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KEY STAGE 4 OPTIONS
2015 - 2018
INFORMATION
BROCHURE
CONTENTS
INTRODUCTION TO KEY STAGE 4
STRUCTURE OF THE KEY STAGE 4 CURRICULUM
QUALIFICATIONS
CORE CURRICULUM
ENGLISH
MATHEMATICS
SCIENCE
MODERN FOREIGN LANGUAGES – FRENCH, GERMAN AND SPANISH
HUMANITIES – GEOGRAPHY AND HISTORY
OPTIONS
ACTING
ART AND DESIGN
CHILD DEVELOPMENT
DANCE
DESIGN AND TECHNOLOGY
ENTERPRISE
FOOD
ICT
MUSIC
SOCIAL SCIENCE
SPORT
TEXTILES
INTRODUCTION TO KEY STAGE 4
At Queensmead School we endeavour to provide a broad and balanced
curriculum that offers a range of opportunities for all our students. Foremost in
our minds whilst developing this offer is to maximise student engagement and
attainment.
Our curriculum framework at Key Stage 4 seeks to develop the talents of all
students and continues to build on the knowledge and skills they have already
developed in key subject areas, allowing for progression through to Post 16
study and beyond.
From September 2015, the Key Stage 4 Curriculum at Queensmead School will
be delivered in Years 9, 10 and 11. This is in response to National changes at
both Key Stage 3 and 4. These changes include;

increased curriculum content particularly in the Core Subjects

GCSEs will be assessed by longer written examination papers with less
focus on coursework

most subjects will have two or three examination papers at the end of the
course
Choosing your options
Use the information in this booklet and the Options Evening on Wednesday 25th
February to find out as much about each subject area as you can. Think about
the subjects you enjoy the most and which will offer you the best chance of
gaining the highest grades.
Once you have evaluated the range of different courses on offer to you, you will
make your choices by completing the KS4 Options Choices Google Form that is
found on the homepage of the School web site;
www.queensmeadschool.org.uk
The Google Form should be submitted by Wednesday 4th March 2015.
STRUCTURE OF THE KEY STAGE 4
CURRICULUM
From September 2015, the compulsory Key Stage Four curriculum for
Year 9 students will include:
Examination Subjects






English Language and English
Literature
Humanities (History or Geography)
ICT
Mathematics
Modern Foreign Languages
(French, German or Spanish)
Science
Non-Examination Subjects


Physical Education
PSHCEE
(Personal, Social, Health,
Citizenship and Economic Education)
To ensure that a broad and inclusive curriculum is offered, students have
the opportunity to select a further three subjects to study from the list
below:















Acting
Art and Design
Child Development
Dance
Design and Technology
Enterprise
Food
Geography
History
ICT
Music
RE
Social Science
Sport
Textiles
QUALIFICATIONS
At Queensmead, we passionately believe that all students should be able
to work towards achieving the best grades in the most appropriate
courses for them as individual learners. As a consequence of this, we offer
a range of qualification types.
GCSEs


Grades in most subjects will be awarded as A*, A, B, C, D, E, F, G
However, in English, Maths, Science, Geography and History,
attainment will be shown using numerical grades from 1 - 9, with 9
being the top grade
BTEC Level 2 and VCERT Level 2
Distinction*
A*
BTEC/VCERT Grades
Distinction
Merit
A
B
Pass
C
Where there is a choice of qualification, the decision on which one a
student will be entered for in a subject will be taken by the School in the
best interests of that student, before they begin Year 10.
ENGLISH
Why study English?
English provides the foundations for every single subject
you study, plus every single interaction you have. A
GCSE in English is often a basic requirement for any
university courses, a large number of other courses,
apprenticeships and jobs of all descriptions.
English gives you the opportunity to discuss and respond
to other writers’ ideas, as well as the chance to develop
your own writing skills.
Exam Board and Syllabus
Course Details
Students will study towards
achieving the following
qualifications in English:
Over the three years, students will develop, practice and
perfect the key skills and understanding to allow them to
demonstrate:
WJEC Eduqas GCSE in English
Language
WJEC Eduqas GCSE in English
Literature

A range of writing skills

Prose reading from the 20th century

Thematically linked 19th and 21st century nonfiction reading tasks
More information can be found at:
http://www.eduqas.co.uk/ENGLISH
Assessment Details
English Language
Assessment type and % of final grade
20th Century Literature Reading and
Creative Prose Writing
19th and 21st Century Non-Fiction
Reading
and Transactional/ Persuasive Writing
English Literature
1 hour 45 minutes exam- 40% of qualification
Shakespeare and Poetry
Post-1914
Prose/Drama,
Prose and Unseen Poetry
2 hour exam - 40% of qualification
2 hours and 30 minute exam- 60% of qualification
Century
2 hour exam - 60% of qualification
Assessment type and % of final grade
Further studies/ careers in English
Notable English graduates
A-Levels in English Literature, English Language,
History, Politics and Psychology, in particular.
Stephen Fry
journalist
Degrees in
Journalism.
Ian Hislop – Editor (Private Eye)
English,
Law,
Humanities
and
Careers in the above rely heavily on the use of
advanced English and analytical skills. The majority
of career paths require at least a C grade (new
grade system will be a 5) in English.
–
Broadcaster
Rosamund Pike – Actress
Michael Morpurgo - Writer
Contact Details
Miss Lamping, Head of English
and
MATHEMATICS
Why study Mathematics?
Mathematics is a very versatile subject and a key skill in
life. A GCSE in mathematics is often a basic requirement
for any science-based university course, a large number
of other courses, apprenticeships and jobs of all
descriptions. Mathematics is vital in your everyday life,
from budgeting your monthly wages to buying a house.
Mathematics is a requirement for most further education
courses.
Exam Board and Syllabus
Course Details
Edexcel GCSE in Mathematics
Each of the four strands of number, algebra, data
handling and shape and space are covered during this
GCSE course. You are expected to learn specific methods
to solve different types of questions, as well as
developing the ability to problem solve in a mathematical
manner. You will learn to apply the functional elements
of mathematics in real-life situations.
Exam Code 1MA1
More information can be found on
the Edexcel website:
http://qualifications.pearson.com
There are two tiers of entry; Foundation (Grades 1-5)
and Higher (Grades 4-9).
Assessment Details
Unit
Paper 1
Paper 2
Paper 3
Topic
Algebra, Shape & Space,
Data,
Number
Algebra, Shape & Space,
Data,
Number
Algebra, Shape & Space,
Data,
Number
Assessment Type
Non-Calculator Exam
1 hour 30 minutes
% of Final Grade
33.3
Calculator Exam
1 hour 30 minutes
33.3
Calculator Exam
1 hour 30 minutes
33.3
Further Study and Careers in Mathematics
Notable Mathematicians
A-Levels in Mathematics, Sciences, Economics and
Psychology in particular.
Stephen Hawking - world renowned
speaker on the Mathematics of Science
Degrees in Mathematics, Sciences, Engineering,
Aerospace, Architecture, Accountancy and Finance.
Ada Lovelace
programming
Careers in the above rely heavily
Mathematical knowledge. Many careers
least a C grade (new grade system will
Maths, such as Teaching (any subject),
Force and Retail Management.
Carol Vorderman
mathematician
on solid
require at
be a 5) in
the Police
-
invented
-
computer
celebrity
Contact Details
Mr Aylott, Head of Mathematics
TV
COMBINED SCIENCE & TRIPLE SCIENCE
Why study Combined Science or Triple Science?
GCSE study in combined science provides the foundations
for understanding the material world. Scientific
understanding is changing our lives and is vital to the
world’s future prosperity. Pupils gain an insight into how
science works, and appreciation of its relevance to their
everyday lives. Pupils will develop their scientific enquiry
and mathematical skills during both courses.
Exam Board and Syllabus
Students will study a new
specification and will either gain
2 GCSEs (Combined Science) or
3 GCSEs (Biology, Chemistry and
Physics).
More information can be found on
the AQA web site:
www.aqa.org.uk
Course Details
Topics covered include: Cell biology, transport systems,
health, disease and the development of medicines,
coordination and control, photosynthesis, ecosystems,
inheritance, variation and evolution, atomic structure and
the Periodic Table, structure and bonding, chemical
changes, energy changes, the rate and extent of chemical
change, earth and atmospheric science, forces and
motion, waves in matter, light and electromagnetic
waves, electricity, magnetism and electromagnetism and
the particle model of matter.
Assessment Details
All external assessment will take place at the end of the course. There will be no controlled
assessment. The new grading structure of 9 to 1 will be used.
A decision will be made during Year 9 as to which course each student will be entered for..
Further Study and Careers in Science
Notable Scientists
Biology, Chemistry and Physics A-Levels, Applied
Science Level 3 BTEC, Nutrition, Engineering,
Scientific research, Medicine, Veterinary medicine,
Dentistry, Pharmacy, Forensics, Patent Law.
Brian Cox
University)
Science graduates are often extremely attractive to
employers because of their high levels of analytical
skill, excellent problem solving and decision making
abilities.
(Physics
at
Manchester
David Attenborough (Natural Sciences
at Cambridge University)
Pope Francis (Chemistry at University
of Buenos Aries)
Contact Details
Miss Higham, Head of Science
FRENCH/GERMAN/SPANISH
Why study a Modern Foreign Language?
In a global business world the ability to speak languages
and understand cultures is vital.
Speaking a second language gives our students an
advantage for their future. MFL speakers can work
anywhere in Europe or in an emerging economy. That is
why the government has made an MFL (either
French/German or Spanish) an important part of the EBACC qualification and why the school is committed to MFL
learning.
Qualifications
in
French,
German and Spanish
All students will study towards
achieving a GCSE in their
chosen language. You will follow
the AQA GCSE specification.
More information can be found
on the AQA website:
www.aqa.org.uk
Course Details
You will build on what you already know to continue to
develop your confidence and ability in the skills of
speaking, listening, reading and writing. The main focus
will be enjoying your learning and making progress in
your understanding.
Your teachers will use a variety of innovative ways
offer you new learning experiences. You will learn
express opinions, preferences, favourites and wants,
well as learn words and phrases to build
comprehension across a range of themes.
to
to
as
up
Assessment Details
You will be given a number of practical opportunities to demonstrate your progress and
achievement in each of the four key elements of language: Speaking, Listening, Reading and
Writing.
Further Study and Careers in MFL
Notable Linguists
A qualification in MFL could lead to a range of
careers in Business and associated Business
Services,
Manufacturing,
Sales,
Finance,
Community Services, Media and Communications.
Bradley Cooper and J.K. Rowling speak
French.
Alternative career options include the travel and
leisure industries, working overseas or in the UK,
Retail Buying, Logistics and Distribution, where
goods
or
equipment
are
moved
across
countries/international borders.
A Modern Foreign language can also be studied at
university/college alongside another subject such
as
History,
Economics,
ICT,
Science
and
Geography.
Sandra Bullock and Hugh Laurie speak
German.
David Beckham speaks Spanish.
Eddie Izzard speaks French, German
and also Arabic.
Contact Details
Mrs Mepham, Head of MFL
GEOGRAPHY
Why study Geography?
You will develop a knowledge and understanding of
current events from the local to the global scale. You will
investigate the Earth and its peoples, study the features
of the earth such as coastal processes and volcanoes and
develop a range of useful skills such as map reading, data
collection and ICT. You will gain an understanding and
appreciation of the cultures and backgrounds of people
from all over the world.
Qualifications in Geography
Course Details
Students will study towards a
GCSE qualification.
The course covers both Physical and Human Geography.
It covers topics such as Tectonics, Extreme Climates,
International Development, Globalisation and Population.
You will learn about many of the important issues facing
the world today and evaluate how they impact on you
and other people.
From Volcanoes and Earthquakes in Japan to the lives .of
people in the slums of Dehli, Geography is where it is at.
Assessment Details
You will be assessed on your ability to research issues and solve problems. You will be
encouraged to take risks and explore the world using a range of resources and communicate your
learning in a variety of ways. Verbal presentations, group work, extended projects and evaluative
mini-essays are all included to give you the opportunity to achieve your potential and experience
what a career in Geography is really like.
Further Study and Careers in Geography
Notable Geographers
All employers want to know that you are aware of
the world around you!
Mother Teresa - Missionary sister
Geography prepares you for the world of work.
Geographers, with their skills of analysis,
evaluation and argument, are highly employable.
Subject specific careers include: Travel Writer,
Environmental
Lawyer,
Government
Advisor,
Renewable Energy Consultant, Town/Transport
Planner,
Estate Manager,
and
International
Development/Aid Worker.
James Cracknell and Matthew Pinsent –
Olympic Rowing champions
Michael Palin CBE – Travel Writer, Presenter
and Comedian
Michael Jordan – Hall of fame Basketballer
Contact Details
Miss Jupp, Acting Head of Geography
HISTORY
Why study History?
Ranging from the study of the brutal punishments dished
out to murderers in Medieval England to the appalling
crimes of Nazi Germany, History at Queensmead is
engaging, academically challenging and full of variety.
History GCSE helps you to develop analytical skills that
are vital when making judgements in your future career.
It also gives you an insight into the past and by its very
nature asks you to investigate demanding, gripping and
controversial topics.
Qualification in History
Course Details
Students will study towards a
GCSE in History.
Heroes, villains, adventures, war and
unexpected; this History course has it all.
tales
of
the
Your studies will lead you through some of the most
momentous happenings in the last two thousand years.
You will use evidence and investigation to examine the
people and events that have worked to shape the world we
live in today and to gain an appreciation of how our actions
may influence the future of tomorrow.
Assessment Details
You will be assessed on your ability to research an issue and solve problems. You will evaluate
sources of evidence to develop your understanding and improve your knowledge. Verbal
presentations, group work, extended projects and evaluative mini-essays are all included to give
you the opportunity to achieve your potential and experience what a career of a historian is really
like.
Further Study and Careers in History
Notable Historians
History is a gateway into many careers - such as
law, medicine, teaching, journalism, business and
commerce, publishing – and many more!
QC Michael Mansfield (Barrister)
Jeremy Bowen (Journalist, BBC News)
Sacha Baron Cohen (Actor)
Conan O'Brien (Talk show host, writer)
John Abbot (British Secret Service)
Sir Howard Stringer (Chairman of Sony)
Gordon Brown (Former Prime Minister)
George Osborne (Politician)
Shakira (Musician)
A Level History is a very popular subject at
Queensmead. Results are consistently outstanding
at both A Level and GCSE.
Top universities, including Oxford and Cambridge,
hold History in high regard. The GCSE course is
academically
demanding
and
rewarding
to
dedicated students.
Contact Details
Mr Brown (Head of History)
or your History Teacher
ACTING
Why study Acting?
If you want to develop your acting skills and apply them
in a wide variety of performance situations, then Acting is
the course for you.
Students are required to enjoy
participating practically in acting, although they do not
need to have any prior experience.
You must be
prepared to work hard, perform in public and are
encouraged to participate in the extensive extracurricular opportunities on offer in the Performing Arts
department including concerts and the annual production.
Qualifications in Acting
Course Details
Students
will
study
towards
achieving either a BTEC Level 2
Award in Performing Arts or a
VCERT
Level
2
Award
in
Performance skills.
You will explore improvisation to develop voice and
physical skills and will then apply these in performing
scripted plays and devising plays.
The course covers a range of performance skills and will
require students to critically evaluate their own
performances and creative talents.
Students enjoy this course as they get the chance to be
creative, work with others and perform to an audience!
Assessment Details
Assessment for this course is in the form of videoed performance, live performance and written
work. Independent research and learning about the evolution and theory of performance is just as
important as the ability to act.
Further Study and Careers in Acting
A-Level Theatre Studies
A-Level Performing Arts
Drama Degree
Professional Actor
Teacher
Director
Producer
Stage Manager
Broadcaster
Community Arts Worker
Arts Administrator
Notable Actors
I I Idris Elba
Kiera Knightly
Contact Details
Miss Rowthorn, Head of Performing Arts
ART & DESIGN
Why study Art & Design?
Art and Design offers the opportunity to learn about
visual communication and expression. You will develop
the skills to organise and express your ideas,
observations and feelings through drawing, painting,
printmaking, three-dimension studies, photography and
new technologies.
The course lays the foundation for the study of Art &
Design and imbeds the skills required to pursue Art and
Design at KS4.
Qualifications in Art &
Design
Students will be entered for
either a GCSE in Art and Design
or
one
of
two
VCERT
qualifications in Art and Design
or Graphic Design.
Course Details
Year 9 learning will consist of practical workshops focused
on improving the key skills of drawing, painting,
sculpturing and photography. As well as a presentation of
all the best elements of student's work and the
opportunity to develop larger scale final pieces and
examine in depth the work of Artists and Designers.
Student's will then be invited to display their work in a
public exhibition for moderation.
Assessment Details
Students will be assessed on the quality of their research skills and ability to identify and apply
context. They will experiment with a range of visual media, develop key practical skills and
showcase their final outcomes in a school exhibition.
Further Study and Careers in Art and Design
Notable Artists
Fine Art – University and career opportunities
Damien Hirst
Architecture – University and career opportunities
Tracey Emin
Graphics / Illustration – Apprenticeship courses
Louise Bourgeois
Animation – University and career opportunities
Peter Blake
Fashion – University and career opportunities
David Hockney
Design industry – Apprenticeship courses
Printmaking – University and career opportunities
Contact Details
Ms Evans, Head of Art & Design
CHILD DEVELOPMENT
Why study Child Development?
This course is suitable for anyone who is interested in the
family and young children and may wish to work in a
career with children in the future. There are an increasing
number of jobs in the childcare sector with parents
returning to work after having a baby and the age at
which children start nursery being ever lowered. The
country is looking for highly skilled professionals to look
after children.
Qualifications in Child
Development
Students will study towards
GCSE in Child Development.
Course Details
a
The topics covered in Year 9 will form the basis of the
course content in Years 10 and 11 and will include a mix
of practical skills, project work and theory work.
During the course you will learn about a range of issues
including family and parenting, preparation for pregnancy
and birth, the physical, intellectual, social and emotional
development of children aged 0 – 5 years, and nutrition
and health.
Assessment Details
Students will undertake a variety of assessment tasks ranging from practical demonstrations,
such as making up bottles, to independent extended projects including tasks such as designing a
leaflet for a pregnant woman, group presentations and understanding of theory.
Further Study and Careers in Business
Notable Child Care professionals
After studying Child Development you can progress
onto the BTEC National Diploma course in
Children’s Play Learning and Development which is
run at Queensmead. This course qualifies you to
work with children aged up to 16 years as a
Nursery Nurse, Teaching Assistant or Playworker.
Alternatively you can use the course to progress to
University to study Teaching, Nursing, Child
Psychology, Youth Work, Special Needs, Play
Therapy, Social Work etc.
Jo Frost (supernanny)
Maria Montessori
Rudolf Steiner
Penelope Leach
Contact Details
Mrs Waller, Head of Home Economics
DANCE
Why study Dance?
You should study Dance if you want to develop your
physical skills and apply them in a wide variety of
performance situations. Students are required to enjoy
participating practically in Dance, although you do not
need to have any prior experience.
You must be
prepared to work hard, perform in public and are
encouraged to participate in the extensive extracurricular opportunities on offer in the Performing Arts
department including concerts and the annual production.
Qualifications in Dance
Course Details
Students
will
work
towards
achieving a BTEC Level 2 in
Performing Arts: Dance.
You will take part in workshops to develop dance
technique and apply these skills in solo and group
performances.
You will also explore the process of choreography and
analyse a range of dance works.
Many students find this course fun, challenging and a
chance to be creative.
Assessment Details
Assessment is ongoing and comes in the form of filmed performances and written projects. The
ability to use your research skills and communicate clearly to a range of audiences will be just as
important as your practical skills.
Further Study and Careers in Dance
A-Level Dance
A-Level Performing Arts
Dance Degree
Professional Dancer
Teacher
Choreographer
Dance Therapist
Stage Manager
Broadcaster
Community Arts Worker
Arts Administrator
Notable Dancers
Ashley Banjo
Darcey Bussell
Contact Details
Miss Rowthorn, Head of Performing
Arts
DESIGN TECHNOLOGY
Why study Design Technology?
Design Technology is a course that enables students to
develop the skills, understanding and experiences to
become the engineers of the future. You will design and
make products with creativity and originality, using a
range of materials and techniques.
Students who enjoy practical lessons and are interested
in working with a range of materials would be well suited
to Design Technology.
Qualifications in Design
Technology
Students will work towards
achieving either one or more
GCSEs in Engineering, Product
Design and Resistant Materials.
Course Details
In Year 9 students will complete focused practical and
theory tasks in Engineering, Product Design and Resistant
Materials. These tasks will develop their design and
practical skills. Students will be given the opportunity to
explore each of the three individual areas of Design
Technology to find out which they are best suited to.
Assessment Details
Students will be assessed on their ability to design, plan, make and evaluate a number of
products using a range of materials. The ability to follow a creative but logical process is a vital
skill for all engineers and students will work independently and collaboratively to develop and
hone their skills.
Further Study and Careers in Design
Technology and Engineering?
“Engineering students are second only to medics in
securing full-time jobs and earning good salaries.”
Notable Engineers and Designers
Neil Patterson, Chief Engineer at
McLaren
Automotive
studied
Engineering at a college.
Civil Aerospace
Sir James Dyson is a British industrial
designer and founder of the Dyson
company. He is best known as the
inventor of the Dual Cyclone “bagless”
vacuum cleaner, his net worth in 2012
was £1.34 billion
Civil Engineering
Contact Details
Construction
Mr McGinnity, Head of Design
Technology
(Royal Academy of Engineering report 2012)
Examples of job sectors include:
Automotive
ENTERPRISE
Why study Enterprise?
Enterprise Studies will provide you with an insight into
the different aspects of business such as business start
ups, finance, marketing, enterprise, customer service,
recruitment and the economic environment. The course is
specifically designed to give students an insight into the
key topics and differences between Business Studies and
Economics.
Qualifications in Enterprise
Course Details
Students will study towards either
a GCSE in Business Studies or
Economics, a BTEC Level 2 in
Business Studies or a VCERT Level
2 in Business and Enterprise.
You will become skilled in making decisions, being
creative, solving problems, understanding finance,
dealing with data, communicating and working as part of
a team.
Key topics include:
1.
2.
3.
4.
Enterprise in the Business World
Finance for Business
Principles of Customer Service and Recruitment
The Economic Environment
Assessment Details
Students will undertake a variety of assessment tasks ranging from independent, extended
projects to group presentations and pitches. Each assessment is designed to reflect the range of
skills and attributes required in the business sector. Written and verbal communication skills will
also be assessed as well as the students’ understanding of problem solving and key business
theories.
Further Study and Careers in Business
Enterprise will help you prepare for further and
higher education such as A-Level Business, BTEC
Business and A-Level Economics. An Enterprise
course could lead to studying the subject at Post 16
and further into the future it could lead to work in a
business-related profession such as accountancy,
law, marketing, sales or the leisure and tourism
industry.
Notable Entrepreneurs
Deborah Meaden
Peter Jones
Contact Details
Mr Duncan, Head of Business Studies
Education
FOOD
Why study Food?
Whether you just enjoy cooking, or want to work in
the food industry or to be a chef at a restaurant,
this course is right for you.
It will provide students with experience of using
different cooking techniques to enable them to cook
with confidence as well as ensuring they are
informed about what they should be eating and the
effect different foods will have on their health.
This course is designed for students with an
interest in food and cookery.
Qualifications in Food
Course Details
Students will study towards
either a GCSE in Food or a
VCERT Level 2 in Food and
Cookery.
During this course you will:
 Learn knowledge, skills and confidence to enjoy
cooking meals at home
 Understand food and its functions in the body and in
recipes
 Understand balanced diets and how to modify
recipes for health
Assessment Details
Students will undertake a variety of assessment tasks including demonstrating that they can:
 Use cooking skills to make home cooked food that does not use prepared, ready-cooked
ingredients
 Be able to plan, prepare, cook and present a nutritious, home cooked meal using basic
ingredients
 Understand how to cook economically at home
Further Study and Careers in Food:
The food industry is diverse and offers a
wide variety of exciting careers here in
the United Kingdom and abroad.
You can continue to study Food
Technology at A level at Queensmead.
You can then study Food Technology or
Food Science at University which can
lead to careers such as Food Scientist,
Food Buyer or Food Technologist. Other
related University courses include
Environmental
Health,
Dietetics,
Nutrition and Food Engineering.
Food will also give you a basic
understanding of the skills required for
a career in Catering or Hospitality.
Notable people in Food:
Jamie Oliver, Lorriane Pascale, Mary
Berry and Heston Blumenthal.
Contact Details
Jamie Oliver, Lorraine Pascale, Mary Berry, Heston
Blumenthal
Mrs Tebbs, Teacher in charge of Food
ICT and COMPUTING
Why study Computing?
“There’s a world out there just bursting with invention
and opportunities and 90% of it is driven by a computer.”
This is a course that has real relevance in our modern
world. ICT and computing is not just about learning how
to use technology, you will also explore how technology is
created and how it works for you. The course will give
you a more in-depth understanding of how computer
technology works and a closer look at what goes on
“behind the scenes”.
Qualifications in ICT and
Computing
Students will work towards one or
more of the following qualifications:
A GCSE in IT and/or Computing, a
BTEC Level 2 in IT or a VCERT Level 2
in Interactive Media.
Course Details
Through this study of computer programming, the
course will help you develop critical thinking,
analysis and problem solving skills. The course will
stimulate interest and engagement with technology
and technology-related careers. Examine how
people and organisations solve problems using ICT
tools and techniques. Explore technologies, from
communication tools, like Facebook and the
Internet, to tools that help to predict natural
disasters.
Course Content
In this course you develop the practical skills and knowledge that will enable you to be confident
about using:






Computer Systems and Programming
Computer Hardware and Software
Website development using HTML, JavaScript and CSS
Independent practical ICT investigation
Data handling with spreadsheets and databases
Data Security including encryption
Further Study and Careers in Computing
With technological developments, there will be a
greater demand for professionals who are qualified
in this area.
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Software Developer
App Developer
Web Designer
Computer Engineer
Notable Computing practitioners
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Mark Zuckerberg
Bill Gates
Meg Whitman
Contact Details
Mr Taylor, Head of Computing and ICT
MUSIC
Why study Music?
You should study Music if you enjoy performing,
composing, listening to and understanding the music
industry.
Students must be prepared to work hard,
participate in enrichment activities and perform in public.
“I really enjoy my music lessons. I love that we get to do
a lot of practical work and develop both our performance
and composition skills." (Yr11 student)
Qualification in Music
Course Details
Students
will
work
towards
achieving either a BTEC Level 2
qualification in Music or a VCERT
Level 2 in Creative Studies: Music
Technology.
You will be able to develop your skills on a range of
instrument types (including voice) to create a breadth of
music types. You will also have the opportunity to learn
about and use music technology for recording
performances and creating compositions.
Assessment Details
Assessment is in the form of filmed performances including both group and solo, and written
coursework. There is also a written element that will require you to undertake independent
research and communicate effectively with a range of audiences.
Further Study and Careers in Music
Notable Musicians
For anyone looking to develop a career in the music
industry, Music is a very influential course.
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A-Level Music
A-Level Performing Arts
Music Degree
Professional Musician
Teacher
Composer
Conductor
Music Producer
DJ
Community Arts Worker
Arts Administrator
Elyar Fox studied this course at
Queensmead
Contact Details
Mr Wright, Teacher of Music
SOCIAL SCIENCE
Why study Social Science?
This course will be an essential guide to understanding
how the society and the world in which you live affects
and influences you. You will develop your knowledge in
Sociology, Citizenship and Health & Social Care, enabling
you to develop your independent learning skills, crucial
for all future study and careers. If you have an interest in
knowing more about human development, how the
people and events around us can affect our behaviour,
and what your human rights and responsibilities are, this
is an essential course to take.
Qualifications in Social Science
Students will be entered for a
GCSE in either; Citizenship, Health
and Social Care or Sociology.
More details for Citizenship and
Health and Social Care can be
found on the Edexcel website at:
http://qualifications.pearson.com
And for Sociology, on the AQA
website at:
www.aqa.org.uk
Course Details:
Topics you will cover include Socialisation: how does society make us who we
are?
 How are families different and why?
 Human Legal and Political Rights
 Global Citizenship: what is the UK’s role in the
world?
 How do people develop physically, intellectually,
emotionally
and
socially
from
infancy
to
adolescence?
 What factors affect our health and wellbeing?
You will study one unit per half term mixing all three
subject areas so you have a broad experience of them all
by the end of Year 9.
Assessment Details: You will be assessed at the end of each half term on the unit you have just
studied. This can be in the form of a group project, an individual essay, written test or a more
creative piece of writing.
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Further Study and Careers in Social Science:
Famous Social Scientists:
Many careers could follow from your initial study of
Social Science such as working within the Law and
Justice systems, Police or Youth work.
Mary Seacole: Made a significant
contribution to the care of soldiers
during war time as well as our
attitudes to public health.
There are a number of opportunities for further
academic study at college and university within the
subject.
You could also continue into social work or social
care, caring for others for example young children,
the elderly or those with specific needs.
Malala Yousafzai: Recently awarded
Nobel Peace prize for campaigning for
women’s education.
Contact Details
Miss Boldero, Head of Social Science
SPORT
Why study Sport?
This course has been specifically designed to provide an
engaging and stimulating introduction to the world of
sport, health and fitness. It encourages personal
development
through
practical
participation
and
performance in a range of sport and exercise activities.
If you are interested in starting a career or educational
journey in performance, health and fitness then Sport is a
subject for you.
Qualifications in Sport
Course Details
Students will be
either a GCSE
Education, a BTEC
Sport of a VCERT
Health and Fitness.
This course is structured to introduce learners to a wide
range of skills and knowledge about physical wellbeing,
performance and the industry of sport. You will practise
skills in meaningful contexts, with the opportunity to
develop a deeper understanding as to the importance of
keeping healthy.
entered for
in Physical
Level 2 in
Level 2 in
The course is aimed at anyone who is interested in any
level of sport or physical education from those with
serious athletic ambitions to those who enjoy exercise
and wish to take their learning further.
Assessment Details
Students will undertake a variety of assessment activities designed to develop their practical and
theoretical ability. Independent learning will form a significant part along with honing the core
skills of teamwork, leadership and communication. Students will also develop their learning of
anatomy which will reinforce the learning they undertake in Science. Students will be required to
demonstrate a range of roles including that of coach, referee and performer whilst also being
challenged to observe and critically evaluate the skills and abilities of others.
Further Study and Careers in Sport
Notable Sports Practitioners
Sport and Leisure is a rapidly expanding industry,
with opportunities in practical careers such as
coaching, instructing and leading, as well as in
facility management and administration.
Toni Minichiello – Coach to Olympic
Heptathlete champion, Jessica Ennis-Hill
Employment options include; Recreation Assistant,
Sports Leader, Fitness Instructor, Sports Retail,
Armed
Forces
and
Sports
Development.
Alternatively, students would be qualified to
progress into more specialised Level 3 vocational or
academic courses.
Dame Kelly Holmes – GB Athletics Youth
Coach and former 400m Olympic Champion
Dave Reddin
Performance
MBE
–
FA
Head
of
Contact Details
Mr Conway, Head of Physical Education
TEXTILES
Why study Textiles?
If you like a challenge, enjoy being creative and pushing
yourself to explore and experiment with fabric and
fashion, then this is the course for you.
This subject adopts a practical approach to working with
textiles. Students will learn a range of new skills through
theory and applying that theory to practical projects
throughout the course.
Qualification in Textiles
Course Details
Students
will
work
towards
achieving a GCSE qualification in
Design and Technology: Textiles
Technology.
Students will undertake an extended design and make
project to help prepare them for formal assessment later
in the course. In this project they will have to design and
make a textile item of their own choice and complete a
portfolio to clarify their designing and making processes.
During the course, theory work will cover: properties,
manufacture and care of fibres, fabrics and garments,
decoration, production and manufacturing of garments,
health and safety, components, analysing products and
designing textile products of the future.
Assessment Details
Students will be continually assessed on the quality of their research skills and ability to apply
learning and understanding. They will complete a range of practical tasks designed to develop a
broad range of skills and expose them to a variety of historical and contemporary fashions and
influences.
Further Study and Careers in Textiles
Fashion, Sportswear or Textile Designer
Buyer for major fashion houses
Retail
Window Dresser
Notable People who have studied
Textiles:
Vivienne Westwood
Alexander McQueen
Stella McCartney
Costumer
Contact Details
Tailor
Mrs Glenn, Teacher of Home
Economics