Year 9 Options Booklet 2015

Transcription

Year 9 Options Booklet 2015
Swavesey
Village College
Year 9 Guided Choices
KS4 Course Information
Booklet 2015
GUIDED CHOICES FORM
DEADLINE TO TUTOR FRIDAY 6th MARCH 2015
Name:
Form:
Courses in order of preference:
1) FIRST CHOICE (tick one box):
French
German
Spanish
NVQ French
English & Maths Functional Skills
Dual Fr/Ge
Dual Fr/Sp
2)
3)
4)
Other Courses I might consider:
1)
2)
Please confirm your choices by reading the following statement and then signing below:
I understand that the college will endeavour to provide the courses advertised but
recognise that I may have to consider alternatives if subjects are oversubscribed, chosen
by too few students or deemed inappropriate for me.
Student signature:
Parent/Carer signature:
Form tutor signature:
Senior tutor signature:
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Year 9 Guided Choices
KS4 Course Information Booklet 2015
Introduction
This booklet contains all the information you need to make your choices for Year 10. We
hope you will find it useful. It is divided into eight sections which will lead you through the
main decisions ahead.

Key Dates

Personalising Learning at SVC

The Core Curriculum

Exams and Assessment in Key Stage 4

What does the School Offer?

Course Outlines

Careers Education, Information, Advice and Guidance

Frequently Asked Questions
In order to help you make the right choices and for the right reasons, read the information
in this information booklet carefully. Once option courses have been allocated it is very
difficult to make changes and your preferred subject may no longer be available due to
timetable and group size restrictions.
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Key Dates
YEAR 9 CHOICES CALENDAR 2015
Week Beginning 26th January, 2015
Key Stage 4 Course Information Booklet Published
Look through the information booklet with your parents/guardians. What stands out?
Friday 30th January, 2015
Year 9 Report Sent Home
Look at your report with your parents/guardians and decide which
subjects you are good at and which you enjoy.
Tuesday 3rd February, 2015
Tutor Review Meeting
Use this opportunity to discuss your strengths and weaknesses with your tutor and
parents/guardians. Look at your predicted grades and 5R scores, attendance, revision and
exam preparation – everything that determines your level of success - as well as extracurricular achievements and goals.
Monday 9th February, 2015
Key Stage 4 Choices Evening
You will have the opportunity to find out more about the courses available and speak to
subject leaders.
Monday 2nd March, 2015
Parents’ Consultation Evening
An opportunity to talk to your individual teachers about your progress and potential
within a given subject.
Friday 6th March, 2015
Hand in Key Stage 4 Choices Form
Complete the Choices Form at the front of the Information Booklet and hand back to your
Form Tutor. Parents must have signed the form.
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Personalising Learning at Swavesey Village College
Swavesey Village College is committed to achievement for all and will support every student
to achieve the qualifications and grades that reflect their individual ability, needs and future
aspirations.
Our students’ outstanding achievements in recent years reflect this commitment to
personalised learning. As an inclusive school with a comprehensive intake we offer a wide
range of courses that cover the full academic and vocational spectrum. We ensure that
students are supported in making appropriate decisions about which paths to follow into
further education.
The success of our students is based on:
 Students being guided onto the most appropriate courses and qualifications in year
9;
 High expectations of achievement established through our target setting and
monitoring in Key Stage 4;
 High quality teaching and learning, underpinned by the same high expectations.
 Effective support and intervention between parents, subject teachers and tutors.
Making the right Guided Choices
This is an exciting time for the young people and, although relatively straightforward for
many, it can be both confusing and overwhelming for some.
There is a vast range of guidance and support available about potential choices. This booklet
is a starting point, but please also approach your form tutor as a first point of contact.
The key questions to discuss at home and with your tutor when choosing options for Year 10
and 11 will be:



In which subjects am I most likely to succeed?
Which subjects do I enjoy?
Which subjects will enable me to progress to my preferred further education
course(s)?
We would strongly encourage every student to consider carefully a range of courses that
will enable them to succeed and progress appropriately. For most, it is important to
maintain a well-balanced curriculum that gives opportunities for different styles of learning
and study and broad progression routes post 16.
It is not always possible to accommodate all selections. We have to maintain reasonable
class sizes and also try to work around “clashes”. As a result we ask you to indicate other
courses you might consider. This will only inform our thinking about what we may be able to
offer. We will not allocate one of these selections without consulting with an individual
student and their parents/guardians.
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The Core Curriculum
The Key Stage 4 Curriculum is made up of a ‘core’ of: English, Maths, Science, Religious
Education and Physical Education. These account for approximately 15 periods a week. The
remaining 10 periods form part of our Guided Choices programme that personalises
provision for students through access to up to 4 additional GCSE/vocational courses.
This booklet outlines the breadth of qualifications that Swavesey offers at Key Stage 4 and
we know that collectively these courses provide every student with the appropriate
qualifications and courses to achieve their individual potential, whether that be through an
exclusively academic programme or a mix of GCSE and vocational courses.
Language Choice
As a Specialist Languages College we have already established a very strong Modern
Languages team and encourage every student, who can achieve a higher pass on a
language GCSE course, follows at least one of the courses on offer. This reflects the
growing expectation from Sixth Forms, Universities and Employers over recent years.
All students have undergone a rigorous assessment process to assess their potential. This
has included:
1. A GCSE style Language test (a broad assessment of at least 3 topics).
2. National data provided by Cognitive Ability Tests and Fischer Family Trust Data based on KS2
test performance.
3. A Teacher assessment of their ability and 5Rs throughout KS3.
The Language department have already been in contact with all pupils/parents who will be
following a Language in Year 10 and 11.
English Baccalaureate*
Identified students have been made aware of the expectation that they will follow at least
one language in KS4. If a student is continuing with a Language then we would suggest that
they consider selecting either History or Geography, or both to ensure they follow a subject
from each of the areas recognised as part of the English Baccalaureate, which the
Government suggests is beneficial for keeping as wide a range of possible options for the
future, in terms of further and higher education.
Vocational Courses
Swavesey Village College is committed to providing every student with the opportunity to
achieve high quality vocational and applied qualifications alongside their traditional GCSE
subjects. We recognise the benefits these courses offer students in terms of the range and
breadth of skills developed beyond those fostered on traditional GCSE courses. For some
students they bring greater relevance and context to their learning in school and support
their progression and achievement in the future.
The college has received significant investment for applied and vocational learning over the
past five years and as a result has developed a range of industry standard facilities for Hair
and Beauty, Construction and Engineering. This allows students who opt for these subjects
to work in a dedicated and professional environment, alongside industry partners such as:
Toni and Guy, Escentuals, Kier and Marshalls Aerospace.
*English Baccalaureate – A new standard introduced by the Coalition Government based on a student achieving A*-C
passes in English, Maths, History or Geography or Computer Sciences a Modern Foreign Language and two Science GCSEs.
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Exams and Assessment in KS4
The way in which students are assessed on the majority of courses has changed in the past
year. Students starting GCSE courses in 2015 will take exams for their subjects at the end of
year 11.
The information below explains some of the key features of assessment in Year 10 and 11
for all subjects whether they are optional or core subjects.
Key Terms
Coursework: work which can be produced in school or at home and makes up a proportion
of the final grade.
Controlled Assessment: a piece of work that has to be produced in school in controlled
conditions (under the supervision of a member of staff) and makes up a proportion of the
overall final grade.
External Assessment: work that will be assessed by the exam board, usually in the form of
an exam.
The majority of courses in Year 10 and 11 will have some element of Controlled Assessment
or Coursework and a final exam or set of exams, each of which contributes a certain
proportion to the final overall grade.
Your son or daughter will receive a wide range of support on how to prepare effectively for
exams, throughout Year 10 and 11, from their class teachers, form tutor and through
extended curriculum days. An information evening held in Y10 will also help you to
understand the exam procedures and provide practical ideas for how best to support their
revision at home.
If now or in the future you have any questions about individual exams or entries please
contact:
Helen Frampton (Personalising Learning Manager): [email protected]
Margaret Giglio (Exams Assistant): [email protected]
Jim Stavrou (Vice Principal – KS4 Achievement): [email protected]
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KS4 Options Subjects
The GCSE curriculum is made up of chosen subjects and compulsory (core) subjects that
will enable you to follow courses appropriate to your interests and abilities. Some subjects
use up two choices. You can only make a total of four choices in all, one of which must be a
Language.
Subject
Choice
Page
Number
GCSE Art
GCSE Drama
GCSE Music
GCSE Business Studies and Economics
GCSE Computer Science
GCSE Child Development
BTEC Engineering
GCSE Food Technology
GCSE ICT
GCSE Product Design
GCSE Geography
GCSE History
GCSE French
GCSE German
GCSE Spanish
NVQ French
GCSE Physical Education
BTEC Sport
One
One
One
One
One
One
One
One
One
One
One
One
One
One
One
One
One
One
10
10
11
11
12
12
13
13
14
14
15
15
16
16
17
17
18
18
BTEC Construction and the Built
Environment
One
19
Hairdressing and Beauty Therapy
BTEC Health and Social Care
BTEC Public Services
One/Two
One
One
19
20
20
Curriculum Area
The Arts
Design and Enterprise
Humanities
Languages
Physical Education
Vocational
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Compulsory Subjects
English Language
1 GCSE
English Literature
(Followed by most students)
1 GCSE
Language
1 GCSE
Triple/Dual Science
or BTEC Science
3/2 GCSEs
1 BTEC
Mathematics
1 GCSE
Religious Studies
1 GCSE
(You have already started this course in year 9 and sit exam in Year 10)
In addition to the above range of GCSE compulsory (core) and chosen subjects, which
will take up most of the taught week, all pupils will have at least one lesson of
Physical Education.
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Art and Design
Course Type: GCSE
Exam Board: WJEC
Number of Option Choices: 1
Why study GCSE Art & Design?
This fast paced course is an exciting and rewarding option which encourages a self-motivated and
adventurous approach to Art & Design. It is important to have a commitment to, and love of the subject.
What will I study? Course Content
 The Natural/Manmade project is a skills based unit which gives you the opportunity to experiment with
different media such as painting, drawing and printmaking. This will allow you to explore your strengths,
develop your skills and confidence.
 The Expressions project builds on previous project knowledge allowing you to develop technical skills in
more depth whilst exploring your own ideas, so you can produce creative outcomes to be proud of.
 The final project is an externally set brief where students are able to develop ideas and explore
materials prior to producing the final piece in the ten hour exam.
 The course culminates in learning how to hang their own exhibition so all staff, parents and students can
attend.
How will I be assessed?
Coursework (60%): Internally set and marked (produced during Years 10/11). Work from both the
Natural/Manmade and Expressions project goes towards this grade.
Exam (40%): Externally set and internally marked brief, where all sketchbook preparation is produced in
lesson time. Final piece is produced in the ten hour exam just after Easter. Both the sketchbook preparation
and final piece count towards this 40%.
Recommendation from the Subject Leader:
For art students that are enthusiastic, creative and imaginative. This course Is excellent if you wish to go on
to study creative courses such as animation, architecture, fashion, graphics, illustration, photography,
textiles or set and costume design.
Drama
Course Type: GCSE
Exam Board: Edexcel
Number of Option Choices: 1
Why Study Drama?
Develop your self-confidence and communication/presentation skills.
Opportunity to work practically with others.
If you have a genuine interest in and enjoyment of performance/theatre/performance art.
What Will I Study? Course Content
3 Units (Unit 1: Improvisation/Unit 2: Study of Playtext/Unit 3: Practical Performance)
Across all three units you will be given opportunities to develop further the skills introduced to you in
Drama lessons throughout years 7-9. In addition, you will be able to develop and improve your ability and
talent as a performer and director.
How Will I be Assessed?
Unit 1 and Unit 2 is assessed and marked by the class teacher and externally moderated.
Unit 3 is a performance marked by a visiting examiner.
Unit 1 and Unit 2 count towards 60% of your final mark and consist of practical work covered during lessons
and two written evaluations along with a review of a live theatre performance.
Unit 3 is entirely practical and counts towards 40% of your final mark.
Recommendation from the Subject Leader:
Visit the theatre as often as you can and see as much varied live performance as possible. Participate in at
least one extra-curricular performance or performance-based activity during the course (e.g. school
production/superleague challenge/SGT/acting class/workshop outside school e.g. YAC).
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Music
Course Type: GCSE
Exam Board: OCR
Number of Option Choices: 1
Why Study Music?
The course aims to develop your performing and composing abilities alongside your general listening skills.
You will get the opportunity to explore and be creative in a variety of ways. There will also be the
opportunity to develop a wide range of creative, personal and social skills.
What Will I Study? Course Content
Areas of Study:
1. My Music: exploring the capabilities of your instrument (or voice).
2. Shared Music: musical relationships and roles from Medieval to Modern.
3. Dance Music: from Viennese waltz to Club Dance.
4. Descriptive Music: including programme and film music.
How Will I be Assessed?
Integrated Tasks: a performance, composition and commentary (30%)
Practical Portfolio: a group performance, composition and commentary (30%)
Creative Task: a timed task where you develop a short piece based on a stimulus (15%)
Listening Test: a written paper, with CD, assessing knowledge and understanding of Areas of study 2, 3 & 4.
Recommendation from the Subject Leader:
Although there is no requirement for you to have had instrumental or vocal lessons prior to beginning the
course, it is advisable to have some additional instrumental support for the performances. All GCSE music
students are required to join at least one college music club.
Business Studies and Economics
Course Type: GCSE
Exam Board: Edexcel
Number of Option Choices: 1
Why Study Business Studies?
This Business Studies course will provide an excellent start to a career working in an established
organisation or setting up a business.
What Will I Study? Course Content
Setting up a Business: an introduction to the world of small businesses. You will learn how to develop an
idea into a successful business.
Economics: you will find out how to think like an economist and examine how the economy functions, the
government’s role in the economy and its impact on business.
How Will I be Assessed?
You will be assessed in the following modules:
Business Unit 1: Introduction to Small Business - assessed by Examination (25%)
Business Unit 2: Investigating Small Business - assessed by Controlled Assessment (25%)
Business Unit 5: Introduction To Economic - assessed by Examination (50%)
Recommendation from the Lead Teacher:
To have an active interest in current business and new legislations.
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Computer Science
Course Type: GCSE
Exam Board: OCR
Number of Option Choices: 1
Why Study Computer Science?
Computer science teaches you how to use computers to make the world work as it does. You will learn how
to program a computer to achieve what you want. This might be solving a problem or producing an
application which has uses in the real world. A wide range of skills is covered in this subject which has
implications in many industries from project management to planning and implementing computer systems.
What Will I Study? Course Content
You will learn how computers work together in building networks like the internet, how teams of people
build systems worth hundreds of millions of pounds, and how computers can be made to behave like
people, among many other topics. You will also learn about how to work together in groups, and what your
professional responsibilities are to your colleagues, clients, and society.
You will learn all the fundamentals of programming and learn how to make useful programs and games that
meet given criteria. You are limited only by your imagination in computer science. This course leads straight
into Computer Science at KS5 and lead into a lucrative career in computing.
How Will I be Assessed?
Practical Programming - assessed by Controlled Assessment x2 (60%) [Classroom based].
Computing Fundamentals - assessed by Examination (40%).
Recommendation from the Subject Leader:
It is an exciting time to be a computer scientist! We are living in the midst of a revolution powered by
computers. Computer Science is a more in depth and challenging look at how through efficient
programming hardware and software are used in society to solve problems.
Child Development
Course Type: GCSE
Exam Board: OCR
Number of Option Choices: 1
Why Study Child Development?
As well as being ideal for anyone who is considering a career working with children and young people, this
course could suit a student who wants to design products or services with young children or new and
expectant parents in mind. Typical careers may be within a care setting as a nurse, nursery nurse, midwife
or in education as a playgroup worker, teacher or teaching assistant.
What Will I Study? Course Content
There are 6 units that explore: Family and Parenting; Preparing for Pregnancy and Birth; Physical,
Intellectual, Emotional and Social Development; Nutrition and Health; and Community Support for Families.
You will undertake some practical and investigative short tasks. You will get the opportunity to study a child
between 0-5 and produce a report.
How Will I be Assessed?
You will be assessed in the following modules:
Principles of Child Development Written Paper Exam (Year 11) – 1hr 30mins – counts for 40%
3 Short Tasks of 7 hours (Year 10) will be assessed by Controlled Assessment - counts for 30%
Child Study Task (Year 11) over 22 weeks as Controlled Assessment - counts for 30%
Recommendation from the Lead Teacher:
If you are still unsure about your career path this qualification will help you develop valuable skills of
planning, organisation, research and presentation whilst gaining knowledge about how children grow and
develop.
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Engineering
Course Type: BTEC Level 2
Exam Board: Edexcel
Number of Option Choices: 1
Why Study Engineering?
Engineering covers a wide range of disciplines – anything from rockets to mobile phones and even hip
replacements! Engineering is not just about ‘fixing things’ it is about understanding how, and why things
work. It will help you to sharpen your skills for employment or further study.
What Will I Study? Course Content
To gain specific knowledge and understanding in engineered products and processes, investigating
engineering information and studying mathematics for engineering.
How Will I be Assessed?
You will be assessed in the following modules:
 The Engineered World - assessed by Examination in Year 10 (12.5%).
 Investigating an Engineered Product - assessed by Controlled Assessment (12.5%).
 Electronic Circuit Design and Construction - assessed by Controlled Assessment (25%).
 Interpreting and Using Engineering Information - assessed by Examination in Year 10 (12.5%).
 Mathematics for Engineering will be assessed by Controlled Assessment (12.5%).
 Engineering Design will be assessed by Controlled Assessment and counts for (25%).
Recommendation from the Lead Teacher:
To be enthused by the key engineering principles of design, materials, electronic systems, maintenance and
manufacturing.
Food Technology
Course Type: GCSE
Exam Board: AQA (4547)
Number of Option Choices: 1
Why Study Food Technology?
The course aims to develop your skills in food preparation and knowledge in food commodities, processes
and manufacture.
What Will I Study? Course Content
Commodities: the varieties, uses and characteristics of different ingredients.
Food Safety and Hygiene: how foods can be prepared and sold in a safe and hygienic manner.
Manufacture: how foods can be created for sale from a range of production systems
Practical skills: using a wide variety of ingredients and techniques to reinforce food preparation skills.
Designing: using techniques to match existing and developing products to meet the needs of different
consumers.
How Will I be Assessed?
Theory Exam (40%): study for an exam at the end of Year 11.
Coursework portfolio (60%): developing a product from a board set of titles, for a specific market. This takes
two terms to complete.
Recommendation from the Lead Teacher:
You are advised not to take food simply because you like cooking; you need to be aware that there is a lot
of writing involved and commitment to regular homework. We cook most weeks, so personal organisation
is vitally important.
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ICT
Course Type: GCSE
Exam Board: Edexcel
Number of Option Choices: 1
Why Study ICT?
Almost everything in the modern world is controlled and manufactured using a form of ICT. Though a wide
range of topics you will understand how technology is utilised in the workplace and wider society.
What Will I Study? Course Content
Unit 1: Living in a Digital World
How digital technology impacts on the lives of individuals, organisations and society. You will learn about
current and emerging digital technologies and the issues raised by their use in a range of contexts (learning
and earning, leisure, shopping and money management, health and well-being, on the move). They develop
awareness of the risks that are inherent in using ICT and the features of safe, secure and responsible
practice.
Unit 2: Using Digital Tools
This is a practical unit. Students broaden and enhance their ICT skills and capability. You will learn to reflect
critically on your own and others’ use of ICT and to adopt safe, secure and responsible practice.
How Will I be Assessed?
You will be assessed in the following modules:
Unit 1: Living in a Digital World - assessed by examination (40%)
Unit 2: Using Digital Tools - assessed by Controlled Assessment (60%).
Recommendation from the Subject Leader:
Studying ICT gives you the knowledge and understanding to use a variety of software packages which are
commonly used in all lines of business, education, retail and industry. In addition you will gain an
understanding of how the recent advances in technology, and the world of work and leisure affect us all.
Product Design
Course Type: GCSE
Exam Board: AQA
Number of Option Choices: 1
Why Study Product Design?
Product Design is an enjoyable subjet that will help you build an understanding on what makes a good design and
what makes products marketable and ultimately profitable. You will have the opportunity to design and create
your own product after studying both 20th Century and Contemporary Design.
What Will I Study? Course Content
Unit 1: To help you develop knowledge and understanding of the processes and techniques for manufacturing a
product. Investigating the commercial and industrial applications of a range of materials involved in the
manufacturing process.
Unit 2: To investigate, plan and construct a solid way to a good 3D outcome. You will learn to be creative and
innovative when designing products to meet the needs of clients taking into consideration social and
environmental issues.
How Will I be Assessed?
Product Design Unit 1: Written Paper which will be assessed by a two hour examination (40%).
Product Design Unit 2: Controlled Assessment (60%). Consists of a single design and make activity selected from a
wide range of tasks set by the AQA Examination Board.
Recommendation from the Lead Teacher:
You are advised not to take Product Design simply because you like making; you need to be aware that there is a
lot of writing involved and commitment to regular homework in order to compile a portfolio of evidence and a
final examination at the end of the course. Good organisation is also essential as there are plenty of practical
activities to help you develop your skills during the course.
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Geography
Course Type: GCSE
Exam Board: Edexcel B
Number of Option Choices: 1
Why Study Geography?
The world in which we live is likely to change more in the next 50 years than it has ever done before.
Geography explains why, and helps to prepare you for those changes. The transferable skills which
geography fosters are an asset in the complex world of employment today. Geography is about the future
and encourages flexible thinking.
What Will I Study? Course Content
Unit 1: Dynamic Planet This will give you a sound understanding of important natural processes that affect
the Planet. The topics include: Restless Earth, Changing Climate, Battle for the Biosphere, Water World,
Coastal Change and Conflict and Oceans on the Edge.
Unit 2: People and the Planet In a similar way to Unit 1, this unit links together to build an overall
understanding of human geography. The topics include: Population Dynamics, Consuming Resources,
Globalisation, Development Dilemmas, Changing Settlements in the UK and The challenges of an Urban
World.
How Will I be Assessed?
Unit 1 and 2 Revision based Exams (50%): study for end Year 11 exams.
Unit 3: Making Geographical Decisions Exam (25%): An open book skills based exam assessing students’
ability to make decisions about geographical issues which involves no revision!
Controlled Assessment (25%): A fieldwork investigation and ICT based report completed in class time under
controlled conditions using your fieldwork data.
Recommendation from the Subject Leader:
Top Geographers take an interest in the world around them and can use what they have seen/heard to
discuss issues that have affected the Planet.
History
Course Type: GCSE
Exam Board: OCR
Number of Option Choices: 1
Why Study History?
The course enables students to develop a sound understanding of modern world History and will equip
them with the ability to construct arguments and conclusions and to analyse and evaluate evidence.
What Will I Study? Course Content
 USA Depth Study (1919-1941)
 The Cold War and International Relations (1945-1975)
 USA: Land of Freedom? (1945-75)
 British Depth Study (1939-1975)
The department anticipates offering a residential trip to Washington D.C or New York City.
How Will I be Assessed?
Paper 1 (USA Depth Study and Cold War and International Relations) – 2 hour exam worth 45% of the final
grade.
Paper 2 (British Depth Study) – 1½ hour exam worth 30% of the final grade.
Controlled Assessment (USA: Land of Freedom?) – 8 hour essay, prepared and written in class worth 25% of
the final grade.
Recommendation from the Subject Leader:
You are fascinated by the past and enjoy being challenged in your lessons.
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French
Course Type: GCSE
Exam Board: AQA
Number of Option Choices: 1
Why Study French?
The course aims to develop your knowledge, understanding and skills so that you are able to communicate
both verbally and in the written format with native speakers.
What Will I Study? Course Content
 Lifestyle: Health, relationships and choices, relationships with family and friends, future plans
regarding: marriage/partnership, social issues and equality.
 Leisure: Free time and the media, shopping, money, fashion/trends, advantages and disadvantages
of new technology, holidays, plans, preferences, experiences, places to see and getting around.
 Home and Environment: Home and local area, where it is and what it is like, special occasions
celebrated in the home, environment, current problems facing the planet, environmentally friendly
within the home and local area.
 Work and Education - School/College and future plans, what is school/college like, pressures and
problems, current and future Jobs, looking for and getting a job (advantages and disadvantages).
How Will I be Assessed?
30% Speaking Controlled Assessments (x2)
30% Written Controlled Assessments (x2)
20% Listening Exam (x1)
20% Reading Exam (x1)
Recommendation from the Subject Leader:
You are enthusiastic and motivated about languages.
German
Course Type: GCSE
Exam Board: AQA
Number of Option Choices: 1
Why Study German?
The course aims to develop your knowledge, understanding and skills so that you are able to communicate
both verbally and in the written format with native speakers.
What Will I Study? Course Content
 Lifestyle: Health, relationships and choices, relationships with family and friends, future plans
regarding: marriage/partnership, social issues and equality.
 Leisure: Free time and the media, shopping, money, fashion/trends, advantages and disadvantages
of new technology, holidays, plans, preferences, experiences, places to see and getting around.
 Home and Environment: Home and local area, where it is and what it is like, special occasions
celebrated in the home, environment, current problems facing the planet, environmentally friendly
within the home and local area.
 Work and Education - School/College and future plans, what is school/college like, pressures and
problems, current and future Jobs, looking for and getting a job (advantages and disadvantages).
How Will I be Assessed?
30% Speaking Controlled Assessments (x2)
30% Written Controlled Assessments (x2)
20% Listening Exam (x1)
20% Reading Exam (x1)
Recommendation from the Subject Leader:
You are enthusiastic and motivated about languages.
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Spanish
Course Type: GCSE
Exam Board: AQA
Number of Option Choices: 1
Why Study Spanish?
The course aims to develop your knowledge, understanding and skills so that you are able to communicate
both verbally and in the written format with native speakers.
What Will I Study? Course Content
 Lifestyle: Health, relationships and choices, relationships with family and friends, future plans
regarding: marriage/partnership, social issues and equality.
 Leisure: Free time and the media, shopping, money, fashion/trends, advantages and disadvantages
of new technology, holidays, plans, preferences, experiences, places to see and getting around.
 Home and Environment: Home and local area, where it is and what it is like, special occasions
celebrated in the home, environment, current problems facing the planet, environmentally friendly
within the home and local area.
 Work and Education - School/College and future plans, what is school/college like, pressures and
problems, current and future Jobs, looking for and getting a job (advantages and disadvantages).
How Will I be Assessed?
30% Speaking Controlled Assessments (x2)
30% Written Controlled Assessments (x2)
20% Listening Exam (x1)
20% Reading Exam (x1)
Recommendation from the Subject Leader:
You are enthusiastic and motivated about languages.
NVQ French
Course Type: NVQ
Exam Board: OCR
Number of Option Choices: 1
Why Study NVQ French?
The course aims to develop your knowledge, understanding and skills so that you are able to communicate
both verbally and in the written format with native speakers in a business context.
What Will I Study? Course Content
The NVQ can be applied to any industry. The materials focus on:
 business introductions
 dealing with business visitors
 making appointments and reservations
 travel arrangements
 socialising with business colleagues
 communications
 work experience abroad
How Will I be Assessed?
NVQ students are assessed in all four skills after each module of work (Listening, Reading, Writing and
Speaking). There is no final exam so students build up a portfolio of assessments over the duration of their
course. A ‘pass’ is equivalent to a GCSE pass.
Recommendation from the Subject Leader:
You are enthusiastic and motivated about languages.
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Physical Education
Course Type: GCSE
Exam Board: Edexcel
Number of Option Choices: 1
Why Study Physical Education?
The course aims to develop your knowledge, understanding and skills so that you are able to be an active
participant in sport in a variety of roles.
What Will I Study? Course Content
 How, and why, people take part in physical activity.
 How a healthy, active lifestyle contributes to the growth and development of body systems, and
structures (including the cardiovascular, muscular, respiratory and skeletal systems), as well as
general wellbeing.
 Exercise and Fitness
Students will also develop their knowledge in relation to performance in physical activity.
How Will I be Assessed?
Theory Exam (40%): study for an exam at the end of Year 11.
Practical Performance (48%): practical grade is based upon your 4 best performances in the role of either
player/participant, official or leader.
Analysis of Sport (12%)
Recommendation from the Subject Leader:
You are actively involved in a minimum of one or two Sports Club inside/outside of school.
BTEC Sport
Course Type: BTEC Level 2
Exam Board: Edexcel
Number of Option Choices: 1
Why Study BTEC Sport?
This course designed for students who are inspired and motivated by the sports industry and who want an
academic and practical introductory programme to sport.
What Will I Study? Course Content
Students have to undertake a minimum of 4 units for which they present evidence, based on real-life work
and studies. The following two units are mandatory:
 Health and Fitness Sport and Exercise
 Practical Sports Performance
The remaining optional units will be determined by the size and makeup of the groups.
How Will I be Assessed?
The mandatory unit of “Health and Fitness Sport and Exercise” is assessed externally by an online exam. All
other units are assessed internally via coursework.
Recommendation from the Subject Leader:
There are many options available to school-leavers: further education, higher education, vocational
degrees, and apprenticeships and jobs that offer workplace learning. If you're not sure about the path you'll
wish to take, the flexibility of BTEC Sport makes it a good choice, as it offers useful practical experience as
well as a recognised qualification.
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Construction and Built Environment
Course Type: WJEC Level ½ Award in Constructing the Built Environment
Exam Board: WJEC
Number of Option Choices: 1
Why Study Construction?
Over 2 million people work in the UK’s construction industry. A BTEC in Construction is an ideal way to
acquire sought-after skills. You will develop the craft skills and knowledge to enter the many vocations
within the construction industry or as a stepping-stone into higher education.
What Will I Study? Course Content
The combination of core, mandatory and specialist units ensures that all learners develop areas of essential
construction knowledge, while giving you the chance to tailor the BTEC towards the specific needs and
interests of the students.
How Will I be Assessed?
1 Safety and security in construction - Externally assessed
2 Practical construction skills - Internality assessed
3 Planning construction projects - Internally assessed
Recommendation from the Lead Teacher:
You will be equipped with the knowledge, skills and understanding to enter any of the following
occupations: bricklayer, carpenter and joiner, painter and decorator, plasterer, roof slater and tiler, dry
liner, wall and floor tiler and construction operative.
Hairdressing and Beauty Therapy
Course Type: VRQ Level 2
Exam Board: VTCT
Number of Option Choices: 1 or 2
Why Study Hairdressing and Beauty Therapy?
The course aims to give learners a broad and comprehensive understanding of the hair and beauty sector
and also develop academic and study skills that will support progression not only within hair and beauty but
also a wider range of qualifications.
What Will I Study? Course Content
 Understanding the hair and beauty sect or
 Hair and beauty research project
 Marketing hair and beauty products and services
 Hair and beauty science
Students will also have the opportunity to develop their knowledge and skills of the practical elements of
hairdressing and/or beauty therapy.
*Students who take course this as a double option, will have the opportunity to further develop their
practical skills and knowledge of the hair and beauty sector.
How Will I be Assessed?
Externally set and marked exam: 25% (1 unit)
Externally set, internally assessed and externally moderated: 75% (3 units)
Recommendation from the Subject Leader:
Learners who successfully complete this qualification will be prepared to continue their studies at Level 3.
This could include vocationally-related qualifications and GCE A Levels. Learners could also progress to an
Apprenticeship.
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Health and Social Care
Course Type: BTEC Level 2
Exam Board: Edexcel
Number of Option Choices: 1
Why Study Health and Social Care?
To learn about the diverse career opportunities in the Health and Social Care industry such as Nursing,
working in Childcare, working with the Elderly and vulnerable and other NHS careers.
You can also develop skills, knowledge and understanding that will enable you to
 communicate and interact well with other professionals as well as people you may come into
contact with in the Health and Social Care Sector
 understand about the needs of your clients; young children, the elderly, people with additional
needs and the general public
What Will I Study? Course Content
Unit 1: Human Lifespan Development (changes throughout our lives).
Unit 2: Health and Social Care Values (how to recognise good practice in your work).
Unit 3: Effective Communication in Health and Social Care (learn to communicate with all types of people)
Unit 6: The Impact of Nutrition on Health and Wellbeing (learn how what we eat can impact our lives).
How Will I be Assessed?
Unit 1: External 1 hour Exam (25%)
Units 2, 3 and 6: A portfolio of work which is marked by your teacher and graded at a Level 1, Level 2 (Pass,
Merit and Distinction). Each unit is worth 25%.
Recommendation from the Lead Teacher:
Learners who successfully complete this qualification will be prepared to continue their studies at Level 3.
This could include vocationally-related qualifications and GCE A Levels. Learners could also progress to an
Apprenticeship.
Public Services
Course Type: BTEC Level 2
Exam Board: Edexcel
Number of Option Choices: 1
Why Public Services?
Public Services are at the very heart of our community. The course is for those that wish to take the first
step in preparing for a career in uniformed services. They are always looking for physically fit, enthusiastic
and well-prepared recruits to train for a variety of careers within the services, such as the Army, Navy, Air
Force, Police, Fire Brigade, Ambulance, Paramedics, Customs & Excise and Security.
What Will I Study? Course Content
Public Service Skills (communication, team building and leadership)
Employment in the Uniformed Public Service
Career Planning for the Public Service
How Will I be Assessed?
You will be assessed through a range of practical activities, projects, short tasks and presentations as well as
written work-based assignments to test knowledge, skills and understanding. Each assessment is graded
Pass, Merit and Distinction. One of your units will be assessed externally as a 1 hour examination.
Recommendation from the Subject Leader:
The course does not guarantee you entry into a uniformed service. However, it is designed to give you every
opportunity to develop and improve skills necessary for successful selection. Also, it will enhance your
chance of entry onto a full Level 3 Public Service course.
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Career Advice and Guidance
On the Year 9 Extended Curriculum Day (October 15th, 2014), you will have followed a
planned programme of Careers Education and Guidance:




Making choices and decisions
Self-awareness
Subject options
Qualifications awareness
Mr Dunbavan is the person to see with regards to subject choices and career ideas. The
Resource Centre has a range of careers information (Mrs Davies can help you if you need
to find something).
The following software programmes are also available: These are all available on the
school network at any PC station.
www.ucasprogress.com
National site for post 16 Progression (follow links for Cambridgeshire). If a student enters
his/her post code - not the distance - then post 16 - not courses/providers, and then clicks
search - every course offered in Cambridgeshire will come up.
If a student wishes to search for multiple courses. E.g. Maths, French, Biology they must use
commas to separate the words, otherwise they will get a blank.
Every 6th Form & Further Education College in Cambridgeshire has their own websites which
can be accessed for information about any transition course at the end of Year 11.
Cambridge Regional College
College of Animal Welfare Godmanchester
College of West Anglia
Comberton Sixth form
Cottenham Sixth Form
Ely Sixth Form Centre
Hills Road Sixth Form College Cambridge
Huntingdon Regional College
Impington Village College Sixth Form
Long Road Sixth Form College Cambridge
Netherhall Sixth Form Cambridge
Parkside Sixth Form
Peterborough Regional College
The St Ivo School St Ives
National website for apprenticeships
www.camre.ac.uk
www.caw.ac.uk
www.col-westanglia.ac.uk
www.combertonsixthform.org
www.cottenhamsixthform.org
www.elycollege.com/sf
www.hillsroad.ac.uk
www.huntingdon.ac.uk
www.impington.cambs.sch.uk
www.longroad.ac.uk
www.netherhall.cambs.sch.uk
www.parksidesixth.org.uk
www.peterborough.ac.uk
www.stivoschool.org
www.apprenticeships.org.uk
Local website for Cambridgeshire Youth Guidance (formally Connexions) www.youthoria.org
Useful Website: www.careersbox.co.uk/skillsexplorer
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Frequently Asked Questions:
Can I do the same subjects as my friends?
Answer: This is not a good basis for making your decision. Your friends will have different
ideas to you and may enjoy different types of subjects. Choose subjects for yourself and try
not to be influenced by your friends.
I like my teacher. Can I be in his/her group next year?
Answer: The teacher that you will be given will depend upon the choices you have made. It is
not possible to choose a teacher. Choose a subject because you like the subject and think you
can do well in it.
Will I get the subjects that I have chosen?
Answer: We try our very best to give students the subject choices that they have requested.
Unfortunately, in a small minority of cases, it is not possible to give all choices due to the
combination of subjects that you are wishing to do. Please bear this in mind when choosing
your reserve options.
What is a BTEC?
Answer: BTECs are work related qualifications suitable for a wide range of students, built to
accommodate the needs of employers and allow progression to university. They provide a
more practical, real-world approach to learning alongside a key theoretical background.
Should I know where I want to go after SVC already?
Answer: No, not necessarily. It is always good to have this in mind if you can but for now
make decisions based on areas you like and achieve well at. Make decisions around what
leaves you with the best opportunities to make the next steps later on (eg cover the English
Baccalaureate if you think you might want to do A Levels).
Where can I go for help?
Answer: You have a big support network around you. This includes your parents, tutor,
siblings, friends and fellow tutees. Remember that lots of people have done this before so
make use of their experience. You could even go online and start looking at colleges and
sixth forms that you may be interested in. if you are at all worried, speak to your tutor or
House Office.
Can I choose my GCSE language?
Answer: You will have studied for a specific subject within KS3 so it is easier to then progress
to GCSE with the same language. The languages department have looked carefully at the
appropriate course for all students and will discuss any changes with you. If you are unsure,
speak to your languages teacher.
Can I study both Geography & History?
Answer: Yes. Due to the way the options are set up at SVC, we have enabled students to take
both of these subjects. It is always important to look at what the course has to offer and
make decisions based around subjects you like and are good at.
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