Options

Transcription

Options

‘ At the Heart of the Community ’
As a learning community, in association
with parents and local partners, we will
secure appropriate opportunities for
each of us to maximise our abilities, enabling us all to realise our potential.
We will, thereby, enrich our own lives
and the life of the community.
Valuing Achievement
Celebrating Success
Dear Parents,
I am delighted to introduce this guide for parents and pupils in this year’s Year
9 Options Booklet. It is important that you read the information contained in
this booklet carefully. The courses on offer lead largely to qualification at
GCSE and in some cases are required for progression on to certain courses at
college so forward thinking is necessary.
The word is a complex market place and its needs are constantly changing.
Things that remain fixed, however, are that young people need to be highly
qualified, have specific and transferable skills and possess the right mind set
for success in adult life.
As you are aware, for the first years of your child’s school career, she / he has
been following a broad based curriculum, which included all of the subjects set
out in the National Curriculum. Prestwich has continued to offer a curriculum
which attempts to address your child’s interests and requirements and provide
a timetable of subjects which will engage them throughout their Key Stage 4.
Although that choice remains reasonably limited, it does provide an opportunity
to shape a particular pathway and you will want to discuss the options
contained within this booklet carefully with your child. Staff will have also
offered impartial guidance and advice with this process. Later in the term,
each child will have a personal interview with a senior member of staff, to
confirm that their selections have been accepted or to give an explanation
where this has not been possible. The latter may include timetabling clashes
or academic suitability. Students need to understand they are making an
informed commitment and their final choices are precisely that.
Other sources of information about careers in general are expanded upon
elsewhere in this booklet. I would encourage your child to take advantage of
all we have to offer in this area, including voluntary attendance at the school’s
drop-in careers hub on Tuesdays and Thursdays.
Your main contact for inquiries is Mr Newman (Deputy Head Teacher) but your
child is supported by a broad team, so please do not hesitate to seek guidance
from school.
Yours sincerely
C. C. Hornby
Head Teacher
LEARNING PATHWAYS
The Curriculum Programme
Our curriculum is designed to prepare our students for life beyond
Prestwich Arts College, for those who choose to follow academic routes
leading to University, for those who choose to enter employment, and
for those who choose to follow a vocational route through college and
into apprenticeship schemes. We offer a flexible curriculum that allows
students to make realistic and meaningful choices, but to do so they
must have some idea as to where they want to be after school has
come to an end. From September 2016 our timetable is based around
a 2-week timetable of 50 lessons, each lesson lasting 1 hour.
Our curriculum programme offers a number of learning pathways that
students can choose to follow.
PERSONALISED CURRICULUM
CORE CURRICULUM
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All students will follow a Core Curriculum. They will be taught
skills that are essential to all areas of life, transferable “functional” skills
which are central to all aspects of learning.
Students will then need to choose which combination of optional
subjects they wish to follow .
Options 2016 - Page 4
CORE CURRICULUM
This is compulsory for all students. It comprises 60% of the timetable.
The core curriculum could lead to between 5 and 8 GCSEs.
English & Literacy :
7 periods leading to GCSE in English
Language and English Literature.
Mathematics & Numeracy : 7 periods leading to GCSE in Mathematics.
Science : between 10 or 15 periods leading to either dual science (2
GCSEs) or 3 GCSEs (in Biology, Chemistry and Physics).
Computing: 2 periods which could lead to a qualification.
Physical Education: 2 periods
Personal Development :
4 periods of a modular course.
The modules include Citizenship, Career
Guidance, Work Related Learning,
Personal & Social Education, Religious
Education. The citizenship module
leads to a GCSE in Citizenship.
PERSONALISED CURRICULUM LEARNING OPTIONS
After the core curriculum, there remains 40% of the timetable, with an
element of choice. Students will need to choose which combination of
optional subjects they wish to follow. The Department for Education
insists that all students follow a course in Humanities (Geography or
History) and a course in Modern Languages (French or Spanish). This
leaves students to make a guided choice of no more than 2 other
subjects. Overall 4 subjects, each 5 periods (10% of the total timetable
for each subject.
It is important that students follow a broad and balanced curriculum, and
whilst attempts are made to fit the curriculum to each child, that is
“personalising” their curriculum, we can only do so within the resources
and staffing of the school. Some courses on offer in this subject may
have to be cancelled if too few students choose them.
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It may not be possible to offer all students the precise combination of
subjects that they might want. However, we strive to do so, for as many
students as we are able.
In making their choices, students must work to their strengths.
In summary, students must choose
A humanities subject: Geography OR History
A language:
French OR Spanish
Then two other subjects. These are the courses initially offered:
Art & Design
Religious Studies
Drama
Physical Education
Media
Business
Music
Computer Science
Textiles Design
Food Nutrition & Preparation
Resistant Materials
Overall these courses could lead to at least 4 GCSEs (or equivalent).
Some students have already demonstrated ability in Science. These
students are therefore recommended to take three Science subjects
(Biology, Chemistry and Physics). Alongside this science curriculum,
they will also be able to take one other option subject from the list above
(in addition to a humanities and language subject). Students may
decline this offer of a science curriculum, in order to take a different
combination of subjects.
THE ENGLISH BACCALAUREATE (EBacc)
The English Baccalaureate defines the core curriculum of the school.
This is the curriculum that the Department for Education expects all
students to follow.
English
Mathematics
Science
Geography / History
French / Spanish
The Department for Education believes it is these subjects which “give
pupils a properly rounded academic education”. In addition to this core
curriculum, you may then add another two subjects from the table on
page 6. Two reserve choices should also be made. These are needed
since it is not always possible to allocate students to their preferred
choice.
OTHER QUALIFICATIONS
Students may, from time to time, be interested in pursuing other
qualifications. These may include taking a GCSE qualification in a
language other than English, French or Spanish, perhaps in a native
tongue (home language).
Students may also wish to consider taking a course at another
education institution, such as a college, following a different
qualification.
If any student is interested in pursuing such a course they should, in the
first instance, discuss this as an additional option with Mr Newman, who
might then need to arrange an appointment for parents at the school, to
investigate such options further.
MAKING CHOICES
There are several stages to making learning pathway choices.
Students will have two extended assemblies, where they will be given
information by Heads of Faculty about subjects on offer.
On Tuesday, 1st March 2016 at 4pm, the Head Teacher will give an
introduction to the options programme to any parents who may be
interested. This will take place in the Paragon. Following this, staff
who are in charge of the courses in this booklet, will be available in the
Sports Hall for parents to discuss the courses on offer. From 4.30pm
parents are then invited to stay for Year 9 parents’ evening.
Mr Newman will also be available until 6pm to answer any option
queries.
Students should then choose which of the options they wish to follow.
They should hand in their completed option application form, by the
deadline stated. If choices are not returned by this date, there is less
chance that first preferences will be granted.
All students will be given an interview with a senior member of staff, at
which their option choices will be discussed and allocations to subjects
will be finalised.
Once all these interviews are completed, letters will be sent home
showing the agreed learning pathway and subjects for each student.
Pupils cannot change their choices once their allocation has been
completed, or after courses have started.
If at any time you have any queries with regard to the Options
Programme, please contact Mr Newman, Deputy Head Teacher at the
school.
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ASSESSMENT
Most pupils will be entered for the GCSE (General Certificate of
Secondary Education) examinations in the subjects they study. Some
courses include coursework produced throughout the course, or
practical work assessed by the teacher.
In the GCSE examination there is sometimes an element of course
work (Controlled Assessment). This is a great help to those who find
the examination situation stressful. It must be made clear however,
that failure to complete assessments will make it likely that an
ungraded result will be issued, whatever the performance on the
Examination paper. Details of assessments will be provided by subject
staff as each student moves through the course, and in a separate
booklet issued during their courses.
Mathematics, Science and Modern Languages only offer the
examination at differentiated levels (Higher and Foundation). Pupils
will be entered for the level appropriate to their achievements on the
course. All students will take a variety of examinations during their
course. These could be school exams, trial (mock) exams or real
GCSE examinations. Regular attendance is therefore essential.
All final examinations are taken in the period May to June in Year 11.
Alternative qualifications are also available for some pupils.
All GCSEs will in future be awarded according to a new grading
structure, as follows:
Current GCSE grades
A*
A
B
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To be replaced by new GCSE grades:
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G T Newman
Deputy Head Teacher
KEY STAGE 4 LEARNING PATHWAYS
PERSONALISED CURRICULUM
CORE CURRICULUM
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CONTENTS
CORE CURRICULUM SUBJECTS
OPTIONAL CURRICULUM SUBJECTS
CORE
CURRICULUM
SUBJECTS
English Language and English Literature
Mathematics
Science
Computing
Personal Development & Citizenship
ENGLISH
Head of English Faculty : Mr R Higson
All students will study GCSE English Language and GCSE English
Literature.
ENGLISH LANGUAGE GCSE
Year 9 students will be developing their reading and writing skills for
their GCSEs. The English Language GCSE will provide all students with
a robust foundation of reading a range of high quality, challenging
literature and non-fiction text, from a range of genres and types (from the
19th, 20th and 21st centuries) with the language and literary skills
required for further study and work. This will be formally assessed at the
end of Year 11 through a series of examinations.
Internal assessments will continue to take place throughout the GCSE
course. Students’ knowledge and understanding of spelling, punctuation
and grammar will be strengthened throughout Year 10 and Year 11.
Speaking and Listening will be assessed, with an emphasis on
developing students’ confidence in speaking in more formal situations.
Overview
Paper 1:
A: Unseen fiction Text
B: Imaginative Writing
Approx. 1h 45 mins – 50%
Paper 2:
A: Unseen non-fiction and unseen
literary non-fiction
B: Writing to present a viewpoint
Approx. 1h 45 mins 50%
ENGLISH LITERATURE GCSE
All students will take English Literature and with English Language,
this will result in two GCSEs.
All students studying English Literature GCSE will be encouraged to
read, write and think critically. It will involve students studying a
range of intellectually challenging and substantial whole texts in
detail. This will include a Shakespeare play, 19th Century novels, a
selection of Romantic poetry and modern drama. Students will be
examined at the end of the two year course on some ‘unseen’ texts,
encouraging students to read widely and rewarding those that can
demonstrate the breadth of their understanding.
Overview
Paper 1:
A: Shakespeare play
B: 19th Century novel
Approx. 1h 45 mins – 40%
Paper 2:
A: Modern fiction or drama text
B: Comparison of two poems.
C: Unseen poetry comparison
Approx. 2h 15 mins - 60%
MATHEMATICS
Head of Mathematics Faculty : Mr R Wilkes
Mathematics GCSE
Course Content
Higher Tier students will have access to new GCSE grades 4 to 9
Foundation Tier students grades 1 to 5
Assessment will consist of 3 externally marked 1½ hour examinations.
Each will contribute ⅓ of the marks toward the full GCSE.
The first exam is a non-calculator exam.
Each examination paper will assess aspects of
Number
Algebra
Ratio, proportion and rates of change
Geometry and measures
Probability
Statistics
Coursework Requirements - There will be no Coursework
Accreditation - Higher or Foundation Tier
The decision as to which course (tier) students will follow, will be
dependent on their performance during the course.
Basic Equipment Required
All students must bring a scientific calculator to every lesson, together
with a pen, pencil, ruler, eraser, protractor and a pair of compasses.
Parents can obtain a free copy of the Specifications for Mathematics
GCSE by visiting the Edexcel website at www.edexcel.com or
http://qualifications.pearson.com/en/qualifications/edexcel-gcses/
mathematics-2015.html
SCIENCES
Head of Science Faculty : Mr M Rollinson
Science GCSE
Gateway science course. Students will:
Develop scientific knowledge and conceptual
understanding through the disciplines of Biology,
Chemistry and Physics.
Develop scientific method to help answer questions about the world
around us.
Learn to apply problem solving skills in the laboratory and in the field
This course consists of 18 units of work equally split between
Biology, Chemistry and Physics. Each area will be taught by a subject
specialist teacher and each unit of work will be internally assessed by
an end of unit test.
GCSE Assessment
External exams: (100% of marks)
There will be 6 exams which will examine all the course content:
Biology 2 exams, Chemistry 2 exams, Physics 2 exams. These will
take place at the end of the course. These exams are offered at two
levels: Foundation and Higher. The science department will decide
which level students will enter for, on the basis of their performance in
end of unit tests.
Separate Science GCSE’s (Biology, Chemistry and Physics)
This will be offered only to the most able pupils as it will involve the
studying of three GCSE’s in Science at Higher tier. As such students
would normally be expected to have achieved a level 7+ in Year 9.
Please note : the option here is for all three Science GCSE’s only. We
cannot offer a choice from the three.
Additional notes on assessment
For GCSE Science, the 6 exams are each 1 hour and 10 minutes long;
in additional to general practical work, there will be 16 set practicals that
will be assessed in the written exam.
For Separate Science GCSEs, the 6 exams are reach 1 hour and 45
minutes long; in additional to general practical work there will be 12 set
practicals (4 each subject) that will be assessed in the written exam.
At least 15% of the marks in the exam come from questions about the
practicals. At least 15% of the marks will relate to mathematical
concepts.
Accreditation
These GCSEs are awarded by the OCR examining group. The exams
will be taken in June at the end of the course.
The majority taking Science will be accredited with two GCSE grades in
Science.
Those taking separate sciences will be accredited with three GCSE
grades, one in each subject of Biology, Chemistry and Physics.
COMPUTING
Co-ordinator : Mr P Rawcliffe
OCR Cambridge Nationals: GCSE equivalent.
OCR Cambridge Nationals is a Level 1/2 qualification in ICT. The
course intends to equip pupils with the necessary skill set to use IT
confidently in employment or further studies. This involves an initial 2
units of work, one being a written examination. Pupils will also study
elements of computer science including programming in a text-based
language such as Small Basic. Some pupils may have the opportunity
to study a further 2 units to achieve up to the equivalent 1 GCSE at
level 2.
Course Requirements
The first unit will require the pupils to generate evidence demonstrating
the use of a variety of standard and specialised pieces of software. As
well as the standard office applications, we also use software such as
Photoshop, Dreamweaver, Audition and Flash animation. The written
examination will be based on a pre-released business scenario. The
computer science element will be a project-based assignment where
pupils are required to solve a real world problem using programming.
Accreditation
Pupils will initially be entered for a level 1 qualification with the
possibility of studying extra units to be entered for a level 2
qualification (GCSE equivalent). The computer science element of the
course will be internally assessed and accredited. Evidence generated
through coursework will be assessed as a Pass, Merit or Distinction.
PERSONAL DEVELOPMENT
Head of Personal Development Faculty : Mrs J Leary
Personal, Social, Health, Economic & Religious Education
Co-ordinator : Miss J Leary
RE at Key Stage 4 is organised into seven aspects, ranging from ‘War
and Peace’ to ‘Religion meets Science’. Students evidence their
understanding from any two religions, through discussing issues and
participating in related Citizenship opportunities.
PSHE is based around the three core themes of Health & Wellbeing,
Relationships and Living in the Wider World. It supports students’
spiritual, moral, cultural, mental and physical development. Within
these, there is broad overlap and flexibility, which enables the faculty to
design learning opportunities to meet changing needs of students as
identified through the Pastoral team. The course effectively prepares
students for the opportunities, responsibilities and experiences of life.
Physical Education
Co-ordinator : Miss F L Bury
Physical Education encourages students to
participate in physical activities and competitive
sport. Opportunities are provided for
students to become physically confident, in
a way which supports their health and
fitness. Values such as fairness and
respect are modelled and encouraged.
Students are inspired to choose healthy,
active lifestyles, which will continue not
only outside school, but for the rest of
their lives.
Citizenship Studies GCSE
Co-ordinator : Miss J Leary
Course Content
Citizenship Studies consists of four separate units around Identity,
Democracy & Justice and Rights & Responsibilities. All students follow
this course, which deepens their awareness and understanding of
democracy, government and how laws are made & upheld. Students
develop their skills to be able to use a range of research strategies,
weigh up evidence, make persuasive arguments and substantiate their
conclusions. They experience and evaluate different ways in which
citizens can act together to solve problems and contribute to society.
Coursework Requirements
Students participate in an active citizenship project to improve
community cohesion on a choice of contexts from age, race, gender
and disability. They then organise a campaign, which can be local,
national or global. Each of these comprises 30% of the total marks.
Examinations
There are two examinations of 1 hour each. The first consists of two
short case studies and one longer written piece, evaluating a viewpoint.
The second is stimulus-based, with a focus on active citizenship.
Accreditation
The final 40% of the marks are available in two examinations, taken in
the May of their final school year. The knowledge required is gained
through a combination of directed learning, independent research
opportunities and debating & discussing issues. Accreditation is with
the exam board OCR
It is essential that all students have a pen, pencil and selection of
coloured pens to highlight work. They should also be reading / watching
the news regularly to keep up to date with topical issues.
Access and Entitlement to Careers Information Advice
and Guidance
Students have a variety of sources of information regarding possible
career pathways or issues related to learning about careers. For
example there are some important websites such as:
National Careers Service
https://nationalcareersservice.direct.gov.uk
Connexions
www.connexions-bury.org.uk
Apprenticeships
www.apprenticeships.gov.uk
www.careermap.co.uk
Throughout years 8 to 11, students at Prestwich Arts College will be
entitled to at least two one-to-one interviews with our own careers
coaches who are qualified, or in the process of being qualified, as well
as external Specialists. They will also be able to participate in a
number of school organised events, which will open their minds to the
world of careers and prepare them for the pathways which are
available and that suit them most. Additionally, we will host regular
events that pupils will have access to, where they can engage with
external experts and see examples which match their own aspirations.
Before students reach Year 11, we will introduce them to the various
post 16 providers who are available in the Greater Manchester area,
including colleges, apprenticeships and the armed forces. This will
take the form of open days, careers fairs, taster days, and informal
presentations and assemblies. At Year 9, 10 and 11 parents’
evenings, there will be careers stands.
The school has a Careers hub which is open several times a week
and is manned by qualified staff. It has computers loaded with Careers
programmes, where pupils can log on and begin the path towards their
career destination. Also in the Gateway, similar information is
accessible, as well as the Careers noticeboard in the New Building.
Careers Staff at Prestwich Arts College
There are four Careers coaches in the school:
Mrs Howe -
Able and more vulnerable students
Mrs Considine - Delaney House students
Mrs Walsh -
Halle House students
Mrs O’Keefe -
Lowry House students
Careers Education
Through the Personal Development Faculty’s lessons and schemes of
work, and its head, Miss Leary, students from years 8 to 11 have
regular Careers lessons in their timetable. Up to date information and
the Careers software programme, ‘JED’ are utilised. Many subject
areas also use their lessons too, to highlight careers in their subjects.
These include wall displays, inviting outside speakers to talk to
students and events with national organisations to demonstrate the
relevance of their subjects in the world of work.
Mr N Waters
Assistant Headteacher
HUMANITIES
LANGUAGES
Geography
History
French
Spanish
GEOGRAPHY
Geography GCSE AQA 8035
Head of Department : Ms A Sutton
Necessary Qualities
An interest in the physical and human world.
Course Content
Living with the physical environment (35% of exam)
Section A: The challenge of natural hazards. For example volcanoes,
earthquakes, tropical storms, climate change.
Section B: The living world. Students are required to study ecosystems,
tropical rainforests hot deserts and cold environments
Section C: Physical landscapes in the UK students are required to study UK
physical landscapes such as coastal, river and glacial areas.
Challenges in the human environment (35% of exam)
Section A: Urban issues and challenges throughout the world in contrasting
areas of development.
Section B: The changing economic world, how wealth is distributed globally
and how wealth is measured.
Section C: The challenge of resource management e.g. investigating the
significance of food, water and energy to human economic and social
well-being. There is an overview of global inequalities in the supply and
consumption of resources.
Geographical applications (30% of exam)
Section A: Issue evaluation: This is a critical thinking and problem-solving
element. A topic is released for study 12 weeks prior to the exam.
Section B: Fieldwork: pupils will be required to do 2 field work investigations
possibly to Castleton in the Peak District and Malham Cove in Yorkshire.
Over all there is increased focus on the development of good literacy
and numeracy skills which are assessed in the exam. Pupils are
expected to keep good notes, read around the subject and complete
their homework on time. The subject is academic and requires hard
work consistently over time.
HISTORY
History GCSE
Head of Faculty : Mr N J Waters
Necessary Qualities
It is always useful to have an interest in the news and be open to
learning about politics, other countries and current affairs. This is
because the History GCSE is mainly about the Modern World, covering,
mostly the Twentieth Century. Students who take up History will need
to be well organised, be able to keep up with the topics taught and will
need to revise thoroughly and properly when required. The main
elements of History GCSE are KNOWLEDGE, UNDERSTANDING and
SOURCE ANALYSIS. Literacy skills play an important part in reading,
analysing, writing (notes and longer answers) and examinations. It
must be emphasised that if you struggle with these aspects of Literacy
then GCSE History will be extremely difficult.
Course Content
The course offered is the AQA GCSE History (8145).
There are 4 units spread over Year 10 and Year 11. These are:
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America 1920—1973
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Conflict and Tension 1918—1939
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Health and the People 1000 AD to the present day
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Elizabethan England 1560-1603
Accreditation
To achieve GCSE grades 1 to 9, students sit two examinatinons each
worth 50% of the final grade .
Students will need personal files containing revision notes, tests and
homework, with all necessary dividers and plastic wallets. It is vital that
these are properly maintained at all times and are never forgotten.
MODERN LANGUAGES
French and Spanish GCSE
Head of Faculty : Mrs C Bailey
Why learn a language at GCSE?
Only 5% of the world’s inhabitants speak English as their first language.
These days, English is not enough! In fact, being monolingual can limit
your future career choices. Learning a language will help you to
develop communication and thinking skills and will help you to fully
appreciate and understand other countries and cultures. Learning
foreign languages also brings personal, professional, social and
economic advantages to those who study them.
In a recent article published by The Guardian newspaper, it was stated
that language learning opens doors in careers such as sales, marketing
and technical support and it is estimated that speaking another
language can add between 10% and 15% to your salary. For those
wanting to stand out in a tough jobs market or for graduates wanting to
add “oomph” to their CV, learning a language could be just the ticket!
If you are considering university in the future, be aware that the majority
of degrees can be studied alongside a language, providing you with a
wider range of options, as well as the opportunity to spend a year
abroad during your studies.
French and Spanish were highlighted as two of the most useful
languages to learn for the following reasons:
French: French is a major language of international communication. If
you add France and Belgium together, they are our second-biggest
trading partner. French is also the second most widely taught language
and there are more than 200 million French speakers on the five
continents.
Spanish: Spanish is actually the third most spoken language in the
world today and is the official language of twenty-one countries
world-wide, as well as being an officially recognised language of NATO.
South America, where Spanish is widely spoken, currently has one of
the fastest growing economies in the world.
Course Content
The four communication skills of listening, reading, writing and
speaking will be developed through your language learning. If you
enjoy communicating with others, have an interest in how language
works and enjoy learning about other cultures, you will get the most
out of your Modern Language studies at GCSE.
You will be able to share your interests, ideas and opinions with other
people who speak French and Spanish. You will also learn about the
countries where French and Spanish are spoken. We also provide
regular opportunities for cultural experiences and have arranged visits
to both France and Spain in recent years.
You will learn many skills which will be useful in a wide range of
careers such as good communication, public speaking and problem
solving. The topics covered during the course relate to everyday life at
home and also cover the themes of work, education, holidays, tourism
and the environment amongst others.
Edexcel GCSE
The majority of students will be entered for the GCSE examination.
There are two levels of entry
Higher (Grades 4 to 9)
Listening : 25%
Reading: 25%
Speaking : 25%
Writing : 25%
Foundation (Grades 1 to 5)
Assessed by final exam in June of Year 11
Basic Equipment
You will need a French / Spanish —> English dictionary, depending on
the language chosen. You also need confidence and a willingness to
get involved and get the most out of language learning! Access to the
internet is beneficial as some homeworks are set online.
OTHER
CURRICULUM
SUBJECTS
Arts subjects:
Art & Design
Drama
Media
Music
Technology subjects
Food Nutrition & Preparation
Resistant Materials
Textile Design
Computer Science
Other subjects
Religious Studies
Business
Physical Education
ART AND DESIGN
Art and Design GCSE
Course Co-ordinator : Miss J Crowder
Maximum number of students : 50
Note: this course cannot be taken with Textile Design.
Necessary Qualities
Do you enjoy Art & Design? Do you want to learn more about the
world of Art & Design? Would you like a career in the wide range of
creative industries?
This course provides students with a wide range of creative, exciting
and stimulating opportunities to explore their interests in Art & Design,
in ways that are personally relevant and truly developmental in nature.
Course Content
Students will create a portfolio of work throughout the course, based
on teacher set briefs. This will involve researching artists, developing
skills in a wide variety of media through sketchbook work, designing
and producing final pieces. This portfolio will form 60% of the final
grade.
40% of the grade will come from an externally set task. Students will
be set a brief which they must research, and develop ideas to produce
a final piece in controlled sessions amounting to 10 hours.
Options available
This is a broad course exploring practical and critical / contextual work,
through a range of 2D and/or 3D processes and new media and
technologies. It is an unendorsed course where candidates can work in
appropriate Art, Craft and Design materials and processes. Candidates
should produce practical and contextual work associated with two or
more of the following endorsements - Fine Art, Graphic Communication,
Three Dimensional Design and Photography.
Post 16 Opportunities
This course prepares learners for the world of College and Work. This
course will prepare pupils for progression routes such as A Levels and
BTECs in a wide range of Art & Design based subjects.
DRAMA
GCSE in Drama
Course Co-ordinator : Mrs R Farrington-Evans
Necessary Qualities
Do you like Drama? Do you want to have Drama lessons twice a week?
Are you considering a career in the creative industries? Do you want to
show potential employers you have creativity and diversity?
If the answer to any of the above is yes, then the GCSE Drama course
might be just the thing for you.
The course is an AQA GCSE, which allows students to prepare for a
possible career in the Performing Arts industries. It offers insight into all
aspects of the Performing Arts business, from performing to
administration and finance to technical theatre.
Course Content
The course is made up of 3 components:
Component 1 (40% of final grade) is a written exam showing pupils
understanding of drama.
Component 2 is a devised drama module, with a devised performance
(10%) and a performance log (30%)
Component 3 is a text based performance module with two
performances (10% + 10%)
Prepare, perform, evaluate.
Students will plan, rehearse, perform and evaluate their own
performance events as either a performer or in a backstage role.
Students will sit a written exam worth 40% of the total marks.
The Performing Arts Business
Students will learn about the world of work in the creative industries.
There are a range of courses which are natural progression routes
from this, such as A Level Theatre Studies, A Level Performing Arts, A
Level Drama, BTEC in Performing Arts, BTEC in Musical Theatre,
BTEC in Technical Theatre and Level 3 Diploma in Hair & Media
Make-up. The course also provides the skills necessary for teamwork,
business management and presentation skills.
Possible Careers after GCSE Drama
Actor, Broadcast Journalist, PR Manager, Set Designer, Film
Producer, School Teacher, Screenwriter, Film Director, Television
Presenter.
MEDIA
GCSE Media Studies
Necessary Qualities
This course is for those of you who have an interest in the creative
media sector. You have to be both creative and interested in technology.
You will be using the Multi-Media facilities at our school such as the Mac
Computers, iPads and video equipment. You will also benefit from an
interest in Music Recording plus Drama / Film.
Course Content
You will develop the fundamental research skills which underlie all media
production, gain a basic understanding of employment opportunities, job
requirements, and working practices in the media sector. You will work
on projects based on some of the following:
Media forms / platforms
Print & electronic publishing
Television
Film
Video
Wed-based technologies
Advertising and marketing
Popular music
News
Students will complete two units throughout the course.
Unit 1 is externally assessed and requires students to investigate a
pre-released media topic.
Unit 2 comprises three controlled assessments which are assessed via
practical and written coursework.
The course allows students to prepare for a possible career in the
creative and media Industries. It offers insight into all aspects of the
business, from production to administration and finance to technical
aspects in media.
There are a range of courses which are natural progression routes from
this course such as A Level Media Studies, BTEC level 3 in Creative
Media Production, A level Film Studies and A level Music Technology.
The course also provides the skills necessary for team work, business
management and presentation skills.
Possible Careers after GCSE Media
Editor, PR Officer, Studio Runner, Graphic Designer, Camera Operator,
Video Editor, Marketing Manager, Journalist, Film Producer.
MUSIC
BTEC level 2 First Award in Music
Necessary Qualities
Do you like Music Technology? Do you like performing Music? Do you
play an instrument? Do you want to have Music lessons twice a week?
If the answer to any of the above is yes, then the BTEC Award in Music
course might just be the thing for you.
The course is a vocational qualification, which allows students to
prepare for a possible career in the world of Music. It offers insight into
all aspects of the Music Business, such as performing, production,
composing and administration.
Course Content
Students will be examined on four Units throughout the course, two of
which are compulsory, three units are assessed via practical and
written coursework and the final unit is assessed by external exam.
Compulsory
The Music Industry and Managing a Music Product.
Examples of Optional Units
Introducing
Live sound
Music composition
Music performance
Music recording
Music sequencing
There are a range of courses which are natural progression routes
from this course such as Music Technology Level 3 NCFE, Music A
Level, Music Technology A Level, BTEC in Musical Theatre, BTEC
Performing Arts and Level 3 BTEC in Music.
Possible Careers after BTEC Music
Musician, Event Manager, Music Therapist, Recording Engineer,
Composer, Music Teacher, A&R Talent Scout, Music Promoter, Audio
Engineer.
FOOD NUTRITION & PREPARATION
Food Nutrition and Preparation GCSE
Head of Department : Miss J Breakell
Necessary Qualities
Students who opt for this GCSE specification will required a genuine
interest in working with food and have a keen interest in the nutritional
properties of food. They should also have the ability to work
independently, meet deadlines and be organised.
You are also expected to provide ingredients for practical work on
a weekly basis.
Course Content
Students will have the opportunity to investigate, design, make and
evaluate food as a material. All pupils will learn basic butchery skills,
advanced food preparation skills, cooking methods and product
development.
Scientific investigations into the functions and nutrition qualities of food
will be completed and evidenced through a 2000 word report. Pupils
will also be expected to use the skills they have developed to design
and cook a three course menu.
Course Requirements.
Exam (1 hour 45 minutes) — 50% of the final mark. The exam will
focus on nutrition, diet, food preparation. It is split into two sections 20
multiple choice questions and 5 non multiple choice question.
Scientific investigation — 20% of the final mark. Pupils will complete
a scientific investigation into the function/ nutritional qualities of food.
This will conclude with a 2000 word report including photographic evidence.
Food preparation task (3 hour practical) — 30% of the final mark. The
practical examination must be completed in a single period of no more
than three hours. Pupils are expected to produce a three course menu
to suit a certain design brief and present it at the end of the allocated
time.
Accreditation
Pupils will have the opportunity to achieve GCSE grade of 1-9.
.
RESISTANT MATERIALS
Resistant Materials GCSE
Head of Department : Mrs H Thom
Necessary Qualities
Students who opt for this course may simply be interested in finding out how the
world works or looking towards a future in the creative industries. Resistant
Materials GCSE leads to wide range of career opportunities in rewarding jobs. It
is estimated that the UK will need an additional 1.8 million engineers by 2022
and 1 million more people to fill jobs in the broader creative industries by 2030.
Students who opt for this GCSE will require a genuine interest in working with
wood, metal and plastics, as well as problem solving activities. They should
have the ability to work independently or as a team on design-and-make tasks
and have the commitment to meet the necessary course deadlines. Interest in
both designing and making (i.e. written and practical work) is essential.
You will also be expected to contribute towards the cost of
materials for some of your practical work.
Course Content
Resistant Materials is a rigorous challenging course which builds
bridges between academic learning and its relevance and application.
This course is concerned with the designing and making of products
using wood, metal and plastic.
Students will have the opportunity to complete several design and make
tasks, that will develop their knowledge and understanding of the
properties and characteristics of various resistant materials. Inspiration
will be taken from technological advances, real world context and
educational visits. They will study methods of working, joining and
shaping common materials and the safe use of tools and machinery, with
a view to producing commercially viable products. Pupils will have
access to both traditional and modern technologies, including CAD/CAM.
Course Requirements:
Controlled Assessment : (45 hours) 60% of final mark
Examination : (2 hour) 40% of final mark - The exam will test
candidates knowledge and understanding through
various question types.
Essential : You are expected to provide an A3 portfolio, USB and a
range of graphic equipment for use during the course. (These can all be
purchased via school) and will be expected to contribute towards the
cost of materials.
Accreditation
All pupils will have the opportunity to achieve a GCSE grade A* - G.
TEXTILES DESIGN
Art & Design GCSE (in Textile Design)
Head of Department : Miss J Breakell
Note: this course cannot be taken with Art & Design
Necessary Qualities
Students who opt for this exciting new GCSE specification will require a
genuine interest in textiles art as a medium, fashion or surface
decoration. They should also have the ability to work independently,
meet deadlines and be organised.
You are also expected to provide fabric for practical work in years
10 & 11.
Course Content
While using textiles as an art medium students will have the opportunity
to investigate into fashion, print, dye, domestic, constructed or applied
textiles. Pupils will be expected to be responsible for keeping a range
of sketch books that show their creativity, individual interests and
passion for designing and making.
Pupils can choose to investigate areas such as; constructed stich and
embellishment, use of colour and pattern, functionality, print, two and/or
three dimensional form. Students are encouraged to produce imaginative, creative and innovative work.
Course Requirements
Unit 1 portfolio - Pupils will be expected to keep a portfolio of work
made up of 4 sub units. Each unit is worth 15 marks with total
marks for unit one equating to 60%.
Externally set exam - Pupils will be set an externally set task which
they will have to research over a series of lessons. A final piece of
work must be completed within 10 hours and equates to 40%.
Accreditation
Pupils will have the opportunity to achieve a GCSE grade A* - G.
The course prepares pupils for future education at College or
possible work routes. Pupils can progress on to do A levels or
BTECS in subjects such as Art and Design, Fashion, Graphics,
Garment cutting, Apparel wear, photography etc.
COMPUTER SCIENCE
Co-Ordinator : Mr P Rawcliffe
This option is in addition to the CORE COMPUTING course that all
pupils follow and gives the opportunity to achieve one GCSE that can
be included as one of the EBacc subjects.
Necessary Qualities
Students who opt for this qualification will require a genuine interest in
Computer Science and an appreciation of how programming and
algorithms can be applied to solve real-world problems. This course
would suit pupils who are:


Achieving high levels in both mathematics and Small Basic at
Key stage 3.
Able to work independently, to meet assessment requirements
and be creative.
Course Requirements
Pupils will be entered for a full GCSE which consists of 2 units of
coursework and one written examination. The first unit of work is an
investigative project. The second unit of work is a practical application
of programming to solve a real-world problem. The written examination
has questions relating to computer systems.
Accreditation
Each unit requires the pupils to provide evidence of work that matches
the specific objectives of the unit and its assessment criteria. This
evidence is marked from 1 to 9. Coursework counts towards 60% of
the GCSE. There is a written examination which counts towards 40% of
the GCSE.
RELIGIOUS STUDIES
Religious Studies GCSE
Head of Department : Mr M Rushton
Introduction
In GCSE RE pupils will look at a number of world religions including
Christianity and Islam. In the course they will be expected to learn
about practices and beliefs of these different religions. Pupils will also
have to consider how these beliefs and practices would affect a
believer’s life. In addition they will also be given the opportunity to
explore their own beliefs on a wide variety of moral and ethical issues
ranging from abortion, the afterlife to the effect humans are having on
the environment. Teaching takes place using a variety of methods
including group discussion, visits from speakers and trips to local faith
centres.
Requirements
Pupils need to have a keen interest in RE and a willingness to learn
about different religions and cultures. They also need to be able to
express their ideas and opinions in a mature manner. The course does
require pupils to be able to analyse religious texts for their meanings
and complete pieces of extended writing.
Content
Beliefs and practices of major religions, including Christianity
and Islam.
The affects of different religion on followers.
Moral issues and ethics.
Assessment
Four separate 1 hour examinations to be taken throughout the course.
Basic equipment
Pupils will need the basic school equipment stated in their organiser.
BUSINESS
Business GCSE
Head of Department : Mrs C Waters
Could you be the next Lord Sugar or the next Deborah Meadon (from
Dragons Den)? You could be with the right business skills and know
how. Even if running your own business isn’t something that interests
you, everyone needs employability skills from time management to
team working. Being able to perform in a job interview will help to kick
start your career and help you to get into the job market. Improve your
job prospects by getting a Business Studies qualification here at
Prestwich Arts College.
Course Content
Students will study and complete 2 units of work, Unit 1 is assessment
through an external examination and Unit 2 is assessed through a piece
of controlled assessment. The course is equivalent to 1 GCSE and is
graded A*- G using a points score system.
Unit 1 Business in Action : This unit introduces students to issues
concerning the setting up and operation of a business. It explores the
activities of business and the reasons for success or failure. Students
will also explore the importance of business planning, advertising,
market research, legal ownership, business objectives and much more.
(Written Examination Paper = 40% of overall mark)
Unit 2 Making your Mark in Business : In this unit students will be
set a research and investigation task by the examination board. They
can however tailor this task so that it compliments a local business of
interest. This unit will be assessment based on a piece of controlled
assessment / portfolio of evidence.
(Controlled Assessment = 60% of overall mark)
Course Requirements
Students must have an interest in business and enjoy completing
research and typing up assignments. Students will be expected to
contribute to the cost of visits and at least one educational visit will
take place over the duration of the course. Basic equipment such as
writing materials are necessary and a USB Memory Stick would also
support the transportation of homework and research between school,
study studio and home.
PHYSICAL EDUCATION
Physical Education BTEC Sport
Head of Department : Miss F L Bury
Maximum number of students : 25 boys and 25 girls
Necessary Qualities
To choose physical education and sport you must be: a good all round
sport / games player, be committed to learning, have the ability to cope
with theory lessons and controlled assessments, and be able to work
independently.
Course Content
BTEC sport (GCSE equivalent):


75% modules linked to anatomy and physiology, fitness and
leadership.
25% on-line written examination
Accreditation
Sport and leisure is a growing industry, with opportunities in practical
areas such as coaching, instructing and leading outdoor and adventure
activities, as well as in facility management and administration. If you
wish to study A-Level PE or BTEC Sport at college then this is the
course for you.
Please be prepared for classroom based work as the course is
assessed by controlled assessments and an online exam.
It would be an advantage if you take part in at least one sport outside of
school hours to a good standard.
Basic Equipment
Girls Kit
Two Toned Blue Polo Shirt with School Logo
White Socks
Navy Shorts with School Logo
Trainers
Navy Sweatshirt with School Logo
Plain Navy Tracksuit Pants
Boys Kit
Navy Shorts with School Logo
Long Navy Football Socks
Football Boots
Navy Rugby Shirt with School Logo
Two Toned Blue Polo Shirt with School Logo
Trainers
Plain Navy Tracksuit Pants
All equipment is compulsory and must be brought to every
lesson. Kit with the school logo must be bought from the school
office. All other equipment may be purchased from any outlet.

Options

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