The purpose of this booklet is to provide you with details of the pathways and courses that are available at KS4. We hope that you find it useful and informative.
Please take time to read all the information carefully and contact teaching staff if you have any questions. Students will be able to discuss option preferences and will receive further information on subjects during their normal lessons, assemblies and in Tutor Time.
In Years 10 and 11, our students will follow a broad and balanced curriculum that will provide solid foundations for all future, educational and work-based pathways. All students will follow a common core of subjects and qualifications.
The Two Pathways
Our students will be placed on the most suitable pathway for KS4 according to their attainment. They will be placed onto one of two pathways, details can be found on pages 12-13.
Options
Students on the languages pathway will then choose one subject from the list of option subjects and students on the non-languages pathway, will choose two subjects from the list on page 28-43.
Please do not hesitate to contact your child’s Director of Progress if you have any questions during this process.
Mr Jim Taylor Headteacher
KEY DATES 2025
Week commencing 13th January and 20th January 2025
Options 2025 assemblies and information.
Options booklets given to pupils and emailed to parents. Visit our website for information and guidance on Year 10 and 11 options shrewsburyacadamy.co.uk
Thursday 6th February 2025
Year 9 Parents’ Evening and Options survey opens
Friday 28th February 2025
Options survey closes
March 2025
Consultation period takes place
Summer Term 2025
Options confirmation letters sent home
TALK TO US
Contacts
The following staff are available to speak to both students and parents/carers throughout the options process.
Roxanne Hayes Deputy Headteacher roxanne.hayes@shr.mmat.co.uk
Rachel Pitt Director of Progress Rachel.pitt@shr.mmat.co.uk
Craig Price Director of Maths Craig.price@shr.mmat.co.uk
Cat McCausland Director of English Cat.mccausland@shr.mmat.co.uk
Maria Requejo Director of Languages maria.requejo@shr.mmat.co.uk
Joanna Jones Director of Humanities joanna.jones@shr.mmat.co.uk
Please contact director of faculties directly for subject related enquiries either by speaking to them in school or using the email above.
April Gibson Deputy Director of Progress April.gibson@shr.mmat.co.uk
Julia Pickering Assistant Headteacher Julia.pickering@shr.mmat.co.uk
Jan Everest Director of Technology Jan.EtchesEverest@shr.mmat.co.uk
Cat McCausland Performing Arts & Music Cat.mccausland@shr.mmat.co.uk
Kris Dobson Director of Physical Education Kris.Dobson@shr.mmat.co.uk
Adam Richards Director of Science adam.richards@shr.mmat.co.uk
Key stage 4 courses
When students enter Year 10 in September 2025, they move into Key Stage 4, the final part of their compulsory school education. At the end of this two-year period, public examinations are taken.
The National Curriculum requires all students to study the following subjects throughout Key Stage 4 (although not necessarily to GCSE level):
⦁ English
⦁ Mathematics
⦁ Science
⦁ Physical Education
⦁ Citizenship
There is also a requirement to maintain a balanced curriculum through to the age of 16.
The English Baccalaureate (Ebacc)
The EBacc is not a qualification in its own right – it is a combination of GCSE subjects recommended by The Department for Education that offer an important range of knowledge and skills to young people: English Language and Literature, Mathematics, Science (Combined or Triple), History or Geography, and a language.
The Government has firmly held the position that the English Baccalaureate is the best curriculum for young people: “EBacc subjects are the sound basis for a variety of careers beyond the age of 16 and can also enrich students’ studies and give them a broad general knowledge that will enable them to participate in and contribute to society.” (DFE Careers Strategy, December 2017).
This pathway combines strong academic rigour with a breadth of study that provides a strong foundation for any students wishing to study at A-level and with the aspiration to study at Russell Group universities. The Ebacc is not essential to get into university, but these subjects are considered `facilitating subjects` and top universities expect students to have two of their three A levels in these subjects.
At Shrewsbury Academy, it is our ambition that every student will take a language at GCSE. However, we do recognise that this might not always be suitable for every student. The Sutton Trust research shows that the combination of EBacc subjects, where modern foreign languages is one of them, can help students’ performance in English and Maths. The UCL Institute of Education’s study shows that students who took all of the EBacc subjects were more likely to stay on in full-time education and had greater opportunities in further education. Our children will also be competing with those in other countries when they enter the job market where quite often, speaking at least two languages is very common.
Optional courses:
Art I 3D Art & Design
(Ceramics) I Film Studies I
Child Development I Creative i-MediaI Travel & Tourism I
Drama I Design Technology I
Food Preparation and Nutrition I History I
Geography I Modern Foreign Languages* I Performing Arts
Dance I Photography I GCSE
Music I Media Studies
| Separate Sciences I Sport Studies I Textiles (Design) |
Religious Education I
*Compulsory for selected students
Pathways
Students are encouraged to follow the most suitable of the two available pathways according to their progress and attainment.
Each pathway has the same core subjects and then differing choices. All students study the five core subjects of English, Mathematics, Science, Physical Education and Humanities (History OR Geography). In addition, all students will study Work-Related Learning and Careers Guidance. Personal and Social Education also continues through key stage 4.
Pathway 1 is the languages (Ebacc) pathway. The EBacc is a combination of specific subjects: English Language and Literature; Maths; Science; History or Geography and a language.
The non-languages (non-Ebacc) pathway does not require students to study a language at GCSE, however, students can still choose to study a language as one of their options.
Students on the languages pathway will then choose one additional option subject and those on the non-languages pathway will then choose to study two additional option subjects.
All examination subjects studied can lead to a recognised qualification at Level One or Level Two of the National Qualification Framework meaning that students will follow 9 academic courses with the possibility of up to nine GCSE passes or equivalents. Some students can opt for an additional subject which may run as a session 6 afterschool.
Methods of assessment vary considerably between courses. You can find specific details on each subject’s page in this booklet. For further information, please visit The Qualifications and Curriculum Development Authority’s website www.qca.org.uk
Key stage 4 curriculum
Languages Pathway
Core Subjects 1 x Humanity 1 x Language 1 x Option
GCSE English Language
GCSE English Literature
GCSE Maths
GCSE Combined Science
PE (not accredited)
PSHE (not accredited) GCSE Geography Or GCSE History
GCSE Spanish
GCSE Triple Science
GCSE Art & Design or GCSE Textiles or GCSE
Photography
GCSE Design & Technology
GCSE Food Preparation & Nutrition
GCSE Drama
GCSE Media Studies
GCSE Religious Studies
GCSE History
GCSE Geography
GCSE Film Studies
GCSE Music
BTEC Travel & Tourism
Dance Technical Award
OCR Cambridge Nationals: Creative iMedia
OCR Cambridge Nationals: Child Development
OCR Cambridge Nationals: Sports Studies
Pathway 2
Core Subjects 1 x Humanity 2 x Options
GCSE English Language
GCSE English Literature
GCSE Maths
GCSE Combined Science
PE (not accredited)
PSHE (not accredited) GCSE Geography Or GCSE History
GCSE Triple Science
GCSE Spanish
GCSE Art & Design or GCSE Textiles or GCSE Photography
GCSE Design & Technology
GCSE Food Preparation & Nutrition
GCSE Drama
GCSE Media Studies
GCSE Religious Studies
GCSE History
GCSE Geography
GCSE Film Studies
GCSE Music
BTEC Travel & Tourism
Dance Technical Award
OCR Cambridge Nationals: Creative iMedia
OCR Cambridge Nationals: Child Development
OCR Cambridge Nationals: Sports Studies
Courses Available
Please Note:
You can only choose 1 of Art, 3D Art & Design, Textiles or Photography.
Compulsory core subjects:
English
Mathematics
Science
Physical Education (Core)
PSHE (not GCSE accredited)
Extended Core Subjects:
Students must pick either Geography or History.
If they are following the Languages Pathway, they must also pick Spanish.
Geography or
History
Spanish *
*Compulsory for Languages Pathway (Ebacc) students.
Languages Pathway (Ebacc) students now choose one further option from the column on the right-hand side as well as a reserve choice.
Non-Languages Pathway (nonEbacc) students now pick two options from the column on the right-hand side as well as a reserve choice.
*Compulsory for selected students only
Optional subjects:
Art
3D Art and Design (Ceramics)
Film Studies
Creative I-media
Child Development
Drama
Design Technology
Food Preparation and Nutrition
Spanish
Sports Studies
Music
Performing Arts: Dance
Photography
History
Geography
Textiles
Media Studies
Travel & Tourism
Separate Science
All students must pick a reserve choice.
Reserve:
Qualifications
GCSE qualifications
⦁ Graded 9–1.
⦁ Accepted by all post-16 providers depending on the grade achieved and the suitability of the course content for future study.
⦁ An academic focus with one exam at the end.
⦁ Some subjects have coursework.
Technical qualifications
⦁ Graded Distinction D* to U.
⦁ Accepted by all post-16 providers depending on the grade achieved and the suitability of the course content for future study.
⦁ A vocational focus: all courses are assessed through a series of internally assessed tasks and one external exam which have one external exam (which has one re-take opportunity).
⦁ All subjects have exam assessment tasks to complete in school time which make up part of the final grade.
Making Choices
This booklet is designed to help you make the right choices. The subjects you choose will affect how you spend your time here at Shrewsbury Academy over the next two years. The choices you make may also influence what you do after your GCSEs.
• Look at ALL subject choices before deciding. Read through them carefully and watch the presentations on the website.
• If you have a fixed career in mind, choose subjects that you will need to study at A Level and in further education.
• If you (like most young people) do not have a career in mind, choose subjects that will keep your options open.
• Look at course content and how the course is assessed – does this suit your learning style?
• Be realistic about your abilities! Choose subjects that play to your strengths.
• Choose something that interests you. If you are interested in a subject, you will be more motivated and study harder.
• Choose subjects that you are good at.
• Don’t choose a subject because your friends are doing it!
• Don’t choose a subject because someone else says/ finds it easy. This is about you, nobody else!
Reserve Choices
At this stage, we cannot guarantee that all of these courses will run as it will depend on the number of students who have opted for each subject. If too few people choose a subject and it does not run, you may be required to make a reserve choice. We make every effort to meet students’ first choices and where any changes need to be made, we discuss them with students first.
How do I make my choices?
You will be sent an email stating which pathway you have been allocated and an options survey where you will be asked to indicate your first, second, and reserve choices.
What is involved?
You will learn to further develop your skills in the following areas:
⦁ Reading a wide range of texts, fluently and with good understanding, from a Shakespearean play to Modern Prose and Poetry
⦁ Reading critically, and using knowledge gained from wide reading to inform and improve your own writing
⦁ Expressing your views, presenting arguments and writing creatively
⦁ Using grammar correctly, punctuating and spelling accurately
⦁ Listening to and understanding spoken language, and using spoken Standard English effectively
Qualifications available
Every student will sit both GCSE English Language and GCSE English Literature, both of which are graded 9–1.
Assessment
GCSE English Language will feature two written examination papers worth 100% of the qualification. 50% of the qualification assesses reading skills and 50% of the qualification assesses writing skills. Students will also have to complete a speaking and listening task throughout the course. GCSE English Literature will also feature two written examination papers worth 100% of the qualification. These will cover drama, prose and poetry from the nineteenth, twentieth and twenty-first centuries, and a Shakespeare play.
For further information, please contact:
Catriona McCausland Director of English cat.mccausland@shr.mmat.co.uk
Mathematics
What is involved?
GCSE Mathematics aims to enable you to enjoy and become confident in using and applying mathematical techniques. You will learn to develop your skills in the following areas:
⦁ Number
⦁ Algebra
⦁ Ratio and Proportion
⦁ Geometry and Measures
⦁ Statistics and Probability
Qualifications available
There are two tiers of GCSE examination – Foundation and Higher.
The Foundation exam allows a student to gain the new GCSE grade of 5–1.
The Higher exam allows a student to gain the new GCSE grade of 9–4.
Assessment
GCSE Maths is examined by written papers at the end of the two-year course.
There are three papers: one non-calculator and two calculator.
For further information, please contact…
Criag Price Director of Maths Craig.price@shr.mmat.co.uk
Science
What is involved?
Scientific study gives us an understanding of the world and helps us explore how science affects our everyday lives. You will study Biology, Chemistry and Physics.
Qualifications available
Combined Science: 2 GCSE grades in Science (9–1) following the AQA Combined Science Trilogy course.
Assessment
There are six written exam papers. All are taken at the end of Year 11.
⦁ 2 x Biology
⦁ 2 x Chemistry
⦁ 2 x Physics
Each of these exams is 1 hour and 15 minutes.
There is no controlled assessment: 100% of the qualification is based on these exams.
For further information, please contact… Adam Richards Director of Science adam.richards@shr.mmat.co.uk
Core Physical Education
What is involved?
Students in Key Stage 4 will receive 2 hours core PE per week in Year 10 and 11 This will be non-assessed and will give the students an opportunity to participate in a variety of different activities to improve health and fitness as well as promoting lifelong learning. The course will encourage students to improve their tactical knowledge, consolidate their skill base, take part in further physical activity
Within the hours allocated in Year 11, students are given time to work on their individual fitness and play in team and individual games. The time is spent on activities with the emphasis on participation and enjoyment. Some students may use core PE to enhance their GCSE practical grades.
Qualifications available
Statutory core PE has no qualification. Students are able to select Sports Studies as an additional qualification course as one of their option choices.
Assessment
Students’ individual progress in core PE will be monitored by teaching staff during lessons and all students are expected to participate fully.
For further information, please contact… Kris Dobson Director of Physical Education kris.dobson@shr.mmat.co.uk
EXTENDED CORE SUBJECTS
Geography
What is involved?
Students will travel the world from the classroom, exploring issues and case studies in the UK, newly emerging economies and lower income countries as well as developing a range of statistical and analytical skills. This will be assessed through the AQA exam specification.
Topics of study include:
⦁ Living with the Physical Environment (A: Challenge of natural hazards, B: The living world, C: Physical Landscapes in the UK)
⦁ Challenges in the Human Environment (A: Urban Issues and Challenges, B: Changing Economic World, C: The challenge of resource management
Students will develop a wide range of geographical skills and techniques and be encouraged to understand their role in society.
Qualifications available
GCSE grade 9–1.
Assessment
There will be three exams to sit (100%)
⦁ Paper 1: Living with the Physical environment (35%)
⦁ Paper 2: Challenges in the Human Environment (35%)
⦁ Paper 3: Geographical Applications (30%)
For further information, please contact… Joanna Jones Director of Humanities joanna.jones@shr.mmat.co.uk
History
What is involved?
History is a fascinating subject that helps us understand the past and appreciate how and why people and societies have changed over time. Students will study the main developments in early 20th century British and German history, and international relations; whilst also embedding this in a study of the wider developments from Medieval times onward. This is studied through the AQA exam specification.
Paper 1: Understanding the Modern World
⦁ Section A: Germany, 1890 – 1945: Democracy and dictatorship
⦁ Section B: Conflict and Tension: The Inter-War Years 1918 –1939
Paper 2: Shaping the Nation
⦁ Section A: Britain, Health and the People c1000 – Present day
⦁ Section B: Elizabethan England c1568 – 160
Students will develop a wide range of historical skills, such as evaluation of sources, exploring the reasons for change and continuity, explaining significance and constructing a narrative of events.
Qualifications available
GCSE grade 9–1.
Assessment
There are two written exams which are taken at the end of Year 11:
⦁ Paper 1 – Understanding the Modern World (2 hours)
⦁ Paper 2 – Shaping the Nation (2 hours)
For further information, please contact…
Charley Coicheci Deputy Director of Humanities charley.coicheci@shr.mmat.co.uk
Modern Foreign Languages
What is involved?
All students are able to study Spanish. For selected students (usually those attaining grade 5 or above), a language will be compulsory; this can lead to the English Baccalaureate, which will be beneficial in terms of Sixth Form, college, university and future employment applications.
The aim of MFL GCSE is to enable students to develop their ability to communicate in Spanish and to understand a variety of authentic materials including excerpts from literature in the target language. For those wishing to study a language at A Level, this course leads smoothly into Advanced Level study.
Qualifications available
GCSE grade 9–1.
Assessment
The course is linear, meaning that all four skills are assessed in final exams at the end of Year 11. Students will be entered at either foundation tier (grades 1–5) or higher tier (grades 4–9). All four components must be taken at the same tier of entry.
Listening: 25% of total GCSE marks (35 minutes at foundation tier or 45 minutes at higher tier). There will be a range of question types, some in English, some in the target language.
Speaking: 25% of total GCSE marks (15 minutes of preparation time, then 7 to 9-minute exam at foundation tier or 10–12 minutes at higher tier). This will include a role play activity, reading aloud, an unprepared short conversation and a photo card discussion.
Reading: 25% of total GCSE marks (45 minutes at foundation tier or 1 hour at higher tier). This will include a range of materials from across the subject content, a literature extract and a short translation from the target language to English.
Writing: 25% of total GCSE marks (1 hour at foundation tier or 1 hour 15 minutes at higher tier). This will include several tasks ranging in difficulty and a translation from English into the target language.
For further information, please contact..
Maria Requejo Director of Languages maria.requejo@shr.mmat.co.uk
NOW CHOOSE TWO OPTIONS IF YOU ARE FOLLOWING THE LANGUAGES PATHWAY OR THREE SUBJECTS IF YOU ARE FOLLOWING THE NON-LANGUAGES PATHWAY
Art (or Textiles or Photography)
What is involved?
It is hoped that students opting to follow the GCSE Art course will enjoy the opportunity to develop their creative, observation, organisational, critical and communication skills through the practical study of one or more art and craft techniques. A widening understanding of cultural, historical art and material properties should develop as the course progresses to both enrich and stimulate personal ideas and outcomes. During the course students need to develop and demonstrate an ability to:
• observe and record information from natural or man-made forms • work independently
• use materials and processes in a systematic and disciplined manner
• compose the visual elements of tone, colour texture, line form and space in a creative and imaginative manner sustain a chosen study from conception to realisation
• identify characteristics of Art and relate these to their own work or social context and make critical judgements where necessary
Many students go on to take higher education courses in Art and Design.
Qualifications available
GCSE grade 9–1.
Assessment
Art is assessed at Key Stage 4 through coursework and an external exam.
Students are required to produce a portfolio (60% of marks available) and complete a final set task (40%)
For further information, please contact…
Alex Miller
Deputy Director of Creative Arts
Alex.Miller@shr.mmat.co.uk
3D Art & Design (or
Art, or Textiles, or Photography)
What is involved?
It is hoped that students opting to follow 3D Art & Design course will enjoy the opportunity to develop their creative, observation, organisational, critical and communication skills through the practical study of one or more art and craft techniques. Alongside the threedimensional work students will need to explore and be encouraged to use pencil, paint, and printmaking to create the foundation and to enhance the sculptural work created. During the course students need to develop and demonstrate an ability to:
• understand different materials and explore the manipulation of three-dimensional materials to communicate ideas
• use a range of sculpting materials, tools and techniques such as carving, modelling, joining, constructing, and reducing, and transposing two-dimensional images into three-dimensional forms.
• combine a range of mixed media materials and techniques such as wet and dry media, collage, objects, two- and three-dimensional elements, digital and non digital applications.
• work independently
• compose the visual elements of tone, colour texture, line form and space in a creative and imaginative manner both two- and threedimensionally.
• sustain a chosen study from conception to realisation
• identify characteristics of art, culture, sculpture, and architecture and relate these to their own work.
Qualifications available
GCSE grade 9–1.
Assessment
3D Art is assessed at Key Stage 4 through coursework and an external exam.
Students are required to produce a portfolio (60% of marks available) and complete a final set task (40%)
For further information, please contact…
Alex Miller
Deputy Director of Creative Arts
Alex Miller@shr.mmat.co.uk
Photography (or Art, or Textiles, or 3D Art & Design)
What is involved?
· In photography GCSE you will learn how to use DSLR cameras to explore areas of lens-based and light based art. How to compose a photograph and how photography works. You need to be a creative individual who is not afraid to experiment. Responding to and being inspired by the artists work, creating your own work and then evaluating is the photography standard process. You will learn how to use a range of photographic styles, portraiture, still life and architectural. A big part of the course is ICT based using photo editing software to manipulate images.
· As photography is a coursework-based subject everything that you will be doing goes towards your grade. This is all evidenced in your digital portfolio making it possible for you to complete work whenever you need to. In year 10 you will gain necessary skills then progress onto choosing your own theme and artwork to be inspired by. The exam comes out in January of year 11 and you must be able to explore the theme that the exam board sets for you. This culminates in a 2 day exam where you create a final piece.
· Photography is an exciting opportunity to show how creative and talented you are in the fields of ICT. and art, regardless of your drawing ability and traditional art media skills
Qualifications available GCSE grade 9–1.
Assessment
o Coursework 60%
o Exam 40%
o For further information, please contact…
Alex Miller
Deputy Director of Creative Arts
Alex.Miller@shr.mmat.co.uk
Textiles Design (or Art, or Photography, or 3D Art & Design)
What is involved?
Textile Design is a versatile practice that involves the creation, selection, manipulation and application of a range of materials such as fibres, yarns and fabrics, and processes such as weaving, knitting, stitching and printing to create designs and products.
Areas of study involves:
• Constructed textiles
• Digital textiles
• Printed fabrics
• Dyed fabrics
• Fashion design
• Installed textiles
• Soft furnishings
• Stitched and/or embellished textiles
Qualifications available GCSE grade 9–1.
Assessment
Art is assessed at Key Stage 4 through coursework and an external exam.
Students are required to produce a portfolio (60% of marks available) and complete a final set task (40%)
For further information, please contact…
Alex Miller Deputy Director of Creative Arts Alex.Miller@shr.mmat.co.uk
Creative I-MEDIA Cambridge Nationals
What is involved?
In Graphics we look at the creative way interactive media products are made and used within today’s society, using posters, DVD covers and games for inspiration.
We look at Digital Graphics, their creation and the way that they are designed. We look at storytelling with comic strips and create a digital comic strip according to a client brief.
As well as the production of interactive media products, we also look at the importance of evaluation and the planning process, including story boarding, mind mapping and mood boards.
Qualifications available
The course will lead to a Level 2 Certificate in Creative I-Media.
Assessment
The course is currently made up of 2 mandatory as well as an optional unit.
•R093 : This unit is a foundation in what makes up the media industry and how creative imedia fits into it. You will learn about the job roles and processes required to create a wide range of media products.
•R094 Visual identity and digital graphics. There are 2 parts to this unit exploring visual identity and how this contributes to an overall brand identity. Second part looks at the design and creation of digital graphics for digital products.
•R095 Characters and Comics. This unit is all about creating characters and using those characters to create a comic that will tell a story.
For further information, please contact…
Jan Everest Director of Technology Jan.EtchesEverest@shr.mmat.co.uk
Design & Technology AQA - GCSE
What is involved?
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. Our GCSE 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.
How is it assessed?
• NEA (Non Exam Assessment) worth 50% of overall mark
The NEA involves developing a contextual project around a given topic, students will develop a portfolio of work and develop modelling skills to come up with a prototype model that fulfils the design brief. They we work on this for approximately 30 to 40 hours over the course of the second year.
• Final Examination worth 50% of overall mark.
The Examination focuses on the following topics.
• Core technical principles
• Specialist technical principles
• Designing and making principles
In addition:
• at least 15% of the exam will assess maths
• at least 10% of the exam will assess science.
The course will run over two years and the first year will be split into two parts, developing key knowledge and understanding of design & technology concepts and developing practical, drawing and developmental skills through practical work and developing a mini NEA on the topic of lighting. The second year will involve completing the examination and the NEA Project
For further information contact
Nicola Higgins Deputy Director of Technology
Nicola Higgins@shr.mmat.co.uk
Food Preparation & Nutrition AQA-GCSE
What is involved?
Food Preparation & Nutrition GCSE is an exciting and creative course which focuses on practical cooking skills and developing a greater understanding of nutrition, food provenance and the working characteristics of food materials. You will learn about British and international culinary traditions, food security and safety.
Food preparation skills are integrated into five core topics:
⦁ Food, nutrition and health
⦁ Food science
⦁ Food safety
⦁ Food choice
⦁ Food provenance
Qualifications available
GCSE grades 9–1.
Assessment
Written exam: Food preparation and nutrition (50%) Theoretical knowledge of food preparation and nutrition from the 5 core topics.
Non-exam assessment (NEA): (50%) Practical investigations are a compulsory element of this NEA task.
⦁ Task 1: Food investigation You will understand the working characteristics, functional and chemical properties of ingredients.
⦁ Task 2: Food preparation assessment You will prepare, cook and present a final menu of three dishes within a single period of no more than three hours, planning in advance how this will be achieved.
For further information, please contact…
Nicola Higgins Deputy Director of Technology Nicola.Higgins@shr.mmat.co.uk
Media Studies
What is involved?
Students will analyse a range of media texts and then apply their knowledge and understanding by creating their own media production.
Topics of study include:
• Television Drama
• Advertising and Marketing
• Music (Videos, Radio, and Magazines)
• The News (Print and Online)
This relevant and creative course will develop a wider understanding and appreciation of the media in both a historical and contemporary context.
Qualifications available
•GCSE grade 9–1.
Assessment
There will be two exams to sit (70%)
• Television and Promoting Media (35%)
• Music and The News (35%)
Students also submit a non-exam assessment (30%)
For further information, please contact…
Catriona McCausland Director of English Cat.Mccausland@shr.mmat.co.uk
Film Studies
Film Studies offers a unique opportunity to transform a passion for film into a deeper understanding of the art of storytelling and the creative processes behind cinema. This course allows students to analyze how key elements such as lighting, sound, editing, and performance combine to create powerful narratives and memorable moments. Pupils will explore a diverse range of films from different genres, cultures, and historical periods, developing critical thinking and analytical skills. In addition, the practical component enables students to demonstrate their creativity by producing their own short film or screenplay, providing valuable insight into the filmmaking process. For those interested in storytelling, cultural exploration, or pursuing a career in the creative industries, Film Studies is an engaging and highly rewarding choice.
The course will cover three areas:
• Film analysis: How films tell stories and create meaning.
• Industry knowledge: Understanding how films are made and distributed.
• Practical work: Making your own film or writing a screenplay.
Why take Film Studies?
• Gain creative skills like storytelling and filmmaking
• Develop critical thinking by analyzing films
• Explore cultures and perspectives through global cinema
• Learn technical skills, such as editing and cinematography
Qualifications available
•GCSE grade 9–1
•Exam board: Eduqas
Assessment
Component 1: Key Developments in US Film
• Written examination: 1 hour 30 minutes
• 35% of qualification
Component 2: Global Film: Narrative, Representation and Film Style
• Written examination: 1 hour 30 minutes
• 35% of qualification
Component 3: Production
• Non-exam assessment: filmed short or written extract from a screenplay
• 30% of qualification
• Internally assessed, externally moderated by Eduqas
For further information, please contact…
Catriona McCausland Director of English Cat.Mccausland@shr.mmat.co.uk
GCSE Drama is a lively and exciting subject that allows students of all abilities to fully develop their performance skills and increase their confidence through the exploration of different theatre styles and genres.
Students will:
⦁ Study two plays.
⦁ Complete a ‘devised performance’ in response to stimulus.
⦁ Complete a 900-word portfolio to support their practical performance.
⦁ Take a written exam based on their set text and a response to live theatre.
Qualifications available
GCSE grade 9–1.
Assessment
⦁ Component 1: Devised performance and portfolio (40%)
⦁ Component 2: Performing from a text (20%)
⦁ Component 3: Written Exam (40%)
For further information, please contact… Catriona McCausland Director of English Cat.Mccausland@shr.mmat.co.uk
DANCE
What is involved?
In this exciting and industry inspired course students will get to study what it really takes to be a creative in the Performing Arts industry. Students will research, analyse and perform existing professional pieces; they will explore rehearsal methods and creative processes that are at the core of professional practice. Students will be able to create original pieces of dance using the skills developed and reenforced throughout this course, working in ways that are recognised by industry professionals. In addition to this students who choose this course will study how creatives plan, develop and deliver performances responding to industry commissions. This will include looking at the social and cultural aspect of performances, budgeting, job roles and responsibilities and promoting, including marketing through advertising and social media.
Students will:
• Learn skills that are essential to working in the performing arts industry.
• Work in creative, collaborative ways to develop vocational skills.
• Develop a wide range of transferable skills that are highly desirable in most job settings, including research, analysis, self reflection and evaluation, responding to feedback, independent learning, group work, self expression, marketing, presentation skills and self confidence.
Qualifications available
Technical Award Level 1 / 2
Vocational Award in Performing Arts (Dance)
Assessment : (Internal and External assessment)
Portfolio of own research and development
Performance of a professional piece of work
Creation and performance of own work
Planning, pitching and promoting an event.
For further information, please contact…
Catriona McCausland Director of English
Cat.Mccausland@shr.mmat.co.uk
MUSIC
GCSE Music is a subject that enables students to develop performance skills on a choice of instruments, through solo and ensemble activities, as well as exploring different styles and genres. They will look to develop and improve their reading, writing and performing of notation to enhance performances as well as informing composition studies. Contemporary and older musicians, together with their music and cultures, will also be studied. Students will engage with new technologies to enable them to create traditional and experimental compositions by using a range of music software.
What is involved?
Students will:
Perform a minimum of two pieces of 4-6 minutes duration. One must be an ensemble (group) performance and one must link to an area of study.
Compose two pieces totalling 3-6 minutes duration. Learners will choose from one of four given briefs and one of their own choosing.
Appraise via a written exam (1hr 15mins). This will consist of a listening paper with questions covering:
Ensemble Music Forms and Structures of Music.
Qualifications available:
GCSE grade 9-1. Exam Board: Eduqas
Child Development
What is involved?
The Cambridge National in Child Development is a practical-based qualification which equips the learner with the knowledge and skills to nurture and care for children in their early years.
Candidates will examine child development from the point of conception through to 5 years of age, developing a thorough understanding of the importance of effective early years childcare.
This is achieved through a variety of approaches, including undertaking research tasks, examining case studies, producing posters and presentations to demonstrate their knowledge and undertaking practical tasks to aid learning. It will also include a Child Study which develops research based learning opportunities through play.
The course also includes an externally set examination covering the Health and wellbeing for child development which contributes to the overall qualification.
This is ideal for learners who want a career in midwifery, teaching, maternity care, nursing, and working with child in nurseries or care.
Qualifications available
OCR Cambridge National in Child Development qualification Level 1/2 award (Pass, Merit or Distinction) J809
Assessment
RO57 – Health and wellbeing of child development: Exam worth 40% of overall mark.
RO58 - Create a safe environment and understand the nutritional needs of children from birth to five years: Centre assessed exam worth 30% of overall mark.
RO59 – Understand the development of a child from birth to five years: Centre assessed exam worth 30% of overall mark.
For further information, please contact…
Adam Richards Director of Science adam.richards@shr.mmat.co.uk
Travel and Tourism
The Travel and tourism sector is the 3rd largest employer in the UK, accounting for 9.5 % of all the UK’s employment. Tourism is one of the fastest growing sectors of employment, already employing some 3 million people.
What is involved?
This course introduces students to the dynamic travel and tourism sector by studying the aims, products and services of different travel and tourism organisations, their use of consumers technologies, how organisations meet customer needs, and the influences on global travel and tourism.
Topics of Study Include:
• Component 1-Travel and tourism organisations and Destination
How different organisations work together.
Types of travel and tourism
The features that make destinations appealing
Travel routes
• Component 2 - Customer needs in Travel and Tourism
How organisations use market research to identify trends
Customers needs and preferences
Selection of products and services
Planning holidays to meet customer needs
• Component 3 – Influences on Global Travel and Tourism:
How T&T organisations and destinations respond to these factors
Potential impact of tourism on global destinations
How can destinations manage the impact of tourism and control tourism to achieve sustainable tourism.
Qualifications Available
BTEC Level 1 / Level 2 TECH Award
The qualification is graded over seven grades from Level 1 Pass to Level 2 Distinction*, the course provides:
• A pathway to A Levels in preparation for entry to higher education,
• Study Level 3 vocational courses, which leads to employment / apprenticeship in tourism
Assessments
Components 1 and 2 are assessed through non exam internal assessment 66.6%)
Component 3 is externally assessed through a written assessment (33.3%)
For further information, please contact… Adrian Parker – Travel and Tourism Lead adrian.parker@shr.mmat.co.uk
Separate Science
What is involved?
Scientific study gives us an understanding of the world and helps us explore how science affects our everyday lives. If choosing this option, you will study Biology, Chemistry and Physics in more depth than covered in the Combined Science GCSE.
To follow three separate sciences is an academically demanding course, requiring high levels of ability. Only students attaining grade 6 consistently across Science, Maths and English will be allowed to follow the separate sciences course.
Students should talk to their science teacher and to Mr Richards, Director of Science, if they are planning on selecting this as an option subject.
Qualifications available
⦁ 1 GCSE grade 9–1 in Biology following AQA GCSE Biology
⦁ 1 GCSE grade 9–1 in Chemistry following AQA GCSE Chemistry
⦁ 1 GCSE grade 9–1 in Physics following AQA GCSE Physics
Assessment
There are six written exam papers, all of which are taken in the summer exam period of Year 11.
⦁ 2 x Biology
⦁ 2 x Chemistry
⦁ 2 x Physics
Each of these exams is 1 hour and 45 minutes. There is no controlled assessment and so 100% of the qualification is based on these exams.
For further information, please contact…
Adam Richards Director of Science adam.richards@shr.mmat.co.uk
History
What is involved?
History is a fascinating subject that helps us understand the past and appreciate how and why people and societies have changed over time. Students will study the main developments in early 20th century British and German history, and international relations; whilst also embedding this in a study of the wider developments from Medieval times onward. This is studied through the AQA exam specification.
Paper 1: Understanding the Modern World
⦁ Section A: Germany, 1890 – 1945: Democracy and dictatorship
⦁ Section B: Conflict and Tension: The Inter-War Years 1918 –1939
Paper 2: Shaping the Nation
⦁ Section A: Britain, Health and the People c1000 – Present day
⦁ Section B: Elizabethan England c1568 – 160
Students will develop a wide range of historical skills, such as evaluation of sources, exploring the reasons for change and continuity, explaining significance and constructing a narrative of events.
Qualifications available
GCSE grade 9–1.
Assessment
There are two written exams which are taken at the end of Year 11:
⦁ Paper 1 – Understanding the Modern World (2 hours)
⦁ Paper 2 – Shaping the Nation (2 hours)
For further information, please contact…
Charley Coicheci Deputy Director of Humanities charley.coicheci@shr.mmat.co.uk
Geography
What is involved?
Students will travel the world from the classroom, exploring issues and case studies in the UK, newly emerging economies and lower income countries as well as developing a range of statistical and analytical skills. This will be assessed through the AQA exam specification.
Topics of study include:
⦁ Living with the Physical Environment (A: Challenge of natural hazards, B: The living world, C: Physical Landscapes in the UK)
⦁ Challenges in the Human Environment (A: Urban Issues and Challenges, B: Changing Economic World, C: The challenge of resource management
Students will develop a wide range of geographical skills and techniques and be encouraged to understand their role in society.
Qualifications available
GCSE grade 9–1.
Assessment
There will be three exams to sit (100%)
⦁ Paper 1: Living with the Physical environment (35%)
⦁ Paper 2: Challenges in the Human Environment (35%)
⦁ Paper 3: Geographical Applications (30%)
For further information, please contact… Joanna Jones Director of Humanities joanna.jones@shr.mmat.co.uk
Religious Education
What is involved?
This will be assessed through the AQA Full Course and will cover a range of religions and philosophical and ethical themes. Students will be challenged with questions about belief, values, meanings and truth, enabling them to develop their own values and attitudes towards religious issues.
Students will also gain an appreciation of how religion, philosophy and ethics form the basis of our culture. They will develop analytical and critical thinking skills, the ability to work with abstract ideas, leadership and research skills. All these will help prepare them for further study.
Qualifications available
AQA Route A Full Course: Religious Education
Assessment
There are two examined components (1 h 45) containing the following:
• Paper 1 - The study of religions – beliefs and practises (Christianity and Islam)
• Paper 2 - Thematic studies (Theme A – relationships and families, Theme B – religion and life, Theme D – religion, peace and conflict and theme E – religion, crime and punishment)
For further information, please contact…
Joanna Jones Director of Humanities
Joanna.Jones@shr.mmat.co.uk
Sports Studies
What is involved?
This is a vocationally-related qualification that takes an engaging, practical and inspiring approach to learning and assessment. The Cambridge National in Sport Studies provides students with a broad knowledge and understanding of different aspects of sports studies, from looking at contemporary issues in sport to developing the practical skills essential for progression into the sports industry.
The Cambridge National in Sport Studies takes a more sector-based focus, whilst also encompassing some core sport/Physical Education themes. Students have the opportunity to apply theoretical knowledge about different types of sport and physical activity, skills development and sports leadership to their own practical performance. They will learn about contemporary issues in sport such as funding, participation, ethics and role models, and sport and the media. Students will develop an appreciation of the importance of sport locally and nationally, different ways of being involved in sport and of how this shapes the sports industry. This course will suit you if you love sport but prefer to see your marks building through the course rather than having final exams. Some practical ability is an advantage.
Qualifications Available Level 2 GCSE 9–1 equivalent.
Assessment
Three units will make up the course. The assessment will be centre assessed as well as externally assessed:
Exam - Contemporary issues in sport (40%)
Issues affecting participation
Promoting values
Hosting major sporting events
National governing bodies
Developing Sports Skills and Sports Leadership (30%)
Individual sport and Team Sport – (Practical Based)
Identification of Strengths and Weaknesses of your Sporting performance (Assignment Based)
Planning to lead a session (Assignment Based)
Risk Assessment (Assignment Based)
Deliver a session – (Practical Based)
Evaluate your own performance (Assignment Based)
Developing knowledge and skills in Outdoor Activities (30%)
Know different types of outdoor activities (Assignment Based)
Value of participating in outdoor activities (Assignment Based)
Plan an outdoor activity (Assignment Based)
Participate in OAA activity (Practical Based)
For further information, please contact…
Kris Dobson Director of Physical Education kris.dobson@shr.mmat.co.uk
HERE’S WHAT HAPPENS NEXT...
What’s next?
Once you have narrowed down your options to a list of possibilities, the next step is to complete the initial preferences survey before 28th February 2025.
Where possible this survey should be completed with parental guidance. If internet access is not available at home please see your tutor who will arrange access.
Students are reminded that we will endeavour to deliver individual student preferences, but this cannot always be guaranteed.
For Further support on how to complete the options survey please visit our website.
