Pathways 2022
OPTIONS
YOUR FUTURE - PATHWAYS 2022
Message from the Principal I am sure you do not need me to tell you how important it is to get the best results possible by the end of Year 11. Good results will ensure that you have the best possible opportunities when you leave Wayland Academy.
This booklet gives the details of individual course requirements, but please be mindful that some subject information may change. Please take the time to consider your choices and do not hesitate to ask for advice from your teachers or Head of Year.
In September, you will be beginning the next phase of your education. This is a crucial transition and will involve subject choices that will shape your future plans. It is important that right choices are made, so that whatever your ability, you end up with a Pathways programme which promotes stimulation, enjoyment and enables you to have every chance of success.
I hope that you nd this booklet useful and that, together, we can provide a programme in September which will help you full your ambitions and potential.
You have a number of decisions to make, almost a third of your timetable will be decided by you, so you are in a unique position to be creative with your choices. This booklet is for students and parents or carers. Please read this booklet carefully to think about your interests, ambitions, talents and progress to date. The combination of choices that you elect to study now will see you through to the end of your time at Wayland Academy; you will need to think carefully about the subjects you wish to study. The Pathways you choose will give you the opportunity to pursue your preferred courses later at Sixth Form, College or on an Apprenticeship. All students are now required to remain in education or training until 18.
As well as your Pathways choices you will also study a number of compulsory subjects, we call these subjects ‘Core’. These subjects are: English Language English Literature Mathematics Mathematics - Statistics Combined Science Physical Education French
Glen Allott Principal, Wayland Academy
We shall do our very best to run as many courses as possible in order to meet demand. However, if a subject is undersubscribed you will be given your reserve or you may need to choose an alternative option.
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Pathways Options
The English Baccalaureate The Department for Education Guidance
Most students are able to study all of the subjects they have chosen. However, if too many students wish to do a particular subject, or there are not enough to make a viable group, or the particular combination of subjects cannot work on the timetable, then reserve options will be used. In addition, if the end of Key Stage 3 assessments and other examination marks gathered throughout Year 9 indicate that alternative options would be more appropriate, advice will be given. If at any stage it looks like students will not be able to do a chosen subject, discussions will take place to establish alternative options.
The English Baccalaureate is intended to give students greater opportunity to study in and beyond the vital core of English, Mathematics and the Sciences. It therefore has particular focus on key subjects which, in the past, have been withdrawn from Key Stage 4 by some schools, even where students might benet from them. These include languages, for example, where research has identied that there are clear advantages in terms of cognitive skills and understanding. History and Geography have also been in decline. The subjects promoted by the English Baccalaureate have been selected to give students the best opportunities for university and beyond. It's vital that students and their families understand the importance of option choices as we look on to potential university studies. Many of the subjects included here are a minimum entry requirement for degree level. The subjects identied and included in the English Baccalaureate are: Mathematics, English, Computer Science, Sciences, Geography, History and Languages.
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Core Subjects All students will complete the following curriculum:
Mandatory Subjects Geography or History
Open Subjects Art and Design
GCSE English Language
Business Studies
GCSE English Literature
Computer Science
GCSE Mathematics
Further Maths
GCSE Mathematics - Statistics
Geography*
GCSE Combined Science
Hospitality and Catering
GCSE French
PE
Physical Education
Performing Arts Textiles *Can only be selected if History has been selected as the Mandatory choice.
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Pathways Timeline Year 9
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Monday 21st March
Friday 1st April
Tuesday 3rd May
Pathways Evening Parents and students can talk to subject teachers
Deadline for Pathways selections to be submitted via Google Form
Interviews to take place with students after this date to discuss Pathways selections
English Language
This subject will be studied by all students alongside English literature.
100% Examination
Students will be expected to infer, interpret and analyse texts; considering how the writer crafts and shapes them for effect. Students will continue to develop their writing skills for a range of different audiences and purposes.
There will be two exam papers totaling 3.5 hours that students will complete at the end of Year 11. Both exam papers will test reading and writing skills.
Students will also demonstrate their oral communication skills by giving an individual presentation using standard formal English.
HOW ARE YOU ASSESSED?
Reading Students will respond to three unseen texts taken from: 19th Century 20th Century 21st Century
Writing Students will also have to complete a range of writing tasks for a variety of purposes. For example, describing, arguing, explaining, informing and persuading. 20% of the total marks will be awarded for spelling, punctuation and grammar. Students will also have to complete a formal presentation which will be awarded in a separate certicate of Speaking and Listening.
POST 16 PROGRESSION There exists a national expectation that all students will achieve a grade 4 pass in GCSE English Language and all students who meet this standard will not need to resit the paper. A functional standard of English is essential in all workplaces and provides an excellent foundation upon which further studies can be based. In terms of Sixth Form progression, a Grade 5 pass at English Language will be necessary to access most English Literature courses at 'A' Level but a Grade 6 will be required to access most English Language 'A' Level courses
EXAM SPECIFICATION: AQA English Language 1-9
WHAT WILL YOU LEARN ABOUT? Students will develop their reading, writing and oral communication skills through the study of a range of ction and non-ction texts from the 19th Century to the present day.
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English Literature
This subject will be studied by all students alongside English language.
HOW ARE YOU ASSESSED?
WHAT WILL YOU LEARN ABOUT?
100% Examination
Students will study: A 19th Century novel A collection of poetry from 1789 onwards A Shakespeare play 20th Century fiction from the British Isles (play or prose)
There will be two exam papers totalling four hours that students will complete at the end of Year 11. Students will be expected to demonstrate their understanding of all of the texts studied. They will be expected to explain themes, ideas and the writer’s craft (use of language, structure and literary devices).
POST 16 PROGRESSION
These will be ‘closed book’ exams (students will not be allowed copies of the texts with them).
GCSE English Literature is essential preparation for 'A' Level English Literature and English Language
5% of the total marks will be awarded for spelling, punctuation and grammar.
English Literature remains an academically rigorous and highly rated subject for further study at 'A' Level and university. Learners exhibit strong analytical and communication skills, together with a logical and thorough grounding in literary and social history.
EXAM SPECIFICATION: AQA English Language 1-9
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Mathematics This qualication in mathematics encourages students to develop condence using a range of mathematical skills and problem solving strategies and to recognise the importance of mathematics in their own lives and to society. This qualication ensures that students secure the fundamental skills required for everyday life; to manage money, make decisions and become systematic, logical thinkers. It also offers the opportunity to extend students' thinking to more abstract concepts; working with algebra to prove or disprove statements, for example.
HOW ARE YOU ASSESSED? Two tiers are available: Foundation and Higher (content is dened for each tier). Tiered Papers: Foundation, Grades 1 - 5 Higher, Grades 3 - 9 Each student is permitted to take assessments in either the Foundation Tier or Higher Tier - this decision will be made by the school following mock examinations. The qualication consists of three examination papers, each lasting one and a half hours. The papers all contribute equally to the nal grade. Paper 1 Calculator not allowed Paper 2 Calculator allowed Paper 3 Calculator allowed
WHAT WILL YOU LEARN ABOUT? Number Algebra Ratio, proportion rates of change Geometry and Measures Probability Statistics You will require a scientic calculator for these subjects.
POST 16 PROGRESSION There exists a national expectation that all students will achieve a grade 4 pass in GCSE Mathematics and all students who meet this standard will not need to re-sit the paper. GCSE Mathematics at a good standard is a requirement for most Sixth Forms and many employment opportunities. Grades 7 to 9 in GCSE Mathematics are highly recommended prior to commencing A level Mathematics. A level Mathematics is an extremely well recognised progression supporting a huge number of degree courses and careers such as economics, accountancy, design, architecture, law and medicine.
EXAM SPECIFICATION: Edexcel Mathematics 1-9
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“Everything is theoretically impossible, until it is done.”
“Scientists have become the bearers of the torch of discovery in our quest for knowledge.”
Robert A. Heinlein
Stephen Hawking
Combined Science Science is such an inspiring subject that has something to offer to every student. It impacts on every aspect of modern life. Science is the study of everything around you. You will use scientic methods to discover the answers to many questions and in the process you may even realise why we do not have all of the answers yet!
There is no controlled assessment, although practical lessons will help you answer questions in the exams.
Science will help you to access all types of careers. Some careers requiring science include: teaching, veterinary science, car mechanics, medicine, space technology, hairdressing, engineering, researching diseases and catering to name a few.
The course is divided into biology, chemistry, and physics lessons.
WHAT WILL YOU LEARN ABOUT? There is also an element of mathematics and working scientically. Both courses allow you to continue your studies at A-level in any of the science courses.
Can I study separate science?
POST 16 PROGRESSION
Separate Science comprises of more content in a greater detail than combined triple science. Students will be told which of the science Pathways they will be covering, depending on their suitability.
The following are possible progression routes with many providers:
HOW ARE YOU ASSESSED? There are two potential courses for GCSE Science: Double Award. Marked on a 17 point scale. 9-9 is the highest and 1-1 is the lowest. Six examination papers each 1 hour 15 minutes. 100% of course assessment. Separate Science. Marked 1-9 in biology, chemistry, and physics - ending in 3 GCSE grades overall. Six examination papers each 1 hour 45 minutes. 100% of course assessment.
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9 – 6 grades in GCSE can lead to A levels in science subjects. 5 – 1 grades in GCSE will allow progression to NVQ level 2 courses. Both Combined and Triple GCSE Science can lead onto any of the science 'A' levels. These in turn can lead to many careers including research, medicine, engineering and conservation.
EXAM SPECIFICATION: AQA GCSE Combined Science: Trilogy AQA Science: Biology, Chemistry, Physics.
French A GCSE in French is highly valued by employers and is useful in many different careers, offering you the chance to work and communicate in other countries. You will gain condence by developing the skills to communicate effectively. Students learn how to talk about themselves, their family and friends, hobbies, where they live, school, holidays and food and drink. They will build on these topics during the GCSE course, as well as moving on to new themes. Throughout the GCSE course, students will have the opportunity to use their language and broaden their vocabulary through the use of a wide range of authentic resources.
HOW ARE YOU ASSESSED? Students will be assessed on four skill areas: Listening Speaking Reading Writing All elements other than the speaking will be externally assessed.
WHAT WILL YOU LEARN ABOUT?
Local, national and international areas of interest Hometown, local environment, pollution, recycling, local facilities, comparisons with other towns and regions, weather and seasons, social issues, travel and holidays, campaigns and good causes. Current and future study and employment School education, work experience, part-time jobs, future plans/careers, technology.
POST 16 PROGRESSION This qualication provides a foundation for the further study of a Modern Foreign Language at AS and A2 and is the basis of lifelong language learning. It is, of course, invaluable for foreign travel. Languages can be studied on their own or combined with many subjects such as law, business, media, literature, history of art, sciences, humanities, IT and engineering. Studying a language promotes the development of communicative, interpersonal and presentational skills as well as increasing job opportunities
EXAM SPECIFICATION: AQA French 1-9
Identity and culture Self, family, friends, home life, shopping, meals, healthy living, illness and accidents, free time, fashion, media, relationships, celebrations and festivals, life in the countries and communities where the language is spoken.
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“There is always something to learn in geography, it is great how we get to learn about physical geography and human geography. The teachers are so supportive. It is hard work but so worth it.”
Geography The world is always changing and geography gives students the chance to learn about and understand these changes. Students will learn in exciting, creative and challenging ways. Studying geography will give students the knowledge and skills that many colleges, universities and employers are looking for.
HOW ARE YOU ASSESSED? There are three examinations at the end of Year 11. One on physical geography, one on human geography and an exam on eldwork and decision making.
You will gain a range of skills that employers value, these skills will give you an advantage if you choose to study at a sixth form, college or on an apprenticeship. These include: group-work, eldwork, presentations, the use of visual resources, simulated games, ICT, extended writing, map-work, diagrams, graph-work, detailed case studies and research-based projects.
POST 16 PROGRESSION
There are two compulsory eld-trips in Year 10. One is to Norwich, where you will compare three different areas. The other is to Overstrand, where you will be conducting experiments on coastal management, river processes and landforms
GCSE Geography is an excellent foundation for progression to 'A' level Geography, which sits well with both Science and Arts subjects. As Geography develops many transferable skills, this means a variety of degree options are available from Environmental Science, Development Studies to Architecture and Law.
WHAT WILL YOU LEARN ABOUT?
EXAM SPECIFICATION:
In physical geography you will be learning about the major forces which have shaped the world you live in, such as coasts, rivers , earthquakes, volcanoes, hurricanes and droughts. You will nd out how these hazards have affected people across the world.
AQA Geography 9-1
In human geography you will be exploring how cities and towns vary around the world, how you can make these cities sustainable and improve shanty towns. You will also study economic development and industry and trade.
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History GCSE history focuses on the issues arising between nations during the turbulent 20th century, as well as in-depth studies in US and British history. If you have enjoyed what you have studied so far in history lessons, you will enjoy the GCSE course. As well as giving you the opportunity to study fascinating periods of history, you will gain valuable and transferable skills that will benet you in future employment. You will develop a range of skills such as communication, the ability to question and the condence to develop your own opinions.
HOW ARE YOU ASSESSED? Paper 1 Migration to Britain, c800-present and Notting Hill, 1948-1970 contributes to 30% of the overall mark. Paper 2 Early Elizabethan England, 1558-88 and Superpower Relations and the Cold War. Contributes to 40% of the overall mark. Paper 3 The USA, 1954-75: conict at home and abroad. Contributes to 30% of the overall mark.
WHAT WILL YOU LEARN ABOUT?
“History is a very interesting course, we have learnt about a range of topics. I would recommend this course; it’s a great GCSE. I especially enjoyed learning about superpower relations and the Cold War.”
Migration to Britain including William of Norwich in the Medieval period, the rise of Liverpool, Windrush and the importance of Notting Hill. Elizabethan England including changes to the Church, Mary Queen of Scots' and the Spanish Armada. US-Soviet relations including events in Cuba and Berlin. The development of civil rights in the USA including events and individuals such as the Montgomery Bus Boycott and Malcolm X, as well as the US involvement in Vietnam.
POST 16 PROGRESSION History serves as a gateway subject for a vast number of professions such as the law, the media, the civil service, travel and tourism, the arts, museums and education, journalism etc. It is viewed as the best 'additional' subject for careers in such diverse areas as medicine, accountancy, business, engineering, architecture, art and design and ICT.
EXAM SPECIFICATION: Edexcel History 1-9
Throughout the course students will study a number of units from different periods in history. Below is a brief summary of the types of topics students can expect during the course.
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Art and Design In art and design you will use a wide range of materials, including 3D elements, to explore ideas and concepts inspired by both contemporary and historical artists and designers. You will be taught the practical and theoretical skills that you need to make creative and exciting work that you will show pride in.
HOW ARE YOU ASSESSED? Component 1: Portfolio: This is 60% of the total grade. You will create a portfolio of work to include evidence of drawing activities and written annotation, which is set and marked by the Academy then moderated by the examiner. Component 2: Externally Set Assignment: This is 40% of the total grade. This is where students create a personal response to a chosen starting point from the exam paper with unlimited preparation time and a ten hour period of sustained focus to include evidence of drawing activity and written annotation (usually over two school days in the art room). Work is then marked by the teacher and moderated by the examiner.
WHAT WILL YOU LEARN ABOUT?
“The thing I like about art and design is having to make my own mind up about my work, I enjoy the independence. I also love that I can experiment with different medias and apply these in interesting and creative ways to my work. I look forward to this subject all week.”
Use artists to link to and help to make your work better and record ideas through a range of media. Review and rene work. Develop your ideas through creating and presenting artwork. Communicate your ideas clearly. Produce a nal piece of work that shows creativity and imagination.
POST 16 PROGRESSION As well as being a hugely popular and rewarding option choice at GCSE, Art and Design is highly favoured and respected by further education providers and employers. This is because they recognise that art students are focused, motivated and creative thinkers. Art students are naturally good at problem solving and pay close attention to aesthetic detail. In terms of Sixth Form progression and for a balanced and well-rounded creative experience, GCSE Art and Design is essential preparation for Fine Art, Art Textiles or Art Multimedia at A Level and for future careers in the creative industries.
Within this course there is the opportunity to study different endorsements:
EXAM SPECIFICATION:
Fine art, drawing and painting, graphic design and three-dimensional design.
Art and Design (art, craft and design)- 8201/C 8201/X
You will be guided and shown how to: Collect your own written and visual research and present it. Demonstrate critical and cultural understanding.
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Business Studies Students will apply their knowledge and understanding to different business contexts, ranging from small enterprises to large multinationals and businesses operating in local, national and global contexts. Students develop an understanding of how these contexts impact on business strategies and priorities. Students will apply their knowledge and understanding to business decision making including: The interdependent nature of business activity, inuences of business, business operations, nance, marketing and HR, and how these interdependencies underpin business decision making.
WHAT WILL YOU LEARN ABOUT? Students will study six units of work: Business in the real world Inuences of business Business operations Human resources Marketing Finance
How different business contexts affect business decisions.
POST 16 PROGRESSION
The use and limitations of quantitative /qualitative data in making business decisions.
Students can study A level Business Studies at Sixth Form and there are a plethora of generic and specialist business courses at university and college in management, accountancy, marketing and nance. GCSE Business also provides a strong foundation for employment, with students progressing with further training / apprenticeships into a wide range of careers such as banking, sales, product management and general management
HOW ARE YOU ASSESSED? The course is assessed by two exams at the end of Year 11. Paper 1: Inuences of Operations and Human Resource Management on Business Activity - 50% of the GCSE. Paper 2: Inuences of Marketing and Finance on Business Activity - 50% of the GCSE.
EXAM SPECIFICATION: AQA Business 8132
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Computer Science Studying computer science encourages students to: Understand and apply the principles and concepts of computer science, including abstraction, decomposition, logic, algorithms and data representation. Analyse problems in computational terms through practical experience of designing, writing and debugging programs. Think creatively, innovatively, analytically, logically and critically. Understand the components that make up digital systems, and how they communicate with one another and other systems. Understand the impacts of digital technology on individuals and wider society Apply mathematical skills relevant to computer science. If you are interested in a career in cyber protection, social media, e-commerce, games development or robotics programming, this could be the option for you.
HOW ARE YOU ASSESSED? Two written papers: Paper one focuses on computer systems. Paper two requires students to apply knowledge and understanding gained in Component 1 and write or rene programs. Each paper is worth 50% of the nal mark.
WHAT WILL YOU LEARN ABOUT? Component 1 Computer systems: the central processing unit (CPU), computer
NOTE: Computer Science requires a highly mathematical approach. If you are not in a higher set for maths, please discuss this with a teacher before making your nal choice. memory and storage, data representation, wired and wireless networks, network topologies, system security and system software. You will also explore ethical, legal, cultural and environmental concerns associated with computer science. Component 2 Computational thinking: algorithms, programming techniques, producing robust programs, computational logic and translators. Practical programming skills: you will be given the opportunity to undertake a programming task(s) during your course of study which allows you to develop your skills to design, write, test and rene programs using a high-level programming language. You will be assessed on these skills during the written examinations, in particular Component 2 (section B).
POST 16 PROGRESSION Students who enjoy Computing at GCSE can progress to study A Level or other Level 3 Computing courses. At university there is a wide range of computer based degrees with options to specialise in areas of particular interest. There is a serious skills shortage in the UK and globally of people who can write computer code. There are a wide variety of lucrative careers involving computing for those with a passion for the subject and a willingness to keep learning. In fact, the growth and evolution of new technologies means in the future there will be lots of jobs that require computing skills that we have not even thought about yet!
EXAM SPECIFICATION: OCR GCSE Computer Science 1-9
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Design Technology The GCSE design and technology in textiles will prepare students to participate condently and successfully in an increasingly technological world. Students will gain awareness and learn from wider inuences on design and technology including historical, social, cultural, environmental and economic factors. Students will get the opportunity to work creatively when designing and making and apply technical and practical expertise.
HOW ARE YOU ASSESSED? The following elements are assessed during the course: Core technical principles Specialist technical principles Designing and making principles 2 hour written exam, which contributes 50% of the overall marks and is scored out of 100. Core technical principles 20 marks Specialist technical principles 30 marks Designing and making principles 50 marks Non-Examination Assessment (NEA) contributes the other 50% of the overall mark. The elements assessed within this are: Identifying and investigating design possibilities Developing design ideas Realising design ideas Producing a design brief and specication Analysing and evaluating Generating design ideas
WHAT WILL YOU LEARN ABOUT? You will have the opportunity to develop an understanding of: Materials, components and technologies and the ability to select these appropriately How to read, interpret and work from drawings, plans and instructions Quality and how this can be achieved through making to ne tolerances Key technical terminology related to materials and properties Commercial and industrial practices within the Fashion and Textiles industries Career opportunities in the sector.
POST 16 PROGRESSION D&T teaches many transferable skills including Textiles, Core knowledge, Materials and Isometric drawing which can lead to a variety of further education courses at higher education in 6th Form or College. It leads specically into A-level Product Design/Textiles/Fashion/Art Textiles which are popular routes for D&T students. This is a very creative subject in which the wide range of skills developed can lead to jobs in industry such as engineering, architecture, product designer, graphic designer, fashion designer, dressmaker, costume designer and many more.
EXAM SPECIFICATION: AQA Design and Technology
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Further Maths This qualication lls the gap for high achieving students by assessing their higher order mathematical skills, particularly in algebraic reasoning, in greater depth, thus preparing them fully to maximise their potential in further studies at Level 3. This qualication places an emphasis on higher order technical prociency, rigorous argument and problem solving skills. It also gives an introduction to calculus and matrices and develops further skills in trigonometry, functions and graphs. The AQA Level 2 Certicate in Further Mathematics is an untiered Level 2 linear qualication for learners who already have, or are expected to achieve, grades 7, 8 and 9 in GCSE mathematics. It is aimed at students who are likely to progress to A-Level study in mathematics and possibly further mathematics.
HOW ARE YOU ASSESSED? The qualication consists of two examination papers, each lasting 1 hour 45 mins. The papers contribute equally to the nal grade. Paper 1 Non-calculator Paper 2 Calculator allowed Paper 3 Calculator allowed
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WHAT WILL YOU LEARN ABOUT? Number Algebra Coordinate Geometry (2D only) Calculus Matrix Transformations Geometry You will require a scientic calculator for these subjects.
POST 16 PROGRESSION A level Mathematics is an extremely well recognised progression supporting a huge number of degree courses and careers such as economics, accountancy, design, architecture, law and medicine.
EXAM SPECIFICATION: AQA Level 2 Certicate in Further Mathematics
Hospitality and Catering This course in hospitality and catering has been designed to support students in schools who want to learn about this vocational sector and the potential it can offer them for their careers or further study. It is most suitable as a foundation for further study. This further study would provide learners with the opportunity to develop a range of specialist and general skills that would support their progression to employment. Employment in hospitality and catering can range from front of house staff, receptionists and catering assistants to chefs, hotel and bar managers and food technologists in food manufacturing.
HOW ARE YOU ASSESSED? The course has been designed to develop students' knowledge and understanding related to a range of hospitality and catering providers; how they operate and what they have to take into account to be successful. There is the opportunity to learn about issues related to nutrition and food safety and how they affect successful hospitality and catering operations. In this qualication, students will also have the opportunity to develop some food preparation and cooking skills as well as transferable skills of problem solving, organisation and time management, planning and communication.
WHAT WILL YOU LEARN ABOUT? Unit 1: The hospitality and catering Industry Examination to be completed in Year 11.
Unit 2: Hospitality and catering in action This includes both practical and theory work on tasks set by the exam board. This includes one coursework unit and a practical exam that is internally assessed. Performance grades are awarded for: Level 1 Pass Level 2 Pass Level 2 Merit Level 2 Distinction
POST 16 PROGRESSION Students will have the opportunity to: learn and practice culinary skills; gain knowledge of the Hospitality and Catering industry including menu planning, factors affecting success; Understand the various job roles and career opportunities: enter competitions; cook for guests in school and events; and go on trips to catering facilities. Students can continue their study in Catering and Hospitality and go to a Further Education College to gain higher qualications such as level 1 and 2, Diplomas and Professional Degrees; qualications in Hospitality and Catering, Tourism, Professional Cookery, Food and Beverage Service. Careers could include work in a restaurant, hotel, gastronomy pub or café. The list of career opportunities is endless! Your newly-learned skills could well be a passport to world-wide travel.
EXAM SPECIFICATION: WJEC Level 1 / 2 Award in Hospitality and Catering
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Performing Arts BTEC performing arts is designed to teach you the technical and performance based skills required for a career in the industry. Classes are delivered as teacher-led workshops in dance, acting and voice where you can choose a specialism or focus on all three. You will undertake exercises in small groups or as a class to develop skills and techniques before applying what you have learnt to either dance, acting or singing. During these sessions you will be introduced to a range of styles across the course in the three disciplines. A career in the performing arts requires a focused and determined approach, building a foundation of strong technique and mental resilience.
“I love the fact that we all work so well together and have a good time. Performing arts makes such a change from all the other subjects I take. I love the variety of the options I choose.”
and techniques – control of movement, coordination, movement memory, awareness of surroundings and spatial relationships, focus, weight placement, use of gesture, facial expression, pace. Dance skills and techniques including posture, alignment, coordination, balance, ability to repeat movement patterns, dynamic range, movement quality, movement style, facial expression, focus, emphasis and appreciation of sound accompaniment
This is an extremely physical course.
Acting and voice skills such as breath control, projection, vibrato, use of head to chest voice, characterisation, staging techniques, directing, use of narration, slow motion, sound effects and acting through song. These will be explored through solo and ensemble songs, monologues, duologues and group devising.
HOW ARE YOU ASSESSED?
POST 16 PROGRESSION
Assessment is primarily performance based and you will be assessed on the skills that you have learnt and can apply. Some aspects of the components are based on research and written work also. Lessons, assessments and performances will be lmed and in some cases performed to a 'live' audience. Component 1 Exploring the Performing Arts (30%) Component 2 Developing Skills and Techniques in the Performing Arts (30%) Component 3 Responding to a Brief (40%)
Performing Arts is perfect preparation for A Levels in Dance and Drama; BTEC National Certicate or Diploma in Performing Arts; Performance Design and Technology. Performing Arts is also ideal preparation for any other A Level or BTEC course that requires textual analysis, evaluation and interpretation of source material. The amount of career opportunities in the Performing Arts and entertainment sectors are countless and not just limited to performers. Careers could include an oversea's entertainer, stage designer, special effects makeup artist, voiceover artist, dance therapist, screenwriter.
WHAT WILL YOU LEARN ABOUT?
EXAM SPECIFICATION:
You will be assessed on a range of technical and performance skills: Movement skills
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BTEC Level 1/2 Tech Award in Performing Arts
30% Practical Performance – pupils are assessed on their practical performance in just 3 sports at least one individual (e.g. athletics or badminton singles) and at least one team sport (e.g. football or netball). “I love sports and this course has been great for me; I've been able to gain practical skills and improve my theory knowledge at the same time. It is hard work but it is worth the effort.”
What do I learn about? Practical Performance Activities in lessons may include: Football Badminton Athletics Netball Ideally pupils need to competitively play at least one sport outside of school. Pupils can also be assessed in other activities outside of GCSE PE lesson time. All activities will be required to be lmed for assessment. Theory Topics
Physical Education It is a mainly a theory based course 70%. Pupils are assessed on their theoretical knowledge in written exams and in their own practical performance. Pupils need to enjoy learning about both the physical factors that affect performance and the socio-cultural issues and sports psychology. Pupils will also be assessed on their practical performance, they must be well organised with kit and be able to revise independently for exams and controlled assessments. It is suited to pupils who are considering 'A' level PE in the future.
What can I achieve? Depending on the quality of work produced in exams and the quality of practical performance pupils can achieve a GCSE grade 9-1
How am I assessed? The nal GCSE grade is based on: 60% Theory Exam – two 1 hour exams at the end of Year 11 based on the information learnt in classroom lessons. Paper 1 Physical factors affecting performance Paper 2 Socio-cultural issues and sports psychology 10% Controlled Assessment – written coursework tasks completed in exam conditions in school.
The structure and function of the musculoskeletal and cardiorespiratory system Movement analysis Effects of exercise and training Components of tness, tness testing and training principles Safety in sport. Factors affecting participation Commercialisation of sport Ethics in sport Classication & characteristics of skill Goal setting, mental preparation and types of feedback Benets of health, tness and well-being Diet & Nutrition Controlled Assessment Analysing sports performance – strength and weaknesses Produce action plan to improve performance
POST 16 PROGRESSION This qualication can lead to further study in the area of Physical Education and Sports Studies. It gives a good grounding for anyone interested in sports science, teaching and coaching and for anyone who wishes to understand how to improve their own and others' participation and performance. It will also develop valuable leadership and social skills needed in all areas of life and build an understanding of the benets to health, tness and well being, showing how sport plays such a major role in our society.
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Frequently asked questions WHAT IF STUDENTS CANNOT DO THEIR CHOSEN COURSE?
WHAT SUPPORT IS THERE TO DECIDE WHICH OPTIONS TO TAKE?
We hope that the courses offered will be available to all the students who want them but, we will ask you to give us a reserve choice.
Staff will be available at the Pathways Evening to discuss option courses.
Despite every effort to give all students their preferred choice, this may not always be possible. Alternatives may have to be considered if:
Discussions with teachers, progress tutor and progress leaders. Students will also have an informal interview to discuss their option choices with a teacher.
Too many students opt for a particular course Too few students select a particular course We wish to advise a better range of courses to meet a student's needs Combinations of courses are chosen which are impossible to timetable.
CAN STUDENTS CHANGE THEIR MIND? We always do our best to ensure that all students' choices can be matched but please bear in mind that students who submit options after the deadline may not nd it possible to be placed on their rst choice courses. As soon as the options deadline has passed, work begins on timetabling. Alterations to choices may not be possible from this point onwards. Once a decision has been made and a course begun, it is extremely difcult to make any changes. It is therefore essential that time and thought be given to the combination of courses to be taken.
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WILL I BE STUDYING FRENCH AND THE EBACC? The English Baccalaureate (EBacc) is made up of the subjects which are considered essential to many degrees and open up lots of doors. Research shows that a pupil's socio-economic background impacts the subjects they choose at GCSE, and that this determines their opportunities beyond school. A study by the UCL Institute of Education shows that studying subjects included in the EBacc provides students with greater opportunities in further education and increases the likelihood that a pupil will stay on in full-time education. Sutton Trust research reveals that studying the EBacc can help improve a young person's performance in English and maths. Based upon this we ensure that all students in Set 1, 2 and 3 are accessing the full EBacc. Students in Set 4 will not be studying French.
Making the right choices GOOD REASONS TO CHOOSE AN OPTION: You like it or it is interesting You can develop new skills by doing it You need it or it's useful for your future career It will combine well with other options and help your general education - it will give you satisfaction
BAD REASONS TO CHOOSE AN OPTION: Your friends are doing it It's thought of as a cool option by your peers You can't think of anything else to choose You think it will be easy
REMEMBER Most people are likely to have several changes of job during their working lives and that most employers will wish to see a balance of subjects studied, including English and mathematics. Make sure that you take advantage of all the support on offer. Discuss the Pathways subjects you are considering with your parents or carers at home, as well as teachers in school. Make sure that you understand all of the relevant information about individual subjects which you are interested in, for example, the qualication awarded, the assessment requirements, progression to sixth form and further education. If you, or your parents/carers, are unsure about anything at any stage during the Pathways process, please feel free to contact the relevant teacher or progress leader for further advice.
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Making the right choices You must choose one Mandatory Subject, geography or history and rst and second choices from Option A and B. Your Pathways selections MUST be submitted via Google form
Students must complete the Pathways Option form online via a Google form in the Pathways Classroom Monday 21st March Pathways Evening – Parents and students can talk to subject teachers Friday 1st April Deadline for Pathways selections to be submitted via Google Form Tuesday 3rd May Interviews to take place with students after this date to discuss Pathways selections Monday 6th June Shortly after the half term break, letters will be sent home to parents conrming options
You must select one Mandatory Subject, geography or history. Geography History You must now choose two open subjects from each of option A and option B below. Option A
Option B
Art and Design
Business Studies
Business Studies
Design Technology
Computer Science*
Further Maths
Geography*
Performing Arts (Dance)
Hospitality
Physical Education
*Computer science and further maths require highly mathematical approaches. If you are not in a higher set for maths, please discuss this with your teacher before making your nal choice. *You cannot select Geography in Option A if you have chosen it as your mandatory subject.
Wayland Academy Merton Road, Watton, Norfolk IP25 6BA T: 01953 881514 E: ofce@waylandacademy.org www.waylandacademy.org