English and RE. This means you will be able to gain 7 GCSEs in addition to the Diploma, which is itself worth 7 GCSEs.
Where will I study? The Creative and Media Diploma will be delivered at St Mary’s, although not all of your learning will take place in classrooms; you will work with Industry specialists and visit workplaces and the CLCs. We are currently looking at making links with the Floral Pavilion, the Bluecoat Chambers in Liverpool and 7waves Radio for an exciting delivery of units. Industry partners you could work with: The Floral Pavilion Wirral TV Wirral Cultural Services Fallen Industries (music production) The Learning Lighthouse 7waves Radio What are the units? Unit 2: Performance Unit 5: Campaign
Unit 3: Artefact Unit 6: Festival
Possible unit examples include: Scene - in this unit all learners will research into the creative and media industries in Merseyside and create a portable and appealing information resource on careers and job opportunities in the industry for young people in the area. Learning will take place in St Mary’s and across the Merseyside area. Performance - All learners will be involved in the research, planning and promotion of a play. This will include small group work on marketing, publicity and technical support as well as the actual production and performance. Learners will also produce a piece of interactive media to publicise the project, possibly a radio or TV broadcast. What can I do at 16? You could go on to A Level Drama, Theatre Studies or Performance Studies at St Mary’s or take an Advanced Diploma at another centre. You might decide instead to do an apprenticeship or start a job with training in the Arts. This is an exciting opportunity for anyone who has a passion for the Arts and the media!!!! If you have any further questions please see Miss Keen or Mr McGlown Link: http://yp.direct.gov.uk/diplomas
Creative & Media Level 2 Higher Diploma
Unit 1: Scene Unit 4: Record Unit 7: Project Report
Art and Design GCSE About the course The Art and Design course at St Mary’s College introduces students to a variety of experiences in art - across graphics, fine art, textiles, 3D design and new technologies. The Art department has excellent practical rooms including an Apple Mac animation suite, textile and ceramic facilities. Students will develop their work and ideas using contemporary and historical artists and develop their skills across a wide range of media. Creativity and practise is supported by visits to local galleries and museums for inspiration and ideas. The course is split into two units. Unit 1: Portfolio of work Students create portfolios that are chosen from work they have produced across the two year course, covering more than one project. Students are given a starting point for each project and develop their ideas and practical work through use of sketchbooks, experiments, design sheets and 3D models before reaching a final conclusion - this could be a mask, bag, costume, painting, drawing or ICT piece. Unit 2: Externally set task Students will be given a choice of exciting questions from which they will develop a project in January of Year 11. After the students have completed their research they will take a ten hour examination during which they produce their final piece. The ten hour period is usually split over three sessions during April.
The artist’s world is limitless. It can be found anywhere, far from where he lives or on his doorstep. It is never far away. Paul Strand
All work is marked internally then moderated by a visiting AQA examiner
What it prepares you for After completing GCSE Art and Design, many students go on to take A Level Fine Art or Textiles, or BTEC Art and Design, all of which can lead to University degrees and possible careers such as architecture, advertising, fashion, interior design, teaching or a practising artist
Art and Design GCSE
How it will be assessed
American film-maker and photographer
Beauty Therapy
Certificate in Salon Services
About the course This is an opportunity to experience a realistic beauty salon environment. If you enjoy working with products and learning about your skin and nails and the effects different treatments have on the body, this course will provide you with the skills and knowledge you need. This is a Level 1 course that will help you gain valuable insight and an introduction to the world of beauty therapy. This qualification allows you to develop your practical skills on each other before progressing to clients/models. Some pupils, depending on academic ability, attendance and commitment to the course, will be given the opportunity to take the Level 2 Diploma, which is equivalent to four A* - C GCSEs.
How it will be assessed There will be practical assessments for some units and project/coursework for all of the units. At the end of the course you will sit an online multiple choice assessment (GOLA)
What it prepares you for The qualifications provide a clear progression route into NVQs in beauty therapy. They are ideal for any student wishing to develop and further their skills in the beauty sector. The generic units will prepare you for any industry that involves working with the public.
The future belongs to those who believe in the beauty of their dreams Eleanor Roosevelt (1884-1962) U.S. First Lady (1933-45), diplomat and reformer
Beauty Therapy CSS
Topics studied Finding out about customer service: How salons promote their services; working effectively as a team Basic salon reception duties: Welcoming clients, checking appointments, promoting services Personal presentation: The importance of presenting a positive image Following health and safety practice: Hazards, risks and Health & Safety legislation Hair & beauty industry occupation awareness: Career opportunities and employee legislation Applying basic make-up to the face: Practical unit. Preparing work areas and learning the skill of basic make -up application Providing basic manicure: Practical unit. Discovering the different types of nail shapes and nail art available
Business Studies GCSE or BTEC Level 2 Certificate About the course
Fancy yourself as the head of a successful business? Got some great ideas for new products or services? Or maybe you want to work for a large company in marketing or management. No matter what your vision, the Business Studies GCSE course gives you an incredibly powerful start to launch you towards becoming a business person. All of the key topics of starting and running a business are covered. Armed with this knowledge, maybe you could give Richard Branson a run for his money in a few years time!
In each of these courses you will learn how to spot a business opportunity, how businesses are managed and you will develop skills that are essential to succeed in the business world.
The GCSE course is assessed at the end of each year. For students following the BTEC route, their assessment will start at the beginning of Year 10 and continue throughout the two years. At the end of the course, if all the assignments have been graded, they will have completed 30 credits, which is equivalent to two GCSEs at grade C or higher.
Business is about creating a product or service so good that people will pay for it. Anita Roddick
How it will be assessed GCSE:a multiple choice exam and a controlled assignment (Year 10) and a written exam (Year 11) BTEC:continuous assessment in the form of assignments which provide evidence towards the student’s portfolio.
What it prepares you for This GCSE will give you the skills and knowledge to progress to a BTEC National or A Level in Business Studies. In the longer term, many universities offer business related courses or you could work for a large corporation or a management consultancy.
Business Studies GCSE
Founder of the Body Shop
Construction Level 1
BTEC Introductory Diploma About the course
This is a double award, which means that two GCSEs will be achieved at the end of year 11. The course counts as two options. It is a challenging and exciting course aimed at well -motivated pupils who would like to obtain basic skills within the construction industry. Students will learn about the different jobs that are involved in the construction industry, health and safety and the personal skills and qualities needed to be successful. Practical skills learned will include: Joinery Painting and decorating Brickwork Basic building maintenance This is a practical option designed to help students prepare for employment or further study within this field. We have arranged for the practical elements of this course to be delivered by Wirral Metropolitan College at their 12 Quays campus in Birkenhead. Students will be required to attend college every Friday from 1.15 to 4.15. Students must have a genuine interest in the construction industry. There will be a formal application procedure for all pupils interested in following this course. This will involve completing an application form to explain why they think they are suitable, followed by an interview with the course tutors. In addition, there will be an induction/taster day towards the end of year 9.
A successful man is one who can lay a firm foundation with the bricks others have thrown at him David Brinkley American news broadcaster
Assessment is carried out on an ongoing basis. Pupils are expected to produce portfolios of work and complete assignments that are marked internally. They are expected to carry out practical activities which are also internally assessed. Work is graded at pass, merit or distinction level.
What it prepares you for After the course pupils will have a good idea of what is involved in the construction industry. Progression may be to employment within the sector, or further training at level 2.
Construction Level 1
How it will be assessed
Dance GCSE About the course GCSE Dance at St Mary’s introduces students to a variety of dance styles, dance works and movement vocabulary. The study of dance contributes to students’ aesthetic and social development. It promotes fitness and well-being and supports learning across a range of subjects. As performers, students develop confidence, self-esteem, self– and body-awareness, teamwork and sensitivity to others. Dance is physical and requires the determination to improve and succeed; students need to be imaginative and creative and most of all enjoy dancing. The course is divided into Performance, Appreciation and Composition Unit 1: Critical appreciation of dance - Students will study a minimum of two professional works and answer a short written paper Units 2 & 3: Set dance and group performance - Students perform a set dance and a group performance created in collaboration with teachers. Unit 4: Solo and group choreography - Students will be asked to choreograph a solo and a group dance based on three set stimuli given by the examining board
Dance is vital, an activity both exhilarating and liberating to watch or do. The instinct to dance is fundamentally joyous…… it can change your life Richard Alston CBE
How it will be assessed
Internationally renowned choreographer
What it prepares you for After completing GCSE Dance, students have gone on to study A Level Dance or Performance Studies at St Mary’s College
Dance GCSE
All work is internally marked then moderated by an AQA visiting examiner. Unit 1 - 20% of total mark Units 2 and 3 - each 20% of total mark Unit 4 - solo 15%, group 25% of total mark
Design &Technology GCSE
Resistant Materials
About the course
Resistant Materials A working knowledge of woods, metals, plastics and composite materials will be taught through a series of mini projects in year 10, with the aim of equipping the pupils with the necessary skills and knowledge to complete a personal project at the end of year 10 through to year 11. Graphic Products Through this course the pupils will be encouraged to learn through images to use, understand and apply colour and design to develop spatial concepts, and to understand graphic materials and their manipulation. In year 10 the pupils will undertake a series of mini projects to equip them with the skills needed for their personal project in year 11. Food Technology This course encourages pupils to design and make creative products with food. Pupils will gain knowledge and understanding whilst completing short focused practical tasks during year 10. This will equip them with the skills and knowledge necessary to undertake a design and make project during years 10 and 11. In all of the above options the pupils will be assessed over two units.
How it will be assessed Unit 1 - written examination (two sections:design and knowledge based) externally marked. 40% of final mark. Unit 2 - design and make activity selected from a range of board set tasks. Marked internally and sent to the examining board for moderation.
What it prepares you for While studying Design Technology you will learn to think creatively and become problem solvers as individuals and members of a team, qualities highly valued by employers. Success at GCSE enables you to progress to A level Product Design or BTEC Engineering courses.
Graphic Products
Food Technology
Creativity is allowing yourself to make mistakes. Design is knowing which ones to keep. Scott Adams Creator of “Dilbert� comic strip
Design & Technology GCSE
At GCSE we offer three different courses. All are designed and delivered to encourage pupils to design and make products with creativity and originality.
Drama GCSE About the course GCSE Drama is 60% coursework and 40% practical and is split into three units: Unit 1 - Drama Exploration Unit 2 - Exploring Play Text Unit 3 - Drama Performance Unit 1 Drama Exploration Exploration of creative and structural aspects of drama using a set theme, topic or issue. Students will study forms of stimuli, exploration of strategies, drama medium and elements of drama. There will be a six-hour practical exploration on the chosen theme and documentary evidence of 2000 words. Unit 2 Exploring a play text Practical exploration of a play, focusing on characters, interpretation, issues and themes. Students will have the opportunity to watch a live performance. There will be a six-hour practical exploration based on a play text, documentary evidence of 1000 words and a written response to live performance of 2000 words. Unit 3 Drama performance A devised or scripted play performed to an audience including a visiting examiner. An assessment brief will be set each year with a theme that students must base their performance on.
All the world’s a stage and all the men and women merely players William Shakespeare
How it will be assessed
What it prepares you for GCSE Drama develops transferable skills such as teamwork, problem-solving and communication which are all highly valued by employers. Should you choose to study after year 11, all A level and BTEC Drama and Performance courses are open to you.
Drama GCSE
Unit 1 - internally assessed, 30% of final mark Unit 2 - internally assessed, 30% of final mark Unit 3 - externally assessed, 40% of final mark
Entry to Uniformed Services NCFE Level 2 Certificate About the course This course is an ideal qualification for any student who may be interested in a career in the uniformed services, i.e. Army, Royal Navy, RAF, Police, Fire and Rescue or the Ambulance Service. This is a practical course that is aimed at increasing the confidence of pupils and enhancing their future employment prospects. The course will offer a wide range of activities including classroom sessions, sports activities and outdoor expeditions. The course will allow students the opportunity to explore which service they are interested in joining and will require them to improve their knowledge of the subject area and monitor their physical fitness.
To achieve the NCFE Award, pupils must complete seven units (five compulsory and two optional) in their portfolio. Compulsory Units: Employment opportunities in the services Physical fitness Team working and problem solving Map reading and navigation Health and safety
How it will be assessed All students will be continuously assessed throughout the course by assignments and practical activities. The portfolio will be internally marked and verified by the NCFE.
What it prepares you for After the course, pupils will have a greater understanding of the requirements of working for the uniformed services. They should be able to use this knowledge and the qualification gained to support their application for a position of employment within one of the services.
I have nothing but admiration for the emergency services as they go about their work H.M. the Queen (speaking after the London bombings 7/7/05)
Entry to Uniformed Services Level 2
Pupils must have a genuine interest in a future career in the uniformed services. There will be a formal application procedure for all pupils interested in this course. This will involve completing an application form to explain why you would like to study for this qualification, followed by an interview with the course tutors to confirm your suitability. You may also be required to attend an induction event towards the end of year 9.
Geography GCSE About the course GCSE Geography is a new and exciting course specifically written to be relevant to students in the 21st century. The course follows an enquiry-based approach investigating fascinating physical phenomena including supervolcanoes and tsunami, together with human geography issues such as the challenge if urbanisation, globalisation and tourism. During the course students will develop a number of skills including problem solving, communication skills, using ICT and GIS, and gain an awareness of career possibilities connected with geography. Classroom-based work will be supplemented by fieldwork in the Merseyside area. GCSE Geography will provide a sound foundation for those candidates who intend to continue to study the subject at a higher level, whilst giving a clear overall view of the world in the first part of the 21st century to those for whom GCSE will be the end of their formal study of geography. The course also provides evidence of transferable skills for many types of employment. The course is modular and is divided as follows: Unit 1: Physical Geography Unit 2: Human Geography Unit 3: Controlled Assessment Local fieldwork investigation: This includes a one-day field trip in and around Merseyside, then students complete 6 hours of write-up under supervision. It will be possible to sit one module in Year 10, one in January of Year 11 and the remaining module in June of Year 11.
How it will be assessed
The most important task, if we are to save the Earth, is to educate Sir Peter Scott Founder of the Severn Wildlife Trust and the WWFN
Unit 3: Internally marked and sent to the examining board for moderation.
What it prepares you for After completing GCSE Geography at St Mary’s, many students continue to AS in Sixth Form, or take a course in Travel and Tourism or Leisure Studies. Geography is relevant to careers in media, tourism, local government, teaching, the armed forces, planning...the list is endless.
Geography GCSE
Units 1 & 2: 1 hour 30 minute examination for each module, externally marked and comprising 37.5% of the total mark.
Hairdressing
Certificate in Salon Services
About the course This is an opportunity to experience a realistic environment at our Hair and Beauty Academy. If you are willing to learn about hair and enjoy working with other people, this course will provide you with the skills and knowledge you need. The Level 1 course will help you gain valuable insight and an introduction to the world of hairdressing. It allows you to develop your practical skills on hair blocks and work on each other before progressing to clients/models. Some pupils, depending on academic ability, attendance and commitment to the course, will be given the opportunity to take the Level 2 Diploma, which is equivalent to four A* - C GCSEs.
Topics studied Finding out about customer service: How salons promote their services; working effectively as a team Basic salon reception duties: Welcoming clients, checking appointments, promoting services Personal presentation: The importance of presenting a positive image Following health and safety practice: Hazards, risks and Health & Safety legislation Hair & beauty industry occupation awareness: Career opportunities and employee legislation Introduction to hairdressing services: Practical unit. Shampooing and styling the hair using basic techniques Introduction to basic perming and colouring: Practical unit. Discovering the different types of colours available; techniques of perm winding
Life is an endless struggle full of frustrations and challenges, but eventually you find a hair stylist you like Anon
How it will be assessed
At the end of the course you will sit an online multiple choice assessment (GOLA)
What it prepares you for The qualifications provide a clear progression route into NVQs in hairdressing. They are ideal for any student wishing to work as a hairdresser. The generic units will prepare you for any industry that involves working with the public.
Hairdressing CSS
There will be practical assessments for some units and project/coursework for all of the units.
Health & Social Care GCSE Double Award About the course This course is ideal for anyone who is interested in how people grow and develop and the many factors that can affect our lives. This is a double award, which means that two GCSEs will be achieved at the end of year 11. The course counts as two options. Lessons are very interesting as you learn through videos, case studies and real life experiences. You will have opportunities to do work experience in healthcare, social care or childcare placements.
Unit 2: Health Care, Social Care and Early Years Provision You will learn about the medical and other services that people need at different points in their life. You will learn about different jobs in healthcare, social care and childcare. You will also learn about the skills needed when caring for people, how to work well in a team and how to make sure people are being cared for properly. Unit 3: Promoting Health and Well-being You will learn how to keep yourself healthy through good nutrition, exercise, hygiene and relationships. You will learn about the health risks at different points in your life such as drugs, alcohol, smoking and bad diet.
How it will be assessed Unit 1: external examination ( % of total mark) Unit 2: controlled assessment ( %) Unit 3: controlled assessment ( %)
What it prepares you for Success in this course can give access to level 2 or 3 courses. This GCSE would be useful if you intend to study Childcare or Health and Social Care in sixth form or intend to get a job working in healthcare.
I really enjoyed this course because I learned lots about people at different life stages, what keeps you healthy and the jobs I could do in healthcare St Mary’s GCSE pupil
Health & Social Care GCSE
Topics Studied Unit 1 & Unit 4: Understanding Personal Development and Relationships You will learn about how we develop throughout our life (as babies, children, adolescents, adults and old people). You will explore the factors that affect our development and relationships such as family bonds, illness, special needs and friendships.
History GCSE About the course History at GCSE is made up of two examination papers. Paper 1 topics will be studied in Year 10 and develop some topics studied in Year 9, for example the causes of World War One and appeasement in the 1930s leading to World War Two. There are other topics that have not been studied previously, for example the failure of the League of Nations. Paper 2 topics which will be taught in Year 11 focus on American History, with units looking at the ‘good times’ of the 1920s and contrasting this with the darker and more sinister aspects of American society like the activities of the Ku Klux Klan and racial segregation, Al Capone and the rise of gangsters and the Wall Street Crash. There are further units which concentrate on the Depression years of the 1930s and the attempts to solve it with the New Deal. In addition, there is a unit on Hitler’s Germany in the 1930s.
Al Capone’s arrest sheet (8th May 1930)
There is no higher or lower tiered paper, so all grades are accessible to all students
Unless we learn from history, we are destined to repeat it. This is no longer merely an academic exercise but may contain our world’s fate and our own destiny
How it will be assessed
Author of Roots and The Autobiography of Malcolm X
A controlled assessment, rather than coursework, now contributes 25% toward the final grade. This will be completed as part of normal lessons and will focus on British people’s experiences during World Wars 1 and 2
Papers 1 and 2 are each 1 hour 45 minutes long and contain a mixture of source-based questions and essays. The controlled assessment requires the production of two larger pieces of work. They have to be completed under exam conditions in normal lessons but preparation will involve guidance from teachers
What it prepares you for History at GCSE is a challenging but rewarding and highly regarded subject that will develop students’ ability to think and argue about events in the past as well as current affairs. Success at GCSE will open up opportunities in the sixth form and impress employers
History GCSE
Alex Haley
ICT GCSE About the course ICT plays a part in most jobs today. Many employers expect ICT skills as part of their required qualifications. GCSE ICT is an exciting new syllabus, assessed by both supervised coursework and theory exams. What you will study in Year 10 Unit 1: Understanding ICT Computer software Computer hardware Laws concerning ICT and personal privacy Computer inputs, outputs and processing Unit 2: Solving Problems with ICT This is a timed assessment of 22.5 hours sat during lessons. It will involve solving a series of problems for a business scenario set by the exam board. Tasks will involve data handling, writing letters, spreadsheets and creating leaflets and presentations for the company. Pupils will be thoroughly prepared for the assessment during the Autumn term of Year 10. What you will study in Year 11 Unit 3: ICT in Organisations The use of ICT in retail organisations The use of ICT in banking and finance The internet Effects of ICT on society Unit4: Developing Multimedia ICT Solutions This is another 22.5 hour timed assessment sat during lessons. It will involve solving a series of multimedia problems for a business scenario set by the exam board. Tasks will involve creating websites, presentations and other multimedia solutions. Pupils will be thoroughly prepared for the assessment during the Autumn term of Year 11.
Not all problems have a technological answer, but when they do, that is the more lasting solution Andrew Grove Founder of Intel Corporation
How it will be assessed Supervised coursework - internally marked and sent to the examining board for moderation. Each timed assessment 30% of final mark.
What it prepares you for Everything and anything!! Virtually all jobs nowadays, from refuse collection to brain surgery, involve some aspects of ICT.
ICT GCSE
Two theory examinations - externally marked. Each 20% of final mark.
Modern Languages GCSE About the course The ability to speak another language has never been so important. The economic well-being of our country relies on our being able to communicate with our European neighbours: if we can’t speak to them, we can’t sell them anything! French and German GCSE In both French and German we follow the WJEC syllabus whereby pupils can be entered at different levels in the four skills: Listening, Speaking, Reading and Writing. This means that your entry can be tailored to your specific requirements and skills. At GCSE level, you will develop your grammatical and linguistic skills so that you can speak, write and understand French or German within the following contexts:
Speaking is assessed on an ongoing basis by your teacher. Writing assessment takes the form of a controlled assignment carried out in the classroom under a teacher’s supervision. Listening and reading exams are taken at the end of Year 11.
How it will be assessed Listening & Reading: external examination (each worth 20% of total mark) Writing & Speaking: classroom based controlled assessments (30% each)
What it prepares you for A qualification in Modern Foreign Languages can lead to absolutely anything! The following sectors are some of those in which it is either essential or highly desirable: law, marketing & sales, the Armed Forces, customer services, engineering, hospitality and banking & finance
FACTS Britain exports more to Germany than to the USA Europe is the world’s largest market; France is Europe’s second largest market
Modern Languages GCSE
Personal and Social Life The Local Community The World of Work The Wider World
Motor Vehicle Studies Certificate About the course These courses are delivered by Wirral Metropolitan College at their Twelve Quays campus in Birkenhead. The Level One course is offered as a double option which includes GCSE Resistant Materials. It is designed to enable students seeking to enter the motor vehicle service and repair sector to gain basic knowledge and a qualification in motor vehicle maintenance. Students will attend college one afternoon each week from 1.15 to 4.15. The Level Two course is also a double option. This course covers all of the detail form Level One, but requires that students develop skills at a higher level. Students will attend college for one full day each week from 9.00 to 4.00. Both courses are practical and delivered in a realistic work based environment. Students will be taught the necessary skills required for the maintenance and repair of light vehicles. They will also learn the operating principles involved in tyres, brakes, steering and suspension. There will be a formal application procedure which includes completing an application form and attending an interview with the course tutors. You may also be required to attend an induction event towards the end of year 9.
How it will be assessed There will be some knowledge based multiple-choice tests, but the main form of assessment will be a portfolio consisting of assignments undertaken throughout the course.
What it prepares you for After the course, pupils will have a good idea of what is involved when working in the motor vehicle industry. Success at Level 1 allows progression to further training at Level 2 or to employment within the motor vehicle sector.
I couldn’t find the sports car of my dreams - so I built it myself Ferdinand Porsche
Motor Vehicle Studies
Topics studied: Health and Safety Engineering Equipment & Materials Vehicle Valeting Steering, Braking and Suspension Units Routine Maintenance Wheels, Tyres & Exhausts
Music GCSE About the course The GCSE Music course is designed to enable students of all abilities to enjoy music to examination level. The syllabus is designed to build directly on skills, knowledge and understanding established during Key Stage 3. Course Structure Unit 1: Listening to and Appraising Music Within the course there are five Areas of Study: Rhythm & Metre, Harmony & Tonality, Texture & Melody, Timbre & Dynamics, Structure & Form. You will explore these Areas of Study in different contexts including Pop Music, Rock Music, Film Music, Musical Theatre, Classical Music and World Music. Unit 2: Composing and Appraising Music In Year 11 you will be required to compose a piece of music based on a brief set by the exam board. You will have 20 hours of supervised time to complete your composition. This unit allows you to demonstrate all the compositional techniques you have acquired during the course. Unit 3: Performing Music You will be required to perform one piece by yourself and one piece as part of a group. You can complete this unit at any time during the course and be assessed by a teacher. Your performances will be recorded. Unit 4: Composing You will be required to submit a composition that you have created yourself exploring two or more of the Areas of Study. Your piece will be recorded and submitted for marking with a detailed annotation, commentary or score.
Music is the universal language of mankind Henry Wadsworth Longfellow American poet, author of The Song of Hiawatha
How it will be assessed
What it prepares you for Music GCSE provides a foundation for further study, including Music and Music Technology A Levels.
Music GCSE
Unit 1: External examination of 1 hour and 30 minutes (20% of total mark) Unit 2: External assessment (20%) Unit 3: Internal assessment with external moderation (40%) Unit 4: Internal assessment with external moderation (20%)
Physical Education GCSE About the course The Physical Education GCSE course is well balanced between practical activities and theoretical components. GCSE P.E. enhances the benefits derived from sport, whether as a performer, leader/coach or spectator. In Year 10 students will have two theory lessons and one practical session per week, and in Year 11 there will be one lesson of each. The practical sessions involve learning and improving skills in a variety of activities including fitness, athletics, badminton, netball, rounders, rugby, trampolining, basketball and football.
Theory lessons cover topics including: Reasons for participating in sport Principles and methods of training Types of training Short- and long-term effects of exercise Factors affecting performance The components of fitness The human body in relation to sport Sports injuries and first aid
How it will be assessed 50% is based on your practical performance in 4 different sports as either a participant, coach/leader or official 10% on your ability to analyse sporting performance 40% written exam
What it prepares you for Success on this course allows students to progress towards careers in coaching, sports psychology, physiotherapy and fitness instructing. It will also benefit students looking for careers where physical fitness is a prerequisite, e.g. the Police Service or the Armed Forces.
Competition in its best form is a test of self. It has nothing to do with medals. The winner is the person who gets the most out of themselves. Al Oerter Winner of 4 Olympic gold medals in the discus
Physical Education GCSE