Learning Support

10

Learning Support

The department is open to any boy in Middle School requiring extra input or support to help them achieve their full potential. The approach is flexible, providing support, as far as possible, where and when it is needed. It varies from small group booster sessions to working regularly on a one-to-one basis or supporting a whole class.

Pupils requiring learning support are identified in a variety of ways. Class teachers, parents and the boys themselves play a vital part in raising concerns alongside results from formal assessment. External agencies, such as speech therapists or educational psychologists are consulted where appropriate.

Regular contact between parents and school is encouraged. Parents are invited to discuss their son’s progress at an individual review meeting or at parents’ evenings throughout the course of GCSE study. Most students who receive learning support have an individual educational plan that ensures continuity and focused support between the learning support team, subject and form teachers.

The main areas of support offered by the department are:

Mrs A Edwards Head of Learning Support (SENCO) a.edwards@merchanttaylors.com

Academic organisation Literacy difficulties Numeracy difficulties Memory problems Exam strategy and revision techniques Specific subject support

11

Art & Design

Course Outline

The two-year GCSE will be a natural progression from the course followed in the first three years. All skills acquired during these years will be refined and candidates will be expected to use them to work from a neutral stimulus, interpreting it in their own individual way.

Students follow a journey which starts with a visit to the Albert Dock and Tate Gallery during the summer break. Work continues in the Art studios initially via observational drawing, developing work in which the boys experience a diverse range of materials and techniques, resulting in each boy producing a calligraphic print, an acrylic or watercolour painting, computer manipulated images and finally a ceramic pot.

GCSE Assessment Breakdown

Coursework - No time limit - 60% of total marks Controlled Test - 10 Hours - 40% of total marks

Candidates must respond to one starting point . Unlimited preparatory period and 10 hours of supervised time.

Examination Results

Art and Design candidates have consistently gained outstanding results. For the past few years, 100% of our students have achieved grade 9 - 6.

Career Opportunities in Art and Design

The study of Art and Design leads to an understanding of the importance of design in every- day life and propels people towards creative and unexpected destinations. You will use creativity in many jobs, whether you’re designing ships as a naval architect or creating cutting edge art.

Visit: nationalcareersservice.direct.gov.uk/job-profiles/arts-crafts-and-design# for more information about career and opportunities paths in Art and Design.