Why is English important?
Spoken and written English allows us to express our thoughts and ideas; interrogate the views of others and connect with the wider world. When we are able to express ourselves clearly and precisely, it gives power to our thoughts and views and allows us to communicate effectively.

A confident, fluent reader is able to unlock information on any subject they choose; reading is the key to knowledge. When we read critically in English, we are able to examine the content and viewpoint of a text, but also to connect with characters, settings, and concepts which are central to the human condition.  Reading helps us to understand other people; present and past worlds, and to understand ourselves.

What does a good student look like?
A good student in English is inquisitive and always questioning what they have heard or read. They are keen to identify patterns and changes in a text, and to make links between topics. They think creatively and are seeking an alternative perspective and viewpoint. They are keen to engage with the writer’s intentions and make connections with bigger concepts and ideas. 

A good student will produce thoughtful and careful written work, taking time to select the word, phrase, or device which best conveys their ideas. They write for a specific audience and intent, and use a range of punctuation, structural and linguistic devices, and vocabulary to express their ideas. 

Students in English understand that discussion is essential for developing ideas and scaffolding written responses. They actively involve themselves in paired and class discussion, and seek to challenge and develop the views of others.

Regardless of their current ability, a good student is constantly reflecting on their work and identifying areas to improve. They read widely and regularly outside of lessons.

What can I do at home to help me achieve in this subject?
There are several resources which can be accessed at home which will help with what you are studying in school:

BBC bitesize: https://www.bbc.co.uk/bitesize/subjects/z3kw2hv

Seneca learning: https://senecalearning.com/en-GB/

Oak National: https://classroom.thenational.academy/subjects-by-key-stage/key-stage-3/subjects/english

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@bbcteach Royal Shakespeare Company: https://www.rsc.org.uk/shakespeare-learning-zone
 

Why is mathematics important?
Learning about mathematics is not only about mastering a subject but also about acquiring a set of skills and knowledge that are applicable across many disciplines and in many practical situations.

Mathematics will help you with problem solving and critical thinking. It will help you with the understanding of scientific concepts in biology, chemistry and physics.

Mathematics will also help you understand your finances, how to cook, how to build and how to manage your time effectively.

Being proficient in mathematics will help you to participate in an exciting future.

What does a good student look like?

A good student will be able to:
•    Understand and apply mathematical concepts while working with numbers, algebra, geometry, probability and statistics.
•    Apply appropriate problem-solving strategies and understand the reasoning behind mathematical procedures.
•    Perform arithmetic calculations quickly and accurately.
•    Translate abstract concepts into practical applications.
•    Communicate their solutions clearly.
•    Able to tackle new concepts and show resilience.

What can I do at home to help me achieve in this subject?
•    Complete your Sparx Maths homework on a regular basis.
•    Seek help from your teacher if you need help to complete any of your questions for homework.
•    Revise thoroughly for any tests using the topic lists provided.
•    Complete XP Boost tasks on Sparx Maths as these consist of consolidation and revision questions.

Sparx Maths – https://sparxmaths.com/

Why is Science important?
Science is everywhere. The study of Biology, Chemistry and Physics helps us to understand everything from stem cells to the uses of nanotechnology to how all of the planets stay in orbit.

The study of Science helps us to create new technology for the future. This will help solve some of the most challenging problems facing us such as climate change, tackling antibiotic resistant bacteria and how to create the most energy efficient car batteries.

What does a good student look like?
A good student in Science is inquisitive and always questioning. They are curious and want to find the links between different topics.
A good student will also develop their practical skills to carry out scientific investigations. They will develop testable hypothesis and predictions. They also develop their analytical skills so they can describe and explain trends in data.

Students in Science should also engage in learning about how Science impacts communities and the wider world. They will think carefully about, and actively participate in discussions on, the impact of Science in vital areas such as healthcare and technology.

What can I do at home to help me achieve in this subject?
There are several resources which can be accessed at home which will help with what you are studying in school:
BBC bitesize: https://www.bbc.co.uk/bitesize/subjects/zng4d2p
Seneca learning: https://senecalearning.com/en-GB/blog/free-key-stage-3-science-revision/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@revisionmonkey3859
If you want to read more about a topic you have found really interesting, or you want to read about some of the latest developments in Science, here are some resources to get you started:
Science journals: https://www.sciencejournalforkids.org/
National geographic: https://www.natgeokids.com/uk/category/discover/science/
Frontiers for young minds: https://kids.frontiersin.org/

Why is Art important?
Art makes a significant contribution to our society through human innovation, imagination, and thought. A high-quality curriculum in art and design, enables our young learners to develop a love of the subject that is both intellectually challenging and creatively demanding. Art making and creating allows individuals to express themselves in creative and dynamic ways they express their own personal views about the world in which they live.

What does a good student look like?
A good student is ready to learn, shows a natural enjoyment for the subject, is happy in their work and shows enthusiasm and high levels of motivation when attempting creative work.  A good student may continue their creative interests outside of school for pleasure or as a hobby, and they will feel proud of their achievements and outcomes.

What can I do at home to help me achieve in this subject?
Look at short video clips that demonstrate good art and design practise. Have your own paper or sketchbook to develop drawings and visual creations of your own choosing as this will help you to develop your skills.

Look at sites that showcase a lot of creative arts like ‘Pinterest’ and attempt to copy some of the inspirational work that you see.

Why is Drama important?

Our objective in the Drama department is to produce imaginative, passionate and inquisitive individuals who have developed an interest in and appreciation of drama, theatre and performance. Drama gives young people an opportunity to express themselves in performance as well as in group work, in rehearsal, working on attention to detail; discovering how reflection, analysis and making improvements can end with a more satisfying end result and a strong sense of achievement. Fostering essential transferable skills such as collaboration, cooperation and time management alongside creative thinking.

Focus is also given to how Drama and Theatre can enrich lives. Drama encourages self-awareness and communication skills by analysing and extending their expressive range. Students collect and use a descriptive vocabulary to express creative opinion and critical awareness. Demonstrating empathy through a perceptive understanding of character, transfers to owning this essential trait and characteristic in life, in school and beyond.

The cross-curricular links in Drama are numerous, strategically placed and highlighted throughout KS3. Topic links include: Macbeth, Kindertransport and Current Affairs are threaded throughout. It is a highly enabling subject for students wishing to pursue a career that involves any aspect of theatre, including Set Design, Sound design, Lighting and Costume Design. Also, the transferable skills gained are essential to careers in law, education or any customer-facing role.  Business employers like to see drama on a prospective employee’s CV, because it suggests a high level of presentational and interpersonal skills which they consider to be vital in today’s competitive working environment.

Inquisitive individuals, who have developed an interest in and appreciation of drama, theatre and performance. Drama gives young people an opportunity to express themselves in performance as well as in group work, in rehearsal, working on attention to detail; discovering how reflection, analysis and making improvements can end with a more satisfying end result and a strong sense of achievement. Fostering essential transferable skills such as collaboration, cooperation and time management alongside creative thinking.

Focus is also given to how Drama and Theatre can enrich lives. Drama encourages self-awareness and communication skills by analysing and extending their expressive range. Students collect and use a descriptive vocabulary to express creative opinion and critical awareness. Demonstrating empathy through a perceptive understanding of character, transfers to owning this essential trait and characteristic in life, in school and beyond.

The cross-curricular links in Drama are numerous, strategically placed and highlighted throughout KS3. Topic links include: Macbeth, Kindertransport and Current Affairs are threaded throughout. It is a highly enabling subject for students wishing to pursue a career that involves any aspect of theatre including Set Design, Sound design, Lighting and Costume Design. Also, the transferable skills gained are essential to careers in law, education or any customer facing role.  Business employers like to see drama on a prospective employee’s CV, because it suggests a high level of presentational and interpersonal skills which they consider to be vital in today’s competitive working environment.

What does a good student look like?
We want to guide our students towards a more insightful understanding of the creative world that surrounds them and make them feel at ease in a cultural situation as an informed audience. Our pupils will explore different creative styles practically and develop an educated appreciation of genre, drama and theatre practitioners and cultures. 

The Drama curriculum prepares students to become independent and creative young people who are equally comfortable working in a group. They are confident and have the courage to step out of their comfort zone and work with attention to detail. They have a wide vocal and physical expressive range to communicate effectively in varied contexts.

Students will recognise transferable skills and explore them in practice. Build a sense of self-worth, encouraging confidence and resilience through topics such as public speaking and presentation. Developing an understanding of the essentials of respect, tolerance and openness needed in working relationships and group work. A Drama student will be more self-aware, demonstrate self-discipline, control and focus allowing them to grow into well rounded adults and communicators. Fostering professionalism and an awareness of career opportunities within the Performing Arts sector and beyond.

What can I do at home to help me achieve in this subject?
There is a wide range of extracurricular activities that students can participate in, and we actively encourage them to see live performance events on a regular basis through organised visits and residential trips.

Students are introduced to a range of opportunities to develop their knowledge of drama and theatre through extra-curricular activities such as the school musicals, local Theatre In Education projects national events and inter-school speech competitions. Students should explore all of the transferable skills, empathy and awareness in a wider setting, at home and with friends to experience more effective and productive relationships to reach their potential.

Why is MFL important?
We live in a global world where having knowledge of different languages is increasingly important.  Around 94% of the world don’t speak English as their first language and about 75% speak no English at all.  Employers consider employees with language skills to be a bridge to new clients and opportunities.  UK companies already do business with over 200 countries worldwide, meaning that employers need employees with languages skills to succeed in the global market.  Furthermore, languages open the door to travel, meeting new people and to new experiences.  Wherever you go and whatever you do, a language can help you to get the best out of life.

What does a good student look like?
Languages are all about communication so to make the best out of your languages lessons it is important that you are involved in all activities.  Communication is key; the most important thing is that you have a go.  Making mistakes really does help you to learn and to remember.  It is also advantageous to be an inquisitive learner; asking questions shows enthusiasm and helps your learning to progress.  Being well organised is also really important.  Languages knowledge builds so it is really helpful to have your class book with you for every lesson so that you are able to use previous work to make the maximum progress and to link ideas.

What can I do at home to help me achieve in this subject?
Learning vocabulary is key in language learning.  You will have regular vocabulary tests and should try a range of learning methods at home to find the method which works best for you.  This skill takes time and you will forget the words if they are not practised sufficiently or regularly.  It is also recommended to read through classwork after each lesson to ensure that you understand and can remember the key structures learnt in class.  There is also a wealth of French and Spanish material on TV, in apps and on the internet and any extra practice is beneficial to your progress.

Why is Geography important?
The world in which we live is likely to change more in the next 50 years than it has ever done before.  Geography explains why, and helps to prepare you for those changes. 

We aim to foster a sense of wonder and enlighten students about the world by becoming independent critical thinkers. Through our Geography curriculum, students will learn about the world’s diversity of environments and cultures. They will gain a greater understanding of the complexity of both human and physical processes. They will also learn how mankind is changing our planet and how we can minimise the impact of this change.

What does a good student look like?
A good geographer is:
•    Inquisitive about the world and is always asking questions
•    Interested in the news and current affairs
•    Confident to give their views on places, fieldwork and features of the world around us
•    Seeks to research around the subject and present what I have learnt
•    Interested in different places, people and cultures
•    Able to express well-balanced opinions, rooted in knowledge and understanding about our world
•    Able to use and apply geographical skills and techniques through fieldwork e.g. map skills

What can I do at home to help me achieve in this subject?
•    Watch or read about events occurring in our world today
•    Read books about places
•    Watch documentaries about places on TV
•    Read an atlas to learn where places are
•    Consider the advantages and disadvantages of changes to places – e.g. a new housing estate or a new stadium
•    Use maps to explore my local area
•    Find out why…  e.g. why does a place look like it does? Why is that landform there? Why do people live there?

Why is History important?
History is important because it provides us with an understanding of the world we live in today. By delving into the past of our local area, Britain and the wider world we can gain an understanding of society, politics, the economy and religion. History teaches us why some civilisations survive while others fail, why humans go to war, why there are divisions in society and how individuals have worked to change the world for the better. Studying history helps to build a range of transferable skills. For example, it helps develop analytical skills, critical thinking, good factual recall and the ability to convey a strong argument. More than anything history is important so that we can learn from the mistakes of the past. In the words of George Santayana, “Those who cannot remember the past are condemned to repeat it”.

What does a good student look like?
A good student in History comes to lessons with an open mind. They listen carefully to their teacher and to other students in their class. They debate ideas respectfully, using evidence to justify their argument. A good student in History doesn’t take evidence at face value. Instead, they will consider the value and limitations of sources and interpretations. When writing about the past they will lead with argument and support with evidence, structuring their work in paragraphs and including key vocabulary. Finally, they will be inquisitive about the past and will ask questions to deepen their knowledge of the topics taught.

What can I do at home to help me achieve in this subject?
At home you can read widely, including historical literature such as Private Peaceful and the Diary of Anne Frank. You can do wider research of the topics we are studying using websites such as BBC Bitesize. There is also a wealth of historical documentaries on BBC iPlayer, Netflix and YouTube as well as historical podcasts available online. During school holidays you could visit local historical sites such as the workhouse at Southwell or museums like the National Civil War Centre in Newark and the National Justice Museum in Nottingham. You can also keep up to date with current events by reading newspapers or watching the news.

Why is ICT important?
Studying computer science from ages 11 to 14 is essential in today’s increasingly digital world. It equips students with critical problem-solving skills and a deep understanding of technology. This knowledge empowers them to harness the potential of computers, fostering creativity, logical thinking, and adaptability. Early exposure to coding and programming enhances their computational thinking, making them better equipped for future careers. Computer science also promotes digital literacy and responsible online behaviour, crucial in an age of information sharing. Finally, it opens doors to various STEM fields and careers, ensuring students are well-prepared for the future job market where technology plays a pivotal role in nearly every industry.
“Everybody should learn to program a computer, because it teaches you how to think.” – Steve Jobs

What does a good student look like?
A successful computing student should enthusiastically practice coding, tackle problems, and learn continuously. They should collaborate with classmates, embrace challenges, and keep up with tech trends. Good time management and persistent debugging skills are crucial for building a strong foundation for their future in the field. They should also frequently ask questions of their teacher, and ensure that they can explain each step they are taking.

What can I do at home to help me achieve in this subject?
Learn Programming: Start with languages like Python or JavaScript to build coding skills.

Practice Problem-Solving: Solve puzzles and challenges to enhance logical and computational thinking.

Online Courses: Enrol in structured online courses to gain comprehensive knowledge.

Personal Projects: Create small coding projects or games to apply what you’ve learnt and foster creativity.

Stay Informed: Keep up with tech trends through blogs, news, and YouTube channels to stay informed and inspired
 

Why is Music important?
Music education opens opportunities, but it is not simply a means to an end: it is also an end in itself. It gives children and young people an opportunity to express themselves, to explore their creativity, to work hard at something, persevere and shine. These experiences and achievements stay with them and shape their lives. Moreover, music plays a key role in brain development: it helps to develop language, motor skills, emotional intelligence and collaboration skills.

In the Music department, we recognise the vital role that music plays in education.

From year 7, students are actively engaged in singing, performing, listening and composing (including using music technology), making learning a fun and enriching experience. They collaborate in ensembles, learning valuable concepts such as accuracy, timing, technique, and teamwork.

Our curriculum covers a wide range of musical genres, including pop, the blues, hip-hop, musicals, Baroque music, and traditional West African djembe drumming.

Preparation for the Future: For those who choose to study GCSE in Music at Key Stage 4, the program offers opportunities to further develop skills in performing, composing, and understanding music. At Key Stage 5, we offer A Level Music and Level 3 BTEC Music to prepare students for university studies or the workplace. These programs emphasise critical thinking, resilience, and source engagement.

What does a good student look like?
We encourage students to harness their creativity and develop technical proficiency. Students will be able to perform on an instrument (and/or voice), with increasing accuracy, technical skill, expression and independence. Good students will be intrinsically motivated to improve and contribute to a range of musical experiences and be able to work as both an individual and as part of a wider ensemble.

Students will listen to a wide range of music and understand how music has been created around in different cultures and through time. This will include an understanding of the musical elements and how they can be used and manipulated to perform and create music in different styles and for different purposes.

A good student will get involved with musical opportunities outside of lessons such as the school band, production, choir, Rock School, samba drumming or jazz group. They will get involved with events to showcase their creations.

What can I do at home to help me achieve in this subject?
Practise: Regular practice on your chosen instrument or with your voice will improve your skills and confidence.

Extracurricular opportunities: the more you get involved, the more fulfilment you will get from engaging with music. There are activities on at lunch times and after school – there’s something to suit everybody whether that’s singing, performing with the school band, playing rock covers on the guitar or as an absolute beginner as part of a drumming group.

Exploration: Explore various musical styles and genres beyond what’s covered in class. Listen to music, attend concerts, and broaden your musical horizons.

Music Software: If possible, experiment with music software for composing and arranging. This will help you develop your technical skills.

Collaboration: Form musical collaborations with friends or family members. Jamming together or composing as a group can be both fun and educational. KS4: Regular practice of exam-style questions (using Focus on Sound) will help prepare you for the component 3 exam.
 

Why is PE important?
PE plays a significant role to play in promoting and establishing healthy and active habits. By providing students with the skills, confidence and motivation to become active we hope to enhance the physical health and emotional wellbeing which helps build a foundation for happiness and success. It provides experiences that extend beyond the classroom allowing students to continue their enjoyment of sport and physical education through extra-curricular clubs, sporting competitions and leadership opportunities.

What does a good student look like?
Students will be continually striving to enhance their physical literacy, being able to display motivation, confidence, physical competence and knowledge and understanding throughout the broad range of curriculum activities. They will enjoy the subject and as such be more likely to participate in physical activity throughout their life.

What can I do at home to help me achieve in this subject?
Join a sports team in the local area utilising the school/club links.
Explore different physical activities either on your own or with parents and friends. Be active whether that includes going on bike rides, running with your dog.
Develop your sporting knowledge (cultural capital) by watching local, National, International sporting events.  

Why is PSHCE important?
PSHCE covers many subjects and issues that will affect students throughout their school life and beyond. It provides them with information to make informed decisions and helps them become citizens prepared for life in modern Britain.
PSHCE education can improve the physical and psychosocial well-being of pupils. A virtuous cycle can be achieved, whereby pupils with better health and well-being can achieve better academically, which in turn leads to greater success.

What does a good student look like?
A good student in PSHCE is a one who is willing to actively participate in lessons through discussions and work completed in their exercise book. A student who contributes to class discussions, gives their opinions and critically analyses information sources and a variety of media will be successful in the subject. A good student is one who shares their viewpoint and also listens and respects other viewpoints. They also take pride in their learning and work produced.

What can I do at home to help me achieve in this subject?
•    Talk about current affairs and events
•    Keep up to date with the news
•    Listen to age appropriate podcasts on topics that we cover in PSHCE
•    Watch age appropriate documentaries on topics that interest you
•    Talk to people at home about the topics we are covering in PSHCE

Why is Religious Studies important?
Religious studies holds a significant place in the United Kingdom due to a confluence of historical, cultural, educational, and social factors. First and foremost, the UK boasts a rich tapestry of religious diversity, encompassing Christianity, Islam, Judaism, Hinduism, Sikhism, and a myriad of other faith traditions. Understanding this religious plurality is pivotal in appreciating the country’s cultural heritage and historical evolution. Moreover, in a multicultural and multi-faith society like the UK, religious studies play a pivotal role in promoting tolerance and fostering understanding among individuals of different beliefs, thus helping to mitigate prejudice and discrimination.

What does a good student look like?
First and foremost, a good student exhibits intellectual curiosity and an open mind. They approach religious and philosophical topics with a genuine desire to explore different worldviews and perspectives, without preconceived biases. They actively engage in critical thinking, asking probing questions, and challenging assumptions, which is essential for these subjects.

Additionally, a good student in these fields is empathetic and respectful. They appreciate the diversity of belief systems and cultural backgrounds, demonstrating empathy towards the experiences and values of others. Respect for differing viewpoints is a fundamental aspect of religious studies and philosophy.

What can I do at home to help me achieve in this subject?
To excel in religious studies, philosophy, and ethics from home, read or watch the news to keep up with up to date ethical dilemmas happening in the world. Additionally, watch documentaries and engage in virtual discussions or debates to deepen your understanding. Don’t forget to keep a personal journal to reflect on what you’re learning. To stay updated on current events tied to these subjects, follow reputable news sources and consider how they relate to your studies. If you have questions or need guidance, reach out to your teachers or use email/ Google classroom to seek their support. By taking these steps, you can actively explore, learn, and excel in religious studies, philosophy, and ethics while at home.

Accordion content

English Language

What Will I Learn? 
The English Language GCSE focuses on communication. You read a wide range of fiction and non-fiction texts, exploring the methods used by the writer and analysing their effects.

The English Language course also offers you the opportunity to  develop your own written communication by crafting a range of non-fiction texts, and narrative and descriptive pieces. You will learn how to confidently articulate your ideas and perspectives in your writing, using a range of vocabulary, methods and sentence structures.

All students will have the opportunity to develop their spoken communication, when your research and deliver a short Spoken Language presentation on a topic of your choice.

How Am I Assessed? 
This GCSE is 100% examination and is assessed across two equally weighted papers.
Paper 1: Explorations in Creative Reading and Writing
•    1 hour 45 minutes
•    1 unseen fiction text
•    Reading: 4 analytical questions (40 marks)
•    Writing: one piece of descriptive or narrative writing (40 marks)
Paper 2: Writers’ Viewpoints and Perspectives
•    1 hour 45 minutes
•    2 unseen non-fiction texts
•    Reading: 4 analytical questions (40 marks)
•    Writing: one piece of non-fiction writing to present a viewpoint (40 marks)

You will receive a separate Spoken Language grade of: Pass, Merit, or Distinction for your presentation. This does not form part of your GCSE English Language qualification.

What Career Options Do I Have? 
A pass (Grade 4) or strong pass (Grade 5) is required for entry to most courses, including vocational courses at College. Students who do not achieve a Grade 4 are required to repeat their GCSE.

English Literature

What Will I Learn? 
You will learn how to read a text critically, identifying the writer’s methods and exploring their effect. English Literature provides you with the opportunity to connect a text with its historical context, considering what the writer was seeking to highlight or criticise. You will engage with themes such as: love, conflict, betrayal, violence and power, and consider how the writer uses characters and events to explore these ideas.

All students explore a range of texts: a 19th Century novel, a Shakespeare play, a modern play, unseen poetry and a poetry anthology. You will create essays exploring comparisons between the text, or examining how the writer has presented a specific character, theme or relationship. GCSE English Literature gives you the opportunity to form a personal response to a text, exploring how and why a writer has presented their ideas.

How Am I Assessed? 
This GCSE is 100% examination and is assessed across two papers. Each section is equally weighted and all examinations are closed book.
Paper 1
•    1 hour 45 minutes
•    Shakespeare: extract based question (30 marks)
•    19th Century novel: extract based question (30 marks)
•    There are four  marks for spelling, punctuation and grammar available on this paper
Paper 2
•    2 hours 15 minutes
•    Modern text: a choice of two essay questions (30 marks)
•    Poetry Anthology: a comparative essay on a named poem (30 marks)
•    Unseen poetry: an essay and comparative question (24 marks + 8 marks)

What Career Options Do I Have? 
English Literature is centred on: analysis, interpretation, communication and connections. Although it is essential for students who wish to study English at A level and beyond, English Literature can be a pathway to careers in Law, politics, media, advertising, journalism, and the corporate world.

What Will I Learn?
Students will study the following topics. Number, Algebra, Ratio, Geometry, Probability and Statistics.

There are 3 assessment objectives:
1.    Use and apply standard techniques.
2.    Reason, interpret and communicate mathematically.
3.    Solve problems within mathematics and in other contexts.

How Am I Assessed?
GCSE Mathematics has a Foundation tier (grades 1 – 5) and a Higher tier (grades 4 – 9). Students must take three question papers at the same tier. The information in the table below is the same for both Foundation and Higher tiers.

What Career Options Do I Have?
Engineering, Computing, Finance, Business, Mathematical modelling and Statistics.
“Mathematics is the gate and key of the sciences” (Roger Bacon)

Combined Science

What Will I Learn?
Science forms part of the Core Curriculum and all students work towards at least two Science qualifications.

Students will study equal amounts of Biology, Chemistry and Physics.  Science students investigate cutting edge ideas and innovations as well as the scientific  principles that underpin them.  For example, students study different organ systems of the  human body and plants, develop theories about how life evolved and consider the evidence for the theories. In Chemistry lessons the fundamental ideas that underpin Chemistry understanding are studied in detail and then these ideas are used to investigate how Chemistry influences the wider world. Students will learn in Physics about how forces interact and how, as humans we can utilise these or overcome them.

Students are required to successfully complete a series of practical tasks, an understanding of these   experiments and the “working scientifically” skills that are employed throughout the course are then assessed within each of the exams.
Double Science students study five hours of Science per week, delivered by a team of two teachers.

How Am I Assessed?
Students following this course will gain two GCSE passes consisting of the Combined Science “Trilogy” course offered by AQA.  The Biology, Chemistry and Physics elements of this course are delivered separately but are all examined at the end of Year 11.

What Career Options Do I Have?
This subject enables you to study transferable skills that are not necessarily available from other subjects.
Science as a subject is not solely about preparing you for a scientific career but practising a way of   thinking, analysing and evaluating.
Students working towards this Trilogy Science award are eligible for A-Level courses should they achieve the entry requirements.

Triple Science

What Will I Learn?
When studying Double Science, students will get an overview of the three disciplines of Biology, Chemistry, and Physics. In Triple Science, we have the opportunity to dig deeper into the detail of some of these areas of study, and also to explore some topics which are not covered at all in the Double Science course.

Triple Science is no more difficult than Double Science. The option time combines with the core Science time, such that students study 7 hours one week and 8 hours the next week of Science (usually evenly split between the three subjects, averaging 2.5 hours per week of each). The three  Science subjects are each delivered by a specialist teacher for Biology, Chemistry, or Physics as appropriate.
For this reason, Triple Science is most suitable for students with a very strong interest in Science.

How Am I Assessed?
Each of the disciplines involves two examinations of 1 hour, 45 minutes each. Foundation and Higher tier papers are available. All papers include multiple choice, structured, closed short answer and open response questions, and the topics are split evenly between the papers. For instance, Physics 1 covers topics 1-4 and Physics 2 covers topics 5-8. Each paper is 100 marks, and students receive three totally independent grades, one for each discipline.

What Career Options Do I Have?
Although not essential to study A-level science, or science courses at University, Triple Science can provide an advantage in these areas due to the increased depth in which the curriculum can be studied. Additionally, students who are particularly strong in one discipline can see this reflected in their results if they study Triple Science, whereas in Double Science, the grade awarded is an average of all three areas.

What Will I Learn?
Philosophy is the ancient study of knowledge and ideas. It literally means the ‘love of wisdom’. It involves questioning our ideas and assumptions about everything from the reality in which we live to whether or not God exists. Ethics is centred around answering moral questions such as “is terrorism morally justifiable, or “should we test on animals”.

Paper 1: Philosophy
•    The study of religions: beliefs, teachings and practices.· Islamic Philosophy: subject areas such as: the Afterlife, the Nature of God,      Predestination and Freewill.
•    Christian Philosophy: subject areas such as: Evil and Suffering, the Trinity and the Nature of God.

Paper 2: Ethics
•    Relationships and Families: Marriage, Divorce, Gender and Family.
•    Religion and Life: Animal Testing, Abortion, Euthanasia and the Environment.
•    Religion, Peace and Conflict: War, Peace, the UN and Terrorism.
•    Crime and Punishment: Corporal and Capital Punishment, Prisons, psychological and social causes of Crime.

How Am I Assessed?
Two one hour and 45 minutes examinations.

What Career Options Do I Have?
The course helps to develop wide-ranging skills which are fundamental to a broad spectrum of careers. Skills such as being able to construct arguments, consider the implications of moral dilemmas, public speaking and debating and evaluating a range of viewpoints. The course looks at a range of complex moral dilemmas and provides an insight into how different people view the world

It is highly sought after by many universities as it is a unique discipline that is valued by further education establishments.
Possible career areas: Police Force, Medicine, Nursing, Law, Teaching, Sales, Business Management, Vet, Armed Forces, Politics, Social Care and Journalism.

What Will I Learn?
Within the theoretical element of the course, students will develop their understanding of the physiological, scientific, psychological and social aspects of physical education. Within practical lessons, students will be taught the key skills, techniques and tactics, as well as the rules and regulations, for a variety of activities.

How Am I Assessed?
Full course GCSE PE is made up of 40% Practical and 60% Theory.
The Theory (60%) is assessed by two formal Exams Papers
· Fitness and the Body’s Systems which is assessed with a 1hr 45 written exam (90marks)
· Health and Performance, which is assessed in a further 1hr 15min written exam (70 Marks).
For their practical (40%) students will be assessed in 3 sports from the prescribed list of activities below:

The three sports will have to consist of one team sport, one individual sport and one further  option of   either a team or an individual sport. This practical assessment makes up 30% and the final 10% of the practical mark is an analysis of a personal exercise programme.

What Career Options Do I Have?
This course will act as a stepping stone for students wanting to further their education in A-Level PE or join the BTEC Sport Programmes, here at The Joseph Whitaker School. We would strongly recommend this GCSE to any student aspiring to a career in sports coaching, PE teaching, personal training, sports injuries or the leisure industry.

What Will I Learn?
GCSE Art and Design is an inclusive course designed to suit a wide range of learning styles and abilities, maximising progress for all its artists.
It is a popular GCSE course and students enjoy learning a wide range of different techniques and skills.  The course values both creativity and academic thinking and encourages students to make work with a creative ethos whilst at the same time beginning to understand the historical or cultural contexts of the work that inspires them.

Year 10 – In Year 10  students study one theme ‘Portraits’ which is underpinned by the teaching of the formal elements . Work developed supports the course assessment requirements and includes an in-depth exploration of materials and a well-considered and relevant contextual study. Students are shown a wide range of artistic processes and techniques including; drawing, mixed media and painting, they are encouraged to develop and refine the skills they require for the increased independence required in year 11 and beyond.  The students complete a year 10 exam at the end of the year .

Year 11-  Students continue to develop their coursework and work with more independence building on the strengths they have discovered in year 10.  The year 11 course whilst independent in scope is fully supported with clear deadlines, success criteria and targeted learning. Students will need to complete  research on selected artists, and analyse work using art terms and vocabulary. There is also a new emphasis from the exam board for more use of ICT within the work submitted. Students are shown how to present their work on design boards in a professional way in preparation for external moderation. Students are  given regular detailed feedback to ensure they continue to make excellent progress. The students complete a mock exam at the end of the Autumn Term before beginning their final exam project.

How Am I Assessed?
You are  assessed on each Objective worth and then we undertake internal moderation before external moderation in June

What Career Options Do I Have?
Career options- Illustrator, fashion designer, interior Designer, Prop Desi9gner, Branding, Tattoo artist, show design, jewellery maker, stage set design, architecture, professional stage make-up, costume design, animation, marketing , Art teaching, Art curator, Arts journalist.

What Will I Learn?
Business Studies requires students both to understand the dynamic environment in which business operates and to appreciate the many and varied factors which impact upon business behaviour.     Students will work towards gaining an understanding of the issues facing UK businesses in the 21st Century. Regular reference will be made to the business world. The topics to be studied include: Marketing—The 4 Ps, Market Research, Market Segmentation and Market Mapping Entrepreneurs—Skills required to set up a business, the different business formats you can use and the problems with setting up your own business Finance—Cash flow, costs, revenue and profit calculations, break even, performance measurements. The course will require some basic GCSE Maths level calculations. Economic Factors—Inflation, unemployment, business  cycle, monetary and fiscal policy and exchange rates Production methods Job, Batch and Flow production, quality and stock control Pay and Motivation different forms of remuneration, motivation theorists and organisation structures.

How Am I Assessed?
2 x 90 minute exam papers, each with a mixture of multiple-choice, short answer and essay     questions. The essay questions will be linked to short case studies which you must use to support your answers. Please note we spend a lot of time in lessons ensuring all students can produce the high standard of writing required to reach grades 8 and 9.

What Career Options Do I Have?
Business Studies lends itself to a wide range of possible career options. Students have previously gone onto University to study Accounting, Business Studies, Economics, Finance, Marketing and    Human Resources as well as other non-business related university courses. The subject is also useful for anyone wishing to start their own business or for anyone with an interest in business in general. The skills taught in Business Studies can be used in most jobs as they provide you with an understanding of how businesses are organised, motivated and deliver their targets.

Examination Board  –  Edexcel Pearson

What Will I Learn?
Computer Science is a fascinating and technical subject in which we look at how computers work, how communication happens over computer networks and how that communication is secured, and the moral, ethical and legal issues surrounding computers. You will also get to investigate the CPU, and how everything which happens on a computer can be traced back to simple addition and subtraction.

Throughout the course you will study programming. You will get an opportunity to program using Python. Generally this will be in the format of learning new programming skills and then using them to write programs. There will be many opportunities for problem solving, which is one of the key traits needed to do well on this course. If you give up at the first hurdle, then you may want to reconsider if you really want to do this course. This course is for good problem solvers, who are disciplined and hard working.

Finally we look into the theory behind programming. It is not a case of just sitting down and writing a program, there is a lot of planning involved, as well as trial and error. If you have determination, a passion for computers and a love of maths and science, this is the course for you!

Please note that this course requires a predicted grade of a 5 or above in Maths. If your predicted grade is lower than a 5 you will need to talk to Mr Herbert.

How Am I Assessed?
You will be assessed through two exams: 50% – Computer Systems 50% – Computational Thinking, Algorithms and Programming

What Career Options Do I Have?
Applications Developer Web Designer Data Analyst Technical Author Game Developer IT Trainer IT Consultant Information Systems Manager Network Manager Penetration Tester

What Will I Learn?
This is a two year course in Design and Technology that will build upon skills students have learnt during the rotations at Key Stage 3. It will introduce new subject knowledge whilst building a wide range of new practical skills and techniques.

GCSE Design and Technology will prepare students to participate confidently and successfully in an increasingly technological world. Students will gain awareness and learn from wider influences 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. It allows students to study core technical and designing and making principles, including a broad range of design processes, materials techniques, and equipment. They will also have the opportunity to study specialist technical principles in greater depth by specialising in their favourite areas of Design and Technology.

GCSE Design and Technology enables students to learn a wide variety of different skills such as; technical drawing, modelling, Computer Aided Design, 3D simulation, Computer Aided Manufacturing to develop innovative and creative design solutions to the contextual challenges set by the examination board. Students are also given the opportunity to use machinery and processes used in industry. The new GCSE empowers students to produce creative and bespoke outcomes, and encourages students to develop their own design style as budding young designers. Project outcomes can include different materials; however, they can specialise in their preferred material area for the written examination.

During Year 10 a series of practical projects are studied alongside core and specialist theory lessons to prepare students for their final Year 11 NEA and examination.

What Career Options Do I Have?
On completion of the course, students can take their studies further at A-Level or could complete a vocational course or apprenticeship. This course provides a clear pathway to a wide range of design, engineering and manufacturing related degrees and careers, such as: graphic design, architecture, interior architecture, aeronautical design, vehicular design, industrial / product design, engineering, mechanical engineering, design engineering, manufacturing engineering, fashion marketing and merchandising, visual merchandise designers and many more.

What Will I Learn?
GCSE Drama is an exciting, challenging and creative course. It includes the opportunity to devise and act in dramatic plays; study drama texts; attend live theatre productions; learn effective speaking and listening and presentation skills; and grow in confidence and self-awareness. You may be interested in a career in the Performing Arts but if not, then the knowledge that you will learn in terms of public speaking, communication and team working are skills which all major employers in the United Kingdom consider to be vital to their company’s success. The creative industries are our fastest growing sector,  contributing £77 billion to the UK economy.

How Am I Assessed?
Component 1  Devising Theatre.  You will create your own piece of drama using the ideas of a specialist practitioner.  Internally marked and externally moderated.  40% of the GCSE.

Component 2  Performing from a Text.  In this unit you will perform an extract from a professionally published play.  Externally examined.  20% of the GCSE.

Component 3  Interpreting Theatre.  Study two plays and review a live theatre performance. Written examination 40% of the GCSE.

What Career Options Do I Have?
This GCSE specification provides opportunities for progression to courses in further education in all related subjects, including English and Modern Foreign Languages, History and Politics, Psychology, Music and Dance. It is supported by all education institutions as an entry qualification in other subjects. Equally, it is a highly enabling subject for students wishing to pursue a career that involves communication, such as law, education and the arts and media industries, sales and marketing.   Business employers, for instance, particularly like to see drama on a prospective employee’s CV because it suggests a high level of presentational and interpersonal skills which they consider to be vital in today’s competitive working environment.

What Will I Learn?
Have you ever found yourself completely absorbed in a film, wondering how it is that the team behind it managed to make you feel that way?  Ever imagined yourself holding the award for Best Picture at the Oscars?

In GCSE Film Studies you will learn how to see the art of film-making in a whole new light. Through the study of six exciting, interesting and unique films, you will learn about all aspects of film-making,  from cinematography to narrative structure. You will learn not only how existing filmmakers do it, but will also have the opportunity to write your own film!  Furthermore, you will study the key developments in film and film-making from the first moving images to the role of CGI.

In order to develop your understanding of the film industry, the units covered include a variety of films. The units are: Mainstream Hollywood Films where you will study US films such as ‘Invasion of the Body Snatchers’ and ‘E.T The Extra Terrestrial’; Independently Produced US Film ‘Whiplash’; Global film, the Swedish, ‘Let The Right One In’; International Film, ‘District 9’; and the British film, ‘Submarine’.
You will also study different genres, looking at a range of films to prepare for your coursework production—the opening sequence to a horror film. The skill of screenplay writing is also further developed from the knowledge gained in your English lessons.

How Am I Assessed?
The new Film Studies course is both intellectually demanding with 70% exam and creatively stimulating with 30% coursework production (film extract or original screenplay excerpt).
Component 1: Written exam—1hr30min 35% of qualification
Component 2: Written exam—1hr30min 35% of qualification
Component 3 Coursework Production—30% of qualification

What Career Options Do I Have?
Film Studies students often make it their passion, going on to work in the Film and Media Industry,  whether it be in screenplay writing, directing, editing, acting, costume design, make-up, sound production, set design, marketing or any of the other exciting roles in the industry.
The skills gained through the course also support students well in their English studies and is taught by the English and Media Department. The styles of writing feed into any professional vocation, but easily lend themselves to other areas like Business and Management, Journalism, Advertising, Law and Psychology.  Likewise the skills developed in production work involve high levels of creativity and originality, and so undeniably work well with careers in Art and Design,  ICT and Drama. Skills such as team work, meeting deadlines, reading for meaning and high levels of organisation are all required which are desirable for any employer.

What Will I Learn?
The GCSE French course is organised around 3 main themes which are relevant and topical in the life of young people today.

Theme 1: Identity and Culture (me, my family and friends, technology in everyday life, free-time activities and customs and festivals in french-speaking countries/communities)
Theme 2: Local, National, International and Global Areas of Interest ( home, town, neighbourhood and region, social and global issues and travel and tourism)
Theme 3: Current and Future Study and Employment (my studies, life at school/college, education post-16 and jobs, career choices and ambitions )

Through the study of these different topics you will further develop key skills such as listening, reading and translation,  and the ability to communicate confidently and coherently with native speakers in speaking and writing, conveying what you want to say with increasing accuracy, spontaneity and    fluency.  The GCSE course will allow you to deepen your knowledge about how the French language works and to develop your understanding of the culture and identity of the countries and communities where French is spoken.

How Am I Assessed?
The course comprises four exams which are all equally weighted in the skills of Listening, Speaking, Reading and Writing.  The oral examination is completed in year 11 and includes a role play, a description of a photo and a general conversation.  All other skills are completed at the end of year 11, giving you plenty of time to develop your language skills.  There are two tiers for the  examination.  Foundation assesses grades 1–5 and higher assesses grades 4–9.

What Career Options Do I Have?
A GCSE in French would form part of the EBacc which is recommended by Britain’s most prestigious universities for a variety of courses which are not solely language based.  It would also lead on to  further study of French at A Level or the ab initio study of another language at University.

A GCSE language would support careers in sectors such as Advertising and Marketing, Hospitality and Tourism, International Business and Management Consultancy.  Other more traditional roles  include translating and interpreting.

Language skills are in demand more than ever before as, due to Brexit, companies can no longer rely on standard procedures with more face to face interaction being of vital importance for a company’s success.

What Will I Learn?
GCSE History allows you to acquire a broad range of knowledge and skills.  We begin year 10 by studying Elizabethan England.  The course considers the range of problems Elizabeth faced when she became Queen in 1558 including the question of whether she was the rightful heir to the throne.  We spend some time considering the plots against Elizabeth and the involvement of her cousin Mary Queen of Scots.  The course also delves into the reasons why England went to war with Spain and how Elizabeth was able to defeat the Spanish Armada.

The American West course allows you to gain an understanding of the lifestyle of the Plains Indians and how this was destroyed by the mass movement of white Americans westwards.  We consider the difficulties that people on the Plains faced including problems with lawlessness and look at the role of the cowboy in the West.

Our thematic study on Medicine allows you to track how ideas about the cause of disease, treatments and methods of prevention have changed from the medieval times until the present day.  You will study the Black Death, smallpox vaccination, cholera and even learn about modern day advances  including the discovery of DNA, antibiotics and high-tech surgery.  You will also learn about injuries, treatments and surgery on the Western Front of the First World War and you may be given the chance to visit the Battlefields during Year 11.
The History course ends with a study of Germany and the political and economic difficulties they faced after the First World War.  You will gain an understanding of how and why Hitler was voted into power, how he established a dictatorship and how he controlled Germany during the 1930s.

How Am I Assessed?
The course is assessed through 3 examinations at the end of year 11.
Paper 1 – Medicine in Britain, 1250-present and the British Sector of the Western Front (1 hour 15 minutes)
Paper 2 – Early Elizabethan England, 1558-88 and American West, 1836-95 (1 hour 45 minutes)
Paper 3 – Weimar and Nazi Germany, 1918-39 (1 hour 20 minutes)

What Career Options Do I Have?
History is a subject which is highly valued in many careers and by many universities because it helps you to develop a range of skills such as analysis, evaluation, critical reasoning and both oral and written communication.  As such it could lead you to careers in Law, Politics, Archaeology, Education and the museum and charity sectors among a wide range of others.

What Will I Learn?
The Eduqas GCSE in Music encourages you to build on your current musical interests.  The course allows you to engage actively in the study of music enabling you to understand and appreciate a range of different kinds of music.

During the course you will: perform pieces of music (that you choose) on an instrument or voice; compose original music in the form of song-writing or using industry-standard notation software; and learn how music is created and experienced in different styles and contexts.
There are four areas of study (including two set works) which will be the subject of examination in the listening paper. Over the course, you will study pop music, film music, music for groups and how music is structured.

This is a fabulous course for those who enjoy performing, composing and listening to a wide range of music. You do not have to have studied an instrument or had singing lessons to be successful on this course. Should you wish to start lessons, the Music Department has a comprehensive team of instrumental teachers for you to choose from.

What Career Options Do I Have?
Studying GCSE Music will develop your life skills, including critical and creative thinking, aesthetic sensitivity, cultural understanding, self-discipline, self-confidence and self-motivation.

GCSE Music provides a plethora of skills desired by employers and universities and these complement other subjects. For those wanting to take Music further than GCSE however, it’s not just for those who want to be the next pop star!

GCSE Music leads into and is often a requirement for A-level Music or Music Technology. In Higher Education, there are a range of degrees on offer from Music and Music Technology to Music Production and Musical Theatre to Music Journalism and Stage Management.
Careers: Composing or Song Writing, Events Management, Music Journalism, Arts Management,   Music Production, Music Technology, Acoustics, Theatre, Sound Engineering, Stage Management, Music Therapy, Film and Television Industries, Media, Radio, Teaching, DJing, Publishing, Promotion and Marketing, Video Game Industry.

What Will I Learn?
The Spanish GCSE course is organised around 3 main themes which are relevant and topical to young people.

Theme 1: Identity and Culture (me, my family and friends, technology in everyday life, free-time activities and customs and festivals in Spanish-speaking countries/communities)
Theme 2: Local, National, International and Global Areas of Interest (home, town, neighbourhood and region, social and global issues and travel and tourism)
Theme 3: Current and Future Study and Employment (my studies, life at school/college , education post-16 and jobs, career choices and ambitions)

Through the study of these different topics you will develop key skills such as listening, reading, translation,  critical thinking, resilience and the ability to communicate confidently and coherently with native speakers.  You will be able to convey what you want to say with increasing accuracy, spontaneity and fluency.  The GCSE course will also allow you to deepen your knowledge about how the Spanish language works and to develop your understanding of the culture and identity of the countries and communities where Spanish is spoken.

How Am I Assessed? 
The course comprises four exams which are all equally weighted in the skills of Listening, Speaking, Reading and Writing.  The oral examination is completed towards the end of year 11 and includes a role-play, a description of a photo and a general conversation.  All other skills are also completed at the end of year 11 giving you plenty of time to develop your language skills.  There are two tiers for the  examination:  Foundation assesses grades 1–5 and higher assesses grades 4–9.

What Career Options Do I Have?
A GCSE in Spanish would form part of the EBacc which is recommended by Britain’s most prestigious universities for a variety of courses (which are not solely language based.)  It would also lead on to further study of Spanish at A Level or the ab initio study of another language at University.

A GCSE language would support careers in sectors such as Advertising and Marketing, Hospitality and Tourism, International Business and Management Consultancy.  Other more traditional roles  include translating and interpreting.  Language skills are in demand more than ever before as, due to Brexit, companies can no longer rely on standard procedures with more face to face interaction being of vital importance for a company’s success.

What Will I Learn?
The Health and Social Care course will introduce you to the health and social care sector.  You will gain the important knowledge, understanding and skills that are the foundations for working in this area.  This will include many that are used by health care professions on a day-to-day basis, such as assessing people’s health and wellbeing and designing individualised care plans.  You will also acquire transferable skills and tools that will enhance your future employability, such as communication and team working skills.  You will also look at the employability opportunities within this vast sector and identify skills and qualities that will gain you access into a rewarding career.
An OCR Cambridge National Certificate  in Health and Social Care  is equivalent to one GCSE grade 9 – 1.

How Am I Assessed?
To pass the course you must complete 4 modules – 3 coursework modules and one external examination, as detailed below:

• RO21 — Essential Values of Care for use with Individuals in Care Settings  Externally marked exam—1 hour
• RO22 — Communicating and working with Individuals in Heatlh, Social Care and Early Years settings Centre assessed—OCR moderated
• RO25— Life Stages Centre assessed—OCR moderated
• RO26—Planning for employment in Health, Social Care and the Children and Young People’s Workforce

What Career Options Do I Have?
This course will give you a pathway to A Levels/Cambridge Technical and University and support your career in many different areas such as: Nursing, Midwifery, Teaching, Childcare, Social Care, Sports Therapy and many more.

The opportunity to take up an apprenticeship within the Healthcare, Social Care or Child Care sector is also an option to consider.

What Will I Learn?
The hospitality and catering sector includes all businesses that provide food, beverages and accommodation services. This includes restaurants, hotels and pubs as well as airlines, tourist attractions, hospitals and sports venues. Hospitality and Catering is Britain’s fourth largest industry and accounts for 10% of British jobs.

As part of the course, students will learn about:

• How the Hospitality and Catering industry operates and the job and career opportunities
• Food preparation and cooking skills
• Developing problem solving, organisation, time management and communication skills.
• Nutrition and food safety

How Am I Assessed?

• Internal Controlled Assessment (worth 60%) which includes written work and a practical cooking exam where students have to plan, prepare, cook and present 2 nutritional dishes.
• On-screen written exam (worth 40%)
•  Students can be awarded a grade of Level 1 Pass, Level 2 Pass, Level 2 Merit, Level 2 Distinction or Level 2 Distinction

What Career Options Do I Have?

This course provides an introduction to a wide range of career options. Employment in hospitality and catering can range from receptionists and catering assistants to chefs, hotel and bar managers and food technologists in food manufacturing. All of these roles require further education and training   either through apprenticeships or further and higher education.
Students wishing to take this course should be aware of the requirement to provide ingredients on a regular basis.

What Will I Learn?
Unit 1: Living in the Physical Environment
The Earth is restless and constantly changing.  In this unit we explore the world in which we live, considering the processes and issues that might transform or indeed modify our natural environments.  There are many ways the world we live in is changing and we as geographers explore why.  Topics include:  The Living World, Natural  Hazards, Rivers and Coasts.

Unit 2: Challenges in the Human Environment
Humans play a massive part in the changing nature of the world.  Often their behaviours and choices are studied in relation to nature and throw up many interesting questions.  We need to study how people have impacted on the globe to allow them to predict how environments might change in the    future.  Topics include: Urban Issues and Challenges, The Economic World, Resource Management

Unit 3: Fieldwork and Geographical Skills
You will also be taught a variety of geographical techniques such as cartography, Geographical Information Systems (digital mapping), interpreting statistics, field sketches, photographic interpretation and a range of graphical skills.

Before sitting your final exams you will need to carry out two contrasting geographical enquiries to test and apply the theory you have learnt in the classroom out in the field.  To undertake this the geography department will take you on two field trips. The first field trip is to the Peak District to investigate rivers and the second to Birmingham to investigate urban change and regeneration.

All topics are issue based, which offers the chance to learn traditional geographical theories through contemporary, real life examples.  The course is academic in nature and requires a high degree of literacy and numeracy. If you wish to study A Level Geography in the future it is essential that you  have previously studied the GCSE.

How Am I Assessed?
By 3 terminal exams:
Unit 1:  Living with the physical environment         1 hour 30m
Unit 2: Challenges in the human environment        1 hour 30m
Unit 3: Geographical applications and skills             1 hour 15m

What Career Options Do I Have?
Geography fosters many transferable skills that can be applied across a variety of jobs and there are careers that are more geography specific such as:  Lawyer, geologist, hydrologist, flood defences engineer, conservation worker, pollution analyst, environmental consultant, surveyor, estate agent, transport officer, emergency services manager, cartographer, remote sensing analyst, weather forecaster, risk assessor, volcanologist,  seismologist, location analyst, aid worker, armed forces, teacher, diplomat, civil servant, town planner, professor, GIS specialist, coastal engineer, travel agent, explorer, TV researcher and many more…