Optional GCSE & Vocational Subjects

During this two year course you will complete three main coursework projects: 

Coursework 1: Fragments

In this unit you will be investigating the theme of fragments with regards to language and also the figure.

Coursework 2 : Messages

As a result of your work on fragments and investigating ways in which the figure and language can convey meaning. You will explore ideas, emotions, or social issues through visual storytelling and you will use your art to engage with the audience, demonstrating your own perspectives on topics that are important to yourself.

Coursework 3: Events/ Natural Decay

In this unit you will be documenting natural change through drawing,painting,costume and sculpture. You will  be exploring the beauty and inevitability of aging, transformation, and the passage of time. You will manipulate materials to recreate textures, and imagery of decomposition to highlight the fragility of life and the cycle of renewal in nature.

• Component 1: Personal Portfolio (coursework)
• Component 2: Externally Set Exam (year 11) 2 days. Students will receive 10 weeks of preparatory time before the exam.

Throughout the course students work will be assessed against these four assessment objectives:

• AO1: Developing idea
• AO2: Refining ideas
• AO3: Recording ideas
• AO4: Realisation of ideas

In year 11 all of your work will be marked by your teachers and then by an external moderator.

Art is a unique subject that enables us to view the world in which we live differently. It also encourages us to problem solve, be inventive, expressive and analytical. It can make us challenge ourselves and come out of our comfort zone with regards to our interpretation of topical issues. It makes us more individual and allows us a vehicle through which to express our opinions.

The creative industries are the fastest growing industries in the UK at the moment. Students who have studied Art can go on to become: 

Architect, Artist, Costume Designer, Directors, Art Director, Interior Designer, Fashion Designer, Prop Maker, Special Effects Technician, Illustrator, Teacher, Web Page Designer, TV Producer, Film Maker, Set Designer and many more.

Theme 1 comprises five topic areas. 

• Topic 1.1 Enterprise and entrepreneurship – students are introduced to the dynamic nature of business in relation to how and why business ideas come about. They also explore the impact of risk and reward on business activity and the role of entrepreneurship. 
• Topic 1.2 Spotting a business opportunity – students will explore how new and small businesses identify opportunities through understanding customer needs and conducting market research. They will also focus on understanding the competition. 
• Topic 1.3 Putting a business idea into practice – this topic focuses on making a business idea happen through identifying aims and objectives and concentrating on the financial aspects. 
• Topic 1.4 Making the business effective – students will explore a range of factors that impact on the success of the business, including location, the marketing mix and the business plan. 
• Topic 1.5 Understanding external influences on business – students are introduced to a range of factors, many of which are outside of the immediate control of the business, such as stakeholders, technology, legislation and the economy

Two written examination papers, paper 1 and paper 2. Each paper is 1 hour and 45 minutes and each paper is 50% of the qualification 90 marks.

Entrepreneurship, finance manager, marketing manager, teacher of business, events manager, accounting and business consultant.

Component One Exploring Media Products – Learners will develop their understanding of how media products create meaning for their audiences. Learners will examine existing products and explore media production techniques. 

Component Two Developing Digital Media Production Skills – Learners will develop and apply skills and techniques in media production processes  by creating a media product from one of the following sectors: audio/moving image, print or interactive design.  

Component Three Create a Media Product in Response to a Brief – Learners will apply and develop their planning and production skills and techniques to create a media product in response to a client brief.

• Component 1: Exploring Media Products. Non-exam internal assessment set by Pearson, marked by the centre and moderated by Pearson. (30% of final grade)
• Component 2: Developing Digital Media Production Skills. Non-exam internal assessment set by Pearson, marked by the centre and moderated by Pearson. (30% of final grade)
• Component 3: Create a Media Product in Response to a Brief Assessment Task set and marked by Pearson completed under supervised conditions. (40% of final grade)

This course builds a foundation for a career in media production, there are numerous job opportunities in broadcast, print and online media. These could include: Producer, Journalist, Animator, Game Designer, Camera operator, Visual FX and Editor

Paper 1: Theoretical Knowledge

Paper 1 focuses on the theoretical knowledge underpinning the physical components of computer systems and the broader implications of computing technology. Paper 1 includes:

• Systems Architecture: Understanding the components of a computer system, including the CPU, memory, and storage, and how they interact with each other.
• Memory and Storage: Exploring how data is stored within a computer system, including the different types of memory (RAM, ROM) and storage devices (hard drives, SSDs).
• Computer Networks, Connections, and Protocols: Covering the basics of networking, including the structure and use of local and wide area networks, the Internet, and networking protocols.
• Network Security: An overview of the threats to computer networks and the methods used to protect them, such as firewalls and encryption.
• Systems Software: Understanding the software that manages the hardware, including operating systems, utility software, and translators.
• Ethical, Legal, Cultural, and Environmental Concerns: Discussing the impact of computer technology on society and the environment, including issues related to data privacy, intellectual property rights, and the digital divide.

Paper 2: Computational Thinking, Algorithms and Programming

Paper 2 shifts focus towards the skills and knowledge required for computational thinking, problem-solving, and programming. The content includes:

• Algorithms: Understanding and designing algorithms to solve problems, including the use of flowcharts and pseudocode.
• Programming Techniques: Learning programming concepts and constructs, such as variables, data types, iteration, selection, and the use of arrays.
• Producing Robust Programs: Covering techniques to design, write, and test programs effectively, including error handling and debugging.
• Computational Logic: Understanding how data is represented within computer systems, including binary, and the application of Boolean logic.
• Translators and Facilities of Languages: Exploring how high-level programming languages are translated into executable code and the features of programming languages that make them suitable for different tasks.
• Data Representation: Covering how data is represented and manipulated within computer systems, including numbers, characters, and images.

Computer Science is assessed through 2 written exam papers. Each is worth 50% of your overall qualification. The papers are 90 minutes long and are assessed at the end of year 11.

GCSE Computer Science provides the foundational knowledge and skills needed for a wide range of highly paid and much sought after careers. These include; Software Developer/Engineer, Web Developer, Cybersecurity Analyst, Data Analyst/Scientist, Network Engineer, IT Support Specialist, Game Developer, Artificial Intelligence (AI) Developer, UX/UI Designer and Database Administrator

GCSE Design and Technology is divided into three sections: Core Technical Principles, Specialist Technical Principles, and Design and Making Principles.

• Core Technical Principles covers the main knowledge for all designers. This includes the properties and classification of materials, the impact of design on society, the use of energy, systems and mechanisms, the development of new technologies, and meeting business needs.  You will be expected to make reasoned judgements and predictions based on your learning experiences.
• Specialist Technical Principles is where you choose a material specialism for mastery from the selection of Timbers, Metals, Polymers, Electronics, Papers and Boards, or Textiles. You will learn the material in detail along with the specific tools and processes needed when manufacturing.  We expect all students to master Timbers through their woodwork projects, but you will also gain additional specialist knowledge through your coursework depending on your designs.
• Design and Making Principles is focussed on the application of your knowledge into design projects. This also includes strategies for solving problems, creating new ideas, communicating your designs and methods of research.  You will  need to demonstrate being able to work like a professional and evaluate the choices made by other designers. This will be shown through your own projects and your answers to exam questions.

Your final GCSE grade is calculated from two assessments. Both assessments are worth the same amount:

• 50% – NEA coursework project worth 100 marks
• 50% – written exam worth 100 marks
• 15% of the total grade is directly assessed through maths such as geometry, analysing data and calculating ratios.

Design and technology prepares you for a wide range of existing careers, while the topics about the development of new technologies allow you to consider careers that don’t yet exist.

There are clear links to careers such as: Architect, Industrial designer, Mechanical engineer, Structural engineer, Fashion designer, Graphic designer, Manufacturing, Project management, Buyers and merchandisers and the building trades like carpentry, plumbing and electrician.

GCSE Design and Technology also develops your ability to solve problems, manage time and resources, then set and achieve realistic targets; skills that are extremely useful in all industries and professions.

BTEC DIT is divided into 3 distinct Components.

Component 1: Exploring User Interface Design Principles and Project Planning Techniques

• User Interface Design: Understanding the principles of good user interface design and how to apply them to create effective digital products.
• Project Planning: Learning techniques for planning and managing a digital project, including timelines, milestones, and resources.

Component 2: Collecting, Presenting and Interpreting Data

• Data Collection: Techniques for gathering and sourcing data relevant to a given purpose.
• Data Presentation: Exploring different ways to present data effectively to meet user needs.
• Data Interpretation: Understanding how to analyse and interpret data to make informed decisions.

Component 3: Effective Digital Working Practices

• IT Systems Security: Learning about the threats to IT systems and how to protect against them.
• Ethical, Legal, and Regulatory Considerations: Understanding the ethical, legal, and regulatory issues relevant to digital information technology.
• Project Management: Gaining insight into project management tools and techniques for successful digital projects.

Component 1 and Component 2 are both assessed through a series of controlled assessment tasks which are sat in lesson. They are marked and moderated by the class teacher before standards verification is carried out by Pearson. These two components account for 40% of the final qualification. Component 3 is assessed through one exam which lasts for 1 hour and 30 minutes. This exam is worth 60% of the overall qualification. 

All components allow students to take advantage of one resit opportunity to improve their grade in both their exam and controlled assessment components.

BTEC DIT focuses on industry relevant skills. As such it is perfectly poised as an entry point into the following careers;

IT Support Technician, Digital Marketer, Web Designer, Social Media Coordinator, Data Analyst, App Developer, User Experience (UX) Designer, Network Administrator, Cybersecurity Analyst and Graphic Designer

This course offers an in-depth exploration of food preparation, cooking techniques, and the science behind food. Youbwill delve into the following key areas of study:

• Food, Nutrition, and Health: Learn about macronutrients, micronutrients, and the role of a balanced diet in promoting well-being and preventing dietary-related diseases.
• Food Science: Investigate the functional and chemical properties of ingredients, the effects of cooking methods, and the principles behind food processing and preservation.
• Food Safety: Develop an understanding of food hygiene, the prevention of food-borne illnesses, and best practices for safe food storage and preparation.
• Food Choice: Examine the cultural, moral, and environmental factors that influence food preferences, and learn to modify recipes to meet diverse dietary needs.
• Food Provenance: Explore the origins of food, including ethical and sustainable farming, food miles, and the environmental impact of food production and packaging.

Through a combination of hands-on cooking tasks, scientific investigations, and theoretical study, you will build confidence in planning, preparing, and presenting nutritious and appealing dishes. The course also promotes essential life skills and paves the way for further education or careers in the food and hospitality industries.

The course is assessed equally for the coursework and the written exam. 

• 15% NEA 1 – Food investigation coursework
• 35% NEA 2 – Food preparation coursework
• 50% Written exam. (100 marks)

The food industry is the largest manufacturing sector in the UK, valued at over £100 Billion. GCSE Food Preparation and Nutrition gives you the knowledge and skills to take a number of roles in this huge area of business; from food scientists and researchers, to chefs and food testers.

Beyond the direct careers you will also develop transferable skills such researching and planning for specific user needs, formal evaluation methods and project management.

This broad course covers a range of topics and world issues. Students will learn from examples taken from around the world on how we can manage these issues for either immediate intervention or for the future gain. Our course is unique and it is an expectation that we do two compulsory fieldwork opportunities where students get to conduct their own research into the human and physical environment to support their third examination.

You will be assessed in three examinations: 

Paper 1: 1h30 – Physical Geography (35%)

• Hazards 
• Living World
• Coasts and Rivers 

Paper 2: 1h30 – Human Geography (35%)

• Urban Environments
• Changing Economic World 
• Resource Management and Food 

Paper 3: 1h30 – Geography Fieldwork and Investigation (30%)  

• Geographical Issues 
• Fieldwork

Geography is an amazing subject to study as employers look for transferable skills into other subjects but also how well you can apply content from the classroom into the field (and practicals). The following careers would be applicable to Geography:

Town Planner and Surveyor, Architect, Google Analyst, International Politics, Environmental Conservationist / Ecologist, Tourism, Energy Consultant and Geologist / Volcanologist

Students will complete a total of three components over the duration of the programme. This includes two pre-set assignments for Component 1 and Component 2. Students will sit an external assessment for Component 3.

• Component 1 – Human Lifespan Development is a pre- set assignment, this is a controlled assessment and is equal to 30% of the course
• Component 2 – Health Social Care Services and Values is a pre-set assignment, this is a controlled assessment and is equal to 30% of the course
• Component 3 – Health and Wellbeing is an externally set assessment and is equal to 40% of the course.  This can be taken in February and May.

The programme is delivered by teachers who have a wide range of expertise in the sector. Students may expect to cover interesting topics relating to the real world and develop transferable skills in the process including:

•  The ability to enhance their english and mathematical competence in relevant applied scenarios. Work as a member of a team, solve problems, become independent learners and develop personal learning and thinking skills
• Navigate a route through education that has a clear progression pathway into post 16, further education or an apprenticeship
• Progression to Post 16 to study either BTEC Level 3 vocational qualification or Level 3 Technical Certificate
• Further study will lead to University or the world of work to become a health/social care professional such as an adult nurse, paediatric nurse, social worker, carer, healthcare assistant, midwife, firefighter, teacher and many more. The choice is endless.

Students will study the history of Crime and Punishment in Britain from c.1000-present, covering the key moments of British history with case studies and how the law was affected by each event.

Following this, students will learn about the Weimar Republic and how Germany was affected by the Great War. As well as learning about the rise of Hitler, students will develop skills on source work and working with historical interpretations.

In year 11 students will study the key events of Elizabethan England, including the issues Elizabeth faced as a single female within a patriarchal society and how she managed to overcome religious divisions as well as conflict with Spain.

The final unit is that of British America, 1713-1783. Students will understand why Britain wished to control the American colonies and how the American colonies gained their independence from the British.

100% examination

Paper 1

• Crime and punishment in Britain, c1000–present and Whitechapel, c1870-c1900: crime, policing and the inner city.
• 1 hour and 20 minutes 
• 52 marks.

Paper 2

• Early Elizabethan England, 1558–88.
• British America, 1713–83: empire and revolution.
• 1 hour and 45 minutes.
• 64 marks.

Paper 3

• Weimar and Nazi Germany, 1918–39.
• 1 hour and 20 minutes
• 52 marks

Academic researcher, Archivist, Heritage manager, Historic buildings inspector/ conservation officer, Museum education officer, Museum/ gallery curator, Museum/ gallery exhibitions officer, Secondary school teacher.

• To record a variety of performances on the learner’s chosen instrument/voice
• 1 x Composition to a brief set by the learner 
• 1 x Ensemble performance
• 1 x Composition to an OCR set brief 
• For the listening and appraising exam component, students will study the following areas: Film and game music, The concerto through time, Conventions of pop and Rhythms of the world.

• An integrated performance and composition component with learner choice of instrument/voice – (30% of total GCSE)
• A practical portfolio that includes the board set composition task and an ensemble performance – (30% of total GCSE)
• The performance and composition components are internally assessed and externally moderated by OCR
• Listening and appraisal, 1 hour 30 minutes written exam – (40% of total GCSE)

• Broadcasting/Media
• Film Composer
• Manager
• Music journalist
• Music teacher
• Musician
• Producer
• Session musician
• Singer
• Songwriter/Arranger
• Sound technician

Learners will examine live and/or recorded performances in at least three different styles in order to develop their understanding of professional performing arts work in one or more styles of acting  with reference to influences, outcomes and purpose. Learners will gain a practical appreciation of professional work by exploring existing performance material in acting. They will learn how professionals may respond to or treat a particular theme or issue, how they use/interpret/modify a pre-existing style, and how they communicate ideas to their audience through stylistic qualities.

Learners will explore and participate in workshops and classes to develop their knowledge and understanding

• Component 1: Exploring the Performing Arts – Students will develop their understanding of the Performing Arts industry by examining the work of performing arts professionals and the processes used to create performance(30%)
• Component 2: Developing Skills and Techniques in the Performing Arts – Students will develop their performing arts skills and techniques through the reproduction of musical theatre repertoire as performers or designers (30%)
• Component 3: Responding to a Brief – Students will be given the opportunity to work as part of a group to contribute to a workshop performance as either a performer or a designer in response to a brief and stimulus(40%)

Once you have completed the qualification, you will have developed a practical understanding of the performing arts industry, and the roles and responsibilities of the people involved in performing arts industries. Because you will be building useful skills, which are not generally covered in GCSE courses, you will have a better understanding of whether the performing arts industry is for you. This will allow you to decide whether this is an area you want to continue to study.

The course will also help you to develop specific skills and knowledge, such as self evaluation and group work, which will benefit you wherever you progress to next. A BTEC Acting qualification can open the door to various exciting careers in the performing arts, creative industries, and beyond. Here are some potential career paths: actor, director, playwright, sound designer, costume designer, lighting designer, playwright, Drama teacher, Drama therapist, make-up artist, content creator, speech and language therapist  or journalist.

Learners will examine live and/or recorded performances in at least three different styles in order to develop their understanding of professional performing arts work in one or more dance with reference to influences, outcomes and purpose. Learners will gain a practical appreciation of professional work by exploring existing performance material in dance. They will learn how professionals may respond to or treat a particular theme or issue, how they use/interpret/modify a pre-existing style, and how they communicate ideas to their audience through stylistic qualities.

Learners will explore and participate in workshops and classes to develop their knowledge and understanding

• Component 1: Exploring the Performing Arts Students will develop their understanding of the Performing Arts industry by examining the work of performing arts professionals and the processes used to create performance(30%)
• Component 2: Developing Skills and Techniques in the Performing Arts Students will develop their performing arts skills and techniques through the reproduction of musical theatre repertoire as performers or designers (30%)
• Component 3: Responding to a Brief Students will be given the opportunity to work as part of a group to contribute to a workshop performance as either a performer or a designer in response to a brief and stimulus(40%)

Once you have completed the qualification, you will have developed a practical understanding of the performing arts industry, and the roles and responsibilities of the people involved in performing arts industries. Because you will be building useful skills, which are not generally covered in GCSE courses, you will have a better understanding of whether the performing arts industry is for you. This will allow you to decide whether this is an area you want to continue to study. The course will also help you to develop specific skills and knowledge, such as self evaluation and group work, which will benefit you wherever you progress. Possible progressions could include a Level 3 programme, such as A Levels or a BTEC National, either on its own or in combination with A levels.

A BTEC Dance qualification can open the door to various exciting careers in the performing arts, creative industries, and beyond. Here are some potential career paths: professional dancer, choreographer, dance teacher, movement therapist and a musical theatre performer.

The course involves analysing the work of photographers, learning the rules of photography, how to use a DSLR camera, how to use digital editing software, learning how to use the darkroom and studio, planning and creating photoshoots, studying and creating work using a wide variety of techniques, learning about the concepts behind pieces and creating your own concepts and visiting exhibitions. The 2 years includes a foundation module, 2 courseworks that total 60% and a practical exam which totals the remaining 40%. 

Your work is continually assessed and you are marked on artist analysis, practical skills such as photoshoots, editing best shots both digitally and physically, planning and developing personal responses, overcoming mistakes and creating final pieces. We encourage our students to try out a variety of photographic techniques and styles in order for you to develop your own projects based on your own interests.

It’s not just about taking photos, you know! Graphic designer, magazine features editor, medical illustrator, photographer, press photographer,  television camera operator, advertising, art director, digital marketer, films or video editor, media planner, school or college teacher, visual merchandiser, web designer, fashion photographer, events photographer…….It can lead onto many careers and you can tailor your work once you have discovered if your style is more documentary, creative, political, informative or alternative.

Theoretical Content (60%)

• Anatomy and Physiology: Understanding the skeletal, muscular, cardiovascular, and respiratory systems and their role in physical activity.
• Movement Analysis: Key biomechanical concepts such as lever systems, planes, and axes of movement.
• Physical Training: The components of fitness, methods of training, and principles of training, alongside strategies to prevent injury.
• Health, Fitness, and Well-being: The impact of lifestyle choices on physical and mental health.
• Socio-cultural Influences: How socio-economic, cultural, and ethical factors affect participation and performance in sport, as well as the impact of technology and commercialization.
• Use of Data: Developing the ability to analyze and interpret data to improve performance.

Practical Performance (40%)

• Performance in Physical Activities: Students are assessed in three activities: one team activity, one individual activity, and a third that can be either.
• Analysis and Evaluation of Performance (AEP): Students analyse a performance to identify strengths and weaknesses and create an action plan for improvement.

Paper 1: The Human Body and Movement in Physical Activity and Sport:

• Written exam (1 hour 15 minutes)
• 78 marks, 30% of GCSE
• Topics include anatomy, physiology, movement analysis, physical training, and data use.

Paper 2: Socio-cultural Influences and Well-being in Physical Activity and Sport

• Written exam (1 hour 15 minutes)
• 78 marks, 30% of GCSE
• Covers health and well-being, socio-cultural influences, and the use of data.

Non-exam Assessment (NEA): Practical Performance and AEP

• 100 marks, 40% of GCSE
• Assesses practical skills in three sports and the Analysis and Evaluation of Performance (AEP).

The AQA GCSE PE course offers a strong foundation for further study and careers in sports and health-related fields. It can lead to:

A-levels in Physical Education, Biology, or Sport Science.

Vocational qualifications such as BTECs in Sport, Fitness, or Health.

Careers in areas such as sports coaching, personal training, physiotherapy, PE teaching, sports psychology, sports management, and more.

Following your successful completion of the GCSE Physical Education you may wish to pursue:

• Further study of Physical Education at A level
• Vocational courses such as BTEC Nationals in Sport and Sport and Exercise Sciences

The course is structured into key areas to give a broad understanding of health and fitness:

Body Systems and Principles of Training

• Understanding the skeletal, muscular, cardiovascular, and respiratory systems.
• Principles of training and how they improve fitness and performance.
• Health and Fitness Activities and Exercise

Knowledge of exercise methods and their effects on the body.

• Understanding how to create fitness programs to achieve specific goals.

Lifestyle and Well-Being

• Factors influencing health and fitness, such as diet, mental health, and physical activity.

Planning and Developing Fitness Programs

• Applying theoretical knowledge to design and deliver health and fitness programs tailored to individuals or groups.

This qualification lays the foundation for various opportunities in the health and fitness sector:

Progression to Level 3 qualifications (e.g., BTECs or A Levels in Sport and Fitness).

Entry into further training programs, such as personal training or coaching qualifications.

Career paths such as fitness instructors, sports coaches, or health and well-being advisors.

It also provides transferable skills, such as communication, planning, and teamwork, valuable for broader career fields.

Two end of course examinations (one on each component) Each examination is worth 50% of the overall GCSE

Contains 96 marks (plus 5 spelling, punctuation and grammar) Duration of 1hr 45.

• Component 1: Study of Religious Beliefs, Teachings and Practices (Christianity and Islam)
• Component 2: Thematic Studies

Skills developed transcend all career paths: Independent and critical thinking, evaluation of diverse viewpoints, application of information to a variety of issues, debating and discussion, analysis of key contemporary issues and their impact upon society. Religious studies is identified by top universities as being a valuable qualification.

Theme 1: People and lifestyle

• Topic 1: Identity and relationships with others
• Topic 2: Healthy living and lifestyle
• Topic 3: Education and work

Theme 2: Popular culture

• Topic 1: Free-time activities
• Topic 2: Customs, festivals and celebrations
• Topic 3: Celebrity culture

Theme 3: Communication and the world around us

• Topic 1: Travel and tourism, including places of interest
• Topic 2: Media and technology
• Topic 3: The environment and where people live

Studying GCSE Spanish can open up a range of career prospects and opportunities, both directly related to the language and in various other fields where language skills are valued. Here are some potential career paths for individuals with proficiency in Spanish:

Translation and Interpretation, International Business and Trade, Tourism and Hospitality, Education, Diplomacy and International Relations, Media and Journalism, Nonprofit and International Development, Science and Research, Cultural Exchange and Arts, Freelancing and Entrepreneurship

Unit 1: The business of retail

This unit introduces learners to the competitive and dynamic nature of the retail industry. Learners will gain knowledge and understanding of the different types of retail organisations that compete for customers and how these businesses are managed in order to achieve their aims and provide a continuous supply of products.

Unit 2: Customer service for retail business

This unit introduces learners to the importance of customer service to retail organisations. Pupils will gain knowledge and understanding of the principles of customer service and how retail organisations use these to give their customers a positive experience and the importance of meeting the expectations of different types of customers in physical stores and online and how this can be achieved in different retail environments.

Unit 3: Merchandising and marketing retail products

This unit explores how retail organisations use visual merchandising and marketing to attract customers and meet their goals. Pupils will examine the principles of physical and digital displays, eventually designing their own installations to target specific audiences. Additionally, pupils will study marketing strategies, focusing on the marketing mix and the role of technology in promotion. To demonstrate their understanding, pupils will create promotional materials and explain how these designs support business objectives.

Unit 1 – external examination (40% of the qualification)

Unit 2 – non-examination assessment completed throughout the course (30% of the qualification)

Unit 3 – non-examination assessment completed throughout the course (30% of the qualification)

There are a number of future careers that studying Business can lead to, such as: entrepreneurship, visual merchandiser, digital merchandiser, marketing assistant, retail buyer, retail department manager, customer experience manager, social media coordinator, market research assistant and many other roles.

Students study a wide range of media forms, including:

• Newspapers, 
• Television (sitcom)
• Music (music video and online media)
• Advertising & Marketing, 
• Film, 
• Video games, 
• Radio
• Magazines. 

The curriculum balances the study of modern and historic set products with a practical component, allowing students to create their own original media productions.

The course is linear and consists of three components:

• Component 1 – Exploring the Media: Written exam, 40%
• Component 2 – Understanding Media Forms and Products: Written exam, 30%
• Component 3 – Creating Media Products: Non-exam assessment, 30%

The media industries are major global employers, and this course provides a foundational understanding of their economic and cultural importance. Students develop transferable skills in decision-making, research, and creative production.

There is also a ‘Required Practical’ element that is not explicitly assessed but compulsory and will be addressed in the final exams.

There are six papers: two Biology, two Chemistry and two Physics. Each of the papers will assess knowledge and understanding from distinct topic areas, through multiple choice, structured, closed short answers, and open response questions. 

40% of marks will be based on demonstrating knowledge and understanding; 40% of marks will be based on applying that knowledge and understanding and 20% on analysing given information and ideas. 

There is also an increased maths/numeracy component to the examinations. Overall 20% of marks will be derived from numeracy-based questions (10% from Biology, 20% from Chemistry and 30% from Physics)

• Biology element – 2 written exams: each 1 hour 45 minutes (Foundation and  Higher Tier)  100 marks each.  Each paper 16.7% of GCSE
• Chemistry element – 2 written exams: each 1 hour 45 minutes (Foundation and Higher Tier) 100 marks each.  Each paper 16.7% of GCSE 
• Physics element – 2 written exams: each 1 hour 45 minutes (Foundation and Higher Tier) 100 marks each. Each paper 16.7% of GCSE

We have put together a small list of careers in Science to give you an idea of the number of doors a good Science qualification can open.

Architect, Astrophysicist, Biochemist, Dentist, Doctor, Engineer, Forensic Science, Marine Biologist, Microbiologist, Nurse, Paramedic, Pathologist, Pharmacist, Surveyor, Teacher (Physics, Chemistry, Biology), Vet.