Gcse Options Booklet 2007-9

Name:

?

? THE SNAITH SCHOOL

? CALENDAR OF EVENTS

Careers Convention Thursday 22 March 2007 - 6.30 - 8.30 pm

Year 9 Parents Evening

For Pupils and Parents a discussion of options with Senior Staff For discussion with Subject Teachers & Senior Members of Staff

Tuesday 27 March 2007 - 5.00 - 8.00pm

KS4 Subject Preference Forms returned Friday 30 March 2007

Discussion with individual pupils and parents will continue through April, May and June

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March 2007

Dear Parent/Guardian Key Stage 4 Courses, September 2007 - May 2009 After 3 years following the compulsory Key Stage 3 of the National Curriculum, the time has now come when a limited choice of subjects for the final stage of compulsory education (Key Stage 4) is available. Of necessity, the number of subjects your son/daughter can take must be limited so that they can achieve a level acceptable for external examinations. In most cases at Snaith School, this means the equivalent of 8 or 9 subjects at GCSE level. In order to maintain the principle of a 'broad and balanced' education, pupils will study a core of compulsory subjects. The optional courses will allow students some choice in relation to their particular interests, aptitudes, abilities and careers ambitions. The level, content and emphasis of work will be related to pupils' abilities. The general aims of our curriculum are as follows: 1.

To ensure that all pupils, regardless of ability, reach the highest academic standards of which they are capable and develop their particular talents.

2.

To enable pupils to chose between a range of academic, vocational and work related learning.

3.

To enable pupils to value themselves and their relations with other people without discrimination on grounds of religion, race, gender, class or disability.

4.

To help pupils understand moral issues and social problems, including an awareness of the social, political and economic context in which they live.

5.

To stimulate and encourage creativity, inventiveness and originality and to appreciate achievements in art, music, drama, literature, science and technology. To acquire a range of skills of study, communication, problem solving, enterprise, practical work, observation, investigations and information handling.

6.

We seek to achieve these aims by: a.

Developing pupils' skills in reading, writing, speaking, listening and numeracy.

b.

Effective delivery through schemes of work and programmes of study.

c.

Making Information Technology an integrated part of the curriculum of every department.

d.

Recognising the identified special needs of pupils in terms of differentiation.

e.

Recognising the importance of roles of Team Leaders in creating and developing whole school policies and in monitoring the quality of teaching and learning.

Vocational preparation is also a vital part of the Key Stage 4 curriculum. It is broader than just Careers Guidance and is aimed at enabling young people to make informed decisions at every important stage. An introduction to the working environment is included through Work Experience 2

for all students and expert advice is available through individual careers counselling and advice about options post 16. Several vocational choices have also been introduced into the curriculum. Unfortunately we are not always able to provide every first choice of subject as in some cases the number of students who opt for a course is either too small to be viable, or too large. We therefore are asking students to choose a second and third preference. We will, however, endeavour to do all we can to ensure a student's first choice; if not, we will discuss the problem fully with individual students. External Examinations The courses described in this booklet are normally examined at the level of the General Certificate of Secondary Education (GCSE). Some other subjects are awarded Level 1 which is equivalent to Grades D to G at GCSE Level or Level 2, which is equivalent to grades A* to C. The examination system tests not only memory and the orderly presentation of facts, but also understanding, practical and other skills, plus the ability to apply that knowledge. It places emphasis upon continuous assessment of coursework, which requires particular skills of organisation of time and homework. All courses and examinations follow nationally agreed guide-lines, known as the ‘national criteria’. Within subjects there will be a choice of levels of assessment. Decisions concerning entry for examinations in each subject are made in Year 11 and parents will be fully consulted at every stage. Timetable of Events March/April Thurs 22 March Tuesday 27 March

Tutor Group Time to be used for careers advice and issues connected with making a choice Careers Convention – Senior Staff available for discussion.

Friday 30 March

Year 9 Parents Evening. Discussions with subject teachers, Careers Officers and senior staff - 5.00 pm to 8.00 pm Final choice forms to be returned to school

8 – 11 May

Standard Assessment Tests – English, Mathematics, Science

May/June/July

Individual interviews - confirmed choices

To Pupils The modern world makes serious demands upon us all and your school life should prepare you to face these challenges. You will also live in a world of information and communications technology which you will need to exploit. You will soon be faced with the first really big educational decision of your life - that of your future career. No-one can forecast the next ten years; the logical course to take is to keep one's options as wide as possible to give you the greatest chance in the greatest number of opportunities.

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How to Decide 1. 2.

What subjects can you choose from? Find out essential facts - ask subject teachers, Heads of Departments and your Form Tutor. Do not be influenced by the decision of a friend or the personality of the teacher.

3.

Look carefully at the 'combination' of subjects.

4.

Make your decisions carefully.

The information in this booklet has been put together to help you. Read it carefully and ask for further explanation so you are confident you have made the right choice. Parents will no doubt be interested in the breakdown of the school’s examination results for the past 5 years. These show: Pupils achieving 5+ A* to C grades: 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006

62.0% 57.0% 62.4% 65.1% 62.0%

Pupils achieving 5+ A* to G grades: 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006

98.0% 98.8% 98.8% 96.8% 96.7%

Our aim is that our students will continue to maintain, and even surpass, these high standards in the future. Yours sincerely

J D Pickerill Headteacher

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Frequently asked Questions How do we decide who will be accepted onto a course if there are too many pupils? Pupils are asked to indicate a second, or a third, preference to provide us with information about the other subjects they would like to do. Where there are too many pupils all of them will be interviewed to establish why they wanted to study that subject and if an alternative would be just as satisfactory. In some cases pupils who have chosen two oversubscribed subjects are guaranteed a place on one, but have to study their second choice in another. In most cases the problems are resolved in this way. If there are still problems, selection criteria are developed based on levels of interest and aptitude. The aim is to be fair and equitable to all pupils. Parents are consulted and informed at various stages through this process. Are there other courses available? As we progress through the option process we will identify opportunities to offer more choice to pupils with particular interests, needs or aptitudes. The completion of the preference form is the beginning of a process and all possibilities are explored. Will all the courses run? There may be a situation where the take up of a particular subject is too small to make it viable, in which case it would not run. The maximum and minimum number of pupils does vary between subjects and so there is no single figure that can apply. Some new courses have been put on the preference form to see if there is sufficient interest. These courses will only run if they have sufficient pupils and if they can be timetabled successfully. What are Level 1 and Level 2 Course? All qualifications are approved and fit into the National Qualifications Framework. Each qualification is allocated a Level. Level 1 courses offer a qualification equivalent to GCSE grades D to G. Level 2 courses offer a qualification equivalent to GCSE grades A* to C. All GCSE courses therefore cover Levels 1 and 2. Some of the vocational courses are offered at either Level 1 or 2. In these cases it is important to place pupils in the appropriate level to ensure they can cope with the course and are appropriately challenged. -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------Please tear off and return to Mr Woollen's pigeonhole if you have further questions If you have further questions, senior members of staff will be available at the front of the school at the Careers Convention on Thursday 22 March and the Parents Evening on Tuesday 27 March, or please contact Mr Woollen. You may wish to pose the question in the space below and an appointment can be arranged with a senior member of staff during the Parents Evening. Form:

Name of son/daughter: Question

Signed: ____________________________

Date:

Please return to Mr Woollen's pigeonhole

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KEY STAGE 4 CURRICULUM Contents Level THE CORE CURRICULUM CAREERS CITIZENSHIP ENGLISH INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY MATHEMATICS MODERN FOREIGN LANGUAGE - FRENCH PHYSICAL EDUCATION RELIGIOUS EDUCATION SCIENCE SINGLE BLOCK SUBJECTS ART & DESIGN ASDAN/CERTIFICATE OF PERSONAL EFFECTIVENESS (COPE) BUSINESS STUDIES DRAMA ENGINEERING GEOGRAPHY GERMAN HISTORY ICT – AIDA (Award in Digital Applications) MEDIA MUSIC PHYSICAL EDUCATION TECHNOLOGY SUBJECT ELECTRONIC PRODUCTS FOOD TECHNOLOGY GRAPHIC PRODUCTS RESISTANT MATERIALS TEXTILES DOUBLE BLOCK* SUBJECTS APPLIED BUSINESS STUDIES AND BUSINESS COMMUNICATION SYSTEMS HEALTH & SOCIAL CARE ICT- CIDA (Certificate in Digital Applications) SPORT (BTEC FIRST DIPLOMA) CARING FOR CHILDREN (CACHE) HAIR AND BEAUTY PERFORMING ENGINEERING OPERATIONS WITH BUILDING AND CONSTRUCTION

*Block refers to a unit of time ie. 5 lessons over 2 weeks

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1 and 2 1 and 2 1 and 2 1 and 2 1 and 2

1 1 1 1

and and and and 2 1 and 1 and 1 and 1 and

2 2 2 2

Page 4 10 10 11 12 13 14 14 15

2 2 2 2 2

17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 29 29 30 30 30

1 and 2 1 and 2

31 32

1 and 2 1 and 2 2 1 1 1

33 34 35 36 37 38

2 2 2 2

1 and 2 1 and 2 1 1 1 1 1

and and and and and

THE CORE CURRICULUM These are compulsory subjects that, with limited exception, everyone takes. It includes:

CAREERS CITIZENSHIP ENGLISH RELIGIOUS EDUCATION (Full course) INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY (Core course) MATHEMATICS MODERN FOREIGN LANGUAGE - FRENCH (Based on the recommendation of the Languages Dept) PHYSICAL EDUCATION (Core course) RELIGIOUS EDUCATION (Short Course) SCIENCE

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CAREERS EDUCATION You will have a structured Careers Education programme in Years 9, 10 and 11. In Year 9 the course is designed to make you more aware of post 16 opportunities, to assess your own strengths and weaknesses, to help you prepare for future decision making both at 14 years and 16 years of age, and to gain an understanding of how to use the resources in the Careers Library. Great emphasis is put on the importance of discussions with subject teachers, careers teachers and careers officers. In Year 10 the programme ensures that you gain a complete understanding of post 16 options. The introduction of new qualifications such as Vocational ‘A’ levels (ACVE) and NVQ (National Vocational Qualifications) is making decision making more complex, particularly with the different levels within each of these qualifications, and so a significant amount of time is spent discussing both new and traditional qualifications. Progression beyond 18 years of age and the GCSE’s required for these new courses as well as traditional courses such as A level (whose structure has also changed) are also discussed in detail. Preparation for work experience is also an important part of Year 10 Careers. In Year 11 the emphasis is on self assessment exercises, application forms, the CV and interview skills, with significant support in lessons being provided by local industry and commerce. You will participate in two weeks of work experience currently just before half term in the Autumn Term of Year 11 and we also concentrate on reinforcing our work on post 16 options with verbal presentations by local colleges, industrialists, training providers etc. prior to the completion of the appropriate application forms. Local industrialists also provide support in the development of Interview Skills. Connexions Personal Advisers provide a vital supporting role throughout the Careers programme from Year 9, whilst in Year 11 we try to provide individual careers interviews with the Personal Advisers. Our Annual Careers Convention in March provides you and your parents with the opportunity to meet many representatives from local colleges, industry, training providers, the Armed Services and Careers Officers. You basically have a choice of 3 different routes when leaving school at 16 years of age: 1.

To stay in full time education which may be in a Sixth Form College, eg Pontefract, Boothferry or John Leggott; or College of Further Education eg Selby or North Lindsey, Scunthorpe. About 75% of our pupils tend to choose this route.

2.

To seek full time employment where currently there are a limited number of opportunities with companies such as British Energy, British Aerospace etc. Up to 15% of our pupils tend to be successful in pursuing this option.

3.

To opt for a structured training programme, for example in the form of ‘NVQ Training’. Local training managers provide appropriate programmes with the emphasis on practical skills. Pupils receive a training grant (approximately £50 per week) and the programme usually lasts for up to 2 years. Up to 10% of our pupils currently tend to opt for this route.

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FURTHER EDUCATION COURSES Significant changes have taken place since September 2000 when the Government introduced a new post 16 curriculum, particularly the introduction of vocational ‘A’ levels. Some traditional courses offered by the colleges, such as those examined by Business and Technical Education (BTec), City and Guilds (C&G) and Royal Society of Arts (RSA) will remain whilst other courses are being added. Pupils who decide to go to College full time must make early applications, at the latest by the end of January in the year in which they leave school. Further guidance on applications to College is given in Year 11. During your last 2 years you will have been fully informed in school about the course opportunities available in the relevant Colleges, but if you or your parents wish for further details, do not hesitate to contact us.

CURRICULUM 2000 From September 2000 the Government introduced a new post 16 curriculum which affects ‘A’ level and pupils following vocational programmes. The changes are designed to broaden the curriculum by: • • •

Allowing pupils to ‘mix and match’ vocational, advanced subsidiary (AS) and advanced level qualifications Introducing a separate Key Skills qualification Allowing pupils to study more subjects at ‘AS’ level in Year 12 with the majority completing 3 ‘A’ levels in Year 13.

Colleges expect most pupils to take up to 4 ‘AS’ level subjects in Year 12. It may be possible to take a fifth ‘AS’ level subject.

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The new GCE ‘A’ level qualification What is the new GCE ‘A’ level? It comprises 2 parts: • An ‘AS’ level usually taken in Year 12 AND

• An ‘A2’ usually taken in Year 13. Each part is comprised of 3 modules or units of work which are examined separately. What is an ‘AS’ level? • ‘AS’ stands for Advanced Subsidiary level • It can be a stand alone qualification • It represents the first half of an ‘A’ level course of study • ‘AS’ levels can be combined with ‘A’ levels to broaden the curriculum. What is an ‘A2’? • ‘A2’ stands for the second year of an ‘A’ level course • It isn’t a stand alone qualification like the ‘AS’ Part of the ‘A2’ examination encompasses all of the work covered in the 6 modules for ‘A’ level. This is referred to as synoptic assessment.

The new GCSE Applied Subjects What are these? • These are vocational subjects equivalent in the national framework to advanced level subjects • Subjects such as Science, Business Studies and ICT are offered in our partner colleges

The new Key Skills qualification What are Key Skills? They are essential life skills that are demanded by employers and which pupils need to develop throughout their post 16 education. They include: • Communication • Information Technology • Application of Number • Working with Others • Improving Own Learning and Performance • Problem Solving The first 3 will form the basis for the new Key Skills qualification that all advanced level pupils will take. Different institutions will have their own arrangements for the other 3. Evidence for Key Skills will come from academic subjects, workshops, IT skills and tutor sessions.

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SIXTH FORM SCHOOLS/COLLEGES i.

Goole College A wide range of courses are offered including vocational courses such as a GCE Applied in Business Studies, Leisure and Tourism, Child Care, RSA in Information Technology and Business Administration (Secretarial) and NVQ in Catering and Hospitality, Engineering and Hairdressing. A booklet in the school Careers Library identifies ALL courses on offer at Goole College - pupils may be given a copy of this booklet in Year 11. Qualifications which can be obtained are shown below: GCSE RSA NVQ City and Guilds A bus service is currently provided to the College from Snaith.

ii.

New College, Pontefract The College offers primarily ‘A’ and ‘AS’ level courses in a wide range of subjects, a large number of GCSE courses, a small number of GCE Applied courses (eg Science, Business and Finance) and other courses including typing, word processing and a pre-health courses. A wide range of extra curricular activities are also offered together with an effective personal guidance and support system. Early in Year 11 NEW College offers an Open Evening for all interested pupils. Application Forms can be obtained on this evening or from the school Careers Library. Pupils have to pay a nominal fee towards travel costs.

iii. Selby College Selby College offers a wide range of courses for pupils of 16 years and older. The College offers a good range of ‘A’ and ‘AS’ levels, vocational courses such as GCE Applied, NVQ, GCSE etc. Courses are also provided for pupils with special needs. Some 20 A level courses are offered together with a wide range of vocational courses –BTec in Engineering, Science, Leisure Studies, Business and Finance, Health Studies, Hotel and Catering, Travel and Tourism, Art and Design and Nursery Nursing. The College also provides appropriate NVQ courses in a range of occupational areas. Details of all courses are readily available in the school Careers Library and in Year 11 you will receive your own copy of all the courses available. The College has an extensive range of facilities including Library, Sports Hall, Art and Design Studios, Hairdressing and Beauty Salon, Computing facilities, a range of Laboratories and Engineering Workshops, Refectory and Student Common Room. A significant number of our Year 11 pupils choose Selby College for their post 16 education. A free bus service is currently provided to Selby College.

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iv. North Lindsey College, Scunthorpe A handbook on all courses at North Lindsey College is available to you in Year 11. A bus service is currently provided from Snaith. A wide range of courses are on offer, many courses are of a vocational nature leading to typical qualifications such as GCE Applied, City and Guilds, RSA etc. Courses are available in Art and Design, Performing Arts, Leisure and Recreation, Hairdressing and Beauty Therapy, Hotel and Catering, Caring and Social Work, Business Studies and Computing, Office Studies including Secretarial, Reception and Administration, Information Technology, Travel and Tourism, Motor Vehicle Studies, Engineering and Business Studies. Pupils opting for a vocational course are sometimes also encouraged to study for a supporting A level course. v.

John Leggott Sixth Form College, Scunthorpe John Leggott College offers a wide range of ‘A’ levels, ‘AS’ levels, GCE Applied, GCSE subjects and some vocational courses. There is an increasing number of our pupils opting to attend John Leggott College which currently provides transport from Snaith and surrounding villages. You and your parents are encouraged to attend Open Evenings and the College is always well represented at our Careers Convention in March.

vi. Boothferry VI Form This is a sixth form resulting from the amalgamation of 2 school VI forms – Howden and Vermuyden. Courses are offered at both locations from ‘A’ levels, ‘AS’ levels, GCE Applied and GCSE in a wide range of subjects. Staff may be present at our Careers Convention to give further details. All local colleges tend to update their curriculum on an annual basis to accommodate new courses. The most up to date information can be obtained by telephone or viewing the college website

NVQ TRAINING 1. What is NVQ Training? NVQ Training is a programme offering training in the skills that you will need in your working life. 2. Who can go on NVQ Training? All 16/17 year old school leavers. 3. How long will my NVQ Training last? The programme is flexible and usually lasts up to 2 years.

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4. What kind of training is offered on NVQ Training? Training in skills related to a range of jobs. All the programmes guarantee a period of on-the-job training that leads wherever possible to nationally recognised vocational qualifications eg NVQ, City and Guilds etc. 5. Will I be able to train in the kind of work I am interested in? Training will be available in most types of work - either in this area or within daily travelling distance, providing that an employer can be found for the work experience element. It can be very difficult to find an employer. Pupils will be encouraged to try contacting employers themselves. 6. Do I have to pay travelling expenses to get to a programme? Travel expenses may be paid by some training providers, depending on the type of training the young person is on. Always ask at interview. 7. Where do I find out what NVQ Training programmes are available in my area? Ask at the Goole Connexions Centre or ask your Personal Adviser (Careers) or Careers teacher in school. 8. How much will I be paid? Young people who go onto apprenticeships are usually paid by the employer. The recommended minimum rate is £80 per week, some employers may pay more. Rates of pay/expenses and opportunities vary between training providers and different rules can apply in different areas ie. East Yorkshire will vary from North Yorkshire. 9. Will I be guaranteed a job at the end of NVQ Training? No, but you should have a lot to offer a potential employer. In some circumstances a programme is counted as the first part of a longer training programme. Last year in the Goole area 90% of all pupils who completed the course gained permanent employment. 10. Will I get a certificate or qualification when I leave NVQ Training? All trainees receive a certificate to show to a future employer as proof of their skill and training. Some schemes include trade examinations and qualifications. A local NVQ Training Provider will speak to all Year 11 pupils on local opportunities, to help in their decision making. You will have access to an individual interview with the Personal Adviser (Careers), and of course the school Careers teacher is always available to help when decisions have to be made. For further information, please see:

R Sharphouse Head of Department

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CITIZENSHIP From the summer term of 2008 Key Stage 4 pupils will study Citizenship as a subject. The following topics will be covered:•

• • • • • • • • •

The legal and human rights and responsibilities underpinning society and how they relate to citizens, including the role and operation of the criminal and civil justice systems. The origins and implications of the diverse national, regional, religious and ethnic identities in the UK and the need for mutual respect and understanding The work of parliament, the government and the courts in making and shaping law The importance of playing an active part in democratic and electoral processes How the economy functions, including the role of business and financial services The opportunities for individuals and voluntary groups to bring about social change locally, nationally, in Europe and internationally The importance of the free press, and the media’s role in society, including the internet, in providing information and affecting opinion The rights and responsibilities of consumers, employers and employees The United Kingdom in relation to Europe, including the European Union, and relations with the Commonwealth and United Nations The wider issues and challenges of global interdependence and responsibility, including sustainable development and Local Agenda 21

Pupils will be provided with the opportunity to further develop their skills of enquiry and communication during this course. The course will lead to external accreditation.

For further information see Miss Sinclair or Mr Wilson

ENGLISH AND ENGLISH LITERATURE (GCSE) You will all follow a course based on the OCR English GCSE syllabus whose aims are to help you develop your: 1. understanding of the spoken word and the ability to take part in a variety of speaking and listening activities matching your style and response to different audiences and purposes 2. reading, understanding and response to all types of writing while improving information retrieval skills for the purpose of study 3. ability to construct and convey meaning in your written work using correct grammar and standard English and matching your style to the audience and purpose. The syllabus is assessed by terminal examination (60%) and coursework (40%). You will continue to be grouped in three ability bands.

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Pupils in most groups will also be entered for the OCR English Literature GCSE (70% examination, 30% coursework). The OCR syllabuses allow for assessment in a common folder. The department is currently piloting the Edexcel Adult Literacy onscreen testing regime with a small number of pupils and this may expand during 2006-8. Individual teachers will inform their groups of the combinations of courses and assessment that will be used with them. Assessment English English Literature

Examination 60% Examination 70%

Coursework 40% Coursework 30%

For further information, please see:

A Sykes Head of Department

CORE ICT The school is committed to continue the pupils ICT knowledge with skills throughout KS4. The approach is very much one of “learning by doing” tasks with Microsoft Office 2003. The pupil is guided through and will extend the knowledge of: ⇒ ⇒ ⇒ ⇒ ⇒

Word processing Spreadsheets Databases Managing Files Presentation

These tasks will give the pupils an understanding of some of the main concepts of ICT at a general level.

For further information, please see:

K Rome ICT Manager

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MATHEMATICS Everyone will follow a GCSE Mathematics course examined by the AQA examination board This course aims to enable candidates to: •

develop a positive attitude to Mathematics

•

consolidate basic skills and meet appropriately challenging work

•

apply mathematical knowledge and understanding to solve problems

•

think and communicate mathematically - precisely, logically and creatively

•

appreciate the place and use of Mathematics in society

•

apply mathematical concepts to situations arising in their own lives

•

understand the interdependence of different branches of Mathematics

•

work co-operatively, independently, practically and investigationally

•

acquire a firm foundation for further study or for work

The GCSE course is split into 3 modules, each of which will be examined separately. The first module to be taught and examined will be Data Handling. This will be examined in November 2007. In June 2007 the next module, Number, will be examined. The final module comprises Shape and Space and Algebra – this will be examined in June 2009. Pupils will need to purchase a revision guide from school (currently £2.50) during Year 10. Parents and pupils should note that calculators are an essential piece of equipment and should be brought to all lessons as they cannot be provided by the department. For further information, please see:

M Smith Head of Department

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MODERN LANGUAGES - FRENCH You have used Métro in KS3 and are familiar with the 4 attainment targets of Listening, Speaking, Reading and Writing. You will be using Métro 4 along with other materials in a topic based approach in KS4. The GCSE at the end of Year 11 covers the 4 skill areas, with equal weighting (ie 25% each). Listening (F) You will be expected to listen to and understand shorter items. (H) You will be expected to listen to and understand longer conversations and passages. (F) = Foundation (H) = Higher

Reading (F) You will have to read and respond to shorter notices and signs. (H) You will have to read and respond to longer passages and articles. Writing This section is covered by coursework. You must complete a minimum of 3 pieces of coursework. The coursework makes up 25% of the total mark and is extremely important. Pupils must produce their best work and adhere to deadlines if they are to achieve their optimum overall grade. Speaking The test is in two sections: a) Role plays (2 situations eg. shopping or buying a ticket) b) A general conversation on two topics. Homework will continue to play an important part in the course. Vocabulary will be a key area and emphasis will be placed upon the regular learning of words and phrases. Throughout the course you will be encouraged to develop the skills necessary to express yourselves confidently in the foreign language and to develop an awareness of French speaking countries. Knowledge of a foreign language is an extremely important skill in today's Europe and the department aims to help all pupils to develop a foreign language ability fully. Any contact with the foreign language will help to boost your knowledge and understanding. DVD with foreign subtitles, Satellite TV, Internet and Computer Assisted Learning are some of the options open to pupils at home. A trip abroad can also help to add enjoyment and context to what has been learnt.

For further information, please see:

S Banks Head of Department

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PHYSICAL EDUCATION You will have already received a good grounding in the ‘Core’ activities. The programme in Years 10/11 allows you to develop individual expertise in other areas to encourage your continued participation after leaving school. By using the local Leisure Centre periodically, we are able to offer badminton, volleyball, racquetball, squash, weight training and swimming in addition to the traditional sports already offered in school. Unfortunately the facilities are not free and a small charge is required to cover entry costs and transport. Representative teams continue to run for both boys and girls, with excellent results being achieved in the past. Those with exceptional ability have gone on to represent the District and County. It is expected in the Department that you continue to wear the regulation school kit, which must be named and kept clean. The wearing of watches and jewellery during PE lessons is not permitted as it can cause injury to both the wearer and others. Due to occasional problems experienced with collecting valuables and money, please ensure that you place them in a named container. For further information, please see:

G Simm Head of Department

RELIGIOUS EDUCATION Pupils are currently following the Religious Education GCSE full course. This is the OCR examination board (Oxford and Cambridge). The course is entitled Philosophy and Ethics. Pupils will study four philosophy topics and four topics. These topics will be:The Nature of God (Year 9) Religion and Science (Year 9) Death and the Afterlife (Year 10) Good and Evil (Year 9) Religion and Medical Ethics (Year 10) Wealth and Poverty (Year 9) Religion Peace and Justice (Year 10) Religion and Human Relationships (Year 10) This course gives pupils the opportunity to further both their knowledge and understanding, but also gives them time to reflect upon their own beliefs, opinions and ideas. It is expected that students will sit the examination at the end of Year 10. Pupils studying Level 1 Engineering, Hair and Beauty or the CACHE course at college will study a short course RE leading to half a full GCSE grade. For further information, please see:

H Yates Head of Religious Education 18

SCIENCE (GCSE) In September 2006 the science syllabuses throughout the country underwent a major change. These changes provided a greater choice of syllabus that are more relevant and directed to the world of work. At The Snaith School it is still expected that the majority of pupils will attain two GCSE qualifications in Science. Year 10 is seen as a foundation year when everyone will study a common core course. This will lead to the first GCSE. Near the end of year 10 further courses will be available to enable a second Science GCSE to be followed. The main content areas of the core Science course are as follows: Biology -

-

-

how the nervous system and hormones allow us to respond to changes. how we can keep our bodies healthy. the effects of using and abusing drugs. how we defend ourselves against infectious diseases. how living things adapt to their environment. variation and genetics. how living things evolve. how humans affect the environment.

Chemistry -

how we get building materials from the rocks. where metals come from and how we use them. how we get fuels from crude oil. how we make polymers and ethanol from oil. how plant oils can be used. how the Earth and its atmosphere have changed.

Physics -

-

how heat energy can move from one place to another. how we can use energy efficiently. how we use electrical devices. how we can generate electricity. how can we safely use the energy in the electromagnetic spectrum. how we can use radioactivity safely. how the Universe was formed and is changing.

The new syllabus provides progression to A Level and makes use of the subject specialisms we have preserved at Snaith School. For further information, please see:

P R Walker Head of Science

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SINGLE BLOCK SUBJECTS The following subjects occupy one timetable block, normally 5 hours over two weeks. ART & DESIGN

GCSE

ASDAN/CERTIFICATE OF PERSONAL EFFECTIVENESS BUSINESS STUDIES GCSE DRAMA GCSE ENGINEERING BTEC FIRST CERTIFICATE LEVEL 2 (Equivalent to 2 GCSEs Grades A*-C GEOGRAPHY GCSE GERMAN GCSE HISTORY GCSE IT AiDA GCSE MEDIA BTEC FIRST CERTIFICATE LEVEL 2 (Equivalent to 2 GCSEs Grades A*-C) MUSIC GCSE PHYSICAL EDUCATION TECHNOLOGY SUBJECTS: RESISTANT MATERIALS GCSE ELECTRONIC PRODUCTS GCSE FOOD TECHNOLOGY GCSE GRAPHIC PRODUCTS GCSE TEXTILES GCSE

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ART AND DESIGN What is the Course About? The course has been devised to achieve as wide a range of visual experience and expertise as possible. It is a demanding course but it provides a high level of personal satisfaction and pleasure. Who is it Suitable For? You should have an interest and enjoyment in art. You should also be prepared to invest the time needed to reach your highest standard. This course will provide a good basis for any post-16 further study at A level or any of the numerous Art & Design specialist courses available. Indeed, over the years we have established a high reputation with our post-16 partners. Coupled with this is the role Art & Design experience can have as a vehicle of self-discovery, resulting in creative and more fulfilled members of our society: Art & Design can be a good investment. Evidence of Art & Design is present in all aspects of our environment. Art & Design skills have innumerable connections with professions and trades - Architecture, Industrial Design, Fashion Design, Graphic Design, Product Design, Interior Design, Photography, Animation, Web-site design, the TV, Video and Film industries, Advertising, the Printing industry and many more. What Will I Study? It is a GCSE course which requires a broad study of the basic principles and techniques involved in Art and Design. You will follow a directed course which will include: Drawing/Painting, Design/Graphics, 3D work, Photography and Digital Imaging. How Will it be Assessed? The course is assessed through 60% coursework and 40% terminal examination. The terminal examination allows four weeks preparation before completing a ten hour unaided piece of work. Both components are internally marked and externally moderated.

For more information see Mr Kibbler

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ASDAN / Certificate of Personal Effectiveness (COPE) Course Information ASDAN is an awarding body specialising in accrediting achievement in personal skills development. The Certificate of Personal Effectiveness qualification is fully approved by exam boards and is available at three levels. The aims of the qualification are to enable candidates: • To develop and demonstrate a range of personal, key and employability skills leading to personal effectiveness • To broaden experience and manage learning through the enrichment activities provided by the ASDAN challenges • To receive formal recognition and accreditation for the above What will I study? The awards are divided into twelve modules, each with 3 sections. Challenges from sections A and B are appropriate for COPE Level 1; at least 6 challenges must be chosen from Section C in order to achieve COPE Level 2. Modules are:
Communication
Independent Living
Health and Fitness
International Links


Citizenship and Community
The Environment
Work Related Learning and Enterprise
Expressive Arts


Sport and Leisure
Vocational Preparation
Science and Technology
Beliefs and Values

How will I be assessed? To achieve the Certificate of Personal Effectiveness, candidates must gain credits by completing challenges and providing evidence to demonstrate skills development in six areas at the appropriate level. Candidates will need to: • Complete required number of challenges to gain credits (120 hours of work at levels 1 & 2) • Action plan, record achievements and review progress on challenges and skills development, with a tutor • Present a Portfolio of Evidence which documents work for the challenges, and provides at least one example of work on each of the skills units: Introduction to Working with Others, Introduction to Improving Own Learning and Performance, Introduction to Problem Solving, Planning and Carrying out a Piece of Research, Communicating through Discussion and Planning and giving an Oral Presentation What qualification do I get? This is not a GCSE course but the COPE Level 1 Certificate is equivalent to GCSE Grade E and Level 2 is equivalent to GCSE Grade B. For more information see Ms Bramley 22

BUSINESS STUDIES GCSE Business is a popular subject at all levels (60% of all college and university courses are in business related subjects) it is very likely that at some time in the future you will find yourself studying it! All jobs are in a business of some kind and the skills and knowledge learnt from a business course will be of value to yourself and make you attractive to an employer. What is this course about? This subject looks at the way that businesses are set up, financed, organised and controlled, how people are recruited and motivated to work, how goods and services are developed and marketed and how governments and other organisations help and hinder business. We will use Business Simulation software so that you can actually set up and experience the running of a business. You will be able to compete with other pupils in the school and also enter the PROSHARE competition where you will buy Shares and see if you can win a trip to New York! This course will prepare you well for running a business as part of the Young Enterprise Company programme in Year 10. Who is it suitable for? This course is very popular and has been taught at Snaith for the past 17 years. A GCSE in Business Studies ♦ ♦ ♦ ♦ ♦

develops communication, research, IT and analytical skills. will help you qualify for A/AS levels, vocational courses and then higher education. has direct relevance to jobs in all types of businesses (e.g. manufacturing, retail, sport & leisure, hospitality, office admin and IT). can provide a foundation for running your own business. combines well with all other subjects allowing a broad career choice e.g. + art (advertising, design), + history and English (law, civil service), + modern languages (overseas business, travel and tourism), + maths and science (banking , engineering).

What will I Study? The ownership and objectives of businesses Marketing and advertising Finance and accounting Employment and people in business Production in business External influences on business activity How will I be Assessed? The final grade is made up of two elements • •

75% final examination - consisting of one 2 hour paper that can be taken at two levels, Foundation (Grades C - G) or Higher (Grades A* - D) 25% coursework - involving the investigation and proposal of a solution to a real life business problem.

If you require further information please ask Mr Warren 23

DRAMA What is the Course About? This is a GCSE course run by AQA. It is a largely practical subject involving working in groups to prepare scripted, improvised and devised drama. Set text plays will also be read, discussed and analysed. You will learn about stage lighting, costume, props, set design and directing as well as developing acting techniques and skills. You will be taken to study professional performances and encouraged to see live theatre yourself. Who is it Suitable For? You should enjoy practical Drama and be able to write essays confidently as most of the written work is in this format. This course builds self-confidence, communication skills, creativity and the ability to work as part of a team. It would be an ideal course for anyone wishing to work with the public, eg working with children, police, sales, teaching, banking, hairdressing, law etc. A good attendance is necessary since it is almost impossible to 'catch up' with practical group work, and group members are dependent upon each other for their practical assessment marks. Severe problems in this area may result in removal from the course. What Will I Study? Practical Drama You will work in groups of 3-5. Each practical piece will take at least 9 weeks to prepare and will last about 15-20 minutes. Marks are submitted for the best work completed during the 2 year course. Usually 4 practical pieces are completed and the 2 highest marks are selected. You are assessed on your rehearsals, performance and the ability to complete a written evaluation of your work. Written Work You will learn how to analyse set plays from a performance point of view and explain how sections could be acted out. You will review a live professional performance by visiting the Theatre and making notes on the acting and staging which will later be written up as an essay. You will evaluate your own and others’ performances in school. There is a written coursework element of a 500 word essay for each practical piece comparing your piece with another text. Homework There will be homework involving learning lines, reading plays, writing extended evaluations of performances you have been to see and completing research tasks. This course is very different to Year 9. There is a great deal of candidate choice in creation of the content of the course and group work. How is the Work Assessed? 60% of the marks are awarded for coursework assessed by your teacher and 40% is awarded through written examination (2 hours – 2 essay questions) For more information see Mrs Baddon 24

ENGINEERING BTEC FIRST CERTIFICATE (Level 2) (Equivalent to 2 GCSEs Grades A*-C)

What is the Course About? There is a shortage of qualified engineers both locally and in the country as a whole. This course will allow you to develop the underpinning knowledge and understanding needed to work in Engineering. It is a mixture of theory and practical work. Who is it Suitable For? This is a level 2 course equivalent to 2 GCSEs, grades A*-C. You will need an interest in engineering and able to work to deadlines. What Will I Study? You will study two core units and two specialist units. Core Units Unit 1: Working Practices in Engineering - The aim of this unit is to deal with Health and Safety; the essential working practices of engineering to ensure that you appreciate potential hazards. Unit 2: Using and Interpreting Engineering Information – will show you how to use different types of information when working with engineering drawings, technical charts and other sources. Unit 3: Using Computer Aided Drawing Techniques - Provide the learner with an introduction to CAD and to enable learners to produce engineering drawings. Unit 4: Machining Techniques - Provides a detailed understanding of manufacturing processes of generating and forming of shapes through machining. How Will I Be Assessed? Assessment is through portfolio work and practical assessment by you teacher. This course has only 4 possible levels of attainment:Distinction (equivalent GCSE grade A) Merit (GCSE grade B) Pass (grade C) Fail Therefore, only pupils who are prepared to make a commitment to hard work need apply – only 25% of the time will be spent on practical tasks the remaining time and regular homework will be spent on completing assignments that are essential to passing the course. For more information see Mr Woollen

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GEOGRAPHY GCSE What is the Course About? This GCSE course provides a thematic approach to studying people and the natural environment. The course is designed to develop a sound understanding and knowledge of geographical themes, issues and skills. Who is it Suitable For? You should have an interest in the world and the environment. What Will I Study? You will study a variety of topics from the following list Tectomic Activity Rocks and Landscapes People and the Natural Environment Glacial Landscapes Ecosystems Settlement Industry Managing Resources

People and the Human Environment

Case studies and examples are studied at a variety of scales and in differing environments including areas at various stages of economic development. Fieldwork will include a day in Whitby to investigate the Impact of Tourism in Whitby Studying geography at GCSE will help to develop many of the abilities and skills that employers are looking for: It is also recognised as a valuable subject for a range of jobs which require a knowledge of the world in which we live. It is a popular A level subject and leads to qualification at Degree Level. The type of work in Geography helps you to develop: • Good communication skills • The ability to work in a team • The ability to manage and organise • Skills in analysing information • Numeracy and literacy • The ability to ask questions and then find the answers • ICT skills • Spatial awareness • Environmental and social awareness How will the work be assessed? An individual enquiry based on fieldwork observations in Whitby is awarded 25% whilst the

Examination counts for 75%.

For more information see Mrs O’Rourke 26

MODERN LANGUAGES - GERMAN What is the Course About? You will study German to GCSE Level. Who is it Suitable For? If you wish to take German in KS4 there are several points to note: You should ideally have performed well in your first foreign language The course will be covered at a much greater pace. You will also have to study and revise independently. You must be prepared to put in more time to learning and homework because of the intense nature of the course. If you are prepared to accept these conditions, the rewards are worth it! Very few people take 2 languages at GCSE (even fewer at A level) and you will be in a very select group. Qualifications in 2 languages would put you in a very favourable position with many employers, given the national shortage of qualified linguists. What Will I Study? German is a topic based approach. Topics will include leisure, holidays, home and the environment, school and future careers How I Will be Assessed? Listening 25% (F) You will be expected to listen to and understand shorter items. (H) You will be expected to listen to and understand longer conversations and passages. (F) = Foundation (H) = Higher Reading 25% (F) You will have to read and respond to shorter notices and signs. (H) You will have to read and respond to longer passages and articles. Writing 25% This section is covered by coursework. You must complete a minimum of 3 pieces of coursework. The coursework makes up 25% of the total mark and is extremely important. Pupils must produce their best work and adhere to deadlines if they are to achieve their optimum overall grade. Speaking 25% The test is in two sections: c) Role play (A situation eg. shopping or buying a ticket) d) A general conversation on two or three topics. Throughout the course you will be encouraged to develop the skills necessary to express yourselves confidently in the foreign language and to develop an awareness of German speaking countries. For more information speak to Mr Banks 27

HISTORY GCSE What is the Course About? This is a GCSE course. A great deal of emphasis is placed on the development of skills (i.e. what you can do), rather than the memorisation of facts and dates. You are encouraged to develop an understanding of the past through the use of historical evidence. Who is it Suitable For? You should have an interest in the past and how it influences the present events. What Will I Study? The course followed is the AQA syllabus A - Schools Council History. It is divided into four sections, each considering a particular aspect of history. The first part, ‘Development through Time (Medicine)’, encourages you to consider how things change over time and why. The second section, the Modern World Study, concentrates on an area of the world where there is conflict of interest (i.e. Northern Ireland). It is hoped to give you a better appreciation of the present by studying the historical background of certain situations. In the Summer term, you will follow the ‘History Around Us’ course which emphasises that history can be seen and appreciated all around us. This involves an individual research study of Snaith Church. Year 11 will be spent studying ‘The American West 1840-1895’. By studying a very short period of time it will be possible for you to gain a much greater understanding of what it was like to live at that time. How is it Assessed? Your work is assessed through Examination (75%) and Coursework (25%)

For more information see Mr Elsley

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ICT -AIDA (AWARD IN DIGITAL APPLICATIONS) 1 GCSE DiDa is a revolutionary new suite of ICT qualifications to be launched by the exam board Edexcel in 2005. Unique in its scope, philosophy and delivery methods, it is designed to connect pupils more closely with their goals, in further education or employment, as a suite of qualifications it progresses from: ⇒

Award

(AiDA) – equivalent to 1 GCSE

⇒

Certificate

⇒

Diploma (DiDA) – equivalent to 4 GCSE’s

(CiDA) – equivalent to 2 GCSE’s

The qualification is paperless, making pupils' evidence searchable, dynamic and interactive. It promotes creative use of applications, and its real-life, goal orientated emphasis is involving and stimulating. We live in an age of information overload – TV, radio, text messaging, web and email, telephone, video, DVD and CD to say nothing of newspapers, magazines and face-to-face conversations. How do we manage all the information we receive? How do we judge its usefulness? How can we present it clearly and effectively so it communicates the message we want to convey? This is the keystone of the entire suite of awards available within the DiDA This course will support pupils' learning and help maximise their achievements across the curriculum. Content – USING ICT • • • • • • •

Researching information sources – involving the Internet and email Working with Information – involving databases and spreadsheets Presenting Information – using digital media Displaying Information – using Dreamweaver and Flash animation Communicating – all forms of communication media, radio, TV, email Planning, monitoring and evaluating your work Creating an e-portfolio online to showcase your work

(N.B.There is an opportunity to gain the industry standard Macromedia Associate Qualification in the Web Design tools Dreamweaver, Fireworks and Flash) The unit is about 90 hours of work with a 30 hour Summative Brief Project. This applied ICT qualification gives you the chance to learn how ICT is used in modern businesses and to develop skills in the Digital Applications marketplace. What can I do with my AiDA
CiDA
DiDA? Progress through the above routes and continue at Post 16 with Advanced DiDa For more information see Mrs Rome

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BTEC FIRST CERTIFICATE IN MEDIA (Level 2) What Is The Course About? The course will enable you to develop an understanding of different media (eg. Film, photographs, magazines, webpages, sound), and they are produced for different audiences. Who Is It Suitable For? This course will appeal to pupils who enjoy research, learning new techniques to produce media products are creative and who are willing to explore new ideas. What Will I study? The course is made up of 3 units. Unit 1. Will develop your initial skills in research techniques and methods, how to identify sources of information and how to use them to gather relevant information. Unit 2 will introduce you to the techniques and technology of video production and Unit 3, which will be chosen from the following list depending on the availability of experienced staff. Audio Production Advertising Production Photography Production Animation Techniques Writing for the media Web Authoring You will gain an understanding of employment opportunities in the media industry. How Will I Be Assessed? You will be given a number of assignments based on the three units. You will be awarded a Pass, Merit or Distinction grade for each unit. Other Information This course could lead you directly onto a National Diploma in Media Production which you can also study at College. The National Diploma course will help you develop your understanding and skills to a much higher level and prepare you for progression into Higher Education or a move into the world of work. For more information see Mr Woollen

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MUSIC What is the Course About? This is a GCSE course which involves both the theory and practice of making music. Who is it for? You should have an interest in music. You should enjoy playing an instrument or singing and ideally supported by instrumental or vocal tuition (in school or privately) throughout Years 10 and 11. What Will I Study? 1. Composing - 25% of the marks This involves producing a folio of one composition based on the area of study “Music for Special events”. A recording must be included and there needs to be either a notated score or a written account of the music (or both). This is internally assessed. 2. Performing - 25% of the marks This involves performing a solo piece and an ensemble piece. These are recorded in school and are internally assessed. 3. Producing an Integrated Assignment – 25% of the marks This involves producing ONE composition, arising from the remaining areas of study: a) Music from film b) Music for dance c) Orchestral landmarks d) Popular song, since 1960 This assignment is issued in the Spring term of Year 11 and the composition has to be completed by a set deadline. It has to be submitted with a notated or graphic score. It must be recorded (ICT or live performance is accepted). There will also be a 30 minute written exam in may of Year 11. The composition, recording and exam are externally assessed 4. Listening Paper – 25% of marks. 1 hour 15 minutes exam in year 11 based on all five areas of study. This is externally assessed.

For more information see Mr Elliott

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PHYSICAL EDUCATION (GCSE) What is the Course About? The GCSE Physical Education course provides a comprehensive and detailed study into physical education and sport both through theory and in practice.

Who is it Suitable For? You should have an interest in and an enjoyment taking part in sport. The course provides an excellent basis if you are aiming to pursue a career in sport or leisure, or because you have an interest in sport. Pupils considering the GCSE course must have some basic practical ability in PE activities in school. The PE staff will give advice on your suitability if in doubt. Courses at BTEC and ‘A’ levels are available at College if required and the subject can be studied to degree level. What Will I Study? The theory of physical education covers aspects of anatomy and physiology, skills development, fitness, training and injury, social issues and an examination of the nature of Physical Education. In practical work you will consider a range of sports and physical activities in great detail. Study will focus on the teaching, coaching and performance factors. For assessment purposes you are assessed in 4 areas or activities.

How is the Work Assessed? Your work is assessed through Examination (40%) and Coursework /Practical Sport (60%)

For more information see Mr Simm

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TECHNOLOGY SUBJECTS The aim of the Technology Department is to improve your ability to analyse problems, evaluate solutions and communicate ideas graphically as well as providing a working knowledge of tools, materials and techniques. In addition, we try to make you aware of the important role that Design and Technology plays in a modern industrial society as well as the value it can be in using your own leisure time in a constructive and beneficial way. The courses are demanding but they are also very rewarding; pupils gain personal satisfaction and a sense of achievement in producing work of a standard often higher than they thought themselves capable. All the courses include a common element – a problem solving approach; pupils will work through a clearly defined design process to create their own solution to a design problem. There are also compulsory elements in each course that are aimed at improving skills and knowledge but they also include projects which offer a wide range of choice of individual work. The assessment method for all the courses is the same: 60% of the total final mark is allocated to coursework – this is a major project carried out in school over a period of 2 to 3 terms. This gives pupils every opportunity to achieve a good final mark. The remaining 40% is awarded in a final written examination, so thorough learning and preparation is essential in order to secure the higher grades. Time is allocated in the programme of work for this preparation to be done. Course Titles:

Electronic Products Food Technology Graphic Products Resistant Materials Textiles Technology

ELECTRONIC PRODUCTS This course builds upon the work already undertaken in lower school. Pupils are expected to produce a high standard of design work, manufacture an electronic circuit and a suitable case. The course involves learning the theoretical knowledge of Electronics. During this course pupils will use specialist ICT software to model circuits and CAD to produce circuit boards. FOOD TECHNOLOGY This course provides the opportunity to investigate the complex nature of food as a material - its composition, structure and properties. Food products are designed and made through project work, building on the Year 9 biscuit project. There are 4 main projects in Year 10 and a major project in Year 11. Basic skills are taught during Year 10 projects. In Year 11 pupils work independently as food technologists in the ‘test kitchen’ of a food company, developing products for the retail market. During this course there is extensive use of ICT for sensory testing, costing, nutritional analysis and digital photography.

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Food manufacturing and industrial processing is studied – usually from videos and books. Work linked with industry takes place where possible. GRAPHIC PRODUCTS This course aims at developing ability and skills in a range of topics including free-hand and formal drawing, eg orthographic, isometric, perspective and building plans; media techniques; cardboard engineering, eg ‘pop-ups’ and packaging; communicating information, eg charts, instruction leaflets, using computer aided drawing. Year 10 work provides a wide range of experience that can be developed into the project work in Year 11. The same problem solving approach is used and pupils will be required to complete a major project for the coursework, the emphasis being on designing, drawing, using ICT including CAD/CAM where possible to produce a final solution to the chosen problem. This is a challenging course and pupils produce high quality work. RESISTANT MATERIALS This course deals mainly with designing and making skills, developing much of the work covered in Lower School to a higher level, but also looking at and using some mass production methods. You will learn more about resistant materials like wood, metal and plastic and how to work with them, but you may also work with other materials where appropriate and available. You will be required to produce a major project for your GCSE coursework - this will involve designing and making a product largely of your own choice the only restrictions being size and cost. TEXTILES TECHNOLOGY The GCSE Textiles Technology course is taught via 2 main projects in year 10, and a major project in year 11. You will have the opportunity to work in the context of both “fashion”, “accessories” and “interiors”, tailoring your choices toward your individual interests. All designing and making skills are taught throughout each of these projects. Knowledge and understanding of fibres and fabrics and the application of information communication technology are essential elements and are integrated into all areas of the course. You will be encouraged to adopt the role and practices of designers in industry, including an awareness of manufacturing process, leading to the production of quality, practical outcomes. For more information see your subject teacher

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DOUBLE BLOCK SUBJECTS The following subjects occupy TWO timetable blocks, normally 10 hours over two weeks These subjects are designed to introduce you to particular career paths. They also focus on different ways of learning with a greater emphasis on working independently and in groups, solving problems and working more closely with business and services outside school.

Level 1/2 APPLIED BUSINESS STUDIES WITH BUSINESS COMMUNICATION SYSTEMS (3 GCSEs) HEALTH & SOCIAL CARE (2 GCSEs) INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY – CIDA (2 GCSEs) SPORT BTEC FIRST DIPLOMA (4 GCSEs)

Level 1 Courses CARING FOR CHILDREN (CACHE Foundation Award) HAIR AND BEAUTY (2 NVQ qualifications) PERFORMING ENGINEERING OPERATIONS WITH BUILDING AND CONSTRUCTION (1 NVQ qualifications, 1 C&G certificate)

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APPLIED BUSINESS STUDIES WITH BUSINESS COMMUNICATION SYSTEMS Business is a popular subject at all levels (60% of all college and university courses are in a business related subject) it is very likely that at some time in the future you will find yourself studying it! All jobs are in a business of some kind and the skills and knowledge learnt from a business course will be of value to yourself and make you attractive to an employer. What are these courses about? The Applied Business course will allow you to develop a good knowledge and understanding of Business. Visits are made to local companies and the local Education Business Link Organisation usually organise some interesting events where, e.g. pupils have had the chance to work with professional eg. from Viking FM. The Business and Communication Systems course is mainly ICT based but draws on the wide range of business knowledge and skills gained from the above course.

We will use Business Simulation software so that you can actually set up and experience the running of a business. You will be able to compete with other pupils in the school and also enter the PROSHARE competition where you will buy Shares and see if you can win a trip to New York! This course will prepare you well for running a business as part of the Young Enterprise Company programme in Year 10. Who is it suitable for? The Applied Business course is equivalent to two GCSEs grades A* - G. Since a lot of coursework is involved you will have to enjoy this method of assessment. The BACS course is a GCSE qualification and will appeal to pupils who enjoy the practical application of ICT skills. What will I Study? The Applied Business course looks at the following main areas:Business Finance The work of the Human resources or Personnel department in recruitment, selection and training • Health and Safety • Business location theory, ownership and aims • The departments that operate in a business • How Businesses Communicate • How businesses are influenced by such things as competitors, laws and economic conditions You will also learn a lot about ICT from the BACs course. • • •

How will I be assessed? The Applied Business course is assessed by the results of three units: Unit One – Investigating Business (coursework): two businesses are looked at in depth regarding their location, ownership, aims, activities, departments, communication and external influences. (33.3%)  Unit Two – People in Business and Customer Care (coursework): this looks at how staff are recruited, what their rights are and how they are trained. (33.3%)  Unit Three – Finance: This is an examination based assessment (a 1 ½ hour paper – single tier entry) looking at business finance. There are two possible sittings, one in January, one in June – the highest mark goes forward. (33.3%) The BACs course is assessed by two exams. (A theory paper and a practical paper using a computer to complete tasks).

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Other Information Present and past pupils have said that they like the Applied Business course because they know at all times how well they are doing,– there isn’t just one big exam. The above combination should allow pupils to gain three GCSE qualifications. For more information see Mr Warren

GCSE HEALTH & SOCIAL CARE (DOUBLE AWARD) In this course you will learn about the health, social care and early years sectors and how personal development can affect our development and our health. We shall also be looking at a range of jobs in the care sector. The course is made up of three units. These are: Unit 1 2 3

• •

•

Title Health, Social Care and early years provision Promoting health and wellbeing Understanding personal development and relationships

Type of Assessment Portfolio Portfolio Externally tested

In Unit 1 you will study the health, social care and early years services provision. This means looking at the services available and how they are organised. In Unit 2 you will be asked to think about the factors that affect health and well being and ways of supporting health improvements. You will be asked to use methods to measure an individuals health status. Unit 3 gives you information about the different factors that can affect growth and development and about major life changes showing how people deal with them.

You may, as part of your course visit health, social care and early years services, or you may have visits from specialists in the care sector. Such visits will be very useful for coursework, but a mature and responsible attitude will be necessary. Classwork will be a mixture of worksheets, groupwork, videos, discussion work and activities. You will collect the work for your assignments for Unit1 and Unit 2 in a portfolio. You will have this work marked and graded by your teacher and will have a chance to improve it before being seen by the examiner. It will be very important to hand work in on time.

For more information see Mrs Marshall

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INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY (CiDA – CERTIFICATE IN DIGITAL APPLICATIONS) 2 GCSEs N.B. - YOU WILL STUDY THE SINGLE OPTION (AiDA) plus the following: See the course details for AiDA in the Single Option section Unit 2 - Certificate in Digital Applications (CiDA) - 2 GCSE'sThis unit will help you to design your own multi-media applications, as well as take a critical look at multimedia in the world around you. It develops pupils' ability to design and create effective on-screen multimedia products such as websites, e-books and simulations with a strong emphasis on fitness for purpose. You will collect your own multimedia products – music, images and web design Content - MULTIMEDIA • • • • • • • •

Investigating multimedia products Designing and developing multimedia products Prototyping and testing Presenting multimedia products in an e-portfolio Project planning, monitoring and evaluation Creating a multimedia e-portfolio You must be able to reflect critically, evaluate and enhance improvements to projects Be able to manage projects over a period of weeks and meet DEADLINES

• Have a good attendance record because the course is 100% coursework and you will require all the time available to produce the evidence required to meet the deadlines (There is an opportunity to gain the industry standard Macromedia Associate Qualification in the Web Design tools Dreamweaver, Fireworks and Flash) N.B. FURTHER EXTENSION TO DiDA. There may be an opportunity to extend your qualification further to achieve the DiDa Qualification though you must realise the commitment and time factor involved: Unit 3 - Certificate in Digital Applications (DiDA) - 4 GCSE's Content - GRAPHICS • You will investigate the range of graphic products on web sites, photographs, magazines and media, to learn how to capture material to use in your own work • Developing graphic images using vector based and bitmap based software • Preparing images and planning an e-exhibition Unit 4 - Certificate in Digital Applications (DiDA) - 4 GCSE's Content - ENTERPRISE • Digital technology in the role of enterprise and financial planning • Communications in a Business theme • Create Business plans, advertising, and market research • Advertising and Promotion – creating an e-Business Plan For more information see Mrs Rome 38

SPORT-BTEC FIRST DIPLOMA (AN EQUIVALENT 4 GCSES GRADES A*-C) What is the Course About? BTEC Sport is a course designed for pupils who are interested sports and the sports industry. It is a mixture of theory and practical sporting activities in a range of different sports. Who is it Suitable For? This is a Level 2 course equivalent to 4 GCSEs, grades A*-C. You will need to have an interest in sport and the sport industry and be able to work to deadlines. The course will be jointly taught by staff at Goole College and by Snaith staff at school. What Will I Study? Unit 1. The Body in Sport A healthy body is an amazing piece of machinery which allows us to go from total rest to all out sprinting in a matter of seconds. This unit explores the foundation of how the body works. It will enable you to understand the structure and function of the skeleton, muscles, heart and the respiratory system. Unit 2: Health, Safety and Injury in Sport Any person who takes part in sport is at risk of sustaining injury. This unit will enable you to have a good understanding of health and safety and how sports men and women can take precautions in order to try to ensure people involved in sport avoid injury. And a number of units from the following: Practical Sport - Focuses on developing and improving your own practical sports performance. The Sports Industry - Gives you the opportunity to investigate the many elements that make up the multi-million pound sports industry. Preparation for Sport – Will give you an insight into the essential preparation required for successful sports performance. Planning and Leading Sports Activities - Provides you with the knowledge and skills to be able to plan and lead a range of practical sports activities. Technical Skills and Tactical Awareness for Sport. Will help you develop at least one specific technical skill. Fitness for Sports Performance. Where you will work with experienced and proficient coaching staff and other experts such as personal trainers. How is the Work Assessed? Assessment is through portfolio work and practical assessment by you teachers.. For more information see Mr Simm 39

CACHE FOUNDATION AWARD IN CARING FOR CHILDREN (studied at Selby College) What is the Course About? The course will allow you to develop a basic knowledge and understanding of the main areas in caring for children and you will gain some basic practical skills in caring for children. It will also help you to develop personal skills, which will be useful to you later in all forms of employment. The course provides a foundation for entry to other awards such as the CACHE Level 2 Certificate in Caring for Children. Who is it Suitable For? You will need to have a mature attitude and an interest in working with children. You will be expected to undertake some work experience with children. What Will I Study? The course is made up of 7 units covering personal development, human growth and development, food and nutrition, health and safety, care for children, play and practical activities and orientation to work. You will learn through student centred activities, requiring you to take an active part in lessons. During the course you will make visits to places of interest for childcare workers such as playgrounds, museums, clinics, childcare centres. Professional childcare workers will also come to talk to you about their work. How Will I Be Assessed? Your learning will be regularly assessed during lessons and through homework, you area also required to complete a task set by CACHE for each unit [7 units]. These tasks will be marked by your tutors using CACHE grading criteria. You must gain a pass in each unit to achieve the full award. In Year 11 you will sit a short answer paper, which is marked by CACHE. Other Information CACHE recommends you complete a minimum of 15 days work experience towards the end of your course. This could include your block placement in Year 10. You will be visited in placement by one of your course tutors.

For more information see Mr Woollen

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NVQ LEVEL 1 HAIR & BEAUTY (studied at Selby College) What is the Course About? You will gain and develop knowledge and understanding of hairdressing and beauty techniques, have an opportunity to apply learning in a practical and realistic way within a professional environment and follow a programme of study that enables progression to further courses and employment in a hairdressing and/or beauty environment. Who is it Suitable For? This course will enable you to gain a foundation in hairdressing and beauty therapy. Successful completion will lead to two NVQ Level 1 qualifications. These are nationally recognised workrelated qualifications designed to provide you with a choice of routes into further education or employment. You you need to be motivated and enthusiastic about hairdressing and beauty therapy, you will be able to communicate with people and have a caring disposition. Hairdressing and beauty therapy are both an art as well as a science and you should be aware that the course contains elements of chemistry, biology and anatomy. The aim of the programme is to enable you to gain the skills and knowledge to assist with salon services and treatments. What Will I Study? Mandatory Units Health and Safety, Reception Skills, Teamwork Hairdressing Units Shampoo and Condition Hair Assist with Colouring and Perming Hair Prepare for Hairdressing Services Beauty Therapy Units Prepare for Beauty Therapy Services Provide Treatments on Hands Provide Beauty Therapy Treatments on the Face. How Will I Be Assessed? Your work will be continually assessed throughout the programme. In order to gain your qualification, you must successfully complete all mandatory units and optional units. You course tutor will regularly review and discuss your progress with you. You are continually assessed in all areas of your work and you will receive feedback on your performance from your tutor. Other Information NVQ Level 1 qualifications give you access to a range of career and further education opportunities.

For more information see Mr Woollen

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PERFORMING ENGINEERING OPERATIONS This Engineering course is delivered in the workshops at Goole College. It is very much a work related course where the emphasis is on developing a range of engineering skills for pupils working individually or in a team. There is a major commitment to practical work on the course embedded into which is the need to work in a safe engineering environment. Over a 2 year period, pupils will aim to complete 4 units of work leading to the full award of a NVQ Level I. The units studied include 2 units which are compulsory and 2 further optional units. The compulsory units are: a) Working safely in an engineering environment b) Developing yourself and working with other people on engineering activities. The optional units will be chosen through discussion with tutors and pupils but will be influenced by the range of engineering resources available in the workshops. This course is considered to be ideal for pupils who enjoy working in a practical environment. A wide range of engineering skills will be developed and the course will be seen as valuable experience for pupils interested in a possible future engineering apprenticeship or those considering a full time Engineering course at college. Note: You and your parents should note that the number of places available on this course is limited and, therefore, some selection may be necessary. If you wish to be considered for this course you must be able to adapt to both a workshop and college environment, to work in a safe manner, to follow instructions and to behave in a manner which represents the standards of the school. You must be well disciplined and must have already demonstrated high standards of behaviour in school before you can be considered for this course. with

Basic Construction Skills (Introductory Certificate) This course is taught at school. It has been devised by City and Guilds to provide basic training in construction skills for pupils possibly seeking employment in the construction industry. The course provides specific training on joinery skills associated with the industry. The first part of the course is aimed at developing practical skills and understanding formal drawing styles. When pupils have mastered this skills work they must then complete a series of timed practical tests to a set of specific criteria. The outcome is then assessed by the tutor and pass/fail awarded. To complete the qualification, pupils must make a specific product from a short list provided by the exam board. Work is assessed by your teacher and then verified by an external assessor. There is also an online Health and Safety test presented as multiple choice questions. For more information see Mr Woollen

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NOTES:

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Name __________________

Form __________

SNAITH SCHOOL KEY STAGE 4 PREFERENCE FORM, 2007-9 This form must be returned to your Form Tutor by Friday 30 March.

The completion of this form is the beginning of a process and all possibilities are explored. You must answer the questions correctly and provide us with the information we need. Please remember it may not be possible to study all the subjects you want but we will get as close as we possibly can. There are 4 possible timetable blocks, though for most people 1 will be occupied by French and a second will be occupied by a Technology. This leaves 2 timetable blocks. We ask you to provide more information so we can find the best fit.

1. You should decide first of all if you want to study a Double Option Subject as one of your choices. These subjects occupy an equivalent to one day each week, so you have to enjoy the subject. You will only be able to study one double block subject but you may prefer to study only single block subjects. Double Block Subjects You can only TICK one Applied Business Studies and Business Communication Systems Health and Social Care ICT – Certificate in Digital Applications Sport (BTEC First Diploma) Caring for Children (CACHE) Hair and Beauty Performing Engineering Operations with Building and Construction. (Level 1) 2. Show your preferences in order by indicating 1st, 2nd, 3rd and 4th preference below. Single Block Subjects Indicate 1st, 2nd, 3rd ,4th preference. Art and Design ASDAN/Certificate of Personal Effectiveness Business Studies Drama Engineering (BTEC First Certificate) Geography German History ICT – AIDA (Award in Digital Applications) Media Music Physical Education 44

3. Choose from the following Technology subjects st

Technology Subject

Put a 1 and 2 Preference

nd

Resistant Materials Electronic Products Food Technology Graphic Products Textiles

If possible, which subjects would you take in preference to Technology? Number your preferences in order French German Geography History Music

Possible Career (if known) ________________________

THIS FORM IS A COPY AND SHOULD BE KEPT FOR YOUR REFERENCE

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Name __________________

Form __________

SNAITH SCHOOL KEY STAGE 4 PREFERENCE FORM, 2007-9 This form must be returned to your Form Tutor by Friday 30 March. The completion of this form is the beginning of a process and all possibilities are explored. You must answer the questions correctly and provide us with the information we need. Please remember it may not be possible to study all the subjects you want but we will get as close as we possibly can. There are 4 possible option slots, though for most people 1 will be occupied by French and a second will be occupied by a Technology. This leaves 2 option slots. We ask you to provide more information so we can find the best fit. 4. You should decide first of all if you want to study a Double Option Subject as one of your choices. If so put a tick in the box below against your choice. You will only be able to study one double block subject but you may prefer to study only single block subjects. Double Block Subjects You can only TICK one Applied Business Studies and Business Communication Systems Health and Social Care ICT – Certificate in Digital Applications Sport (BTEC First Diploma) Caring for Children (CACHE) Business, Retail and Administration. Hair and Beauty Performing Engineering Operations with Building and Construction. (Level 1) 5. Show your preferences in order by indicating 1st, 2nd, 3rd and 4th preference below. st Single Block Subjects Indicate 1 , 2nd, 3rd ,4th preference. Art and Design ASDAN/Certificate of Personal Effectiveness Business Studies Drama Engineering (BTEC First Certificate) Geography German History ICT – AIDA (Award in Digital Applications) Music Physical Education

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6. Choose from the following Technology subjects Put a 1st and 2nd Preference

Technology Subject Resistant Materials Electronic Products Food Technology Graphic Products Textiles

If given a choice, which subjects would you take in preference to Technology? Number your preferences in order French German Geography History Music

Possible Career (if known) ________________________ Pupils Signature ________________________________ Parents Signature _______________________________

THIS FORM MUST BE RETURNED TO YOUR FORM TUTOR BY FRIDAY 30 MARCH

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