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2024

St Patrick s College GCSE OPTIONS INFORMATION GUIDE 2024 This booklet is a guide to help you choose your GCSE subjects A summary is provided outlining the course details of each subject across the Key Stage 4 curriculum We hope that it will enable you to make an informed decision when choosing your GCSE options for September 2024 Choosing GCSE subjects is an exciting time where you can select optional subjects as part of your educational pathway Careful consideration is required to ensure you can achieve the best possible results This booklet should be used during the option process in conjunction with teacher guidance and information sessions to assist all students in choosing the most suitable subjects for the best possible outcomes to secure appropriate career pathways YEAR 10 OPTIONS PROGRAMME Our Option programme is delivered in school through our Learning For Life and Work lessons and Careers sessions Students will continually be supported by their Employability teachers Form Teachers Subject teachers and our Senior Management Team in helping them make informed choices for September 2024 IMPORTANT DATES 29th January 24 Careers Option Week Promotion of Subjects PD Time Presentation with ML Tuesday Friday Mrs Lively will conduct her GCSE Options presentation with each individual Year 10 class during PD from Tuesday Friday Wednesday 31st Year 10 presentation with FH Girls Gym Jan Period 2 Stage One of the Option Process Open Trawl Wednesday 31st Year 10 Subject Networking with some Year 11 and 12 Girls Gym Jan Period 6 7 10SMP Period 6 10ES2 Period 7 Thursday 1st Feb Year 10 Subject Networking with some Year 11 and 12 Girls Gym Period 3 4 10RC Period 3 10ST Period 4 Friday 2nd Feb Making Good Decisions Presentation with Department of Employment and Learning DEL Conrad Topping 10SMP P4 12 05 ST 10D CLF P6 1 35 pm 10ES1 P4 12 25 LC 10E EH P6 2 00pm 10F KH P7 2 25pm

Additional online resources that students parents and carers may find helpful Careers Service Young Person s Guide https www nidirect gov uk sites default files 2023 10 A Young Persons Guide Sept 23PDF pdf Parental Guide https www nidirect gov uk sites default files 2023 10 A Parental Guide Sept 23 PDF pdf Subject Choices at Year 10 https www nidirect gov uk articles subject choices year 10 Year 10 YouTube video link https youtu be d_ssJV_XfjQ You may also find the following information useful Apart from your compulsory subjects consider a Which subjects are you good at b What is involved in each subject c What subjects am I proposing to study at A level d Is it time consuming and am I prepared to put in the extra time e Will this subject enable me to maximise my outcomes in August 2025 f Do I need a subject for a specific career I am interested in Advice For subjects you can choose you should a Make sure you have accurate and up to date information b Talk to those who can give you good reliable advice such as your careers teacher and subject teacher who will give you an assessment of your suitability for the subject c Discuss the options with your family and subject teachers Other Influences Do not be influenced by the choices made by your friends The subjects you choose will influence your A level choices and future career therefore it is important that you investigate all aspects of the subjects and make informed decisions Whatever your choices you will be expected to work very hard to attend all classes to do your homework and to produce all work including controlled assessments to the best of your ability Completed forms for the first stage of the options process must be submitted by Friday 9th February 2024

St Patrick s College GCSE SUBJECT CHOICES 2024 This is the first trawl and the subjects below will be moved into option blocks to form a second trawl depending on the demand for each subject Below is an overview of GCSE subject choices that are available to you CORE SUBJECTS It is compulsory to complete the following subjects at GCSE level GCSE English Language GCSE Mathematics GCSE Science or OCN Science GCSE Religion or OCN Religion These subjects are compulsory because they are needed for entry to SRC and are essential for most third level entry courses SUBJECT CHOICES From the options below you are required to choose FOUR subjects GCSE Business Communications Systems BCS GCSE Digital Technology GCSE ICT GCSE Business Studies GCSE Child Development GCSE Geography GCSE History GCSE Irish GCSE Spanish GCSE Music GCSE Further Maths GCSE Learning for Life Work LLW GCSE Health Social Care GCSE Double Award Science GCSE Construction and the Built Environment BTEC L2 Sport BTEC L2 ICT BTEC L2 Engineering The Prince s Trust Occupational Studies equivalent to two GCSE grades and counts as two choices You are required to choose one subject only from this block BTEC L2 Sport GCSE Music NBI GCSE Art Design BTEC L2 Child Care SRC GCSE Home Economics Food Nutrition GCSE Design Technology English Literature will be offered to only those students who have been recommended by their English teacher You will also study Non Exam P E and Careers

GCSE ART DESIGN CONTENTS Component 1 Part A Exploratory Portfolio SPECIFICATION AT A GLANCE ASSESSMENT WEIGHTING AVAILABILITY Controlled Assessment 60 Internally set and assessed Externally Moderated Part A 25 50 marks Throughout academic year Part B Investigating the Creative and Cultural Industries Internally set and assessed Teachers set tasks based on examples from a controlled assessment booklet that CCEA provide Part A 35 70 marks Externally moderated Unit 2 Working to a Stimulus Externally set assignment Controlled Assessment Externally set and internally Assessed Externally Moderated 40 80 marks Final outcome completed within a set period of 10 hours January April in Year 12 Percentage Pass Grades A C 2021 100 2022 93 2023 100 Essential for Success Evidence of good analytical skills good imagination and the ability to keep to deadlines will be essential for success Pupils should be able to work in a sustained personal creative and independent way both at home and in school and be able to use their own initiative Careers Pathway Opportunities exist across a range of careers for art students including Advertising and Marketing Computer generated Art work in games design web design and graphic design Interior Design Product Design Photography Fashion Textile Design Signwriter Engraver Make up Artist Beauty Therapist Hairdresser Architect and Teacher are more of many Art related career choices

GCSE BUSINESS AND COMMUNICATION SYSTEMS SPECIFICATION AT A GLANCE CONTENTS ASSESSMENT WEIGHTING AVAILABILITY Unit 1 Use of ICT File management Word Processing Spreadsheets Databases Presentations Web browsing internet searching Email Web Authoring External Computer based Exam 2 hours Students complete tasks using a range of software applications 40 Summer Year 11 Unit 2 The Business Environment Types of business ownership Stakeholders Communication Digital trading Recruitment Selection Training Implications of digital technology for business and customers Marketing External Written 35 Exam 1 hour Summer Year 12 Terminal Assessment Unit 3 Developing Digital Solutions Planning researching Using software applications Evaluation Controlled Assessment Students project manage and develop a digital solution for a given problem within a business context 25 Percentage Pass 2021 2022 Grades A C 83 82 Summer Year 12 2023 74 Essential for Success Candidates will require an awareness of the Business Environment through the media A high level of education and commitment is necessary Careers Pathway Accountancy Banking Business Administration Hotel Management Journalism Marketing Finance Law Insurance Teaching

GCSE BUSINESS STUDIES SPECIFICATION AT A GLANCE CONTENTS ASSESSMENT WEIGHTING AVAILABILITY Unit 1 External Written Starting a Business Entrepreneurs Key Characteristics of Entrepreneurs Business Resources Business Ownership Public Sector The Role of Social Enterprise Business Location Business Aims and Objectives Stakeholders Marketing and Market Research Marketing Mix Competition Customer Services International Business E Business M Business Types of Production Methods of Manufacturing Quality Assurance Health and Safety in Manufacturing Exam 1 hour 30mins Students complete short structured questions and extended writing Unit 2 External Written Developing a Business Recruitment Selection Appraisal Training Motivation Business Success or Failure Business Growth Internal Sources of Finance External Sources of Finance Cash Flow Forecasts Financial Statements Income Statement Statement of Financial Position Ratios Break Even Exam 1 hour 30mins Students complete short structured questions and extended writing Unit 3 Controlled Planning a Business Business Plan Booklet A Planning Booklet B Communicate Findings Assessment Students complete the following Booklet A Planning Booklet B Communicate Findings Essential for Success Students do not need to have reached a particular level of attainment before beginning to study this specification However candidates must demonstrate a high standard of written communication skills and very good numerical ability 40 40 20 Careers Pathway Management Marketing Project Management Business Accounting Management Consultancy Summer Year 11 Summer Year 12 Summer Year 12 Human Resources Business Journalism Teaching Further Study

GCSE DOUBLE AWARD SCIENCE SPECIFICATION AT A GLANCE CONTENTS ASSESSMENT WEIGHTING AVAILABILITY Unit 1 Year 11 Biology Cells living processes biodiversity Chemistry Structures Trends Chemical reactions Quantitative Chemistry and Analysis Physics Force Motion Energy Density Kinetic Theory Radioactivity Nuclear Fission and Fusion 3 modular exams one hour Year 11 33 each modular exam is worth 11 of the GCSE grade November February May June Unit 2 Biology Body systems genetics health and micro organisms Chemistry Further Chemical Reactions Equilibrium Calculations and Organic Chemistry Physics Waves Light Electricity Magnetism Electromagnetism and Space Physics 3 Terminal exams one hour 15 minutes Year 12 42 each modular exam is worth 14 of the GCSE grade June only Unit 7 Practical skills 25 Booklet A is a practical skills assessment It assesses students ability to carry out three practical tasks based on but not identical to the 18 prescribed practical activities listed in the specification across all three subject areas Section B is a written externally assessed examination taken during the final year of study It assesses students knowledge and understanding of practical science It consists of questions about planning and carrying out any of the prescribed practical tasks together with more general questions about any practical situation that arises in Units B1 B2 C1 C2 P1 and P2 in the specification Success Rates Grades A C 2014 2015 97 5 2017 2018 95 2015 2016 88 2018 2019 90 2016 2017 100 2019 2020 100 2020 2021 100 2021 2022 100 2022 2023 100 Essential for Success High marks in Science formal assessments at KS3 Success in Year 11 modules Organised revision Excellent attendance Maximum effort to apply all criteria to planning and interpretation skills in controlled assessments Continuous revision for terminal examinations Careers Pathway Engineering 14 possible branches Medicine Medical sciences Pharmacy Pharmaceutical studies Nursing midwifery Podiatry Forensic Science Architecture Optician Food Science Pupils intending pursuing Biology Physics or Chemistry at A Level or undertaking a sciencebased career MUST undertake GCSE Double Award Science PLEASE ALSO NOTE THIS SUBJECT CAN ONLY BE CHOSEN AFTER CONSULTATION WITH YOUR CHILD S SCIENCE TEACHER

GCSE ICT DIGITAL TECHNOLOGY SPECIFICATION AT A GLANCE DIGITAL TECHNOLGY ROUTE A MULTIMEDIA CONTENTS ASSESSMENT WEIGHTING AVAILABILITY Unit 1 External 30 Digital Technology Written Exam In this unit students explore a 1 hour range of digital technologies available for data storage manipulation presentation and transfer They also evaluate the importance of data security and data legislation Summer Year 11 Unit 2 External 40 Digital Authoring Concepts Written In this unit students develop understanding of the concepts Exam 1 hour 30 mins involved in the development of digital systems Summer Year 12 Unit 3 Digital Authoring Practice In this unit students design develop and test digital multimedia systems including website and database solutions Percentage Pass Grades A C Controlled Assessment 2021 92 30 2022 91 Summer Year 12 2023 93 Essential for Success Students opting for this course should have an interest in all aspects of computing an interest in acquiring knowledge and understanding of digital technology in a range of contexts an interest in the development of current technologies and the social and commercial impact of these technologies Careers Pathway Most occupations in society require I C T skills GCSE Digital Technology leads directly into A Level Digital Technology A Level Software Systems Development Studying Digital Technology equips students for a career in a multitude of industries such as Digital Media Programming Mobile Development Cybersecurity Computer Games Design Cloud Computing and Managing Big Data

GCSE ENGLISH LANGUAGE SPECIFICATION AT A GLANCE CONTENTS ASSESSMENT WEIGHTING AVAILABILITY Unit 1 Writing for Purpose and Audience and Reading to Access Non Fiction and Media Texts External Written Exam 30 Untiered 1 hour 45 minutes Students respond to FIVE tasks Winter series Year 12 Summer series Year 12 Terminal Assessment Unit 2 Speaking and Listening Controlled Assessment 20 Teachers assess THREE top tasks across TWO years CCEA moderate the outcomes Spring March Year 12 Internal Assessment Unit 3 Studying Spoken and Written Language Unit 4 Personal or Creative Writing and Reading Literary and Non Fiction Texts Percentage Pass Grades A C Controlled Assessment 20 1 hour for each CA Teachers assess TWO tasks CCEA set theme s and moderate the outcomes External Written Exam 30 Untiered 1 hour 45 minutes Students respond to FOUR tasks 2021 2022 72 81 Summer May Year 12 Internal Assessment Winter series Year 12 Summer series Year 12 Terminal Assessment 2023 82 Essential for Success Enjoyment of language Enjoyment of reading writing and speaking and listening Commitment to work Critical thinker Careers Pathway The study of English Language opens up the opportunity to pursue a wide range of careers in areas across Education Law Medicine Social Work and Counselling Services Entertainment Media Print and Publishing Administration Business and Office Work Leisure Sport and Tourism and Transport and Logistics

GCSE ENGLISH LITERATURE SPECIFICATION AT A GLANCE CONTENTS ASSESSMENT WEIGHTING AVAILABILITY Unit 1 The Study of Prose One Prose text from prescribed list and Unseen Prose External Exam 30 Closed book 1 hour 45 minutes Summer series Year 11 Terminal Assessment Unit 2 External Exam 50 The Study of Drama and Poetry Open book One Drama text from 2 hours prescribed list and Poetry Anthology Summer series Year 12 Terminal Assessment Unit 3 Controlled 20 The Study of Assessment Shakespeare Teacher assesses task One text from prescribed CCEA set theme s list and moderate the outcome 2 hours Summer May Year 12 Internal Assessment Percentage Pass Grades A C 2021 100 Essential for Success Enjoyment of literature Commitment to work Critical thinker 2022 100 2023 100 Careers Pathway The study of English Literature opens up the opportunity to pursue a wide range of careers such as working as a journalist digital copywriter editorial assistant teacher solicitor creative writer screen writer lexicographer advertising manager or in marketing etc

GCSE CHILD DEVELOPMENT SPECIFICATION AT A GLANCE CONTENTS ASSESSMENT WEIGHTING AVAILABILITY Unit 1 Written 30 Parenthood Pregnancy Examination and the Newborn Baby Summer Year 11 Unit 2 Written 30 The Development of Examination the Child 0 5 years Unit 3 Controlled 40 Investigation Task Assessment Summer Year 12 Year 12 Percentage Pass Grades A C 2021 80 2022 90 2023 96 Essential for Success Hardworking and determined to do well Well organised Like enjoy the subject Have an interest in children Ability to work individually pairs groups Good literacy communication skills Ability to keep up to date on pre natal and childcare matters Careers Pathway CACHE level 3 Diploma Advanced Level in Health and Social Care AS A Home Economics Employment in a range of childcare settings Nursing Nursery Teacher P S Teacher

CCEA GCSE FOOD NUTRITION SPECIFICATION AT A GLANCE CONTENTS ASSESSMENT WEIGHTING AVAILABILITY Unit 1 Written 50 Food and Nutrition Examination Summer Year 12 Unit 2 Practical Food and Nutrition Controlled Assessment Percentage Pass Grades A C 2021 86 50 2022 100 Term 1 Year 12 2023 90 Essential for Success Hardworking and determined to do well Well organised Like enjoy the subject Have an interest in diet health nutrition Have an interest in consumer issues Be creative with food and ingredients Ability to work individually pairs groups Good literacy communication skills Ability to keep up to date on health and diet related matters Good ICT skills Independent Careers Pathway AS A Level Food Science Nutrition AS A Level in Health Social Care Product development technologist Food innovation technologist Health safety officer Environmental Health Practitioner Food stylist Food Photographer Food scientist Dietician Nutritionist Consumer Education Officer Home Economics LLW teacher Community food worker App developer for nutrition Food Buyer Commercial Manager

CCEA GCSE HEALTH SOCIAL CARE SPECIFICATION AT A GLANCE CONTENTS ASSESSMENT WEIGHTING AVAILABILITY Unit 1 Written 50 Personal Development Examination Health and Wellbeing 1 hour 30 minutes Summer Year 11 Unit 2 Controlled 50 Working in Health Assessment Social Care and Early Years Sectors Throughout Year 12 Essential for Success Careers Pathway Hardworking and determined to do well Have an interest in health and well being Enjoy research and completing controlled assessment Be able to contribute to class discussions Be able to display good organisational skills Good literacy and communication skills Ability to keep up to date on health and wellbeing related matters Good ICT skills Independent AS A Level in Health and Social Care Teacher of Health and Social Care Preparation for careers in the allied healthcare professions including o nursing o dental nursing and hygienists o midwifery o physiotherapy o dietetics o occupational therapy o speech and language therapy o music therapy o social work o childcare o health service management

GCSE MUSIC CONTENTS PERFORMANCE SPECIFICATION AT A GLANCE ASSESSMENT Students perform for at least four minutes combined duration Solo performance this must be of at least one minute in duration and may comprise one or more pieces Ensemble performance this must be of at least one minute in duration and may comprise one or more pieces Each performance will be out of 30 marks Internally marked and externally moderated WEIGHTING 35 30 Performance 5 Discussion COMPOSITION Students compose two compositions of at least three minutes 30 combined duration One composition to a brief set by CCEA of at least one minute in duration One free composition set by the student of at least one minute in duration Each composition will be out of 30 marks Internally marked and externally moderated LISTENING AND APPRAISING Students answer questions based on familiar and unfamiliar 35 music relating to the Areas of Study Percentage Pass 2021 2022 2023 Grades A C 100 100 100 Essential for Success Students opting for this course must have Grade 3 or above on instrument or voice Careers Pathway There are numerous jobs available in the music industry for example Music therapist Musician Private music teacher Secondary school teacher Sound technician broadcasting film video

GCSE LEARNING FOR LIFE AND WORK SPECIFICATION AT A GLANCE CONTENTS ASSESSMENT WEIGHTING AVAILABILITY Unit 1 Local and Global Citizensh ip Written External 20 Examination Summer Year 11 Unit 2 Written External 20 Personal Development Examination Summer Year 11 Unit 3 Employability Written External 20 Examination Summer Year 12 Unit 4 Local and Global Citizenship Personal Development Employability Percentage Pass Grades A C Controlled 40 Assessment Students complete one task The task is based on investigating a topic in one of the following units 1 Local and Global Citizenship 2 Personal Development or 3 Employability 2021 2022 60 79 Summer Year 12 2023 100 Essential for Success You need to be willing to develop as an individual and to contribute fully to society Working hard in Learning for Life and Work will allow you to explore the challenges and opportunities that personal social cultural political and economic issues pose in today s society You should be able to develop the skills you need to think and act independently Careers Pathway The wide range of skills learnt in this course will help young people develop as individuals and contributors to society the economy and the environment Learning for Life and Work leaves you open to a range of career pathways It prepares students for the world of work It consolidates a GCSE Grade Profile leaving the recipient better qualified with more career path openings This course will help young people to think independently make informed decisions and take appropriate courses of action in relation to personal social economic and employment

GCSE IRISH SPECIFICATION AT A GLANCE CONTENTS ASSESSMENT WEIGHTING AVAILABILITY Unit 1 Listening External written 25 examination Two tiers of entry Foundation Higher Summer Year 12 Unit 2 Speaking One teacher facilitated and 25 externally marked speaking examination Spring Summer Year 12 Unit 3 Reading External examination 25 Two tiers of entry Foundation Higher Summer Year 12 Unit 4 Writing External examination 25 Two tiers of entry Foundation Higher Summer Year 12 Percentage Pass Grades A C 2021 100 2022 100 2023 100 Contexts for Learning Context 1 Identity Lifestyle and Culture Context 2 Local National International and Global Areas of Interest Context 3 School Life Studies and the World of Work Essential for success Students opting for this course should Attend Year 11 Spring Term Gaeltacht Trip Have a love for modern and traditional Irish culture Speak listen to the language at every opportunity Regularly seek out and learn new vocabulary Watch TG4 Irish Language TV shows as often as possible Listen to Raidio na Gaeltachta and Irish language podcasts on BBC Radio Ulster Read as much Irish as you can follow popular Irish Language Social Media pages Attend a 3 week Summer Gaeltacht course Careers Pathway Media Travel Tourism Translation Interpretation Law Advertising Marketing Politics Business Clerical Journalism Sports Education Flight crew Airport Staff Civil Service Accountancy Finance Public Relations Fashion Telecommunications Medicine Research

GCSE SINGLE AWARD SCIENCE SPECIFICATION AT A GLANCE CONTENTS ASSESSMENT WEIGHTING AVAILABILITY Unit 1 Biology Modular Exams are 1hour 25 February Year 11 Foundation or Higher Tier options Unit 2 Chemistry Modular Exams are 1hour 25 Foundation or Higher Tier options November Year 12 Unit 3 Physics Modular Exams are 1hour 25 Foundation or Higher Tier options June Year 12 Unit 4 Practical Skills Success Rates Grades A C Booklet A Practical skills assessment Booklet B External written exam FT 1 hour HT 1hour 15 minutes 2015 2016 97 7 5 17 5 2016 2017 96 2018 2019 75 2019 2020 88 June Year 12 2017 2018 87 2020 2021 100 2021 2022 95 2022 2023 96 Essential for Success Excellent Attendance Organised Revision Success in Module Exams Continuous Revision Enjoyment of the subject Careers Pathway Single Award is a course incorporating some aspects of Biology Chemistry and Physics with particular emphasis on applying it to the world around us Single Award Science suits students who do not wish to specialise in one particular area of Science have some interest in Science but who do not see themselves taking on Science at A Level Students will not be able to study a Science at A Level from a GCSE Single Award Science course however it is recognised by Universities requiring general Science as a full GCSE Science

BTEC Level 1 Level 2 First Award in Information and Creative Technology SPECIFICATION AT A GLANCE CONTENTS ASSESSMENT WEIGHTING AVAILABILITY Unit 1 The Online World External Computer 25 Based Examination Year 11 Unit 3 A Digital Portfolio Internal Portfolio 25 Year 11 12 Unit 10 Database Development Internal Portfolio 50 Year 11 12 Percentage Pass Grades A C 2021 93 2022 96 2023 94 Essential for Success Careers Pathway Due to the continual assessment of the course excellent attendance is vital An interest in the course is also vital as the course content is considerable with assessments being carried out continually throughout the course duration Good organisational skills This course requires you to keep an organised and well presented file Presentation skills are part of the assessed work BTEC level 3 in ICT University courses such as graphic design Computer Science Business Technology web development and many more Higher Level Apprenticeships with PWC Deloitte Kainos etc Able to seek employment in the ICT sector

GCSE TECHNOLOGY DESIGN SPECIFICATION AT A GLANCE CONTENTS ASSESSMENT WEIGHTING AVAILABILITY Unit 1 Core Content Consists of a single exam Core principles 20 marks A mixture of multiple choice and short answer questions assessing a breadth of technical knowledge and understanding External Assessment Written Exam 2 hours 100 marks 50 Completed at the end of Year 12 Specialist Technical principles 30 marks Several short answer questions 2 5 marks and one extended response to assess a more in depth knowledge of technical principles Designing and making principles 50 marks A mixture of short answer and extended response questions Unit 3 Non Exam Assessment NEA Substantial design and make task Identify and investigate design possibilities Produce a design brief and specification Generate design ideas Develop design ideas Realising design ideas Analysing evaluating Students will produce a prototype and a portfolio of evidence Work will be marked by teachers and moderated by AQA Controlled Assessment Practical 30 35 hours 100 marks 50 Available from June of Year 11 Percentage Pass Grades A C Essential for Success Pupils who are interested in a career in building technology manual or management would be well advised to undertake this GCSE 2021 2022 92 63 Careers Pathway Product Designer Jewellery Silver Designer Model maker Joiner CAD Designer CAM Engineer Building Technician Technology Teaching Automobile Engineering Engineering Draughts person 2023 93

GCSE HISTORY SPECIFICATION AT A GLANCE CONTENTS ASSESSMENT WEIGHTING AVAILABILITY Paper One Section A Study in Depth Life in Nazi Germany 1933 1945 Section B Local Study N I and its neighbours 1965 1998 External Exam 60 1 hour 45mins Five questions Short response questions Structured questions An essay question Six questions Source based questions Short response question An essay question Summer Terminal Assessment Paper Two Outline Study International Relations 1945 2003 External Exam 40 1 hour 15mins Six questions Source based questions A structured question An essay question Summer Terminal Assessment Percentage Pass Grades A C 2021 93 2022 74 2023 71 Essential for Success Careers Pathway An interest in learning about how events and individuals in the past have shaped the world in which we live today The main requirement for GCSE History is the ability to write in a clear and concise manner and an interest in reading particular material to the course being studied The ability to use historical sources is important GCSE History looks at some of the most interesting and controversial events in the twentieth century and this subject will encourage you to challenge ideas and interpretations History is an exciting subject that will provide you with self confidence in your opinions a critical mind and an understanding of past events and individuals GCSE History is useful for students studying a number of ALevel subjects History Politics English to name but a few It also leads to many useful courses at university History graduates are to be found in careers ranging from law the media computers accountancy and journalism Many of the top individuals involved in media and major businesses today come from a History background

GCSE GEOGRAPHY SPECIFICATION AT A GLANCE CONTENTS ASSESSMENT WEIGHTING AVAILABILITY Unit 1 External Assessment 40 Summer 2024 Understanding Our Natural World Rivers Coasts Weather and Earthquakes 1 hour 30 minutes Unit 2 External Assessment 40 Living in Our World Population and Migration Settlement World Development Managing our Environment 1 hour 30 minutes Summer 2025 Unit 3 Fieldwork You will collect geographical data first hand External Assessment 1 hour 20 Summer 2024 Percentage Pass Grades A C 2021 81 2022 86 2023 72 Essential for Success Have an interest in events and places throughout the world and the vital role you and others play in the world Be willing to develop knowledge and understanding of geographical concepts such as sustainability Be willing and open to learn new and valuable exciting life skills that will help you to survive in the 21st Century Geography is a practical subject you will develop skills that will be useful in your other subjects for further study at home and at work You will develop map skills including GIS data handling and analysis problem solving decision making self management and working with others Careers Pathway Statistics show compared to other subjects Geography students are among the most employable Employers like Geography qualifications because they demonstrate a wide range of skills qualifying you for a great variety of jobs Studying Geography can lead you to a wide range of careers such as Urban Planning Geologist Pilot Architect Agricultural Engineer Building Surveyor Market researcher Zoologist Teacher Journalism Landscape architecture Surveying Aerial photography Cartography GIS applications

BTEC Level 1 Level 2 First Certificate in Sport SPECIFICATION AT A GLANCE CONTENTS ASSESSMENT WEIGHTING AVAILABILITY Unit 1 External Computer Fitness for Sport and Exercise Based Examination 25 Year 12 Unit 2 Internal Portfolio Practical Sports Performance 25 Year 11 12 Unit 3 The Mind And Sports Performer Unit 9 Lifestyle and Well being Internal Portfolio 25 Internal Portfolio 25 Year 11 12 Year 11 Percentage Pass Grades A C 2021 100 2022 96 2023 100 Essential for Success Careers Pathway Due to the continual assessment of the BTEC Level 3 in Sport course excellent attendance is vital University courses such as Sport and An interest in the course is also vital as the Leisure Studies Sports Management course content is considerable with Sports Science Sports Psychology assessments being carried out continually Able to seek employment in the Sport and throughout the course duration Leisure Sector Good organisational skills This course requires you to keep an organised and well presented file Presentation skills are part of the assessed work

GCSE SPANISH SPECIFICATION AT A GLANCE CONTENTS ASSESSMENT WEIGHTING AVAILABILITY Unit 1 Listening External Written 25 Examination Two tiers of entry Foundation Higher Summer Year 12 Unit 2 Speaking One teacher 25 facilitated and externally marked speaking examination Approx Easter time Year 12 Unit 3 Reading External 25 Examination Two tiers of entry Foundation Higher Summer Year 12 Unit 4 Writing External 25 Examination Two tiers of entry Foundation Higher Summer Year 12 Percentage Pass 2021 Grades A C 75 Contexts for Learning Context 1 Identity Lifestyle and Culture Context 2 Local National International and Global Areas of Interest Context 3 School Life Studies and the World of Work Essential for Success Students opting for this course should Be committed to independent study and thoroughly prepared for lessons Speak the language at every opportunity Regularly learn and revise vocabulary Watch Spanish films and TV programmes or even try putting Spanish subtitles on a film or programme that is in English and read them Regularly use recommended websites and apps Follow famous Spanish speakers on social media Take an interest in cultural aspects of the Hispanic world 2022 89 2023 100 Careers Pathway Languages give you the opportunity to work abroad in any field of your choice Travel Tourism Translation Interpretation Law Advertising Marketing Politics Business Clerical Journalism Sports Education Flight crew Airport Staff Civil Service Accountancy Finance PR Fashion Telecommunications Medicine Scientific Research Media

GCSE CONSTRUCTION THE BUILT ENVIRONMENT SPECIFICATION AT A GLANCE CONTENTS Unit 1 Introduction to the Built Environment ASSESSMENT External written examination 1 hour You will develop an understanding of construction and the built environment the importance of health and safety in the construction industry and the employment opportunities in the industry WEIGHTING 20 AVAILABILITY June Year 11 Unit 2 External written examination Sustainable Construction 1 hour 30 mins 30 Paper includes questions based on pre release materials June Year 12 Unit 3 The Construction Craft Project Unit 4 Computer Aided Design in Construction Percentage Pass You will interpret drawings of domestic buildings and demonstrate awareness of the issues surrounding sustainable development in the construction industry Controlled Assessment You must complete a project based on Woodwork The craft project is made up of a product and an evaluation Controlled Assessment You will develop an understanding and a working knowledge of CAD in the construction industry You will produce a portfolio of work including working drawings for a domestic building and one detail drawing 2022 25 25 2023 Year 11 Year 12 Grades A C 84 94 Essential for Success You will need to ensure you have a great interest in the Construction Industry Students must be able to work to deadlines and carry out practical tasks Students should be able to work both independently and in a group A good background of computing will help with this subject and the CAD Computer Aided Design Unit Careers Pathway Studying Construction and the built environment will offer opportunities into the career pathways of Engineering Civil Structural Quantity Surveyor Architect Architectural Technologist Joiner Bricklayer Electrician Plaster and Plumber and many more opportunities This course provides opportunities for progression into Further Education training and or employment in the Construction industry

BTGECCSLEeFvUelR1T LHeEvRel 2 FirstMAAwTarHdEinMEAnTgIiCneSering SPECIFICATION AT A GLANCE COURSE INFORMATION This qualification targets students who require knowledge of mathematics beyond GCSE Mathematics It broadens the experience of students who are capable of working beyond the limits of GCSE Mathematics Higher Tier and those who want to progress to AS A level courses The specification exceeds the level of challenge offered by GCSE Mathematic qualifications in England and our revised GCSE Mathematics Higher Tier It offers optional units covering mechanics statistics and discrete and decision mathematics Each unit is assessed by external written examination in the form of a single question and answer booklet SUMMARY The specification has four units Students must complete Unit 1 which is mandatory and two of the three other units Unit 1 Pure Mathematics Unit 2 Mechanics Unit 3 Statistics Unit 4 Discrete and Decision Mathematics CONTENT AND ASSESSMENT UNIT 1 Pure Mathematics Mandatory External written examination 2 hours 50 UNIT 2 Mechanics Optional External written examination 1 hour 25 UNIT 3 Statistics Optional External written examination 1 hour 25 UNIT 4 Discrete and Decision Mathematics Optional External written examination 1 hour 25 REPORTING AND GRADING The results of individual assessment units on a uniform mark scale that reflects the assessment weighting of each unit The grades are awarded by aggregating the uniform marks that candidates obtain in individual assessment units A G If candidates fail to attain a grade G or above their result is reported as unclassified U 2023 Percentage Pass 100 EMPLOYMENT Employers place high value on mathematical knowledge understanding and skills The ability to handle numbers think logically and solve problems are essential in the workplace Jobs in the Aeronautical Accountancy Banking Engineering and Technology Finance Health Hospitality Information Technology Insurance Medicine Pharmaceuticals Retail Telecommunications Transportation Veterinary sectors all desire high mathematical knowledge

BTEC Level 1 Level 2 First Award in Engineering SPECIFICATION AT A GLANCE COURSE INFORMATION The course consists of one exam unit and 3 units of continuous assessment Students will sit the 1 hour online exam in May June of Year 11 and will have the opportunity to resit in January of Year 12 This course is aimed at students with an interest in Mathematics and Technology This programme is a specialist work related programme of study providing opportunities for learners to achieve a nationally recognised Level 2 qualification It offers an engaging programme for learners who wish to learn about engineering and the opportunities available within the industry If successfully completed it provides a qualification equivalent to one GCSE COURSE CONTENT Unit No 1 2 3 5 Name of Unit Engineering World Investigating an Engineered Product Method of Assessment External Online exam in May June of Year 11 with resit available in January of Year 12 Internal Portfolio Health Safety in Engineering Internal Portfolio Engineering Materials Internal Portfolio PROGRESSION This course will provide an understanding of both practical and theoretical engineering skills It will assist with moving on to Level 3 or entry into further education in a variety of contexts including engineering apprenticeships and job skills training

BTEC Level 2 in Creative Media SPECIFICATION AT A GLANCE AIMS The BTEC Level 2 First Award in Creative Media Production have been developed to provide opportunities for students to gain a nationally recognised vocationally specific qualification to enter employment in the media sector or to progress to higher vocational qualification such as the BTEC Level 3 Subsidiary Diploma in Creative Media Production The Units provide students with the opportunity to develop fundamental research skills for media production and to start building technical skills and knowledge for the media industry They will also develop a range of skills and techniques personal qualities and attitudes essential for successful performance in working life COURSE CONTENT This course is 75 coursework based portfolio that is completed during class time The examination unit 1 is assessed by an online examination is also taught during class time Sample assessment material is available online and pupils will be able to access this in school and at home Year 1 Unit 1 Digital Media Sectors and Audiences This is an exam unit which is completed in the first year Students will explore the different digital media sectors and the products they produce learning about the world of media games websites publishing music TV and film Students will understand the range of technological platforms used to distribute media and how each sector has a common production process Learning about audiences and research is also a key factor The understanding of this unit will form the basis of all other units over the two years and will provide a solid foundation on which to proceed with the student s own ideas for a digital media production Unit 5 Digital Publishing Production students will learn to organise and manage the production of a digital publishing product an e magazine This will involve planning and preparing content suitably and create interactivity between text images and graphics This will also include image editing and design Students will also test their completed publishing product on different publishing platforms and then publish their finished digital publishing product Year 2 Unit 2 Planning and Pitching a Digital Media Product In these unit students will develop their verbal written and visual communication skills to enable them to understand the needs of the client and to help them formulate develop and pitch their own ideas for a media product Students will then undertake pre production planning for a digital media product video in preparation for the next phase in the process production Unit 3 Digital Moving Image Production In this unit students will prepare to make their own film or video They will focus on camerawork and will also explore mise en sc ne setting locations props costumes and make up sound and editing which are all necessary components of a finished product This unit will work alongside Unit 2

Level 2 Certificate Prince s Trust Achieve Programme SPECIFICATION AT A GLANCE AIMS The Prince s Trust qualification in Personal Development and Employability Skills recognise a breadth of personal skills qualities and attitudes required by employers across a range of sectors They have been developed with the aim of progressing learners into further education and or employment They also provide learners with the opportunity to develop their English and Mathematic skills COURSE CONTENT Six units are to be taught to achieve the full award 3 in Year 11 and 3 in Year 12 All units have equal weighting The final grade is based on portfolio work The students can achieve an award at NFQ Level GCSE B x2 or Level 1 GCSE D G depending on their performance in each of the 6 units Planning for a Healthy Lifestyle YEAR 11 Money Management Presentation Skills Career Planning Team Work Skills Customer Service YEAR 12

A GUIDE TO FURTHER AND HIGHER EDUCATION COURSE REQUIREMENTS QUB Queen s University Belfast UU University of Ulster https www qub ac uk courses undergraduate https www ulster ac uk courses This is a general guide regarding entry requirements for a variety of careers courses however it is subject to change Please check the university websites above for up to date course requirements Career Course Necessary GCSE subject s Accounting QUB Maths grade B UU Maths with a minimum grade C Actuarial Science and Risk Management Agriculture Technology Mainly A Grades at GCSE GCSE Maths A Level Requirement QUB AAB UU BBB or BBC if undertaking one of A level Mathematics Economics Physics or Accounting QUB AAA A AS level To include Maths QUB BBB including two science Subjects Biology Chemistry ABB including a relevant subject Biology or Chemistry Architecture Art and Design QUB Applicants without GCSE Art will be invited to a portfolio interview UU Math s English Language QUB AAA UU BBC UU grade C English language UU Foundation year for specialist degrees to include grades CC Banking Biology 7 GCSE s required UU English Maths and Double Award Science A Levels no subject specific requirements UU Grades BCC to include one science subject from Chemistry Biology Physics Maths Nutrition and Food Science Life Additional information No specific A levels although Maths and Business Studies would be useful www actuaries org uk Stage 1 2 delivered at CAFRE Greenmount Campus stage 3 at QUB Applicants not offering Biology or Chemistry at A level should have a minimum grade C in GCSE Chemistry or Double Award Science Applicants will be required to submit a portfolio except where the applicant has GCSE Art or GCSE Art Design at Grade B or higher www architecture com Applicants must provide a portfolio of work which demonstrates breadth of interest and abilities selection to this course will be based on this portfolio Direct Entry UU A level Chemistry or Biology preferred

Biomedical Science Biomedical Engineering Business Economics Building Surveying Business Studies Business Information Technology Chemical Engineering QUB Maths and Double Award science UU Biology and Chemistry OR Double Award Science and Maths UU Maths grade B and English QUB Maths grade B UU Maths and English QUB Maths Grade B Double award Science if not offering Chemistry or Physics A level Health Sciences PE Geography Environmental Technology Science QUB AAB UU Grades BBB UU ABB or BBC QUB ABB UU Grades BCC if including A level Mathematics OR Grades BBC if not completing A level Mathematics UU BBC UU BBC QUB ABB QUB BBB including Maths and a science subject UU including 2 science subjects One from Chemistry Physics Maths Biology or Nutrition and Food Science of which Chemistry is preferred if applying with PE Geography ICT If including Maths or Physics UU include Grade B in one of the following subjects Mathematics Physics Chemistry Biology Engineering Technology including Environmental Technology Environmental Science Digital Technology Technology Design Design Technology Geography Life and Health Sciences single or double award Applied Science or ICT UU No specific subjects however Business Studies at A level is useful No specific subjects required business studies useful

Chemistry Civil Engineering Computer Science GCSE Maths QUB if A level physics is not offered Double Award Science is required UU English Maths grade B If A level Physics is not offered double award science GCSE Grade BB required GCSE Maths grade C UU Maths and English QUB BBB including Chemistry and a second Science subject QUB ABB including Maths and Science subject physics preferred Biology Chemistry Design Technology Geography or ICT UU BCC QUB AAB UU CCC UU B and C in two A Levels from Mathematics Physics Chemistry Engineering Biology Geography Applied Science or DA Science Life and Health Science single or double award Technology including Technology Design Design Technology Environmental Technology Environmental Science and Digital Technology Ulster University Applied General Qualifications The requirement for this course is BTEC Level 3 Extended Diploma with overall award profile of MMM All subject areas considered UU Only Construction English and Maths Engineering and Management Criminology UU BBC or BCC including one A level from Maths or Physics at grade B QUB ABB No specific subject required at A level Dietetics Dentistry Drama Maths and Chemistry or Double Award Science Maths and Physics or Double Award Science UU BBB to include 2 Sciences from Chemistry Physics Maths Biology or Home Economics QUB AAA at A level including Biology Human Biology and Chemistry QUB BBB UU BBC Very competitive Chemistry preferred UKCAT Interview Work experience essential www bda org Interview required Drama useful students should have an interest in issues of performance and be prepared to participate in practical theatre classes

Electronics Elec trical Engineering GCSE physics or DA Science acceptable if Physics not offered at A level QUB ABB including Maths and at least one Science Physics preferred Technology considered as a science for this course English UU GCSE Maths grade A required if offering Technology at A level UU BBC or CCC if including Maths or Physics QUB ABB and A level English Environmental Health European Planning QUB Food Quality Safety and Nutrition Food and Nutrition Finance Finance and Investment Analysis Geography UU English and Maths Maths English UU CCC UU BBB One grade from Mathematics Physics Chemistry Biology Geography Life and Health Sciences single or double award Home Economics Food Nutrition and Health Nutrition and Food Science Health and Social Care single or double award Environmental Technology Environmental Science or Applied Science QUB ABB Biology and Chemistry or Double Award Science and Maths Maths English QUB BBB including Biology or Chemistry preferably both UU CCC GCSE Maths grade B At least one A Level subject from Biology Chemistry Maths Applied Science Physics Nutrition and Food Science or Environmental Technology QUB ABB including Maths UU BBB Maths QUB ABB including Geography UU BCC

Health and Social Care Policy History English International Politics and Conflict Studies Interactive Multimedia Design Interior design Irish UU BBC QUB ABB or UU CCC QUB ABB No specific subject requirements No specific subject requirements UU BBC All subject areas considered UU to include CC Art A level useful QUB ABB Including Irish Law Mathematical Studies Medicine Midwifery Nursing QUB look closely as GCSE profile Maths and Physics or Double Award Science required if not offered at AS level Maths and Science grade B Preferred Maths and Science UU BCC grade B in Irish QUB AAB No specific A level requirements UU ABB to AAB QUB ABB including Maths grade A QUB AAA A at AS including chemistry 1 from Biology Maths Physics If not offered at A level Biology must be at least grade B at AS QUB BBC including A level Biology or Chemistry or BB CCC if not offering Biology or Chemistry QUB BCC OR BBC where a relevant Science subject is not offered UCAT Interview Work Experience Very competitive www ucat ac uk Very competitive Work experience Interview www nmc_uk org www stepintothenhs uk Very competitive interview Work experience and voluntary work is essential Occupational Therapy Optometry UU BBC UU BBB UU AAB Very competitive interview Work experience and voluntary work is essential At least two Science subjects from Biology Chemistry Mathematics and Physics or grades AB in Double Award Applied Science or Life and Health Science

Pharmacy Physics Physiotherapy Podiatry Politics Double award Science Maths English English Maths English Maths English Maths English QUB AAB grade including www rpharms com Chemistry plus one from Biology Maths or Physics UU AAB Chemistry required and one subject from Biology Mathematics Physics Applied Science or Life and Health Sciences QUB ABB including Maths and Physics UU BBB including one subject from Biology Chemistry Maths Physics Very competitive interview Voluntary work essential You may also meet the course entry requirements with combinations of different qualifications to the same standard provided subject requirements are met UU BBB including one subject from Biology Chemistry Maths or Physics QUB ABB Competitive Interview Voluntary work A level History Politics would be useful Politics and International Studies Product Design and Engineering Quantity Surveying GCSE Maths and Double Award Science GCSE Maths UU BCC QUB ABB including Mathematics and at least one from Physics preferred Biology Chemistry Further Mathematics Technology and Design or Double Award Life Health Sciences UU ABB A Level Essential one from Mathematics Physics Chemistry Biology Engineering or Construction If not offering any of these subjects the entry requirement is AAA all subjects considered

Radiography Real Estate Social Work Sociology Spanish Double Award Science BB Maths English Maths UU BBB to include a grade B from one of the following Maths Physics Chemistry Biology CCEA Single Award Life Health Sciences first taught September 2016 Double Award Life Health Sciences grade BB or Double Award Applied Science grade BB UU BBC Competitive Interview No subject specific requirements GCSE Maths QUB ABB UU BBB QUB BBB No subject specific requirements Very competitive Interview Work experience and voluntary work essential Sociology useful A level subject English Maths UU BCC QUB ABB Including Spanish Evidence of linguistic ability Speech and Language Therapy Sport A variety of Sports Degrees Travel Tourism Management International Teaching English Maths English Maths English Maths English Maths and Science for Primary Education Veterinary Medicine English and Maths for Post Primary Physics or Double award science if not offered at A level UU BBB UU Refer to the online prospectus UU BCC BBB St Mary s University College Belfast Entry grades vary between AAA BBB depending on subject A AA including Biology Chemistry and one from Physics Maths Interview Required Very competitive High demand courses Experience important Useful languages Business Studies Work experience important Interview experience very important Work experience voluntary work essential www smucb ac uk Not available in N I Work experience essential www rcvs org uk www ucd ie