The Specialised Components offered as part of our curriculum give students lots of choice leading to a range of different qualifications: GCSE, BTEC Certificates, Entry Level and ASDAN qualifications.
GCSE is the most familiar qualification and GCSEs are now part of the National Qualifications Framework: Level 1 for grades G to D and Level 2 for grades C to A*.
BTEC First Certificates are Level 2 qualifications and are worth two GCSEs. A pass is worth a Grade C GCSE, a merit a Grade B and a distinction a Grade A.
Entry level qualifications are below GCSE Level 1 but are seen as a valuable stepping stone to further study or employment.
The CoPE course is the equivalent of a Grade E GCSE at Level 1 and Grade B at Level 2 - the level of entry will depend on the individual. The new Diploma courses are offered at Foundation (Level 1 - worth 5 GCSEs at Grade D-G) and Higher (Level 2 - worth 7 GCSEs at A*-C)
The Pathways chosen by individual students will depend on their abilities and interests. Some subjects involve a lot of coursework and others depend more on examinations. Some subjects will require more independent learning than others and some will require commitment outside school. Some of our courses are delivered through out partners at other schools or through Bracknell and Wokingham College.
We expect to be able to offer the following courses at various levels:
Art
Business: BTEC and Business Studies & Economics
Child Development
Certificate of Personal Effectiveness
Dance
Drama
Design Tech: Entry Level Food/RM, Food, Graphics, Resistant Materials
Geography
Travel and Tourism
History
ICT: ICT, IT Practitioners, Computing, CLAIT
French, German, Spanish
Media Studies
Music
PE
Through out partners, Bracknell and Wokingham College, we will offer:
Construction, Motor Vehicle Studies, Hair and Beauty, Young Apprenticeships
We will also offer the following Diploma courses through our links with other schools and with Thames Valley University (TVU): Information Technology; Environmental land based studies; Business, Admin and Finance; Creative & Media; Construction & the Built Environment; Engineering; Society, Health & Development.
Much of our time in the coming months will be spent ensuring that each student chooses a suitable learning pathway. Until this process is complete it is not possible to say which courses will finally be offered. Information about each of our courses appears on the following tabs. If you need to know more we will be glad to help.
ART and Design (GCSE)
Examination Board: AQA
Art GCSE gives students a broad outlook on the world you live in. It enables you to explore your own creativity and imagination through communicating and expressing individual ideas and meanings.
You will be required to complete a portfolio of work that shows your ability in a range of areas, such as; fine art painting/printing, sculpture/3D design and graphics/illustration and digital imagery. Students are also exposed to a rich variety of artists and designers from contemporary to other times and cultures that result in ambitious investigations and a final piece.
It is an opportunity for committed and self motivated art students to achieve in a course that continually proves successful at the Emmbrook School.
Assessment: Art and Design is 60% controlled assessment and 40% final examination, which involves a two day 10 hour practical exam.
Progression: Art is everywhere, touching everything we do, see and buy. An Art and Design background is essential for careers ranging from: Architecture to Furniture Design, Textile and Fashion Design to TV, Video and Web Design. It is also compatible with any A Level course.
BUSINESS and ECONOMICS
All students who choose the Business & Economics option will begin studying key business ideas. Groups will then be reorganised and set by ability (based on prior attainment and performance during the first four weeks in this subject).
Higher ability students will then begin the GCSE Business Studies and Economics course while the remaining students will study Business BTEC. This should help to maximise the potential of all students.
BUSINESS STUDIES & ECONOMICS (GCSE)
Examination Board: Edexcel
Economics and Business Studies is a modern subject where students investigate how companies can be successful and experience an introduction to the workings of the national economy. The subject is delivered in well equipped ICT suites, allowing students to make use of the internet as a research tool.
This course would be appropriate for motivated students who are interested in understanding better the world around them.
Assessment: Economics and Business has modular assessment; in Year 10 an exam (25%) and controlled assessment (25%), in Year 11 an exam (50%)
Progression: A good preparation for AS/A2 Economics and AS/A2 Business, which can be taken in Year 12. Economics and Business qualifications are well regarded by universities and employers.
BUSINESS (BTEC First Certificate)
Examination Board: Edexcel
Business BTEC is a more practical course than traditional GCSEs. The purpose is to enable students to develop their understanding of how businesses can become successful. Students will be assessed through a portfolio of work which will include teacher assessment of presentations made in lessons.
This course would be ideal for students who are interested in business but would appreciate a more practical approach to learning.
Assessment: Coursework is the only method of assesment, students will create a portfolio of work over two years. This qualification is equivalent to 2 GCSEs.
Progression: The Business BTEC would be a suitable foundation for AS/A2 Applied Business. Business qualifications are well regarded by colleges and employers.
CHILD DEVELOPMENT (GCSE)
Examination Board: OCR
This course helps you gain an understanding of the needs of young children. It gives you the opportunity to study pregnancy and parenthood plus the health and nutrition of children. The different areas of development through to five years of age are closely studied and you will have the chance to work with young children to reinforce what you have learnt. A variety of practical work includes the preparation of suitable foods for young children and the making of a simple toy.
Assessment: Child Development is 60% controlled assessment and 40% final examination. Controlled assessment mark consists of 30% for an individual child study and 30% for three resource tasks.
Progression: Child Development can be a useful foundation for a Sociology or Psychology course and also for anyone considering a future career working with children or in the nursing profession.
CoPE (Certificate of Personal Effectiveness)/Skill Force
Examination Board: ASDAN
This course is designed to motivate students on the Foundation Pathway who will develop a range of useful skills whilst also gaining a range of qualifications and key skills. The course is structured around a number of personal challenges and problem solving skills both inside and outside of the classroom - including some exciting and challenging physical activities. Students will take part in sport, environmental activities, community projects and will plan for their own future Post 16 choices. Involvement in action planning, reviews and presentations will develop the essential qualities and confidence needed to live a happy and successful life in the 21st century. Students completing this course will gain qualifications which have the same value as GCSE.
Assessment: Pupils gather evidence for each of their challenges and keep this in a portfolio which is looked at by a moderator. There is no examination involved in this subject.
Progression: The skills developed on this course can be used in every area of study or work that you can think of.
D&T: ENTRY LEVEL CERTIFICATE (Food / Resistant Materials)
Examination Board: AQA
This course has been designed for those pupils who would find GCSE too challenging. The focus of the course is for you to develop and practise your designing and making skills.
During the course you will investigate products, disassemble them and evaluate your findings. You will be able to work alone on a project or as part of a team. During the course you will look at industrial practices and draw on your skills in Maths, Science, Art and ICT.
The course is divided into two main areas, Food Technology and Resistant Materials. Each pupil must complete four units within each area. Throughout the course you will develop practical skills and at the same time extend your knowledge and prepare for your future life. During the food units pupils will be expected to cook once a week, providing their own ingredients.
Assessment: All units will have to be completed to a satisfactory standard. When you have completed four units within each area you will be certified. There are three levels of award: Level 1/2 and 3.
Progression: You can use the skills you have learnt in a variety of jobs or as a stepping stone to college courses. These life skills will be invaluable.
D&T: FOOD TECHNOLOGY (GCSE)
Examination Board: AQA
This is a course that allows you to study lifestyles, eating habits and diet. It will enable you to learn about new foods and ingredients on the market. It will require you to research using a variety of methods and, carry out tasting panels to analyse recipes. To increase your practical skill level you will cook each week, and learn to use a variety of equipment safely. These transferable skills can be drawn upon throughout your life. As part of the course you will have the opportunity to take the basic hygiene exam which is useful when applying for jobs in shops and catering.
Assessment: Controlled assessment makes up 60% final grade. This includes a minimum of 12 practical’s (1 piece of controlled assessment only allowed to use 20 A3 pieces of paper). Examination 40%.
Progression: You can study D&T Food Technology at AS and A2. There are many jobs in the catering industry and more academic jobs working within a research team making up new dishes and working with new foods. You could become a dietician or environmental inspector - there are many opportunities linked with studying D&T Food Technology.
D&T: GRAPHIC PRODUCTS (GCSE)
Examination Board: OCR
The work of the graphic designer is part of our everyday lives. Book and magazine illustration, posters, fliers, leaflets, stamps, packaging, cards, signs and symbols, and shop window displays are just a few of the things you will have experienced. This is a skills based course where you concentrate on improving your graphical ability both through one off tasks and project work. During the course after establishing key skills in the design process, you will work on two controlled assessment pieces (each worth 30% of your overall GSCE) culminating in quality designed and manufactured graphic products proving your ability to use the techniques you have acquired in a creative way. Skills range from packaging design to orthographic drawing. Basic skills in computer graphics and CAD/CAM will also be covered.
Assessment: 60% controlled assessment and 40% theory exam (2 papers)
Progression: You can study Product Design: Graphics at A Level. Several students have gone on to careers in Product Design, architecture and engineering. Many career paths demand the ability to be able to communicate ideas clearly.
D&T: RESISTANT MATERIALS (GCSE)
Examination Board: Edexcel
This is a skills based course in which you will focus on improving knowledge and understanding of Resistant Materials both through one-off tasks and project work. You will experience the three main resistant materials (wood, metal and plastic) through a range of products. In year 10 you will concentrate on acquiring the technical skills necessary to produce different practical outcomes and learn how to apply the design process. The new skills that you will acquire will include forge work, simple joinery, modelling, casting, woodturning, silversmithing and wood construction. In Year 11 you will concentrate on a self-generated project to showcase the techniques you have acquired in a creative way.
Assessment: During Year 10 your work is assessed regularly to give you an understanding of how you are progressing. The Year 11 project provides 60% of the final grade. This is in the form of controlled assessment, and will be completed entirely in class time. There is also a theory exam worth 40% of the marks.
Progression: You can continue to study in our Sixth Form and this qualification is suited to a wide range of jobs where practical skill and the ability to communicate well is needed.
GEOGRAPHY (GCSE)
Examination Board: Edexcel B
The Earth is constantly evolving. Landscapes are changing; the global climate may be warming; natural hazards are becoming more frequent; industry is crossing international boundries; people are changing their working patterns and their living locations - people are travelling and migrating to experience new parts of the world and our oceans and environments are changing in ways that we have never seen before. This course aims to not just inform students about these changes but to equip them with the skills to investigate them further and be able to make decisions about their future management.
This course will appeal to students who:
- have an interest in current affairs
- are concerned about the environment
- enjoy studying practical real-life situations
- like to find out about other places.
Assessment: One piece of controlled course (25%), a Decision Making exercise exam (25%) and 2 general theory exams (25% each).
Progression: The course prepares students very well for the AS/A2 Geography course or any A-level course. Universities and employers all look for an ability to undertake research, reach valued conclusions and present a coherent argument.
TRAVEL AND TOURISM (BTEC Certificate)
Examination Board: Edexcel
The BTEC First Certificate is for students interested in working in the travel and tourism industry. The course consists of 3 units of work which will give a knowledge and understanding about what is required to work in the industry. Unit titles include Customer Service, UK Travel and Tourism Destinations and The UK Travel and Tourism Industry. This is a vocational course and includes several field trips.
This course would suit people who are good ar working independently and enjoy projects.
The BTEC first certificate is worth 2 GCSEs from grades CC to A*A*.
Assessment: The qualification is assessed through 100% controlled assessment. Assessment of the three units that you will cover will happen throughout the course. There are three grades you could achieve: pass, merit and distinction.
Progression: This course prepares you for further study at Diploma level in the Sixth Form as well as giving you a good grounding for employment in the travel and tourism industry.
HISTORY (Modern World History) (GCSE)
Examination Board: OCR
This course will help you to learn about the forces and people that have shaped the Modern World. You will study 20th Century topics, such as the USA, Nazi Germany and the Cold War. You will develop knowledge and skills which will be useful in your future. You will develop the ability to organise information, and to present your views clearly and logically. You will have the opportunity to argue and debate with other students in order to help you from your own opinions. You will learn how to analyse historical evidence, such as cartoons, diaries, photographs, and you will learn to compare and question different versions of events.
Assessment: Modern World History assessment is 25% Controlled Assessment in lessons and 75% Examination.
Progression: You can study History at A-Level and the skills developed in History GCSE are vital in all areas of Sixth Form study. Qualifications in History are respected and valued by all Universities and employers.
ICT COURSES
ICT (GCSE)
Examination Board: AQA specification B
The ability to be adept in general purpose software packages is needed in many careers and jobs today. In this course you will have the opportunity to create two fully working and tested software-based solutions for real-life scenarios. One system will use spreadsheet software to create a model to help a business and the other will user database software to create a model to help a business and the other will use database software for information management. In doing this you will learn what is expected of an IT professional, apply project management skills and produce a comprehensive written report of your system development and implementation including a full user guide. In addition you will learn about the impact of ICT on workplaces, manufacturing, society and the home. An interest in and general understanding of computers and an enjoyment and capability of independent working are essential as is the ability to express yourself clearly in writing.
Assessment: 60% controlled assessment and 40% final exam.
Progression: You can study ICT or Computing at A' level.
CERTIFICATE FOR IT PRACTITIONERS (LEVEL 2)
Examination Board: OCR
Equivalent to 3 Higher Level GCSE Passes
If you have a strong interest in computers, laptops and other technologies then this course may be right for you. You will learn to repair, build and maintain computer systems. Once mastered, you will learn about Networks, security and wireless technology. The course has a strong element of hands-on, from cabling to computer building. On complex systems and tasks, you will work in groups.
Assessment:
There are 2 components to this course
- Numerous on-line multiple choice tests
- Hands-on practical task and project work
Progression: You will be able to take the Cisco course in the sixth form (equivalent to 2 A Levels) and/or study ICT or Computing for A'Level.
COMPUTING (GCSE):
Examination Board: OCR
Technical computing and programming skills are in short supply in the UK. This specification has been developed in conjunction with the Universities and will equip the student with the problem solving and technical development skills required in today’s workplace. You will be learning programming skills, developing your research capabilities and working through the important elements of computing theory. In doing this you will understand what is expected in the software development profession.
An interest in the working of computers and in software development is essential to this course. The ability to independently tackle a research project is also desirable.
Assessment: Three Units: Computing Theory, assessed through examination and worth 40%; Research, assessed through a submitted controlled assessment piece and worth 30%; Programming, controlled assessment worth 30%.
Progression: You can study Computing or ICT A’level.
CLAIT: CERTIFICATE/DIPLOMA FOR IT USERS
(Level 1 of the National Qualifications Framework)
Examination Board: OCR
This course will equip students with a basic range of IT skills necessary for the modern workplace. You will be working with the main software packages used in the workplace today and you will be expected to produce work that is accurate and of a professional quality. The course will develop your skills in using word processing, presentation and desk-top publishing software for the Certificate. The Diploma will also cover web page creation and online communication.
Assessment: You will be assessed by means of board set practical assignments. The assignments are centre assessed and externally moderated by the board.
Progression: You can move on to Level 2 CLAiT Plus, and Level 3 CLAiT Advanced.
MEDIA STUDIES (GCSE)
Examination Board: AQA
The media forms an integral part of all of our lives and in order to fully appreciate the effect it has on us, it is important to be media literate. Studying Media at GCSE allows students to develp the skills that they will need to examine a range of media texts across a growing selection of media platforms including print, moving image and e-media. Students will become familiar with the essential analytical Key Concepts of Representation, Audience, Media Languages and Institutions in addition to covering a large range of wider contexts and debates associated with the subject.
Assessment:
Unit 1 : Investigating the Media
Written Exam - 1 hour 30 mns - 60 marks - 40%
Unit 2 : Understanding the Media
Controlled Assessment taken from banks of set assignments - 90 marks - 60% (Includes practical project)
Progression:
The course prepares students very well for the AS/A2 Media course or any A-level course. Universities and employers also look for and value media literacy.
MODERN LANGUAGES
FRENCH (GCSE)
Examination Board: AQA
GERMAN (GCSE)
Examination Board: Edexcel
Being able to speak a foreign language is a valuable skill for your career as well as your leisure time. A GCSE in a language will set you apart from many other school leavers in the country. You will learn to understand, speak and write the foreign language well. You will have opportunities to express your opinions, and to learn about life in other countries. The work builds on your achievements so far at Key Stage 3 - in fact you have already covered some Foundation Level GCSE work, and Universities are increasingly favouring applicants with a Languages GCSE.
Assessment: Each of the four skills will be tested. Listening and Reading tests will take place at the end of the course. Speaking and Writing will be tested in class during Years 10 and 11. Your teacher will conduct the Speaking test.
Progression: You can study French and German at A level. The Language learning skills you develop will also help you to learn other languages. Languages are important in a wide range of jobs as more companies and professions operate in a global market.
SPANISH (GCSE)
Examination Board: Edexcel
This is a fast track course for able linguists who are already taking a Modern Language GCSE. Speaking Spanish can prove a very useful skill in your future career as well as your leisure time. You will start as a beginner and learn enough Spanish in two years to succeed at GCSE, using languages skills you have built up through your work with other languages. You will learn to understand, speak and write Spanish well. You will have opportunities to express your opinions, and to learn about life in Spanish-speaking countries.
Assessment: Each of the four skills will be tested. Listening and Reading tests will take place at the end of the course. Speaking and Writing will be tested in class during Years 10 and 11. Your teacher will conduct the Speaking test.
Progression: You can continue to study Spanish beyond GCSE. The language learning skills you develop will also help you to learn other languages. Languages are important in a wide range of jobs as more companies and professions operate in a global market.
MUSIC (GCSE)
Examination Board: AQA
This year marks the start of a new specification for Music AQA. With three new strands and five areas of study this exciting and challenging GCSE explores all aspects of music. You will be expected to compose two pieces of music, perform a solo and ensemble piece and complete a listening paper based on the areas of study. We will analyse many styles of music using listening, performing and composing skills. You must be able to play/sing to at least grade 1 standard. You must be open minded about the music you will be listening to and be willing to contribute to discussions during class. As a musician you will be encouraged to work independently as well as in a group and have the ability to work with time constraints.
Assessment: Music is assessed in four main areas; Composing 20%, Performing 40%, Listening and Analysing 20%, Composing and Appraising 20%
Progression: Studying music at A level including music technology. Universities and employers recognise the musical skills and accept the subject equally with others. A range of different courses are available for those who wish to develop their skills after leaving school.
Performing Arts:
Dance (GCSE)
Examination Board: AQA
Dance is a new and exciting subject at GCSE within the school. It is an enjoyable course aimed at students with any level of previous experience in dance. It offers students the opportunity to perform dance pieces in a range of different styles and to develop choreographic skills. It also encourages students to extend their theoretic understanding of dance by attending live performances and studying recorded performances of professional dance works. You will get the opportunity to work with professional dancers and also to choreograph your own work for performance. You can take Dance GCSE and Drama GCSE.
Assessment: Dance is 80% Practical. There are two pieces of performance assessment and one piece of choreography assessment. 20% is written assessment including one written examination at the end of Year 11.
Progression: Dance is an ideal subject for students who would wish to pursue Performing Arts at Post-16 or degree level.
DRAMA (GCSE) Examination Board: AQA
Drama is a popular and exciting subject within the school. The GCSE course offers students the opportunity to develop their performance skills, experiment with new style of theatre and the chance to work in a fully equipped department, complete with two specialist performance spaces, and a range of technical equipment. You will take part in a range of scripted and devised performance projects and also have the opportunity to be examined in a technical theatre option if you wish. This is a course which is aimed at raising your performance skills and experiences of theatre, but also increases confidence and negotiation skills.
Assessment: Drama is 60% controlled assessment task (practical) and 40% written element. There is one written examination at the end of Year 11
Progression: Theatre Studies AS and A2 are a natural progression from GCSE Drama. Theatre Studies is highly successful at the school and is a very popular choice in the Sixth Form.
PHYSICAL EDUCATION (GCSE)
Examination Board: Edexcel
GCSE PE allows you to continue to develop practical skills, whilst becoming more knowledgeable about the human body and the long-term benefits of safe physical activity. It also improves your ability to assess and appreciate human movement. The course places great emphasis on the value of healthy, active lifestyles together with personal health and well-being. Throughout the course you will have the opportunity to become better performers, leaders and officials. The course best suits pupils with a serious interest in the wider aspects of the subject, who want to develop a greater appreciation of the role of physical activity as part of a healthy lifestyle. There is a very strong theory section in the course.
Assessment: Practical performance is worth 60% (including 12% for analysis of performance) assessed under controlled conditions. Theory study is worth 40% (examined through a 1 hour 30 minute written paper).
Progression: You can continue to study PE as an A Level subject or as part of the BTEC Sport course. GCSE PE provides a foundation for teaching or coaching sport, careers in the leisure industry, sports journalism and sports medicine.
Why follow the Skill Force programme?
The programme includes a mix of classroom and outdoor activity sessions, engaging young people in sport, environmental studies and community awareness which helps students to develop key essential life skills such as improving own learning, problem solving and working with others.
At the end of the course, successful students will attain:
- ASDAN Certificate of Personal Effectiveness (Level 1 or 2)
- Wider Key Skills (Problem Solving, Improving Own Learning and Working With Others) (Level 1 or 2)
- Duke of Edinburgh's Bronze Award
- St Johns Ambulance Young Life Saver Award
Possible Careers
Uniformed services and any career involving people.
Aptitudes Needed
A willingness to try new things, a good sense of humour, enthusiasm, effort and spirit, determination, respect and the ability to forge relationships.
Course Outline
Skillforce students are given the opportunity to undertake a varied curriculum that leads to a number of widely recognised Awards and Qualifications. These awards, while being challenging and fun to undertake, have been selected to allow the students to demonstrate key skills and competencies that are highly application to the modern workplace. The qualifications are also very valuable: a student who completes the Level 2 programme could contribute 65%+ to the 5x A* - C GCSE threshold, while a student undertaking the Level 1 qualifications could contribute 70%+ to the 5x D - G GCSE threshold.
Assessment - % Controlled Assignment - format of exams
| Type of Assessment |
Details of Assessment |
| Controlled Assignment (100%) |
100% Coursework. Students produce a portfolio of evidence to demonstrate successful completion of a range of tasks and competencies. |
Additional Equipment/Trips (and costs)
One week long camping and Duke of Edinburgh's Award Expedition,
Orienteering
Community/conservation project
Rock climbing
Canoeing/raft building
Various trips are undertaken
Further Information
Subject Leaders: Alison Williams 077 8883 2704
