Belfairs Academy Future Pathways

The Pathways Process at Belfairs Academy 2015Introduction

All students will study a common core of subjects;

GCSE English Language and English LiteratureGCSE MathematicsScience (either Triple Science or Core and Additional Science) Physical Education – Core (non-exam)Philosophy and Ethics (RS GCSE)

Students will then be required to choose further courses from amongstthe following:Art GCSE History GCSEBusiness GCSE Hospitality GCSEBusiness BTEC ICT Cambridge NationalChild Development GCSE Media GCSEComputing GCSE Music GCSEDance BTEC Music Technology NCFEDrama GCSE PE GCSEEconomics GCSE Photography GCSEEngineering BTEC Product Design/Graphics GCSEEngineering GCSE Psychology GCSEFrench GCSE Spanish GCSEGeography GCSE Sports Studies BTECHealth and Social Care GCSE Textiles GCSE

Information sheets on each course will be available from Curriculum Area displays onPathways Evening. You will also be able to download them from the Academy website:www.belfairs.southend.sch.uk

What is a BTEC qualification?The courses that we are offering are vocational and provide an alternative to the more traditional GCSE route. They differ from GCSE in that theyare assessed through coursework, as each student will produce a portfolio of assignments on which the qualification grading will be based. Only25% of the course is externally examined, via an external test.

Monday 26th January 2015

Pathways Booklet distributed to students via Academy

website

Wednesday 4th February 2015

Pathways Evening for Parent/Carers

Thursday 5th February 2015

Parents Evening for Parent/Carers

Monday 9th February 2015

Deadline for return of Pathway forms

March 2015

Assessment of Pathway choices

March 2015

Students interviewed by staff to discuss their choices.

April 2015

Letter to Parents/Carers confirming KS4 Pathway Choices.

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The Pathways Process

Students are required to complete the Pathways process in order to gainplaces on their chosen courses. Students will choose some option subjectsas well as taking a number of compulsory examined courses, such asEnglish, Maths, Science and Philosophy and Ethics (GCSE RS), as well asnon-examined PE and Values lessons.

There are four different Pathways routes that students might take:

Purple Pathway

English Baccalaureate – MFL compulsory, History/Geography compulsory,Triple Science compulsory

Red Pathway – History/Geography compulsory

Blue Pathway

History/Geography compulsory

Green Pathway

Work Related Learning – Additional support for Literacy and Numeracy .

We will issue each student with a personalised option form for the Pathwaythat we believe best suits their abilities. Students also need to choose a‘reserve’ option. We will try our best to accommodate most students inchoosing their main choices.

All students will have an interview with a senior member of staff to discusstheir Pathways choices. The Academy will attempt to accommodate asmany of the student’s top choices as possible, but this cannot beguaranteed for all due to timetabling.

To gain the English Baccalaureate students have to undertake a Modern Foreign Language, History or Geography, two Sciences andEnglish & Maths.

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Art and Design – PhotographyLens and Light-based MediaOCR GCSE

What will I study?Students will learn how to:• Use DSLR cameras• Apple Mac computers and how to edit images using

Adobe Photoshop• Use of lighting • The importance of composition, lighting, and camera

techniques• How to research photographers, artists and their style

How is the course assessed?Students’ portfolios are internally assessed and externallymoderated.60% for internal portfolio40% for external Controlled Assessment

Additional informationStudents are required to attend lessons with the correctmaterials; a hard backed sketchbook, gel pen/ink pen andglue stick.All items are available to purchase from the Academy.

Career prospects/progression to Level 3Students are required to reach a minimum standard by theend of the course; they can then progress to A Level ifdesired.There are opportunities for students to progress to careers inall media based areas, including the BBC, photojournalism,teaching, freelance photography, travel photography,design companies, advertising, magazine companies,fashion/design and brand marketing.

Course LeaderMr A Bennett

Art and Design OCR GCSE

What will I study?Students will get the opportunity to explore differentmediums and materials in order to broaden their artisticexperience. They will look at areas of Fine Art, 3D andTextiles.

Students will learn how to research artists and their stylesthen relate this to art and design concepts.

How is the course assessed?Students’ portfolios are internally assessed and externallymoderated.60% for internal portfolio40% for external Controlled Assessment

Additional informationStudents are required to attend lessons with the correctmaterials; a hard backed sketchbook, pencils, and eraser. The Academy does offer an Art pack that can bepurchased through Finance at the start of the course.

Career prospects/progression to Level 3A level Art and Design or other Level 3 Art based courses.

There are opportunities for students to follow careers in allcreative based areas, including art administration, galleries,teaching, freelance art, design companies, advertising,fashion/design and brand marketing and architecture toname just a few.

Course LeaderMiss Price

Art and Design

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Business GCSE

What will I study?Students will learn more about how small businesses aredeveloped and discover how businesses promotethemselves and keep their customers happy. Students willalso learn how businesses manage both their finances andthe people who work for them.Units 1 and 2 are all about small businesses and cover thefollowing topics:• Spotting a business opportunity• Showing enterprise• Putting a business idea into practice• Making the start-up effective• Understanding the economic context

Unit 3 is all about how to build a business and includes:• Marketing• Meeting customer needs• Effective financial management• Effective people management• The wider world affecting business

How is the course assessed?Unit 1- Introduction to small business – 45min externallyassessed examination worth 25% of the course marks Unit 2 – Investigating small business – internally assessedcontrolled assessment worth 25% of the course marks(subject to change with current Government plans)Unit 3 – Building a business – 1hr 30min externally assessedexamination worth 50% of the course marks.

Additional informationYou may have an interest in business, and want to start yourown business one day. You may have an enquiring mindand be interested in learning about the world around you,how businesses are set up, and what it is that makessomeone a great entrepreneur.

Career prospects/progression to Level 3This business course can help you prepare for further andhigher education. You will become skilled in makingdecisions, being creative, solving problems, understandingfinance, dealing with data, communicating and working aspart of team. A GCSE Business course could lead to work in abusiness-related profession such as accountancy, law,marketing or the leisure and tourism industry.

Course LeaderMs K Conran

Business BTEC First Award

What will I study?There are two core units.

• Unit 1 – Enterprise in the Business World • Unit 2 – Finance for Business

Optional units• Unit 3- Promoting a Brand• Unit 4 – Principles of Customer Service

How is the course assessed?Units 1, 3 and 4 are assessed via coursework which isinternally assessed and then externally moderated.Unit 2 is a 1 hour finance exam and is externally assessed.

Additional informationThis course is predominantly coursework and encourages apersonal level of knowledge and skills relevant to thebusiness world. It encourages students to develop theirpeople communication, planning and team working skills.

Career prospects/progression to Level 3This course provides a good foundation for Post 16education or to an entry level job in business. Achievementat Level 2 provides progression on to the OCR or BTEC Level3 courses. Progression from Level 3 courses in Business can beinto business-related professions such as accountancy, law,marketing or the leisure and tourism industry.

Course LeaderMs K Conran

Business

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Child Development OCR GCSE

What will I study?Topics covered:• Family and parenting – How parenting has changed,

pre-conceptual care, contraception• Preparation for pregnancy & birth – Reproduction,

pregnancy, antenatal care, birth, postnatal care• PIES – Physical, Intellectual, Emotional and Social

Development, conditions for development, benefits,types of play

• Nutrition and Health – Feeding, weaning, nutrition,hygiene, childhood illness

• Community support – Day care provision, statutoryservices, special needs, benefits

How is the course assessed? Four Controlled Assessments: • 3 Short tasks – 7 hours each• Child Study* – 22 hours• One final examination

* It is essential that you have access to a child under 5 forthe child study completion.

Additional informationYou will need to be well-organised, creative, determinedand self-motivated. You will also need good research andtime management skills.

Career prospects/progression to Level 3Students can progress on to a variety of child care coursesat Post 16, or a whole range of child related careers such asearly years teacher, nursery nurse, playworker, midwife,children’s nurse or nanny.

Course LeaderMrs N Barrett

Computing OCR GCSE

What will I study?• Current and emerging technologies, how they work and

then apply this knowledge and understanding in a rangeof contexts

• Use of algorithms in computer programs to solveproblems using programming

• Computer technology , its use and the implication ofdifferent technologies.

• How to apply creative and technical skills andknowledge plus you will develop an understanding of ITin a range of different contexts.

• Computer programs and their use in solving problems• The effectiveness of computer programs/solutions and

the impact of, and issues related to, the use of computertechnology in society.

How is the course assessed?Computer systems and programming: 40% ExaminationPractical investigation: 30% Controlled AssessmentProgramming Project: 30% Controlled assessment

Additional informationEntry requirement :National curriculum level 5a and above for Mathematics and English.

Career prospects/progression to Level 3There is a looming skills shortage in Computing and demandfrom employers has risen and continues to rise. Students cango on to study A Level Computing/Programming or enterfurther training courses and apprenticeships. Thisqualification leads to multiple career paths as goodunderstanding of computing is highly valued by employers.

Course LeaderMr T Birch-Machin

Computing

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Dance BTECLevel 2

First Award in Performing Arts

What will I study?The course is divided into 3 units:Unit 1: Individual ShowcaseUnit 2: Preparation, Performance and ProductionUnit 4: Dance Skills

Students study different styles of Dance throughout thecourse. Students learn both physical and technical skills toimprove their practical work. The course is very practical. Students are required to participate in productions both as amember of the company and as part of the productionteam.Students learn how to respond to job advertisements andhow to prepare for the audition process.

How is the course assessed?Units 2 and 4 are internally assessed. Unit 1 is a controlled assessment that is externally assessed.

Additional informationAttendance at Dance Club is essential in order to excel onthis course.

Practical dancewear is required – school PE kit is acceptableor other suitable dancewear. Polo tops are available topurchase through the Academy.

Career prospects/progression to Level 3Progression on to a Level 3 BTEC Dance course at BelfairsAcademy is available.

Other Level 3 courses for progression could include:A-Level Dance, A-Level Performing Arts, other BTEC Level 3options.

This then has the potential, after degree level, to lead tocareers in the performing arts industry; arts administration,production, performance, education, teaching.

Course LeaderMrs Bish

Dance

Design and Technology -Engineering AQA GCSE

What will I study?Unit 1:External AssessmentWritten examination split into two distinct sections-Product Study section(based on information madeavailable in a Preparation Sheet) and a section onManufacturing and Materials.

Unit 2: Internal AssessmentDesigning and Communicating/Manufacturing anEngineering ProductA portfolio/one project Mechanical, Pneumatic or Electronic

How is the course assessed?Controlled Assessment – 60%External examination – 40%

Additional informationIntended as an introduction to Engineering, thisqualification allows students to develop skills andunderstanding which will be of use generally and aspart of a progressive career path leading to furthertechnical or academic engineering qualifications. You willneed to enjoy the practical applications of engineering, bedetermined, self-motivated and have good research andtime management skills.

Career prospects/progression to Level 3Students can continue to study Engineering at A- Level orthe equivalent BTEC level 3 Engineering Diploma.

Course LeaderMr G Humm/ Mr K Dodd

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Drama Edexcel GCSE

What will I study?• Different explorative strategies, mediums and elements

of drama which help support and add meaning topractical work.

• These skills will be applied to the theme of Prejudice, theplay text of Blood Brothers and a final 20 minuteperformance piece which are all formally assessed.

• Students will also watch these skills put into practice byprofessionals during our annual visit to a show in the WestEnd.

How is the course assessed?GCSE Drama consists of three parts: • Unit 1: Drama Exploration• Unit 2: Exploring Play Texts• Unit 3: Drama Performance

60% of the course is based on the practical drama work andon the written work produced to accompany it. This isinternally assessed.

40% of the course is assessed by an outside examiner basedupon an examination performance. There is no written examination.

Additional informationIt is an expectation of the course that all candidates attenda live performance in order to write their response to a liveperformance as part of Unit 2

Career prospects/progression to Level 3Students with a A*-C in GCSE Drama can expect to belooked favourably upon by colleges and employers, whoare keen to work with people who have the confidence andinter-personal skills the subject enables them to develop.

Level 3 Performing Arts

Course LeaderMr S Hulse

Economics AQA GCSE

What will I study?Personal Economics (Unit 11)• Students will consider targets and policies the Government

may use to achieve its objectives. Students will considerfiscal, monetary and supply side policies within the contextof the trade cycle. Students will consider the EuropeanUnion and its effect on the UK economy.

Investigating Economic Issues (Unit 12)• Students will learn the basic tools of the economist to help

them understand their place in and contribution to thelocal, national and global economy as consumers, workersand citizens. They will be encouraged to investigate arange of contemporary issues, analysing the evidence fromdifferent perspectives so as to make reasoned judgementsand informed decisions.

How is the course assessed?Personal Economics (Unit 11) • Written Paper 1 ¼ hours – 50% of the course marksInvestigating Economic Issues (Unit 12) • Written paper 1 ¼ hours – 50% of the course marks

Additional informationThis course will enable students to engage in the study ofEconomics to develop as effective and independent learnersand use a critical approach to distinguish between fact andopinion, build arguments and make informed judgements. Theywill develop and apply knowledge, understanding and skills tocontemporary issues in local, national and global contexts. Thiswill allow them to appreciate the range of perspectives ofdifferent stakeholders in relation to economic activities.A trip to the Bank of England will be arranged as part of thecourse.

Career prospects/progression to Level 3The course can lead on to A Level Economics or BusinessStudies. This economics course can help you prepare for furtherand higher education in Business Studies or Economics. You willbecome skilled in making decisions, being creative, solvingproblems, understanding finance, dealing with data,communicating and working as part of team. It may also leadeventually to work in an economics/ business-related professionsuch as stockbroking, accountancy, law, management,investment and banking.

Course LeaderMs K Conran

Drama

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Engineering BTEC Level Two First Award

What will I study?There are three units that are designed to stretch andenthuse. We aim to include as much practical andCAD/CAM as we can to facilitate the learning experience.

How is the course assessed?Unit 1: The Engineered World. This is externally assessed butcan be re-sat if unsuccessful.Unit 2: Investigating an Engineering Product.Unit 8: Electronic Circuit Design.

Both these units are internally assessed and moderated.

Additional informationDeadlines will be set for the completion of each theory unitand you will receive feedback on your submissions to helpyou improve your work.

Career prospects/progression to Level 3BTEC Engineering at Level 2 leads into the BTEC EngineeringLevel 3 course. Being modular, some of the units give thestudent the opportunity to build on their knowledge at Level 3.

BTEC is recognised as an industry standard qualification andstudents seeking an apprenticeship or career in Engineeringwill benefit from gaining this qualification.

Course LeaderMr J Williams

English Language AQA GCSE

What will I study?The course focuses on plays, poems, novels and media texts(newspapers, advertising, magazine articles). You will spendtime discussing the ideas of different speakers and writersand studying the ways in which they put their words togetherfor best effect.

How is the course assessed?The course will be assessed 100% on students’ performancein a GCSE examination. This will involve analysing non-fictiontexts and discussing language use.

Additional informationIn studying English, students develop skills in speaking,listening, reading and writing that they will need toparticipate in society and employment. They will developskills in analysing both fiction and non-fiction texts; writing topersuade, argue and advise; writing to explain, inform anddescribe; writing and speaking for different purposes andaudiences.

Career prospects/progression to Level 3This is a pathway to A Level English Literature and Language.This qualification is vital for all careers and there is anexpectation from all employers that a high level is achieved.

Course LeaderMiss L Beattie

English Language

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French GCSE

What will I study?Students will study a wide range of everyday situations which include topics such as self, family and friends andrelationships, your town, holidays, environment, school andwork, pocket money, topical adolescent issues and concerns, hobbies and sport.

How is the course assessed?The course is composed of four skill components. • External Assessment: Listening – 20%• Controlled Assessment: Speaking – 30%• External Assessment: Reading – 20%• Controlled Assessment: Writing – 30%

Additional informationThe reading and listening components of the GCSE aredivided into Foundation and Higher Tiers. The highest grade achievable at Foundation Tier is a grade C.Higher Tier papers allow students to achieve grades D-A*

Please note it is important that students have the confidencein their ability to speak in French and are able to speak withsome degree of spontaneity. Speaking activities are theintegral feature of every lesson in order to focus upon this skill.An after-school session is also in place so that students mayfully develop their ability and performance with the spokenlanguage.

Career prospects/progression to Level 3Students achieving a grade B at GCSE level will have theopportunity to progress to A level courses.

Being able to offer knowledge of, or being able todemonstrate an understanding of another language is avaluable skill to offer prospective employers/college leadersin today’s multicultural society. Career opportunities include:the tourism industry, international banking, journalism,translating, interpreting, export and import industry, teaching,health service or following any career path abroad. A vastmajority of careers will require a foreign language. It is alsoeasier to learn another foreign language once we havelearned one.

Course LeaderMiss Boulonne

French

English Literature AQA GCSE

What will I study?Students will study• Two modern texts exploring comparative cultures• A Shakespeare play• A selection of poetry

How is the course assessed?Students will complete one Controlled Assessment worth amaximum of 25% of the total marks.The remaining marks are gained from two 1 ½ hourexaminations, taken at the end of the course.

Additional informationReferences to literature are all around us – in films, television,songs and newspapers. The ability to read, understand andrespond to a wide range of literary texts and to appreciatethe ways in which authors achieve their effects can increaseyour understanding and enjoyment of modern media. In thiscourse you will also develop awareness of historical andsocial contexts and how these influence the study ofliterature. You may well find that your studies of literatureinteract favourably with other courses that you have chosen,such as Media, History and Religious Education.

Career prospects/progression to Level 3This course supports the progress on to A Level EnglishLiterature and other Level 3 courses. It is excellentpreparation for jobs such as journalism, theatres, teachingand various other careers.

Course LeaderMiss L Beattie

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Geography A AQA GCSE

What will I study?• Restless Earth (plate tectonics, earthquakes, volcanoes,

tsunamis)• Living world (ecosystems such as rainforest, deserts)• Coasts (weathering, mass movements, erosion,

deposition etc)• Population Change• Changing Urban Environments• Tourism

How is the course assessed?Unit 1: Physical Geography Written Paper – 37.5% Unit 2: Human Geography Written Paper – 37.5%* Unit 3: Local Fieldwork Investigation Controlled assessment - 25%

Additional informationA genuine interest in the world around us is important.

Career prospects/progression to Level 3A Level GeographyCareer options: Meteorology, hazard & disastermanagement, urban planning, travel & tourism, GIS (egGoogle maps), international relations (Foreign Office),education, etc.

Course LeaderMr D Sutherland

Health and Social CareEdexcel GCSE

What will I study?Unit 1: Understanding Personal Development andRelationships. This unit contains the following four topics:• Human growth and development• Factors affecting human growth and development• Effects of relationships on personal growth and

development• The effect of life events on personal development.

Unit 2: Exploring Health, Social Care and Early Years ProvisionThis unit contains the following five topics:• The range of acre needs of major client groups• Access and the barriers to access• Provision of services• Workers in health, social care and early years• Care values which underpin service provider interaction.

How is the course assessed?Unit 1 is tested by a written examination made up of multi-choice questions and a series of questions based on casestudies (40% of total marks).

Unit 2 is a controlled assessment based around aninvestigation of a health and social care organisation (60%of total marks).

Additional informationA genuine interest in working with people is essential to besuccessful on this course. You also need goodcommunication skills and be able to work with others.

Career prospects/progression to Level 3This course helps to prepare students for working in healthand social care.

Students can progress on to the Level 3 Applied A level inhealth and social care which leads into a range of careersincluding nursing, teaching, social work and child care.

Course LeaderMrs N Barrett

Geography

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History B AQA GCSE

What will I study?The topics that students will cover are:• Medieval (500-1500) Britain• Early Modern (1450-1750) Britain• Modern (1750- present day) Britain• The History of the Wider World

How is the course assessed?The course will be assessed in the form of three writtenexaminations.

Additional informationWhat skills do I need for this subject?• Problem Solving• Good literacy levels• Questioning• Decision Making• Resourcefulness• Analysis

Career prospects/progression to Level 3There is the possibility of continuing your studies at Post 16with A Level History and beyond to University.

The career possibilities include journalist, archaeologist,archivist, curator, barrister, conservationist, furniture restorer,solicitor, tourism, policing, crime scene investigator or thearmed forces.

Course LeaderMr D Sutherland

History

Hospitality and Catering(Single award in Hospitality) WJEC GCSE

What will I study?This course concentrates on food preparation and theservice aspect of the catering industry

Areas of study include :• What is hospitality? – understanding the different sectors

in the hospitality industry• Job roles, employment opportunities and training.• Health, safety, hygiene and risk assessment• Food preparation, cooking and presentation.• Nutrition and menu planning• Costing and portion control.• Communication and teamwork.• Environmental considerations.

You will also plan, cook and serve a celebratory event aspart of the course allowing you to experience both chef andwaiting staff job roles.

How is the course assessed?Unit 3: Hospitality skills related to events and functions: Eventbased task (60%) Controlled assessment Unit 4: Hospitality and the Customer. Written exam (40%).

Additional informationOne of the strengths of this course is the emphasis on thedevelopment of practical cooking skills and teamwork in Unit3. This allows all students the opportunity to score highly onpractical tasks.

Career prospects/progression to Level 3All aspects of the course are linked directly to the job rolesavailable in the Hospitality and Catering industry e.g. chef,waitress, restaurant manager, housekeeper, reception,events manager.

Course LeaderMrs L Prescott / Miss S Binning

12

ICT

ICT Edexcel GCSE

What will I study?Unit 1: Living in a Digital WorldIn this unit students explore how digital technology impactson the lives of individuals, organisations and society. Theylearn about current every day digital technologies andissues and risks raised by their use in a range of contexts.

Unit 2 Using Digital ToolsThis is a practical unit. Students broaden and enhance theirICT skills and capability. They work with a range of digitaltools and technology to produce effective ICT solutions in arange of contexts.

How is the course assessed?Unit 1 is assessed through a 1hour 30min exam paperexternally assessed

Unit 2 is internally assessed under controlled conditions.Students complete a controlled assignment set by Edexcel and complete the task within 40 hours (during the Academy day)

Additional informationThis qualification enables students to become independent,discerning users of ICT.

Career prospects/progression to Level 3The GCSE in ICT is a vocationally based qualification. Thecourse relates to the use and application of ICT in workinglife. It enables students to develop ICT based solutions tosolve problems. Post 16, this qualification is suitable forstudents wishing to go on to study Level 3 vocational ICTqualifications (such as OCR Cambridge Technical) or enteremployment on leaving school.

Course LeaderMr T Birch-Machin

Mathematics Edexcel GCSE

What will I study?The course covers six attainment targets:1 Number2 Algebra3 Ratio, proportion and rates of change4 Geometry and measures5 Probability6 Statistics.

Lessons will follow a similar format to your currentMathematics lessons and homework will be set regularly.

How is the course assessed?Assessment will be by examination.There are two levels of entry, Foundation and Higher, andstudents will be entered at the level most suitable for theirability. The grades available to Foundation Level entrantsare 1- 5 and to Higher Level 5-9.

Additional informationThis is a core subject

Career prospects/progression to Level 3Almost all jobs, careers and higher education courses requirea Mathematics qualification. You will also find that a lot ofwhat you learn in Mathematics will be useful in other GCSEsthat you study. For example, in Science or Engineering youmay be asked to use formulae and solve equations and inGeography you will need to read charts and diagrams anduse statistics. A GCSE in Mathematics is also essential if youintend to take Science, Computing or Engineering beyondGCSE.

Course LeaderMr H Lee

13

Media OCR GCSE

What will I study?The GCSE course is made up of 3 units:2 controlled assessment coursework units and 1 externalassessment (exam)

Units include: B321: The Individual Media Studies Portfolio: Candidatesproduce an individual portfolio containing a comparativeanalytical assignment based on at least two media texts, aproduction exercise to design and produce a magazinearticle and a planning and evaluative commentary.B322: Textual Analysis and Media Studies Topic:This examination has two sections.Section A: candidates answer three questions to examineGenre, Media Language and Representation.Section B: candidates answer one question on TV Comedyrelating to Institution and Audience.B324: Production Portfolio in Media StudiesCandidates produce a major practical production portfolioin response to briefs set by the exam board, together with anevaluation. This will be based within an audio production.

How is the course assessed?A mixture of coursework assignments worth 60% of your finalgrade and an external exam worth 40% of your final grade.

Additional informationLiteracy and communication skills are very important in thiscourse as it consists of analytical essays and evaluations.Some ICT skills would be beneficial for the practical elementof the course.Students should have a genuine interest and experience inMedia products as we will be exploring and analysing arange of them.

Career prospects/progression to Level 3This course can lead you onto Level 3 courses at Post 16.It will also promote the practical skills and communicationskills required within the Media Industry.

Course LeaderMs E Dietman

Media

Music Edexcel GCSE

What will I study?• Performing Music: One solo and one ensemble

performance• Composing Music: Either two compositions or two

arrangements or one composition and onearrangement.

• Music - Listening and Appraising

How is the course assessed?There are two internally assessed units worth 30% each andone externally assessed unit worth 40%.

Career prospects/progression to Level 3A level in MusicA Level in Music TechnologyA degree in MusicA degree in Music Technology

Course LeaderMr K Withrington

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Music

Music Technology NCFE Level 2

Certificate in Creative Studies

What will I study?• • The basic concepts of music technology.• The basic concepts and skills of working with audio and

MIDI to produce music.• The theory and practice of working with typical music

production tools.• Core knowledge of the music technology sector.

How is the course assessed?Successful completion of four units: • Unit 1 - an internally assessed portfolio of evidence• Unit 2 - an assignment externally assessed by NCFEBoth these units are mandatory.Students must complete a further two optional units whichare internally assessed.Final Qualification grade is: Pass, Merit, Distinction, Distinction*

Additional informationA genuine interest in music is required and an ability to playan instrument is an advantage.

Career prospects/progression to Level 3NCFE Level 3 Diploma in Managing a Music BusinessEnterprise.A Level in Music TechnologyDegree in Music TechnologyWorking within the music/media industry. It may also beuseful to those studying for qualifications in the followingsectors: Media; Radio; Performing Arts.

Course LeaderMr K Withrington

Physical Education Edexcel GCSE

What will I study?The GCSE in Physical Education has two elements, theoryand practical.

The theory element is divided into two sections; 1. Healthy active lifestyles 2. The effects of exercise on the body systems In a practical setting, you will have an opportunity to beinvolved in a number of different physical activities,promoting an active and healthy lifestyle.

How is the course assessed?The GCSE course is assessed over two units. Unit 1 = 1 hour and 30 minutes examination worth 40%. Unit 2 - Section 1 is assessed through practice performancesin the role of either the player, leader (e.g. coach) or official(e.g. referee)= 48 %. Section 2 includes an analysis ofperformance in one of four chosen performances = 12%.

Additional informationThe course is stimulating and interesting but involves workoutside of Academy hours with students required to achievea high standard in all physical areas. All GCSE students are expected to develop the practicalside of the subject by attending extra-curricular activities,clubs and aspiring to represent the borough in sportingactivities. Commitment to this is expected.

Career prospects/progression to Level 3Progress on to A level and related vocational qualificationssuch as BTEC firsts and Nationals in Sport. The coursedevelops the transferable skills and key skills that employersare looking for and can lead to a wide variety ofemployment opportunities. This can include further trainingin such areas such as recreational management, leisureactivities, coaching, officiating, the fitness industry, thearmed forces and the civil service.

Course LeaderMr P Pillay

15

Product Design Design and Technology AQA GCSE

What will I study?Students will study design skills in a variety of design schools,e.g. Art Deco or Modernism.

Students will gain knowledge of materials and components,all of which will lead students into their own design andmanufacture of a chosen product using wood, metal ortextiles. Students will also need to package their finishedproduct to shop ready specification.

How is the course assessed?The course is a 60/40% split between portfolio (controlledassessment) and external examination and is classified as atraditional GCSE. Controlled Assessment projects are internally assessed andmoderated and then sent for external moderation from theexam board.

Additional informationWhilst we will strive to meet students’ design needs, theremay be occasions when students will be required to providetheir own materials. This will be discussed with students at thedesign stage.

Career prospects/progression to Level 3Students can continue to study Product Design at A-Level.Art and Design is also a pathway that will benefit from aGCSE in Product Design.

Product Design could lead students into a career in furnituremaking, electronic goods (such as vacuum cleaners ormobile telephones) or even the fashion industry.

Course LeaderMr J Williams / Mrs S O’Neill

Product Design

Psychology GCSE

AQA Specification 4180 (Full course)

What will I study?Topics to be studied are as follows:MemoryNon-Verbal communicationPersonalityPrejudice & DiscriminationResearch MethodsLearningSocial InfluenceSex & GenderAggression

How is the course assessed?The course is a linear GCSE, with external examinations atthe end of KS4.

There are two 1hr 30min examination papers. Each paper is80 marks and counts for 50% of the GCSE.

There is no coursework component

Additional informationThere is a strong element of discussion within the classroom,and extended writing within the examination process.

Students should be aware that they would need to beconfident that they have the respective skills in order tomaximise their grades.

There is also a Mathematical component to the ResearchMethods section there a level 6a is required.English at level 6a is also a requirement.

Career prospects/progression to Level 3The Academy currently offers AQA Psychology A Level, sosuccessful completion of the GCSE can lead into furtherstudy at Level 3.

Some of the topics studied at GCSE are also covered ingreater depth as part of the A Level course.

Course LeaderMr P Hillson

16

Science A AQA GCSE

What will I study?There are two routes that are available to students:• Two science GCSEs (core and additional)• Three science GCSEs, separated into biology, chemistry

and physics

How is the course assessed?Core Science has four units. Three of these are externallyassessed examinations and one is an internal controlledassessment. Each unit carries an equal weighting of 25%.Students will be examined at the end of year 11 dependingon the pathway they are on.

Additional Science students follow the core path but inaddition will study a further four units to be awarded thesecond science GCSE. Three of these units are externallyassessed examinations and one is an internal controlledassessment. Each unit carries an equal weighting of 25%.Students will be examined at the end of year 11.

Triple Science students have four units in each of thesciences making a total of 12. These comprise threeexternally assessed units and an internal controlledassessment for each discipline. Students will be examined at the end of year 11.

Additional informationThe routes students take will be determined by their targetgrades at Key Stage 3 and by their performance once thecourses begin.

Career prospects/progression to Level 3Each of the pathways will enable students to deepen theirunderstanding of the natural world and the methodsscientists use to investigate it. This will permeate through allcareer paths students follow.

Additional and Triple Science will both prepare students toprogress to Level 3 qualifications in the single sciences.

Course LeaderMrs B Singh

Philosophy and EthicsGCSE Religious Studies

What will I study?Philosophy and Ethics is a compulsory subject at KS4. Allstudents follow the course leading to a GCSE in ReligiousStudies. Students will study two religions and will be able todiscuss how their beliefs affect their practices. The course willinvolve discussion of relevant topical issues and theevaluation of different ethical viewpoints.

How is the course assessed?There will be a written examination at the end of the course.

Additional informationWhat skills will you develop?• Communication• Working with others• Problem Solving• Improving your own learning• Clarity about your own beliefs and opinions, and the

ability to express them

It is NOT about making you religious, it is enabling you tothink for yourself about social and moral Issues!

Career prospects/progression to Level 3This course is a stepping stone to a wide range of futureopportunities within further education and employment.It can lead to AS/A Level in Religious Studies, or other relatedhumanities subjects such as history, sociology or law.The GCSE also prepares you to work and deal with people ofdifferent cultures and beliefs – very useful for most careersand highly regarded by employers.

Course LeaderMiss C St.John Coleman

Science

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Sport BTEC Level 2 First Award

What will I study?Two compulsory units:Unit 1 - Fitness for Sport Unit 2 - Practical Sports Performance.

Two optional units from;Unit 3 - The Mind and Sport performanceUnit 4 - The Sports Performer in Action Unit 5 - Training for Personal Fitness Unit 6 - Leading Sports Activities

How is the course assessed?There are internally and externally assessed units. The evidence for assessment can be generated through arange of activities, including workplace assessment, roleplay, practical performance or verbal presentations. Theexternal assessment is a 1 hour on-screen exam based onthe information studied for Unit 1 – Fitness for Sport.

Additional informationThe course is stimulating and interesting but involves workoutside of Academy hours with students required to achievea high standard in all physical areas.

All GCSE students are expected to develop the practicalside of the subject by attending extra-curricular activities,clubs and aspiring to represent the borough in sportingactivities. Commitment to this is expected.

Career prospects/progression to Level 3Edexcel BTEC Level 3 qualifications in Sport or Sport andExercise Sciences. The underpinning knowledge, practicaland vocational skills learnt will also enhance and supportprogression to a relevant competency-based qualification,such as the Edexcel Level 3 NVQ Diploma in SportsDevelopment or the Edexcel Level 3 NVQ Diploma in LeisureManagement.

Alternatively, the Edexcel BTEC Level 2 First Award in Sportprovides a route to employment into many diverse areas ofsport, including junior level roles in the sport and activeleisure sector, such as recreation assistant or sports leader.

Course LeaderMr P Pillay

Sport

Spanish Edexcel GCSE

What will I study?Students will study a wide range of everyday situations whichinclude topics such as self, family and friends andrelationships. Your town, holidays, environment , school andwork.

Pocket money, topical adolescent issues and concerns,hobbies and sport.

Many of these relate directly to situations experienced whilston holiday.

How is the course assessed?The course is composed of four skill components. • External assessment: Listening – 20%• Controlled assessment: Speaking – 30%• External assessment: Reading – 20%• Controlled assessment: Writing – 30%

Additional informationThe reading and listening components of the GCSE aredivided into Foundation and Higher Tiers.

The highest grade achievable at Foundation Tier is a grade C. Higher Tier papers allow students to achieve grades D-A*.

Controlled assessment tasks for the speaking and writingcomponents encompass the entire grade spectrum of A*-Uand are not tiered. The grade achieved is by outcome.

Please note is important that students have the confidence to speak in Spanish and are keen to develop this aspect. This is key to success.

Career prospects/progression to Level 3Students achieving a grade B at GCSE level may have theopportunity to progress to A level courses.

Career opportunities include: international banking,journalism, translating, export and import industry, teaching ,health service or the tourism industry.

Course LeaderMs K Conran

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Textiles Technology AQA GCSE

Design and Technology

What will I study?The course has been developed to enable students todemonstrate their creativity and the making of textileproducts is a vital feature of this course. Students will coverthe entire design cycle and develop their skills in designing,making, analysis and evaluation including knowledge ofmaterials and fabric construction processes alongside howsocial, cultural, moral and environmental issues can impacttextiles and design too.

How is the course assessed?Controlled assessment - 60% One design and make piece ofwork that students select from briefs set by the exam board.

External examination - 40% One exam paper

Additional informationYou will need to enjoy the creative and practicalapplications of textiles, be determined and self-motivated.You will also need good research and time managementskills for the controlled assessment project.

Career prospects/progression to Level 3Textiles could lead students into a career as a fashiondesigner, textiles designer and many other creative routes.

Students can continue to study Textiles Technology at AS/A2Level or BTEC/diplomas in related creative subjects.

Course LeaderMrs S O’Neill

Values

What will I study?Values is a compulsory core subject which covers thestatutory aspects of RE and PSHE KS4 curriculum.

The course aim is a wide one; to prepare young citizens forentry into a world of constant change, to ensure they areconfident in themselves and ready to meet the challengesthat adult life will undoubtedly impose on them.

This course covers moral, social, cultural and spiritual issueslinked to everyday situations faced by young people in theworld today.

How is the course assessed?There is no examination for this area.

Additional informationThe course is delivered through a variety of teachingmethods, including the use of media, discussion and outsidespeakers. You will also complete various pieces of writtenwork.

Career prospects/progression to Level 3This course prepares students to face the demands of theworld they live in so underpins all future careers.

Course LeaderMiss C St.John-Coleman

Travel and Tourism BTEC Level 2 Award

This is GREEN Pathway only

What will I study?Unit 1: The UK Travel and Tourism Sector – this unit covers themain types of tourism in the UK, the contribution that traveland tourism makes to the UK economy and the differentcomponent industries that make up the UK travel andtourism sector.

Unit 2: UK Travel and Tourism Destinations – this unit coverswhat the different types of UK destinations have to offer, aswell as locating tourist UK destinations and routes.

Unit 4: International Travel and Tourism Destinations – whichlooks at international travel and tourism destinations andgateways and reasons for their appeal to different visitors.

Unit 6: The Travel and Tourism Customer Experience – whichlooks at the needs and expectations of different types ofcustomer in the travel and tourism sector and howorganisations address these.

How is the course assessed?• Exam (core) unit 1 – 25% (Written paper which is 1 hour

long made up of mostly short and some longer questions.)• Unit 2 (core), 4 and 6 - coursework – internally assessed

Additional informationSkills that will be developed:Project-/self-management and independent-learning skills,communication skills, business awareness and customerawareness skills,

Career prospects/progression to Level 3Some of the careers linked to Travel & Tourism: holidayadviser, leisure centre management, travel consultant, eventmanagement, travel agent, holiday property management.

Course LeaderMrs S Hadley

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Belfairs Academy

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