February 2025
Dear Parent
Important decisions need to be taken before your child enters Key Stage 4 in
September 2025. This information booklet has been prepared to give you and
your child some knowledge and advice about the course/subjects which make
up our curriculum in years 11 and 12 and the levels at which they can be
studied.
Pupils will be placed in class groups at the beginning of Key Stage 4 having
regard to the standard reached in Key Stage 3.
The information included in this booklet is based on current programmes for
each of the subjects listed. There may be some amendments resulting from
developments at Examination Boards.
I hope that the information provided in this booklet will prove a useful point of
reference as your child makes these important decisions about which subjects
to study in Key Stage 4.
Yours sincerely
C Reid (Mrs)
SUBJECT: ENGLISH LANGUAGE
EXAMINATION: GCSE
EXAMINING BOARD: CCEA
TIERS AVAILABLE: 1 Tier – Grades A* - G
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION:
GCSE English Language is a unitised specification, with four assessed units.
Units 1 and 4 are external examination papers (60%). Units 2 and 3 are
Controlled Assessment (40%).
What Skills will you Develop?
Through studying GCSE English Language you will:
• develop skills in speaking, listening, reading and writing necessary to communicate
• with others confidently, effectively, precisely and appropriately;
• learn how to express yourself creatively and imaginatively;
• become critical readers of a range of texts, including multi-modal texts;
• use reading to develop your own skills as writers.
Career Pathways
English Language is invaluable for your future no matter what you are aiming for. A
good command of the spoken and written word will help you every day and benefit all
your other GCSEs too! Whatever you end up doing, English Language is a must have
subject for college, university, work and life!
SUBJECT: ESOL SKILLS FOR LIFE
(ENGLISH FOR SPEAKERS OF OTHER
LANGUAGES)
EXAMINING BOARD: Pearson
LEVELS AVAILABLE: Entry Level 1
Entry Level 2
Entry Level 3
Level 1
Level 2
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION:
This qualification is for learners whose first language isn’t English, helping them
gain the communication skills needed to progress in the workplace, education and beyond.
You will be assessed on reading, writing, speaking and listening. Each unit is assessed
through an assessment taken under supervised conditions. The assessment is
internally assessed and verified and then externally verified.
What Skills will you Develop?
This qualification equips learners with language skills to help them become more independent.
Career Pathways
With English being one of the most widely spoken languages, there are countless
advantages to taking this subject.
This qualification will allow you to improve your English skills; become better qualified
and improve your employment and training opportunities.
SUBJECT: MATHEMATICS
EXAMINATION: GCSE
EXAMINING BOARD: CCEA
TIERS AVAILABLE: 2 Tiers
Higher – Grades A* - E
Foundation – Grades C* - G
• Candidates achieving less than the minimum mark required in a Tier will be given
• an unclassified grade.
• Candidates at Foundation Tier may achieve a Level 1 or Level 2 certificate in
• Functional Mathematics.
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION:
There are 2 Tiers of entry for GCSE and pupils will be entered for the tier best suited to
their capability. Each tier is divided into two components: one unit test and one completion test.
The unit test accounts for 45 % and the completion test 55 %. Each unit test consists of
a calculator paper. Each completion test consists of a non calculator paper and a calculator
paper. Candidates must bring a pen, pencil, ruler, compass and protractor to all papers and
in addition to these instruments must bring a scientific calculator for use in the calculator paper
so as not to disadvantage themselves.
Functional Mathematics questioning requires pupils to use mathematics effectively in a wide
range of contexts.
What Skills will you Develop?
Pupils will be encouraged to:
• develop knowledge, skills and understanding of mathematical methods and concepts;
• acquire and use problem-solving strategies;
• select and apply mathematical techniques and methods in mathematical, everyday and
real-world situations;
• reason mathematically, make deductions and draw conclusions;
• interpret and communicate mathematical information in a variety of forms.
Career Pathways
The vast majority of employers deem a mathematical qualification as a basic
requirement regardless of the type of job. Therefore it is a necessity that some form
of qualification is obtained in mathematics.
Examples of careers where a qualification in maths is particularly important are:
Accountant, Computer Programmer, Retail Buyer, Architect, Data Analyst, Statistician, Bank Clerk,
Engineer, Teacher
SUBJECT: MATHEMATICAL SKILLS
EXAMINING BOARD: Ascentis
LEVELS AVAILABLE: Entry Level 1
Entry Level 2
Entry Level 3
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION:
This qualification focuses on developing confidence and ability in mathematics.
Broken down into more bite-size chunks there are a range of unit testing based on individual
topics in mathematics rather than an end of year exam comprising of all topics.
These individual unit tests are ‘banked’ during the course of your studies in order to achieve
your overall qualification.
Each unit is assessed through an assessment taken under supervised conditions. The
assessment is internally assessed and verified and then externally verified.
What Skills will you Develop?
• Build practical skills and knowledge in mathematical skills to get started in the world of
work.
• Acquire and use problem-solving strategies.
• Select and apply mathematical techniques and methods in everyday situations.
• Reason mathematically, make deductions and draw conclusions.
• Interpret and communicate mathematical information.
Career Pathways
This qualification will allow you to improve your mathematical skills; become better qualified
and improve your employment and training opportunities.
SUBJECT: SCIENCE: DOUBLE AWARD
EXAMINATION: GCSE
EXAMINING BOARD: CCEA
TIERS AVAILABLE: 2 Tiers
Higher and Foundation – Grades A*A* - GG
Any combination – with intermediate grades
A*A, AB, BC, CD, DE, EF, FG
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION:
Year 11 Biology Unit 1 Cells, Living Processes and Biodiversity 11 %
Chemistry Unit 1 Structures, Trends, Chemical Reactions,
Quantitative Chemistry and Analysis 11 %
Physics Unit 1 Motion, Forces, Moments, Energy, Density, Kinetic
Theory, Radioactivity, Nuclear Fission and Fusion 11 %
Year 12 Biology Unit 2 Body Systems, Genetics, Micro-organisms & Health 14 %
Chemistry Unit 2 Further Chemical Reactions, Rates and Equilibrium,
Calculations and Organic Chemistry 14 %
Physics Unit 2 Waves, Light, Electricity, Magnetism and Space
Physics 14 %
Unit 7 Practical Skills
A: Practical Skills Assessment 7.5 %
3 x 1 hour (Biology, Chemistry, Physics)
B: External Written Examination 17.5 %
3 x 30 minutes
What Skills will you Develop?
Science Processing Skills including: observing; classifying; measuring/using
numbers; communicating; predicting; collecting; recording and interpreting data;
identifying and controlling variables; experimenting; making and using models.
Critical Thinking Skills including: analysing; evaluating; applying; problem solving.
Career Pathways
Nurses, Doctors, Dental Nurse, Dentist, Dietician, Radiographer, Veterinary Nurse.
Engineering: mechanical, chemical, electrical.
Occupational Health & Safety Specialist, Soil Scientist.
Horticulturalist, Agriculturalist, Renewable Energy Advisor.
SUBJECT: SCIENCE: SINGLE AWARD
EXAMINATION: GCSE
EXAMINING BOARD: CCEA
TIERS AVAILABLE: 2 Tiers
Higher and Foundation – Grades A*- G
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION:
Unit 1: Biology Cells, Food and Diet, Chromosomes and Genes, 25 %
Co-ordination and control, Reproductive system,
Variation and Adaptation, Disease and Body
defences, Ecological relationships.
Unit 2: Chemistry Acids, bases and salts, Elements, compounds and 25%
mixtures, Atomic structure and Periodic table,
Bonding, Materials, Symbols, formulae and
equations, Qualitative analysis, Metals and the
reactivity series, Rates of reaction, Organic chemistry.
Unit 3: Physics Electrical circuits, Household electricity, Energy, 25%
Electricity generation, Heat transfer, Waves, Road
transport and safety, Radioactivity, Earth and Space
Unit 4: Practical Skills A: Practical Skills Assessment 7.5 %
2hour practical assessment of either Biology,
Chemistry, Physics
B: External Written Examination 17.5 %
What Skills will you Develop?
Science Processing Skills including: observing; classifying; measuring/using
numbers; communicating; predicting; collecting; recording and interpreting data;
identifying and controlling variables; experimenting; making and using models.
Critical Thinking Skills including: analysing; evaluating; applying; problem solving.
This qualification will enable pupils:
:to study particular aspects of science in greater depth, become an electricitian, welder,
SUBJECT: ENTRY LEVEL SCIENCE
EXAMINING BOARD: CCEA
LEVELS AVAILABLE: Levels 1, 2 & 3
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION:
100 % portfolio work
Mandatory Units
Unit 2 – Plants and Ecology
Unit 3 – Chemical Products and working safely
Unit 4 – Materials and Recycling
Unit 5 – Electricity and Renewable energy
Optional Units
Unit 1 – Human Biology and Keeping Healthy
Unit 7 – Space science
What Skills will you Develop?
This course will allow pupils to further develop the following skills:
• Application of Number
• Communication
• Improving own learning and performance
• Information and communication technology
• Problem solving
• Working with others
SUBJECT: ART AND DESIGN
EXAMINATION: GCSE
EXAMINING BOARD: CCEA
TIERS AVAILABLE: 1 Tier – Grades A* - G
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION:
Specification: 2 units of art work:-
Unit 1 Part A - Exploratory portfolio (25%)
Part B - Investigating the Creative and Cultural Industries (35%)
Unit 2 Working to a stimulus (externally set exam) (40%)
Unit 1
Part A accounts for 60 % of the overall marks and consists of an experimental portfolio and
a project based on the creative industries. The experimental portfolio will cover visual
language, media, materials and traditional and new technologies, both 2 dimensions and
3 dimensions, covering the four assessment objectives.
Candidates are required to edit and present 20 pages or equivalent of their work for marking
and moderation. This will include a final outcome.
Unit 2
Part B, working to a Stimulus (externally set assignment) accounts for 40 % of the overall
marks and candidates are required to respond to the set theme and produce work which meets
the four assessment objectives, within a specified time limit. The outcome may be either fine
Art or Design, 2 or 3 dimensional.
Controlled Assessment:
All work submitted for assessment must be carried out under the supervision of the teacher,
in both units.
What Skills will you Develop?
• You will learn to use a wide variety of materials, processes and digital media.
• Develop imaginative ideas into finished pieces of work.
• Learn and write about artists, designers, craftspeople and their work in ours and other cultures.
• Develop your personal observation, knowledge, understanding and creative skills
through investigating, experimenting and problem solving which will contribute to
your employability and maturity.
• Communication skills in developing ideas.
• Editing and preparing work for exhibition in a public space.
Career Pathways
• Hairdresser, Make-up Artist, Fashion designer
• Photographer, Costume Designer
• Architect, Interior Design, Landscape Designer
• Graphics ie Games Design, Animator, Web Designer
• Working with Children
• Textile Artist, Art Therapy
SUBJECT: BUSINESS
EXAMINATION: BTEC First Award
EXAMINING BOARD: Edexcel
LEVELS AVAILABLE: Level 2 (Distinction*/Distinction/Merit/Pass)
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION:
In today’s economic climate, Business Studies is an important and worthwhile qualification. No
matter what you decide to do when you leave school the chances are you will be involved in some
way within a business. Business Studies helps you to understand more about how and why
businesses operate in the way that they do. Business Studies will introduce students to the
various aspects of the business world and the growth of businesses within the local community
and throughout the world. Students will acquire practical skills in a wide range of computer
applications used within business.
The Edexcel BTEC Level 2 First Award:
• Is equivalent to one GCSE
• 25% of the qualification is a one hour online exam
• 75% is coursework completed between school and home
• 60 hours are spent on compulsory and 60 hours are spent on optional units
The following topics are studied during the 2 year BTEC course:
Unit 1: Introducing Business (coursework - compulsory) 30 Hours
Unit 2: Finance for Business (online exam - compulsory) 30 Hours
Unit 3: Enterprise in the Business World (coursework – compulsory) 30 Hours
Unit 4: Promoting a Brand (coursework – optional) 30 Hours
What Skills will you Develop?
• Decision-making
• Problem solving
• Using data
• Analysis and evaluation
• Teamwork skills
• ICT & Communication skills
• Economic and employability awareness
Career Pathways
This subject is useful for any type of job which exists in the world of business, involves the use
of a computer or requires the pupil to work in a team. The student is given maximum opportunity
for hands-on practise in all of these key areas.
Some examples include:
• BTEC National Diploma in Business
• HND in Business Studies or Travel and Tourism
• Sales & Personnel within a business
• Further progression onto A-Levels or Degrees
SUBJECT: MODERN LANGUAGES
EXAMINING BOARD: OCN
LEVELS AVAILABLE: Level 2
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION:
A portfolio of evidence will be gathered in 5 areas:
Speaking
Listening
Reading
Writing
Understanding Intercultural Communication in French
Level 2 Modern Language (French) is equivalent to GCSE Grade C.
Assessment is carried out through the process of creating a portfolio of evidence subject to Internal
Verification and External Verification.
What Skills will you Develop?
Students will:
➢ be encouraged to develop skills to help them take their place in a multi-lingual global society;
➢ be provided with a suitable basis for further study and practical use of French;
➢ develop the ability to communicate effectively;
➢ develop a knowledge of the language and language learning skills.
Career Pathways
A grade B equivalent can ensure entry to a course in further education.
French is spoken in over thirty countries in the world and is also recognised as one of the
international languages of trade.
Languages are regarded as a highly valuable qualification by college and universities.
Essential for a Career as: Air Cabin Crew Interpreter
Customs Officer Travel Industry
Useful for a Career in: Computer Industry Legal Profession Teaching
HM Forces Public Relations Telecommunications
Journalism Retail Industry Travel and Tourism
SUBJECT: GEOGRAPHY
EXAMINATION: GCSE
EXAMINING BOARD: CCEA
TIERS AVAILABLE: 1 Tier – Grades A* - G
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION:
Unit 1: Understanding Our Natural World – 1 hour 30 minute examination – 40 %
• River Environments – river features and their formation
• Coastal Environments - landforms, defences and coastal management strategies
• Our Changing Weather and Climate – causes and impacts of weather in the British Isles
• The Restless Earth – the Earth’s structure, earthquakes and super volcanoes
Unit 2: Living in Our World – 1 hour 30 minute examination – 40 %
• Population and Migration – factors in migration, barriers to migration, and challenges faced
by both refugees and destination countries
• Changing Urban Areas – challenges facing cities in LEDC’s and inner cities in MEDC’s
• Contrasts in World Development – the development gap and strategies that aim to reduce
it
• Managing Our Environment – environment impact of the increasing use of resources
Unit 3: Fieldwork – 1 hour examination – 20 %
Students complete a fieldwork investigation, choosing an issue or question related to Unit 1
or Unit 2.
What Skills will you Develop?
Geography is a practical subject: you will develop skills that will be useful in your
subjects. You will develop map skills (including GIS), data handling and analysis,
problem solving, decision making, self-management and working with others.
Career Pathways
Studying Geography can lead to a wide range of careers such as urban planning,
cartography, GIS, journalism, architecture, landscape management, surveying, teaching,
ICT, tourism and transport.
SUBJECT: HISTORY
EXAMINATION: GCSE
EXAMINING BOARD: CCEA
TIERS AVAILABLE: 1 Tier – Grades A* - G
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION:
Unit 1
Section A: Modern World Studies in Depth: Life in Nazi Germany, 1933-1945
Section B: Local Study: Changing Relations - Northern Ireland and its Neighbours,
1965-1998
Unit 2 Outline Study: International Relations, 1945-2003. From the Cold War to
the War on Terror
What Skills will you Develop?
History improves the depth and range of your personal transferable skills and allows
you to develop:
• Critical reasoning skills
• Analytical skills
• Research skills
• Communication skills
Career Pathways
Examples of professional historians are teachers, museum curators, barristers,
politicians, archaeologists. Students of history find their experience directly relevant to
jobs in a variety
of careers and employers often deliberately seek students with the kinds of skills
historical study promotes.
Cicero - "To remain ignorant of things that happened before you were born is to remain
a child."
SUBJECT: FOOD AND NUTRITION
EXAMINATION: GCSE
EXAMINING BOARD: CCEA
TIERS AVAILABLE: 1 Tier – Grades A* - G
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION:
Unit 1:
Written Paper - 50 % (Single Tier)
Section A: Diet and Health Section B: Consumer Awareness
“Controlled Assessment” - (1 piece – Unit 2)
Unit 2 Diet and Health 50 %
Planning Activity Practical Activity Evaluation Activity
What Skills will you Develop?
Diet and Health
Students will have opportunities to demonstrate the knowledge, understanding and
skills necessary for providing healthy diets for family members throughout life. They
should recognise that family members have different dietary needs and that food choice
is affected by social, economic, environmental, cultural, physiological and psychological factors.
Consumer Awareness
Students will have opportunities to apply knowledge, understanding and skills as discerning
and effective managers of resources. They should recognise how choices can be influenced
by personal, social, cultural, economic and environmental factors.
Career Pathways
Home Economics provides a basis for those seeking employment in a wide range of
careers such as:
Environmental Health Social Services/Counselling
Dietetics/Nutrition Consumer Advice
Food Product Development Hotel and Tourism
Food Marketing Management
Home Economist Retail Management
Journalist Education/Teaching
Food Science and Technology Nursing
Health Promotion
SUBJECT: HOME ECONOMICS (Child Dev)
EXAMINATION: GCSE
EXAMINING BOARD: CCEA
TIERS AVAILABLE: 1 Tier – Grades A* - G
2 External assessments (written exam papers) – each worth 30% of the overall GCSE grade
1 Internal assessment (controlled assessment) – worth 40% of the overall GCSE grade
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION:
1. Parenthood, pregnancy and childbirth
2. Healthy diet and lifestyle during pregnancy
3. Birth
4. The new-born baby
5. Physical, Intellectual, Social and Emotional Development of a child
6. Safety, first aid and childhood diseases
7. Choosing clothes and shoes for children
8. Weaning and dietary needs of a child
These include practical and written elements of work.
What Skills will you Develop?
GCSE Child Development enables students to focus on the development of young children
from conception to the age of five years. It encourages knowledge and understanding
of pregnancy, the needs of young children, the roles and responsibilities of parents and the
social and environmental influences affecting family life. The subject aims to encourage
students to think critically, make informed choices and manage resources enabling them to
lead effective lives as individuals and family members as well as members of the
wider community.
Career Pathways
Child Development provides a basis for those seeking employment in a wide range of
careers such as:
Nursery/primary/special education needs teacher
Nurse
Midwife
Child Psychologist
Social Worker
Speech Therapist
Paediatrician
Health Visitor
Crèche Attendant
SUBJECT: ICT
EXAMINATION: BTEC First Award
EXAMINING BOARD: Edexcel
LEVELS AVAILABLE: Level 2 (Distinction*/Distinction/Merit/Pass)
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION:
What is BTEC Information and Creative Technology (ICT) All About?
The recent rapid advances in the use of ICT have given education the chance to ensure that
young people acquire the skills they need for this information society. Competence in ICT is
rapidly becoming a ‘life skill’ that ranks alongside basic literacy and numeracy.
This BTEC aims to encourage students to become independent and discerning users of ICT.
This course of study will be of practical use and personal value in building a foundation
of knowledge, understanding and skills, which could form a basis for further academic
or vocational study and also for future employment. The Edexcel BTEC Level 2 First Award:
• Is equivalent to one GCSE
• 25% of the qualification is a one hour online exam
• 75% is coursework completed between school and home
• 60 hours are spent on compulsory and 60 hours are spent on optional units
The following topics are studied during the 2 year BTEC course:
Unit 1: The Online World (online exam - compulsory) 30 Hours
Unit 3: A digital Portfolio (coursework - compulsory) 30 Hours
Unit 13: Website Development (coursework – compulsory) 60 Hours
What Skills will you Develop?
• Manipulate and process data, develop information and explore ideas.
• Adopt a safe, secure and responsible practice whilst using the computer.
• Review, modify and evaluate the effectiveness of your own and others’ use of ICT.
• Design, plan and implement projects independently to a given timescale.
• Create ICT solutions to solve a problem eg a Website, digital portfolios etc.
Career Pathways
This subject is useful for any type of job which involves the use of a computer or for students
wishing to continue onto further education or vocational training. Some examples include:
1. Secretary, Receptionist or Personal Assistant 2. Call Centre Advisor
3. Sales & Personnel 4. Journalist
5. IT Technician or Graphics Manager 6. Website Design
SUBJECT: INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY APPLICATIONS
EXAMINATION: Level 2
EXAMINING BOARD: OCN NI
LEVELS AVAILABLE: Level 2
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION:
Today’s work environment depends increasingly on a range of technologies. The OCN NI
Level 2 Certificate in Information Technology Applications is designed to provide learners
with the IT skills required to function successfully in the work and wider environment.
Assessment is carried out through the process of creating a portfolio of evidence subject
to Internal and External Verification and is awarded a pass or a fail. A pass is equivalent to
a GCSE grade C.
Pupils will study the units listed below:
• Social media
• Email Software
• Word Processing Software
• Presentation Software
• Using the internet
Career Pathways
IT skills are now required by almost everyone at work and to survive in society. This course
will enhance students' skills in the units listed above. Student's will get hands on, practical
learning in each of the core areas.
SUBJECT: INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY APPLICATIONS
EXAMINATION: Entry Level 3
EXAMINING BOARD: OCN NI
LEVELS AVAILABLE: Entry Level 3
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION:
Today’s work environment depends increasingly on a range of technologies. The OCN NI
Entry Level 3 Certificate in Information Technology Applications has been designed
to encourage learners to develop and demonstrate their skills in the basics of ICT as
well as email, internet, word processing and spreadsheet software.
Assessment is carried out through the process of creating a portfolio of evidence subject
to Internal and External Verification
Pupils will study the units listed below:
• IT user fundamentals
• Using the internet
• Word processing software
• Using email
• Spreadsheet software
Career Pathways
IT skills are now required by almost everyone at work and to survive in society. Student will
be able to showcase their practical skills in class which will help them complete their portfolio
to a high standard.
Future careers include:
Technician
Manager
Engineer
Administrator
and many more...
SUBJECT: MVRUS
EXAMINATION: GCSE
EXAMINING BOARD: CCEA
TIERS AVAILABLE: 1 Tier – Grades A* - G
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION:
Motor Vehicle & Road User Studies will help you to develop as an informed and responsible road user.
It will also help you to prepare you for driver training and the driving test.
What will you study?
The following six areas will be examined:
1. Vehicle control & road user behaviour 4. Motoring mathematics
2. Legal requirements 5. Accident procedures
3. Road transport and its effect on society 6. Motor vehicle technology
Assessment:
There is one external assessment worth 50% and two controlled assessment tasks, each worth 25%
External Written Exam 1 hour 45 minutes
This external assessment is worth 50% of the overall GCSE qualification
Investigative Study (25%)
This will involve about 23 hours work and a maximum of 2000 words. It will involve the collection
of data, an analysis and interpretation of results with a conclusion based on the findings.
This controlled assessment is worth 25% of the overall GCSE qualification.
Practical Moped Riding (25%)
This allows pupils to demonstrate their skills of moped control and roadcraft.
This is also worth 25% of the overall GCSE qualification.
What Skills will you Develop?
• MVRUS is a ‘Life Skills’ subject relevant to us all as road users.
• You will become a more responsible road user.
• You will become aware of the legal requirements of owning a vehicle.
• You will develop a basic understanding of motor vehicle technology.
• You will learn basic first aid skills and techniques.
• You will develop basic control skills and road user behaviour.
Career Pathways
• Motor vehicle mechanic apprenticeship
• Driving Instructor
• PSNI application
• Road Safety Officer
SUBJECT: MUSIC
EXAMINATION: GCSE
EXAMINING BOARD: CCEA
TIERS AVAILABLE: 1 Tier – Grades A* - G
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION:
Pupils need to have basic skills in a musical instrument or in singing as well as an interest
in Music. This course provides a good basis for pupils who wish to study music at AS and
A2 level and also for those who are interested in music performance.
New format for CCEA GCSE Music
4 Areas of Study:
1. Film Music
2. Orchestral Music
3. Pop Music
4. Traditional Music
Assessment is carried out through 3 components:
1. Composing and Appraising 35 %
2. Performing and Appraising 35 %
3. Listening and Appraising 30 %
Component 1: Composing and Appraising
Pupils will create one piece of their own chosen style.
Composition must last 2-3 minutes.
Component 2: Performing and Appraising
Pupils are to play or sing one solo piece and one ensemble piece
These performances must include at least one piece related to the core or optional areas of study.
Performances should each last up to five minutes.
Pupils will also have to discuss their performances – this is worth 5 % of their total marks.
Component 3: Listening and Appraising
There is one listening paper lasting 1½ hours.
What Skills will you Develop?
Adaptability, Confidence, Ability to Work with Others, Patience, Commitment and Dedication.
Career Pathways
Teaching, Librarian, Sound Technician, Publishing and Communication.
SUBJECT: PERSONAL SUCCESS and WELL-BEING
EXAMINATION: Level 2
EXAMINING BOARD: OCN NI
LEVELS AVAILABLE: Level 2
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION:
The OCN NI Personal Success and Well-Being qualifications have been designed to
support a balanced curriculum by assisting the learner with effective development in
personal, social, health and well-being. They build on the broad objectives of the
Northern Ireland Curriculum, aiming on empowering young people to achieve their
potential and help them deal more effectively with personal and social issues that may
affect their physical and mental health. This qualification is undertaken as a
partnership between schools and the youth service,
Assessment is carried out through the process of creating a portfolio of evidence and
practical demonstrations of a skill/situation. This qualification is subject to Internal and
External Verification and is awarded a pass or a fail. A pass is equivalent to a GCSE grade
C.
Pupils must study a range of units.
Examples of units available are:
• Understanding equality and diversity
• Improving confidence and self-esteem
• Managing personal finances
• Understanding team work skills
• Peer Leadership
Career Pathways
Studying Personal Success and Well-Being can lead to careers in education, human
resources, health and social care and research.
SUBJECT: PHYSICAL EDUCATION
EXAMINATION: GCSE
EXAMINING BOARD: CCEA
TIERS AVAILABLE: 1 Tier – Grades A* - G
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION:
Component 1:Factors Underpinning Health and Performance
This component covers:
• The body at work
• Health and lifestyle decisions
External written
examination.
1 hour 15 mins
25 %
Component 2:Developing Performance
This component covers:
• Developing physical fitness
for performance
• Developing skilled
performance
External written
examination.
1 hour 15 mins
25 %
Component 3: Individual Performances in Physical Activities and Sports
Students perform 3 physical activities or sports
Controlled Assessment
50 %
What Skills will you Develop?
Communication, Leadership, Self Management.
Career Pathways
Personal Trainer, PE teacher, Leisure Centre Attendant, Sports Coach, Physiotherapist
SUBJECT: PRINCE’S TRUST (PDE)
EXAMINATION: Prince’s Trust
EXAMINING BOARD: Prince’s Trust
LEVELS AVAILABLE: Entry Level, Level 1, Level 2
The Personal Development and Employability Skills qualifications are 100% centre
assessed using portfolios of evidence and are graded as pass or fail
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION:
Prince’s Trust (PDE) – Personal Development and Employability Skills
Assessment Component for various Levels:
• AWARDS-Qualification size: 2 units • Both units must be at the same level
• CERTIFICATES Qualification size: 6 units • Level differentiation allowed: minimum of 4
units must be at the same level (66%)
Qualification Overview- In recognition of the fact that some learners can achieve different
levels for different units, PTQ operate on the basis that learners can achieve units within
the same qualification at one level above or one level below the level of the overall
qualification claimed. 21 credits required with at least 12 at Level 2.
Level 2 is equivalent to 1 GCSE Grade C.
What Skills will you Develop?
• Develop your own personal growth and engagement in, and through, learning.
• Engage in learning that is relevant to you and support your development of personal
• skills and attributes that are essential for working life and employment.
• Prepare yourself for progression into further education programmes, apprenticeships or
• other work based learning.
• Develop your English and Mathematics & STEM skills.
Career Pathways
This qualification will afford young people the opportunity to develop key work skills
helping them move into employment, education and training. The Prince’s Trust Awards
and Certificates in Personal Development and Employability Skills recognise a breadth
of personal skills, qualities and attitudes required by employers across a range of sectors.
SUBJECT: RELIGIOUS STUDIES
EXAMINATION: GCSE
EXAMINING BOARD: CCEA
TIERS AVAILABLE: 1 Tier – Grades A* - G
Short Course (Unit 6): An Introduction to Christian Ethics
Full Course: 2 Papers
Unit 6: An Introduction to Christian Ethnics
Unit 7: An Introduction to Philosophy of Religion
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION:
Syllabus Content
An Introduction to Christian Ethics
Personal relationships and family issues
Euthanasia, abortion and issues of life and death
Developments in bioethics
Prejudice, poverty and contemporary issues in Christianity
The Bible and Modern Warfare
An Introduction to Philosophy of Religion
The existence of God
The nature of God
The Problem of Evil
Experiencing God
Life after death
What Skills will you Develop?
1. Critical judgement
2. The ability to work with abstract, conceptual ideas
3. An ability to ‘understand both sides’ and negotiate and resolve conflict
4. Problem-solving skills
5. Leadership skills
Career Pathways
1. Law (RE A-level is recommended for Law students by top universities)
2. Education
3. Counselling
4. Media and journalism
SUBJECT: RELIGIOUS STUDIES
EXAMINATION: OCN
EXAMINING BOARD: OCN
TIERS AVAILABLE: 1 Tier – C grade at GCSE
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION:
Nine short portfolios
No examination
Syllabus Content
Charity and Religious Charities
Exploring Personal Identity and Faith
Exploring Religious Traditions within Own Community
Life and Death Issues
Life of a Famous Person of Faith
Marriage and Divorce
Prejudice and Reconciliation
World Faith
What Skills will you Develop?
1. Critical judgement
2. The ability to work with abstract, conceptual ideas
3. An ability to ‘understand both sides’ and negotiate and resolve conflict
4. Problem-solving skills
5. Leadership skills
Career Pathways
1. Law (RE A-level is recommended for Law students by top universities)
2. Education
3. Counselling
4. Media and journalism
5. Medicine and nursing
SUBJECT: TECHNOLOGY & DESIGN
EXAMINATION: GCSE
EXAMINING BOARD: CCEA
TIERS AVAILABLE: 1 Tier – Grades A* - G
External Examination 50 %
Controlled Assessment 50 %
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION:
Unit 1: Technology and Design Core
Content
Students answer 10 questions from a core area of study that includes electronics,
materials and processes, pneumatics, mechanisms, computer control and health & safety.
Unit 2: Advanced Core
Content
Students will answer 10 questions in this exam. Students have already studied information
on mechanisms and pneumatics but here they will be allowed to explore the area further
and in more detail in this unit.
Unit 3: Design and Manufacturing Project
Controlled assessment
Students complete a design project comprising of a design portfolio (10 A3 pages) and
an associated manufacturing task. Pupils will be allowed to complete the folder using CAD
or sketching
What Skills will you Develop?
At the heart of this subject is creating design solutions to meet a need or situation.
Through this subject you will develop:
• research and presentation skills when creating your own design ideas;
• graphic skills needed to communicate designs;
• manufacturing skills required when working with wood, metal and plastic.
Career Pathways
GCSE Technology and Design is a subject which tests your ability to think logically, be
creative and use a range of manufacturing techniques. As a result, the subject is
highly regarded by employers. It is a particularly useful subject for careers such
as: Architecture, Engineering, Occupational Therapy, Product Design.
SUBJECT: OCCUPATIONAL STUDIES
EXAMINATION: Level 1 & 2 and Entry Level
EXAMINING BOARD: CCEA
LEVELS AVAILABLE: Level 1 / Level 2 / Entry Level
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION:
The qualifications have been designed to provide a more ‘hands on’ approach to
learning. They focus on occupationally related knowledge, understanding and skills with
an emphasis on learning through practical activities.
Key Features
The qualifications will appeal to learners who are better suited to develop their skills in a
more practical, occupationally orientated environment.
It will emphasise learning by doing, helping learners to develop the transferable skills
necessary in a changing and dynamic working environment.
Recognition
The qualifications are approved by the Department of Education (a Level 2 Certificate
in Occupational Studies is at the same level as a GCSE with grades from A* - C available).
Assessment
Learners’ achievements are based on evidence from their practical work throughout
their course.
Content
The Occupational Areas are:
Design and Creativity Business and Services
Technology and Innovation Environment and Society
Construction Engineering and Engineering Services
Pupils will be able to choose units from those offered by the Southern Regional College.
What Skills will you Develop?
Time Management Record Keeping
Communication Practical ‘hand on’ Skills
Career Pathways
Beautician Hairdresser
Car Mechanic Joiner
Electrician Plumber
Engineer Web Designer
SUBJECT: BTEC
EXAMINING BOARD: Edexcel
LEVELS AVAILABLE: Level 2
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION:
Some pupils may be offered the opportunity to undertake a BTEC Level 2 Extended
Certificate course instead of one of their Occupational Studies units on a Friday in the SRC.
BTECs offer learners the opportunity to take a vocational qualification in their chosen
area of study. These qualifications are designed to equip learners with the skills and
knowledge they will need to progress to further study.
There are 5 BTECs on offer:
BTEC Level 2 Extended Certificate in Countryside and Environment
BTEC Level 2 Extended Certificate in Engineering
BTEC Level 2 Extended Certificate in Creative Media
BTEC Level 2 Extended Certificate in Construction
BTEC Level 2 in Business
What Skills will you Develop?
Through any BTEC you will develop:
• Research and presentation skills
• Problem solving skills
• Time management skills
Career Pathways
Level 3 courses, BTEC Nationals, BTEC Specialist Qualifications or A Levels leading to a
wide range of opportunities within your chosen Vocational Area.