2021 2023 CHOICES AT 14+ - Saint Bede's Catholic High School
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Choices Booklet
Saint Bede’s Catholic High School
CHOICES AT 14+
2021 - 2023
Year 9 Choices Booklet
Introduction
This is an important time for Year 9 pupils as they prepare to move into the last two years in school. At this
time, pupils should find themselves asking some deep and important questions about their future and
about themselves. What sort of person am I? What sort of person do I hope to become? How can I best
achieve success at school? What do I want to be?
The GCSE and other courses we offer are aimed at helping pupils meet national demands and
expectations, whilst also providing a breadth and variety of subjects that will engage and interest young
people. As a school, we also tailor the curriculum so that the subjects we teach, and the manner in which
they are taught, can be different for different groups of pupils to enable them to reach their target grades.
This booklet should help parents to be fully informed and involved in the discussion about the courses on
offer to pupils. You will have opportunities to discuss the various options with staff at school; furthermore,
we would recommend that parents and pupils consult the websites of colleges, employees and
universities. The following websites are very useful:
Russell Group Universities
Their main website can be found at:
https://www.russellgroup.ac.uk
The link below takes you to an interactive guide on post-16 education for those considering applying to
Russell Group Universities.
https://www.informedchoices.ac.uk/
Careersbox
www.careersbox.co.uk
This website has numerous video clips of real people talking about real jobs. It also has an excellent
section on apprenticeships.
National Careers Service
https://nationalcareers.service.gov.uk/
This is the Government’s own career website for all ages. Very informative on careers, courses, CV
writing and so on.
Apprenticeships
www.apprenticeships.org.uk and www.apprenticeshipguide.co.uk
Both these websites give you all the information you will need on apprenticeships and also have ‘live’
apprenticeship vacancies.
Every effort will be made to give pupils their first choice of courses, but please be aware that the
final decision will be subject, amongst other things, to the viability of courses and the staffing
available. Parents and pupils will have a number of weeks to consider the options available before
final choices are made.
The key dates to be aware of are:
Friday 19th March 2021 ‘Choices 14+’ booklet emailed to parents. A form will be emailed separately.
Friday 19th March - Opportunities for parents and pupils to discuss choices, email subject leaders
with queries and for pupils to discuss option subjects with their class teachers.
Thursday 6th May 2021
Friday 14th May 2021 Choices form to be returned to school to Mrs Langley via Form Tutors
Year 9 Choices Booklet
Introduction
Pupils will take GCSEs in the core subjects of: Religious Education, English Language, English Literature and
Mathematics. All students will study Science for 6 hours each week across all three subject areas of biology,
chemistry and physics. Throughout the course, science teachers will work with pupils and parents to agree the best
examination route for each pupil.
All pupils will also have one hour of physical education (Core P.E.) which does not lead to a certificate and will study
citizenship and PSHE at various times throughout the year.
In addition, pupils will be able to identify GCSE subject preferences in option blocks 1-3. The Duke of Edinburgh
Award is being offered as an extra-curricular activity after school.
All pupils will study these courses:
GCSE Courses Other Courses
Religious Education P.E.
Core Subjects English Language Citizenship and PSHE
English Literature Computing
Mathematics
Science
Pupils will choose one course from Option 1 (and will indicate ‘R’ for their reserve choice):
History
Geography
Option Subject 1 French
Food Preparation and Nutrition
VCert in Health and Fitness
Pupils will choose one course from Option 2 (and will indicate ‘R’ for their reserve choice):
Business Studies
P.E.
Music
Option Subject 2 Art
History
VCert in Business and Finance
Pupils will choose one course from Option 3 (and will indicate ‘R’ for their reserve choice):
French
Business Studies
Option Subject 3 Photography
Drama
Computer Science
Product Design
Food Preparation and Nutrition
Duke of Edinburgh Award
Extra Curricular
Year 9 Options Booklet The English Baccalaureate (EBacc) The EBacc (The English Baccalaureate) ‐ though not a qualification in itself ‐ is a measure of strength in some core academic subjects; specifically, English, mathematics, history or geography, the sciences (including computer science) and a modern foreign language. Research with universities and employers have shown that these subjects most of all indicate overall academic strength and are therefore the ones that will keep the most ‘doors open’ for students in the future. Students wishing to apply to the Russell Group universities, or those who are unsure about future career plans, are encouraged to include a range of EBacc subjects if appropriate. All pupils will study English, mathematics and the sciences (either double science or triple science) as part of their core curriculum. Students are strongly encouraged to also study French and a humanity (history or geography) as part of their option subjects. Importantly, however, it is not the case that EBacc subjects are any better than other subjects. At Saint Bede’s, we know the value of all the other non -Ebacc subjects in developing rounded individuals and as areas of study in their own right.
Year 9 Options Booklet Religious Education CORE GCSE COURSE Religion, Philosophy and Ethics Subject Leader: Miss Newsham Specification: Edexcel Catholic Christianity Route A What will I be studying? 1) A study of Catholic Christianity, covering all four chapters: Beliefs and Teachings - Trinity, Creation, Incarnation, Paschal Mystery, Salvation and Life after Death Practices— Sacraments, Liturgical Worship, Popular Piety, Pilgrimage, Catholic Social Teaching and Evangelisation. Sources of Wisdom and Authority - Bible, Magisterium, Second Vatican Council, Our Lady and Decision Making. Forms of Expression—Church Architecture/Features, Sacred Objects, Artwork, Statues, Symbolism, Drama and Music. 2) A study of Judaism, covering two chapters: Beliefs and Teachings - The Almighty, Shekhinah, Messiah, Abraham, Sanctity of Life, Mitzvot and Life after Death. Practices - Public & Private Worship, Tenakh & Talmud, Shema & Amidah, Rituals, Festivals, Shabbat and the Synagogue. 3) A study of Philosophy and Ethics, covering two chapters: Arguments for the Existence of God - Miracles, Visions, Evil & Suffering and Design & Cosmological Argument. Relationships and Families in the 21st Century - Marriage and Divorce, Sexual Relationships, Families, Contraception, Equality of Men and Women and Gender Prejudice & Discrimination. How will I be assessed? Three examination papers completed at the end of Year 11: Paper 1 - Study of Religion—Catholic Christianity - 50% Paper 2 - Study of Second Religion - Judaism - 25% Paper 3 - Philosophy and Ethics - 25% Possible career paths Religious Education offers opportunities for further education and provides invaluable skills to enhance many career opportunities. Pupils learn to think critically about contemporary world issues and to analyse and evaluate between opinion, belief and fact. The course develops pupils’ independent working skills and provides opportunities for conflict resolution and philosophical thinking. Pupils learn to respect themselves and others and to recognise their role in creating a tolerant and inclusive community. In an increasingly diverse society, the study of religion and ethics is vital for any future career. Specific careers include: politics, law, health and medicine, journalism, media and entertainment (online/ TV/radio), community and social services, arts (designer/photographer/producer) and education.
Year 9 Options Booklet
English Language & CORE GCSE COURSE
English Literature
Subject Leader: Mrs Blackburn
Specification: Eduqas English Language
Eduqas English Literature
What will I be studying?
GCSE English Language
Pupils will be taught how to:
Respond to analysis questions about language and structure based on an unseen 20th century
literary prose text.
Compare 19th and 21st century non-fiction texts.
Apply creative writing techniques in a well-structured narrative piece and learn how to write
non-fiction texts for different purposes and audiences.
Prepare and deliver a formal presentation and respond to questions and feedback. This task does
not contribute to the final grade but is awarded a separate mark which is published on the
certificate.
GCSE English Literature
Pupils will be taught how to:
Apply contextual knowledge in order to enhance understanding of set texts.
Respond to analysis questions based on extracts from a Shakespeare play, 19th century prose text
and a contemporary text.
Interpret language, form and structure, and its effects, in a variety of unseen poems and in 18
poems within the Eduqas poetry anthology.
Structure essays about various relevant themes, relationships between characters and the effects
of techniques used by writers and poets.
How will I be assessed?
English Language
Paper One: Structured questions based on a 20th century prose extract of literature and a creative
writing task selected from a choice of four titles.
Paper Two: Comparison of a 19th century and 21st century non-fiction text and two transactional/
persuasive writing tasks.
English Literature
Paper One: One extract question and one essay question based on the reading of a Shakespeare text
and two questions based on poems from the Eduqas Poetry Anthology, one of which involves
comparison.
Paper Two: One source-based question on a post 1914 prose/drama text, one source-based question
on a 19th century prose text and two questions on unseen poems, one of which involves comparison.
Possible career paths
Studying English Language and Literature can make a significant contribution to any profession, as all jobs
require key communication skills such as the ability to speak well, listen to others, read varied texts and write
accurately. Possible career paths that link directly to English Language are teaching, law, journalism and the
media. Studying English Literature can make a significant contribution to any job that requires you to think
analytically. English Literature is a useful subject in many careers including politics, civil service, teaching, law,
journalism and social work.Year 9 Options Booklet Mathematics CORE GCSE COURSE Subject Leader: Mr Youde Specification: Edexcel What will I be studying? Commencing in Year 9, you will continue the study of number, algebra, ratio, proportion and rates of change, statistics, probability, geometry and measures building on their work in Years 7 and 8. How will I be assessed? There are two tiers of entry: higher and foundation. On the foundation tier, questions are targeted at grades 5-1 and 9-4 on the higher tier. All pupils sit three exam papers: two calculator papers and one non-calculator paper. Each paper is worth 33.3% of the total marks and lasts for 1 hours, 30 minutes. Possible career paths Studying mathematics can make a significant contribution to any job that requires you to use calculations, from office work to careers in retail. It develops the skill of being able to reason and decide which skill is needed to solve problems. Mathematics is a useful subject in many careers including sales, marketing, business and construction. If you are interested in a career in accountancy, medicine, engineering, architecture, teaching, IT, police force and many other areas, a good grade in GCSE Mathematics is essential, and you may need to study it at A-level
Year 9 Options Booklet
Science CORE GCSE COURSE
Subject Leader: Mr Smith
Specification: AQA: Combined Science
AQA: Triple Science
What will I be studying?
At St Bede’s we offer 2 qualifications in GCSE Science. The majority of pupils will work towards the AQA:
Combined Science qualification (equivalent to 2 GCSEs); some of the more able pupils will be entered for
AQA Triple Science (Trilogy: equivalent to 3 GCSEs) at Higher Level. Finally, some pupils will be
encouraged to take the Triple Science route but at Foundation Level.
These decisions will be made with pupils, parents and guided by the Subject Leader for Science, Mr G
Smith.
AQA: Combined Science
At Key Stage 4 all pupils will follow this linear Science course which delivers across all three subjects:
Biology, Chemistry and Physics. The Combined Science GCSE content is similar to the Triple Science
GCSE; however, it’s value will be equivalent to 2 GCSEs.
Assessment for the Combined Science GCSE consists of 6 examinations all conducted at the end of Year
11. Each examination will assess a different topic area (2 Biology, 2 Chemistry and 2 Physics).
AQA: Triple Science
Triple Science pupils will follow the same subject content for the Combined Science as well as the further
material required for the three separate sciences.
Entry at Higher Tier is targeted at pupils expecting to obtain a Grade 7 or higher. Pupils will require high
levels of Science and numeracy and will need to currently be in Set 1 or 2 for both Maths and Science.
How will I be assessed?
For the Combined Science and Triple Science course, there will be 6 examinations completed at the end
of Year 11 - two biology, two chemistry and two physics.
Possible career paths
There's more to Science careers than stereotypes suggest; you can work in laboratories, offices, hospitals,
factories or crime scenes. Science opens pathways for limitless career choices.Year 9 Options Booklet
OPTION 1 & 2
History
Subject Leader: Mrs Smith
Specification: AQA Understanding the Modern World
-America/Asia, Shaping the Nation-Britain
What will I be studying?
YEAR 10
America-Opportunity and inequality 1920-1973
We will study the social history of America during this period, looking at Henry Ford, growth of cinema
and jazz, role of women and popular culture. We will go on to look at how WWII affected America and
how the people searched for the ‘American Dream’. This topic will finish by looking at the 1950’s rock
and roll, role of television and finishing with the Civil Rights movement, focusing on key individuals such
as Martin Luther King and Malcolm X.
Conflict and tension in Asia 1950-1975
We will study the causes, events and consequences of two key wars that shaped Asia and played a
huge role in the Cold War: the Korean War and Vietnam War.
YEAR 11
Britain-Power and People
This section will focus on how rebellions and protests over 900 years have shaped modern Britain. We
will start by focusing on big events such as the Peasants’ revolt, the English Civil War and the
American Revolution. We will then go on to look at movements to help groups who were badly treated
such as the anti-slavery movement, the Match girls and Dockers’ strikes, Women’s rights and the race
riots in Brixton.
British studies – Elizabethan England 1558 -1603
This section focuses on the rule of Elizabeth I. We study Elizabeth’s court, her potential marriage
prospects and the difficulties she faced. We also study explorers, the Spanish Armada and other threats
to her reign, such as Mary Queen of Scots. This section will include a site visit to an Elizabethan site.
How will I be assessed?
Two exams each two hours in duration
Possible career paths
Lawyer, Barrister, Researcher, Archaeologist, Teacher, Politics, Government jobs including MI5/6, Civil
Service jobs and the financial sector.Year 9 Options Booklet
OPTION 1
Geography
Subject Leader: Mrs Hardy
Specification: AQA
What will I be studying?
Paper 1 – Living with the physical environment
The Challenge of Natural Hazards – find out about tectonic hazards, weather hazards and climate
change.
The Living World – you will learn about the interrelationships of ecosystems and study two ecosystems
in detail (tropical rainforests and hot deserts).
Physical Landscapes in the UK you will learn how river and coastal processes shape our country.
Paper 2 – Challenges in the human environment
Urban Issues and Challenges – you will learn about the opportunities and challenges that cities face by
studying two major cities in detail (Liverpool and Rio de Janiero).
The Changing Economic World – find out about global variations in economic development and the
different strategies used to reduce the development gap. You will also look at how the UK’s economy has
changed over time.
The Challenge of Resource Management – find out about how the changing demand in resources can
provide challenges and opportunities.
Paper 3 – Geographical applications
Issue Evaluation – you will be given information about a geographical issue arising from any part of the
compulsory part of the course. You will then have to use your critical thinking and problem-solving skills
to interpret, analyse and evaluate the resources (including maps, photographs, graphs, satellite images
and quotes from different interest groups). The resources will be released 12 weeks before the exam to
allow familiarity and you will be expected to consider physical and human inter-relationships as well as
make judgements on potential solutions to the issue.
Fieldwork – you will be required to undertake 2 geographical enquiries that relate to subject content and
cover both physical and human geography. You will then write up the enquiries, presenting and analysing
the data, before drawing conclusions and evaluating your work. In the exam, you will have to recall your
processes and answer questions on hypothetical fieldwork.
Please note: Fieldwork is a compulsory element of this course and is assessed as part of the
paper 3 exam
How will I be assessed?
Three examinations at the end of the course. Two exams, 1 hour, 30 minutes in duration and one of 1
hour 15 minutes.
Possible career paths
Conservationist, Town planner, Transport planner, Accountant, Police, Teacher, Lawyer, Surveyor,
Architect, Travel Agent, Journalist, Estate Agent, Armed Forces, Market Research, the list is endless!Year 9 Options Booklet French OPTION 1 & 3 Subject Leader: Mrs Hendey Specification: Edexcel What will I be studying? Paper 1: Listening Students are assessed on their understanding of standard spoken French by one or more speakers in a range of public and social settings. Students will respond to multiple-response and short-answer open response questions based on a recording featuring male and female French speakers. Paper 2: Speaking in French Internally conducted and externally assessed. The speaking examination consists of a role-play, a picture-based task and a conversation based on two themes. Students are assessed on their ability to communicate and interact effectively through speaking in French for different purposes and in different settings. Paper 3: Reading Students are assessed on their understanding of written French across a range of different types of texts, including advertisements, emails, letters and articles. Students are required to respond to multiple-response and short-answer questions based on these texts. Paper 4: Writing Students are assessed on their ability to communicate effectively through writing in French for different purposes and audiences. Students are required to produce extended responses of varying lengths and types to express ideas and opinions in French. How will I be assessed? Four externally assessed written papers completed between April and the end of May in Year 11. Possible career paths Languages complement any careers path. A Languages qualification could lead you into STEM, tourism, journalism, sport, law, the digital/tech/media sector, the police and border force, The Armed Forces. Languages graduates often begin on a higher salary than other graduates.
Year 9 Options Booklet Food Preparation & Nutrition OPTION 1 & 3 Subject Leader: Mrs James Specification: Eduqas What will I be studying? The course is designed to extend candidates’ practical skills and knowledge of food. It focuses on food production and food service as an introduction to the catering industry. It will equip learners with the knowledge, understanding and skills required to cook and also to apply the principles of food science, nutrition and healthy eating. Following this qualification will encourage learners to cook and enable them to make informed decisions about food and nutrition in order to be able to feed themselves and others affordably and nutritiously, now and later in life. Areas of Content 1. Food commodities e.g. cereals, fruit and vegetables, sugars, dairy, fats, meat/fish and vegetarian alternatives. The course will look at their value in the diet, their working characteristics, and experiments to understand changes occurring during cooking and also current recommended guidelines for a healthy diet. 2. Principles of nutrition - the role of the main nutrients in the diet, their sources, function and deficiency diseases. 3. Diet and good health 4. The science of food 5. Where food comes from 6. Cooking and food preparation Dishes cooked will include a wide range of dishes - main meal dishes, vegetable dishes, pastries, cakes, sauces, dishes for special diets, starters, desserts etc. It is expected that students will cook every week in order to develop their practical skills and to produce a wide range of high quality dishes. How will I be assessed? COMPONENT 1: Principles of food preparation and nutrition Written examination (50% of qualification) to be taken at the end of Year 11, comprising short and extended answers. COMPONENT 2: Food preparation and nutrition in action - controlled assessment (50% of qualification). Two parts to be undertaken in Year 11: 1. An investigative assessment worth 15% (8 hours) e.g. find the most suitable ingredients to produce a crisp pastry or investigate the different methods used to thicken sauces. A report of 1500 words will be produced. 2. A food preparation assessment worth 35% (12 hours). Plan, prepare, cook and evaluate 3 dishes to suit a specific dietary need such as the cuisine of another country or a special diet such as vegetarianism. A report will be produced of 15 sides of A4 in length. Possible career paths As well as providing students with essential life skills it will prepare them for further education and employment within the Hospitality, Catering and Food Industry and in addition links well with careers in a wide range of sectors such as Environmental Health, Nutrition, Events & Marketing, Journalism, Medicine, Nursing, Teaching, Child Care and Sports Science to name but a few.
Year 9 Options Booklet
Vocational Qualification OPTION 1
in Health and Fitness
Course Leader: Mrs P Langley
Specification: NCFE
What will I be studying?
This qualification is appropriate for learners who are looking to develop a significant core of knowledge
and understanding in health and fitness and it encourages the use of knowledge and practical tools to
focus on supporting people with specific health and fitness goals.
The course will develop the following skills:
Team working – the qualification requires learners to work with others on small tasks
Communication skills
Analysis of data and making decisions that are essential for the health and fitness sector, such as
evaluation skills, responding to data, independent working, working to deadlines, and efficient use of
resources.
The knowledge and skills gained will provide a secure foundation for careers in the health and
fitness industry
Structure & Content will include:
Understanding the functions of the body systems, understanding of the principles of training, knowing how
the body reacts in the short- and long-term to fitness activities, how to create and apply lifestyle analysis
tools and how to create a fitness programme.
Level 1 performance 2021 GCSE Level 2 performance 2021 GCSE Grade
Equivalent
points available Grade Equivalent points available
Pass 1 Pass 4
Merit 2 Merit 5.5
Distinction 3 Distinction 7
Distinction* 3 Distinction* 8.5
How will I be assessed?
One written paper completed in November of Year 11 with an opportunity to re-sit in March. This counts
as 40% of the course. Synoptic Project (Coursework) started in January of Year 11. This counts as 60% of
the course.
Possible career paths
The qualification will appeal to learners who wish to pursue a career in the health and fitness sector
through a variety of occupations such as Health Assistants, Fitness Instructors and Personal Trainers or
progress onto further study.
N.B. The running of this course is dependent on sufficient pupil numbers.Year 9 Options Booklet
Vocational Qualification OPTION 2
in Business & Enterprise
Course Leader: Mrs P Langley
Specification: NCFE
What will I be studying?
This qualification is designed for learners who want an introduction to business and enterprise that
includes a vocational and hands-on element. It has been developed to enthuse and inspire learners
about a career in business and enterprise. The qualification will appeal to learners who wish to either set
up their own business, move into employment, or progress onto further study.
The course will develop the following skills:
Team working – the qualification requires learners to work with others on small tasks
Communication skills
Presentation skills – learners will learn to present their work to those around them in a suitable
way and will also learn the most appropriate way of communicating as an entrepreneur.
Use of initiative – learners will learn what initiative is and why it is important for an entrepreneur or
business person
Working independently – learners will understand how to work independently on specific tasks.
Structure & Content will include:
Introduction to Business (Aims and Objectives / Entrepreneurs), marketing, finance, human resources
(recruitment / employment), customer services.
Level 1 performance 2021 GCSE Level 2 performance 2021 GCSE Grade
Equivalent
points available Grade Equivalent points available
Pass 1 Pass 4
Merit 2 Merit 5.5
Distinction 3 Distinction 7
Distinction* 3 Distinction* 8.5
How will I be assessed?
One written paper completed in November of Year 11 with an opportunity to re-sit in March. This counts
as 40% of the course. Synoptic Project (Coursework) started in January of Year 11. This counts as 60%
of the course.
Possible career paths
Retail, self-employment, marketing, market research, advertising etc.Year 9 Options Booklet
Business Studies OPTION 2 & 3
Subject Leader: Mr A Love
Specification: Business Studies (9-1) Edexcel
What will I be studying?
https://qualifications.pearson.com/en/qualifications/edexcel-gcses/business-2017.html
Business plays a significant role in shaping the way we live. We aim therefore not only to develop
students’ understanding of what it means to set up and operate a business but also to empower them to
think about current business and economic issues such as the impact on the environment, and inequality
in the workplace. Students will quickly appreciate how Business Studies relates to the real world of
business and the community at large outside the classroom.
This is a popular subject at GCSE. It paves the way to ‘A’ Level, ‘T’ Level and BTEC qualifications. It also
offers clear progression to higher education courses such as Economics, Business, Management, Law,
Accountancy, and Marketing. All pupils study a full GCSE in Business Studies which consists of 2 units:
Theme 1: ‘Investigating Small Business.’ (Paper Theme 2: ‘Building a Business.’
code: 1BSO/01)
(Paper code 1BSO/02)
Written examination: 1 hour and 30 minutes 50%
Written examination: 1 hour and 30 minutes
of the qualification
50% of the qualification
Content overview
Content overview
Topic 1.1 Enterprise and entrepreneurship
Topic 2.1 Growing the business
Topic 1.2 Spotting a business opportunity
Topic 2.2 Making marketing decisions
Topic 1.3 Putting a business idea into practice
Topic 2.3 Making operational decisions
Topic 1.4 Making the business effective
Topic 2.4 Making financial decisions
Topic 1.5 Understanding external influences on
Topic 2.5 Making human resource decisions
Students are expected to read widely about the world of business, and to have a real interest in current
affairs, in order to be able to fully engage with a subject where expectations are very high.
Business Studies aims to help students to develop a variety of key transferable skills such as quantitative
analysis of business data, problem solving and working with others. Students will be taught how to
evaluate information and how to structure clear and concise answers.
Students with enterprising minds will need to be ready to take on this new, interesting, challenging and
rewarding subject.
How will I be assessed?
Two exams at the end of Year 11 - each 90 minutes in duration.
Possible career paths
Marketing, retail, law, accountancy, Human resources, teaching, the Civil Service, sales, insurance,
industry and business ownership, amongst others!Year 9 Options Booklet Physical Education OPTION 2 Subject Leader: Mrs Smith Specification: AQA What will I be studying? Pupils will have 5 hour lessons over 2 weeks, which will predominantly be theory based, with opportunities to develop practical skills. Practical Element Pupils will have the opportunity to partake in the following activities during the GCSE PE practical lessons at lunchtimes and afterschool: Team Individual Volleyball Trampolining Handball Badminton Pupils are expected to participate in a sport outside school. They will have to submit video evidence that conforms to the AQA specification, showing the skills in practice and competitive scenarios. Towards the end of the course (March 2022), a moderator will visit school to watch the pupils’ performances in a practical activity - this will also be filmed (30% of the course). Pupils will be expected to attend compulsory clubs held during one lunchtime a week; this will help support their learning. The final 10% of the course will be an analysis and evaluation of their performance or another athlete, which is coursework based (a written portfolio). Summary Pupils must be on target or above in both effort and progress in PE Attend lunchtime clubs Attend theory club for revision and any extra help with their work Pupils must be prepared to be filmed in practical lessons/assessment Complete homework to a high standard Have the correct PE kit every lesson How will I be assessed? The Physical Education course now consists of 60% theory, 30% practical and 10% coursework. The theory aspect of the course will culminate in two exams (both worth 30% each), to be taken in summer 2022. Possible career paths Physiotherapy, Coaching, Sports Management, Performance Analysis, Sports Media, Sports Retail, Sports Science, Sports Nutrition, P.E Teacher.
Year 9 Options Booklet Music OPTION 2 Subject Leader: Mr Warrington Specification: AQA What will I be studying? GCSE Music is about making and listening to music. Pupils will be introduced to a wide variety of musical styles, from popular music to jazz, and film music to western classical music. They will learn to identify key features and characteristics of different musical genres. Pupils will develop the skills required to compose music as well as to perform as a solo artist and as part of an ensemble. Course requirements: All candidates starting the course must: Be able to play a musical instrument or be a competent singer. (Grade 2 standard or higher). As part of the course, all GCSE pupils are required to attend band or choir. Pupils who are not confident reading notation are required to attend extra music theory lessons. How will I be assessed? Pupils will complete one written paper involving writing a response to unfamiliar music and writing about set study pieces. Internally assessed/externally moderated: Pupils will be assessed in a solo and ensemble performance. Internally assessed/externally moderated: Pupils will write a composition to a brief and create their own piece. Possible career paths Music encourages skills which are transferable in many jobs such as team work, confidence building, problem solving, creativity, technology, discipline, memory, co-ordination and more. This can lead to a variety of careers, such as: Musician, Teaching (primary/secondary), Studio Engineer, Web Design, Media, Business, Events, Arts Admin, Community Arts, Marketing, Radio, Music Therapy, Private Tutor, Sound Design, Theatre, Teaching Assistant, Bar work, Music Management and Sales.
Year 9 Options Booklet Art & Design OPTION 2 Subject Leader: Mrs Wright Specification: AQA ‘Unendorsed’ What will I be studying? You will enjoy working in a range of different areas covering drawing, painting, ceramics and sculpture. This course is designed to enable you to experience a wealth of disciplines within art, whilst building your skills and helping you to discover your strengths. Not only will you enjoy the course, you will also develop your skills in researching, planning, designing and creating imaginative personal pieces. Sketchbook During the course, you will produce an A3 sketchbook that you will fill with personal ideas, research, designs and annotations, but most of all your own personality, imagination and style. Drawing You will develop your skills in working with an array of different media including graphite and coloured pencils, fine liner, chalk and oil pastels, etc. All these will allow you to create your own confident studies taken from both observation and your imagination. Painting You will enjoy working on personal pieces, both large and small, developing your skills in both the application of water colours and acrylic paint on a range of surfaces including paper, ceramic and canvas. Ceramics During the course, you will continue to develop your skills by working with a broad range of techniques in different media to develop and create your own personal three dimensional pieces. These pieces will range from portraits, figures, pots, etc. Also, in the process you will discover how to create unique surfaces through the application of texture modelling, techniques, paints and glazes. How will I be assessed? Portfolio of Work/Controlled Assessment You will produce two units of work, each based on a different theme. These allow for a range of materi- als and techniques to be used and developed in an individual way. From the work that you produce, you are to present a personally selected portfolio of work. Your portfolio submission will comprise approxi- mately 45 hours of work. Your controlled assessment/portfolio amounts to 60% of your total mark. Externally –Set Task / External Assessment At the end of your course in Year 11, you will complete a ten hour examination, otherwise known as a controlled assessment. This is divided up over two days and is developed from a set question paper. The question paper has seven themed questions from which you will choose one. It does allow for personal freedom as the questions cover a broad range of areas to suit every student’s interest and strengths, giving you the opportunity to work in techniques that you enjoy and are strong in. Your controlled assessment makes up the remaining 40% of your total marks. Possible career paths Architect, Graphic Designer (web design, editorial design), Art Therapist, Illustrator, Photographer (photojournalist, documentary photographer, fashion photographer), Curator, Practicing Artist (painter, printmaker, ceramicist, glass blower).
Year 9 Options Booklet Photography: Lens-based OPTION 3 and Light-based Media Subject Leader: Mrs Wright Specification: AQA What will I be studying? Now running as a GCSE course as a separate endorsement of Art and Design. Both courses follow the same two unit specification. You will be introduced to a variety of experiences exploring a range of lens -based and light-based media, techniques and processes, including both traditional and new technologies. You should explore relevant images, artefacts and resources relating to lens-based and light-based media from the past and from recent times, including European and non–European examples which should be integral to the investigating and making process. Responses to these examples must be shown through practical and critical activities which demonstrate your understanding of different styles, genres and traditions. This course is strongly linked to the Art and Design specification and therefore will require you to approach your work in a creative and visual way. You will be required to add some form of drawing into your sketchbook. Written annotation and evaluation of your work is also a requirement of the course. You will be learn to manually edit your photographs, this can be done in a variety of different ways. Some interest in Art and Design is necessary for the successful completion of this course. You may use sketchbooks/workbooks/ journals/e-books to support your work where appropriate. Equipment - Essential to success in this course is for each pupil to have access to a device (this does not include a mobile phone) on which they can upload, edit and manipulate photographs. If you have concerns regarding this, then please contact Mrs Wright as soon as possible to discuss this. Specialised photographic equipment is not essential for this course as the majority of mobile phones have high resolution cameras and video editing. However mobile phone leads are needed in order to upload your images to your device. How will I be assessed? Portfolio of Work/Controlled Assessment You will produce two units of work, each based on a different theme. These allow for a range of materials and techniques to be used and developed in an individual way. From the work that you produce, you are to present a personally selected portfolio of work. Your portfolio submission will comprise approximately 45 hours of work. Your portfolio amounts to 60% of your total mark. Externally –Set Task / External Assessment Towards the end of your course in Year 11, you will complete a ten hour examination, otherwise known as a Controlled Assessment. This is divided up over two days and is developed from a set question paper. The question paper has seven themed questions from which you will choose one. It does allow for personal freedom as the questions cover a broad range of areas to suit every student’s interest and strengths, giving you the opportunity to work in techniques that you enjoy and are strong in. Your Controlled Assessment makes up the remaining 40% of your total marks. Possible career paths Graphic designer, magazine features editor, medical illustrator, photographer, press photographer, film/ television camera operator
Year 9 Options Booklet Drama OPTION 3 Subject Leader: Mrs King Specification: Edexcel What will I be studying? The Edexcel Drama GCSE qualification is a creative and accessible course. It is an interesting combination of studying plays and exploring all the elements involved in theatre such as set design, costume, sound, lighting - and of course creating your own original work. Students are given the opportunity to work in a variety of ways - not solely acting - depending on their strengths and interests. Who should do this course? Anyone in Year 9 can do this course! This is an exciting and flexible course that allows students to work to their strengths. There is a practical side to the course where you can choose to create and perform your own plays, or you could direct other actors, or even design costume or sound for the plays that others in the class have devised. There is written work based on whatever practical elements you choose to do. This course is excellent preparation for the future and for the world of work. It will develop your confidence, teach you how to present yourself, teach you how to work with and lead others. How will I be assessed? Coursework Component 1 – 40% of your GCSE: Students work with their teacher and each other to devise their own plays. Students are given the choice to be a performer or a designer. This work is performed only for the teacher and is marked by the teacher. Coursework Component 2 – 20% of your GCSE: Students will read a play with their teacher. In either small groups, pairs, or as individuals (students choose for themselves), two short extracts of this play are either performed or designed for. An outside examiner will mark this. Examination Component 3 – 40% of your GCSE (1 hr 45 mins): The Drama examination - set text “DNA” by Dennis Kelly We study and explore this play together in class. We learn how to design the costumes, the set, the lighting and how to direct the actors who take on the characters. The exam asks us to explain and justify our creative ideas. We are also asked to review one piece of live theatre - so that means we actually go to the theatre as part of our course! Possible career paths Drama encourages skills which are transferable to many jobs - team work, confidence , problem solving, creativity, use of technology, discipline, memory and presentational skills. This can lead to a variety of careers in areas such as: Acting, Teaching, Law, Studio Engineering, Events Management, Radio, TV, Drama Therapy and a variety of roles within the Theatre.
Year 9 Options Booklet Product Design OPTION 3 Focus Area – Plastics Including 3D Printing. Subject Leader: Mr Shaw Specification: Eduqas What will I be studying? From Apple to Dyson and from Alessi to Rubik, product designers have shaped the modern world in which we live. A course in Product Design fundamentally offers pupils the opportunity in the curriculum to identify and solve real problems by designing and making products. These real life problems will be set in a wide range of appropriate contexts. Product Design also develops pupils’ capacity for imaginative, innovative thinking, creativity and independence. Pupils will have the opportunity to analyse and evaluate situations, design and make products as well as appraise their performance. They will be provided with the opportunity to work with a range of materials and ICT including both 2d and 3d modelling software which will lead to manufacturing products with the laser cutter and 3D printer. These 5 clear and distinct topic areas will be investigated by all pupils as their core areas of study: design and technology and our world smart materials electronic systems and programmable components mechanical components and devices Materials With the specialist area being thermoforming and thermosetting polymers (Plastics) How will I be assessed? Unit 1: An externally assessed examination, 50% of the final grade. Students apply their knowledge and understanding of Design & Technology through multiple-choice, short answer and extended-writing type questions. Unit 2: An internally assessed unit will be undertaken using controlled assessment. As part of the controlled assessment, students will be asked to complete their work in approximately 35 hours of class time. This 35 hours will be broken down to reflect the appropriate amount of time relevant to each criteria. The context for this design and make project will be set by the exam board. Possible career paths There is a range of apprenticeships that link to an interest in design technology, including: junior product designer. theatre set carpenter. farrier. service technician. civil engineering technician. plumber. design and draughting technician, engineering model maker.
Year 9 Options Booklet Computer Science OPTION 3 Subject Leader: Mr Richman Specification: OCR What will I be studying? Computer science is about solving problems and making things work in better ways. It will allow children to explore how software and hardware can be used to fix problems in science, business and society as they learn about design and development. There is also an important human side to computer science, as computers fix problems to help people. Computer science is everywhere! From music and media, to sport, fashion and health, computing is part of every aspect of life. Computing is just as important for children to learn as subjects like maths or science. Choosing to study computer science can boost your career options, opening a world of possibilities for the future! It helps if you are reasonably good at maths and enjoy problem solving. Computing opens up new ways of thinking - and is a powerful tool to help solve problems. It is helping to tackle the world’s biggest issues, like climate change and improving and saving lives around the World. Particular topics of study are the central processing unit (CPU), computer memory and storage, data representation, wired and wireless networks, network topologies, system security and system software, and ethical, legal, cultural and environmental concerns associated with computer science. You will develop skills and understanding in computational thinking: algorithms, programming techniques, producing robust programs, computational logic and translators. A programming task is undertaken to develop skills in designing, writing, testing and refining programs using Python programming language. How will I be assessed? Computer Science is assessed through two written examinations. Each exam is worth 50%. Programming is a core skill which continues to be a focal point of our updated GCSE. Candidates are required to develop programming skills as part of the GCSE. These skills will reinforce and support access to the content in the GCSE written examinations. Possible career paths Computers can affect almost every aspect of our lives, there are career opportunities in all areas of industry: from cyber security, health, to more creative fields - like game development, graphic design, or digital journalism, sport performance or fashion design. Computer science skills are in high demand across many different industries. For example; financial organizations, management consultancy firms, software houses, communications companies, data warehouses, multinational companies. In a recent study computer science is the 5th and 9th highest earning university course in England.
Year 9 Options Booklet
Extra Curricular
Welcome to the DofE! By doing your Duke of Edinburgh Award, you're in for an amazing adventure and
masses of fun as you take part in a range of activities, all leading to the achievement of an award that's
recognised by universities and employers alike.
Within the DofE programme, you will complete 4 sections all leading to the Bronze Award; from here you
could go on to complete the Silver and Gold Awards. You'll find yourself helping people or the community,
getting fitter, developing skills, going on an expedition and taking part in a residential activity (Gold only).
The 4 sections are, Volunteering, Physical, Skill and Expedition
You will be guided through the award by the Leader and Co-ordinators in school and you will do your ex-
pedition through/with school. The other three sections will be completed in your own time.
The best bit is - you get to choose what you do!
Your programme can be full of activities and projects that get you buzzing, and along the way you’ll pick
up experiences, friends and talents that will stay with you for the rest of your life.
If you need any further information, talk to your D of E Leader.
Please note, there will be a cost for registration for the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award. The school
has a small hardship fund to support the Duke of Edinburgh Award Scheme and, as such, no
pupil should be deterred from taking this award.You can also read
