4 Options Information 2020 A guide to the curriculum for Years 10 and 11

Key Stage 4 (Year 10 and Year 11) Curriculum

Wales High School provides a broad and balanced curriculum which engages and challenges our students to achieve the best possible range of qualifications they can. The curriculum is designed to offer students a diverse range of courses and learning experiences, and to develop skills and knowledge for life. Our students are in a rapidly changing world and the curriculum at High School provides opportunities to progress and meet these challenges.

This booklet provides information on the options process and individual subjects. It is an important document that should be referred to in order to make informed decisions. The information is also available on the school website.

Key Information English Baccalaureate (EBacc)

The 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.

The EBacc is a set of subjects at GCSE that keeps young people’s options open for further study and future careers.

The EBacc is: • English Language and Literature • Maths • the Sciences • Geography or History • a Language

At Wales High School, students have always been able to study the EBacc combination of subjects. This will continue as it is consistent with our longstanding advice to students to choose a broad range of subjects at . The vast majority of our students will follow an EBacc curriculum which incorporates a Modern Foreign Language. For some students, a different combination of subjects may be considered.

We are keen to respond to the recommendations of university admissions that it is favourable to see ‘facilitating subjects’ in a student’s portfolio of examinations. Facilitating subjects at GCSE, in addition to the ‘core curriculum’, include: French, Spanish, History, Geography and Computer Science. All students will be expected to study at least 1 EBacc subject, as part of their options process.

At Wales, we remain committed to providing a broad range of creative subjects such as Art, Music and Technology, providing students with a variety of choice. In addition our vocational curriculum remains strong providing the opportunity to prepare for the world of work, in the local community. This will include subjects such as Construction, ICT, Engineering and Food, amongst others.

Attainment 8 Performance measure

Attainment 8 measures pupils’ attainment across 8 qualifications including: Maths (double weighted) and English (double weighted, if both English language and English literature are sat) and 3 qualifications that count in the English Baccalaureate (EBacc) measures - see below 3 further qualifications that can be GCSE qualifications (including EBacc subjects) or technical awards from the DfE approved list.

GCSE grades

Grades in all GCSE subjects, for current Year 8 students and beyond, will be graded 9-1; with 9 being the highest grade. Approximate grade comparator:

New GCSE Grade 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 Current GCSE Grade G F E D C B A A*

Terminology that may Help you and your Child

Core These are compulsory subjects: English, Maths, Science, PE, RE/Life.

Choices There is an element of choice about studying these subjects.

Key Stage 4 Programmes of study for students in Years 9, 10 and 11.

Level 2 GCSE grades 9-4 or With grades 5+ being classed as strong pass grades.

Level 3 ‘A’ Level grade A*-E or equivalent. A course graded 9-1. These are assessed by a mix of examination and coursework GCSE (see individual subject guides for further information). Vocational qualifications graded pass/merit/distinction/distinction* and equivalent BTEC / Cambridge to a GCSE. Mostly portfolio/coursework based, with a small exam element (see National / Technical individual subject guides for further information). Designed to equip students with Award applied knowledge and associated practical skills; and closely aligned with the world of work. EBacc subjects The EBacc subjects are : Maths, English, Geography, History and Modern Foreign (EBacc = English Languages. Please see link below regarding the value placed on these subjects. Baccalaureate) For students to achieve the full EBacc they must attain GCSE grade 5+ in Maths, Full EBacc English, at least two Sciences, one of History or Geography and a Modern Foreign Language.

Core Curriculum

All students will follow the core curriculum until the end of Year 11. This includes:

 English Language and Literature: 4 hours per week

 Maths: 4 hours per week

 Science: 6 hours per week

Initially all students will follow the same Science route. This will be AQA Science Trilogy and comprises of all 3 Sciences (Biology, Chemistry and Physics). During Year 10, students who show exceptional promise will be invited to study separate Sciences

 Physical Education: 1 hour per week

The Optional Curriculum

It is strongly recommended that students study a balanced curriculum which includes subjects from different areas to help keep their options open after Year 11. Some students may have specific interests and strengths, together with a clear idea of what career path they hope to pursue after Year 11. All choices will be discussed in depth at individual student options interviews.

Please see the tables below which highlight the pathways available for students.

Option Pathway 1 – Will

Option Choices in Rank Select From Subjects Chosen in Rank Order Order 1 French Spanish Must be being studied at the History Geography moment 2 French Spanish Must be being studied at the History Geography moment Select from the 3 Yellow subject list Select from the

Yellow subject Reserve Choice list below

Option Pathway 1 – Will Additional Option – Compulsory for all students

4 Select from the Blue subject list Select from the Reserve Choice Blue subject list

Option Pathway 2 – May

Option Choices in Rank Select From Subjects Chosen in Rank Order Order 1 French Spanish Must be being studied at the History Geography moment 2 Select from the Yellow subject list Select from the 3 Yellow subject list Select from the

Yellow subject Reserve list below

Option Pathway 2 – May Additional Option – Compulsory for all students

Select from the 4 Blue subject list Select from the

Blue subject Reserve Choice list

Option Pathway 3

Option Choices in Rank Order Select From Subjects Chosen in Rank Order 1 Must be being studied at French Spanish the moment History Geography

Level 2 Construction or 2 Level 2 Diploma in Service and Maintenance Engineering Please Circle

Option Pathway 3 Additional Option – Compulsory for all students

Select from the 3 Blue subject list Select from the

Blue subject Reserve Choice list

Subject Option List The tables below outlines the optional courses available at Wales.

Number of Lessons: 3 lessons in Year 10 & 3 Lessons in Year 11

GCSE Options

Art & Design Business Computer Science

Design & Technology Drama Food Preparation & Nutrition

Geography History Music

Sport Studies Photography Religious Education

Statistics

Vocational Options

Child Development & Care Information Technology Cam Nat. Dance

Engineering Health & Social Care Hospitality & Catering

Construction

Number of Lessons: 2 lessons in Year 10 & 2 Lessons in Year 11

GCSE Options

Business Statistics Design & Technology

Economics Religious Education

Vocational Options

Health & Social Care Performing Arts Dance

Sport imedia Child Development & Care

Making Good Choices

Making the right choice of courses at Key Stage 4 is very important because it may affect a student’s progression after Year 11 and possibly their future career opportunities.

Key questions to ask

1. What am I good at? Recent scores in assessments, teacher feedback and assessment point data will all help students to identify their areas of strength. If students are unsure about their ability to succeed in a particular course, they should ask their subject teacher.

2. What am I interested in and enjoy? It is important to make sure students choose a course because they find the subject interesting rather than just because they like the teacher or the group of friends in their current Year 9 class. It is unlikely that pupils will have the same teacher or group in a particular subject next year.

3. What type of learner am I? There are many different types of learners. Some students learn best through vocational experiences where they can see how their learning applies directly to the world of work. Kinaesthetic learners have a preference for learning through some sort of physical activity, such as carrying out practical experiments in Science or making a product in Technology. Auditory learners find it easiest to learn through listening and speaking, for example oral activities in French and Spanish, while visual learners have a preference for learning through studying pictures, images and diagrams, such as map work in Geography. All courses are designed to have a variety of activities that appeal to students with different learning preferences, although some courses may be particularly well suited to certain types of learner. Therefore, students should aim to choose a combination of subjects that contain courses that match their learning type.

4. What qualifications do I need for my next step after Year 11 and beyond? One of the most important outcomes of Key Stage 4 is that students achieve the qualifications that they need for progression to their desired next step after Year 11 and in their long term career aspirations. If students are clear about their future career path they should seek advice about relevant courses. At this stage, many students will not know exactly what career they want to pursue so it is important to choose a broad and balanced combination of courses to keep their future options open.

5. Where can I find out more careers information? Students have already undertaken work in active tutorials in the lead up to Christmas to provide them with some careers knowledge. Students have been made aware of a variety of websites and given careers information to help them make their decisions. Mrs Brown, as Head of Careers, is the main point of contact alongside external impartial advice that we can provide. The internet is useful to access details about entry requirements to university courses, apprenticeship information etc.

Progression Routes Post-16

As part of the Education and Skills Act in 2008, the minimum age at which young people in England can leave learning has been raised, requiring them to continue in education or training until their 18th birthday. Raising the participation age means that young people must continue to learn through one of the following routes:

 Continue with full-time education in school or college,  Work-based learning, such as an Apprenticeship,  Continue with part-time education or training for at least 20 hours a week if they are employed.

Sixth Form

A-Level / Level 3 Qualifications The majority of students at Wales High School choose to continue their studies in our Sixth Form. We aim to set aspirational but realistic targets, which will enable pupils to extend their skills and to enhance their qualifications. In addition to high quality learning opportunities and a strong emphasis on academic achievement, effective monitoring and tracking systems will also promote personal development and wellbeing. Our personalised and inclusive curriculum includes in excess of 40 Advanced Level courses in both traditional and Applied/Vocational subjects, ranging from Business, Computer Science and English Literature to Media Studies, Physics and Spanish. In addition, students can take extra GCSE courses, one year Vocational qualifications and an Extended Project Qualification.

Before entering the Sixth Form, every student is interviewed so that we can tailor subject choices to meet individual needs, interests and abilities. Students will need at least GCSE 9-5 grades, including English and Maths, if they wish to study at A-level. Each individual subject, however, has its own specific entry requirements, some of which require higher grades than others. Some universities require a Modern Foreign Language for entry onto the course, so it is essential, even at this early stage that you look at course entry requirements if you think you may want to study them in the future. At the back of this introduction there is an appendix of the current entry requirements (appendix 1), these however, may be subject to change but were correct at the time this booklet was produced.

Level 3 Vocational/BTEC courses There are a variety of Level 3 courses which are equivalent to A-levels. The entry requirements vary according to the level and type of course.

For Level 3 courses, pupils will typically need at least 4-5 GCSE 9-5 grades or equivalent, sometimes in specific subjects and often including English and Maths. It is strongly recommended that pupils aspiring to progress to this route after Year 11 should follow the advice of choosing a broad range of subjects and remember the importance of working hard to achieve a good grade in both English and Maths at GCSE.

Level 2 Vocational/BTEC courses Level 2 courses are equivalent to GCSEs. For Level 2 courses pupils will typically need 4 GCSEs at grade 3 or a BTEC Level 1 Diploma. Appendix 1

Entry Requirements for KS5 Courses – September 2020

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Name/ Title of Course Level Subject Entry Requirements 2020 Leader

 A minimum of 6 GCSEs between grades 9 - 5, must be traditional GCSEs including English (grade 5) and Accounting A-Level NL Maths (grade 6).  All students must attend a course interview.  A minimum of 5 GCSEs at 9-5 (or equivalent) with a minimum of a grade 7 in GCSE Biology, a minimum of a grade 6 in Maths and a grade 6 in English. Biology A-Level AK  In the case where a student does not meet the entry criteria, we may consider in lieu a student’s average GCSE grade but this should not be relied upon. In any case, acceptance onto the course via this route would result increased scrutiny via a Sixth Form Contract.  Pupils who studied Trilogy Science at GCSE should achieve at least a grade 7-7.  A minimum of 6 GCSEs (must be traditional GCSEs) at 9–5. Must include English at Grade 6 and Maths Business Studies A-Level NO at Grade 5.  All students must attend a course interview.  5 GCSEs grade 9-5 with a minimum of a grade 7 in GCSE Chemistry and a minimum of a grade 7 in Maths. Students with a grade 6 in GCSE Chemistry may be considered on a case by case basis.  Students who studied Trilogy Science at GCSE should have achieved at least a grade 7-7. Students who are not taking Maths at A-Level may be required to take Core Maths to support them - this is a 90 Chemistry A-Level DC minute session after school each week.  In the case where a student does not meet the entry criteria, we may consider in lieu a student’s average GCSE grade, but this should not be relied upon. In any case, acceptance onto the course via this route would result increased scrutiny via a Sixth Form Contract.

 A minimum of 5 GCSEs at grade 5 or above (or equivalent), including English (grade 6) and Maths (grade 6). Computer Science A-Level PB  It is not necessary for you to have studied Computer Science at GCSE - we welcome beginners. However, if you have been fortunate enough to study this subject as GCSE, we would expect to see a grade of 6 or higher.  If you are concerned about your suitability for this course, please do not be afraid to ask. Drama & Theatre Studies A-Level PS  At least a grade 5 in English Language and Literature.  Reliability and sociability are key to success in the practical unit. Economics A-Level PM  A minimum of 6 GCSEs, between 9-5. Must include English (grade 6) and Maths (grade 6).  All students must attend a course interview.

Entry Requirements for KS5 Courses – September 2020

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Name/ Title of Course Level Subject Entry Requirements 2020 Leader

English Language & Literature A-Level WE  At least 5 GCSEs grade 9-5, including humanities based subjects (such as History and RE), plus at least a grade 6 in English Language GCSE and English Literature GCSE. English Literature A-Level WE  At least 5 GCSEs grade 9-5, including humanities based subjects (such as History and RE), plus at least a grade 6 in English Language GCSE and English Literature GCSE.  The EPQ works at the very height of any A2 skills set. Students are invited to apply and will be selected for a place on the course through a rigorous consideration of their academic potential and Extended Project Qualification (EPQ) A-Level CFH independent ability to engage with the demands of the course.  As you progress through Year 12, be critical of your ability to achieve A*/A/B grades at A-Level as a realistic benchmark for success in this subject.  A grade 5 or above is required in English.  5 GCSEs grade 9-5 (ideally a grade 5 or above in humanities based subjects such as History). Film Studies A-Level CFH  Students with lower qualification grades may be able to access the course depending on their creative abilities and an interview with the course leader.  Students are not required to have studied the subject at GCSE.  Grade 5 or above in Art at GCSE.  Submission of application portfolio (bridging work) of an appropriate standard. Fine Art A-Level KF  Students without Art qualifications will be considered on the merits of their application portfolio.  Successful students will need to take the initiative to visit galleries and art spaces in their own time and have a real passion for the subject. French A-Level AAT  Minimum overall grade 6 at GCSE in French. You must have sat the higher tier papers and achieved at least a grade 6 in all 4 exams. Further Maths A-Level CBR  Grade 9 or 8 at GCSE Maths.  5 GCSEs at grade 5 or above, including English and Maths. Geography A-Level LH  A grade 6 at GCSE Geography is essential.  If Geography has not been studied at GCSE students will be considered on individual merit. Geology A-Level LH  5 GCSE grades at 9-5 (or equivalent) in traditional GCSEs. Each student will be considered on their individual merit. Entry Requirements for KS5 Courses – September 2020

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Name/ Title of Course Level Subject Entry Requirements 2020 Leader

 Students will require 5 GCSEs grades 9-5, including a 6 in History and English Language. History A-Level FO  If History has not been studied at GCSE level, 5 GCSEs grade 9-5 including a grade 6 in English Language are required. History of Art A-Level PS  At least a grade 5 in English Language and Literature.

Maths A-Level CBR  Grade 7 or above at GCSE in Maths.  The course is available to anyone who reads music and performs to approximately Grade 5 standard. Music A-Level AW  GCSE Music is not a prerequisite for this course (but it is useful). Grade 5 Theory would be an advantage.  Grade 5 or above if Photography GCSE has been studied.  Completion of application portfolio (bridging work) to an appropriate standard. Photography A-Level RS  Students without a Photography qualification will be considered and welcomed on the merits of their application portfolio.  A commitment to work on location; taking photographs in a variety of places beyond school, on a weekly basis.  5 GCSEs grade 6 or above (or equivalent), including at least Trilogy Science, Maths (grade 6), and English (grade 6). PE A-Level VL / DR  GCSE background in Sports Studies is preferable.  Course Leader interview prior to starting the course.  Students wishing to take A-Level PE must be able to perform or coach in one sport to a good standard.  A minimum of 5 GCSEs (9-5 grades) with a minimum of a grade 7 in Physics and a minimum of a grade 7 in Maths. Students who studied AQA Trilogy (or equivalent) Science at GCSE should have achieved at least a 7-7. Physics A-Level RB  In the case where a student does not meet the entry criteria, we may consider in lieu a student’s average GCSE grade but this should not be relied upon. In any case, acceptance onto the course via this route would result increased scrutiny via a Sixth Form Contract.  Students who are not taking Maths at A-Level may be required to take Core Maths to support them - this is a 90 minute session after school once per week.

Entry Requirements for KS5 Courses – September 2020

HOD/

Name/ Title of Course Level Subject Entry Requirements 2020 Leader

 GCSE English grade 5, GCSE Maths grade 5, GCSE Product Design grade 5, GCSE Design & Technology Product Design A-Level DS / RSH grade 5.  Students who have successfully completed a KS4 Engineering qualification with a distinction are also welcome to apply for this course. Psychology A-Level HA / EA  5 GCSEs at grade 5 or above including grade a 5 or above in English Language as well as a grade 5 or above in Science or Maths.  5 GCSEs at grade 5 or above in traditional GCSE subjects including both English Literature and English Religious Education A-Level SRC / MH / LH Language at grade 6.  If GCSE Religious Studies is taken then at least a grade 6 is required. This is because of the level of literacy required in an examination subject. Sociology A-Level HA / EA  5 GCSEs at grade 5 or above including a grade 5 or above in English Language as well as a grade 5 or above in at least one other EBacc. Spanish A-Level AAT  Minimum overall grade 6 at GCSE in Spanish.  You must have sat the higher tier papers and achieved at least a grade 6 in all four exams. Core Maths Level 3 CBR  Grade 7 or above at GCSE in Maths.

Construction Level 2 TOR  Students must have Level 4 grades or above in English and Maths at GCSE.

 Students must have a genuine interest in working with children aged birth to 5 years. Early Years Education and Care – Certificate Level 2 DB  Students who have not achieved grade 4 or above in English and Maths at the start of this course will need to continue with re-sit lessons as appropriate throughout their studies.  A Successful DBS will be required as part of this course.  Students must be working towards grade 4 or above in English and Maths. Maintenance Operations Level 2 TOR  Students may also have a Level 1 qualification in Construction.  Students must have a genuine interest in working in the construction industry. Applied Science – Extended Certificate Level 3 SRD  5 GCSEs at grade 9-5 and above (to include at least a 6 or above in Trilogy or Triple Science).  Good Maths and English (ideally at grade 5 or above) and good ICT skills are desirable. Entry Requirements for KS5 Courses – September 2020

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Name/ Title of Course Level Subject Entry Requirements 2020 Leader

 5 GCSEs (or equivalent), can be a mixture of Vocational and traditional GCSEs, graded 9-5. Business Studies Level 3 NL  English and Maths must be included at grade 5 and above.  Candidates must attend a course interview. Childcare and Education - Certificate Level 3 DB  5 GCSEs grade 9-4 (or equivalent), preferably including English at grade 4.

 5 GCSEs grade 9-4 (or equivalent), preferably including English at grade 4. Childcare and Education Early Years Level 3 DB  Students will need to have achieved grade 4 or above in English and Maths by the end of this Educator – Diploma course for a licence to practice.  Students must also have the desire to work with children. Construction Level 3 TOR  A minimum of a grade 8 in English, Maths and Science at GCSE level.

 GCSE Maths higher paper grade 6, GCSE Science grade 6. Engineering Level 3 PE  Students will be considered on individual merit if these entry requirements haven’t quite been met in consultation with the head of course. Food Science and Nutrition – Diploma Level 3 THY  Students wishing to pursue this course must gain either a Grade 4 in a food related GCSE or a Grade 5 in GCSE English and GCSE Science. Health & Social Care – Technical Certificate Level 3 LHT  5 GCSEs at 9-4 (or equivalent), preferably including English at grade 5.

Health & Social Care – Cambridge Technical  5 GCSEs at grade 9-4 (or equivalent), preferably including English and Science at grade 5. Level 3 LHT Diploma

 A minimum of 5 GCSEs at grade 5 or above (or equivalent), including English (grade 6) and Maths Information Technology Level 3 MU (grade 5).  If you are concerned about your suitability for this course, please do not be afraid to ask. Motor Vehicle and Maintenance and Repair  GCSE grades at Level 4 or above. Level 3 TOR – Light Vehicle – Diploma

 5 GCSEs at 9-4 including a grade 5 or above in Maths, English and Science, and a grade 5 or above in Science, as well as a Sport Qualification and a keen interest in Sport. Sport – Certificate Extended Certificate /  A keen interest in sport is essential. Level 3 RN / DR Diploma  Candidates must attend a course interview.  All prospective candidates should talk to a member of the OCR Team before selecting this qualification. As the course is partly assessed by examination, a track record of exam success is essential.

Address: Storth Lane, Kiveton Park, Sheffield S26 5QQ Telephone: 01909 771291 Email: [email protected]