Choosing your programme for the Middle Years 2025

CHOOSING YOUR PROGRAMME FOR THE MIDDLE YEARS

Required GCSEs in Mathematics, English, Science (See page 13)

Modern Foreign Language GCSE (See page 14)

Four other GCSEs and/or Pathways & Perspectives (See Page 23)

The subject option choices are shown on page 23. We will always try to accommodate everyone’s choices, but cannot guarantee that all choice combinations will be possible every year. This guide is the starting point to lead you through the process of choosing the best combination of subjects for you.

CHOOSING YOUR PROGRAMME FOR THE MIDDLE YEARS

The Middle Years are part of a journey to Sixth Form and beyond, and we want everyone to thrive. We have devised a curriculum that is unique in its breadth of opportunity and in range of assessment style. In doing so, we are certain that each pupil will be able to pursue their own interests and passions. Helping every pupil choose the right route for them is critical – and we will support you through the process, through individual tutorials and group presentations, alongside seminars and information events for parents. In addition to a core set of GCSEs (Maths, Sciences, English, World Literature and a modern language), pupils choose from a wide range of GCSEs and Pathways and Perspectives to make up their Middle Years programme. We expect most pupils will take eight to eleven GCSEs. The majority of pupils in the current Fourth and Fifth Forms take two courses from the Pathways and Perspectives programme to complement their GCSE subjects. We encourage pupils to consider taking at least one of these courses, whilst a good number of pupils take three – whatever combination fuels their individual interests and ambitions.

3

Pathways and Perspectives These courses all have a significant element of practical project work and will allow you to explore subjects in depth, find and develop your own interests, and go well beyond the skills assessed in GCSEs. The assessment objectives of Knowledge and Skills , Development of Ideas , Communication and Self-Management are integrated throughout all courses. Your progress will be tracked by continuous assessment, the process is assessed as well as the final product and the assessments will cover how you develop your skills from topic to topic.

The Pathways and Perspectives courses are

• The Ancient World • Art • Design and Entrepreneurship • Drama • Jewellery and Entrepreneurship • Music Technology and Popular Music • Sports Science • Sustainability

4

Ancient World Perspective

WHAT WILL YOU STUDY IN THIS COURSE

Unit 1 – From Hero to Superhero. You will study the enduring fascination with the mythical hero, studying Greek and Roman epic as well as the image of (super) heroes in modern artistic genres (including the Marvel Universe).

Unit 2 – Drama Performance. You will carry out a detailed study of classical play performances.

Unit 3 – Material Culture Dossier. You will carry out a thematic study using exclusively primary sources, including those in the Ashmolean, to create an evaluative research project. Unit 4 – Politics and the Ideas of Power. In this unit, you will study key questions that still resonate today: who is in charge and why; what drives colonialism (why conquer others); and why do empires fail? You will develop a broad knowledge and understanding of a range of literary, historical and cultural materials from the classical world, as well as an awareness of how ancient sources reflect issues equally relevant to today’s world. You will also learn how to make an informed response to the material studied, selecting a range of appropriate evidence to support an argument.

WHAT SKILLS WILL YOU DEVELOP

HOW WILL PROGRESS BE ASSESSED

Progress will be continuously assessed at strategic points through each unit. The modes of assessment are various, including presentations, independent research, a viva on a classical text or object, a reflective log and a written exam.

WHO SHOULD TAKE THIS COURSE

There are no specific prerequisites for taking this course: it is accessible to anyone, regardless of prior learning, but the course will particularly appeal if you enjoy mythology and thinking about the past, enjoy debate and want to understand our own world better.

WHERE COULD THIS COURSE LEAD

The broad range of skills and knowledge developed to a high level in this course make it ideally suited as preparation not only for students of A Level Classical Civilisation, the wider context for the study of Classical Languages, but also for History, Philosophy, History of Art, English and Theatre Studies.

5

Art Pathway

WHAT WILL YOU STUDY IN THIS COURSE

This portfolio-based course consists of creative projects and technical workshops. The first year is dedicated to developing drawing, print and painting techniques, with opportunities to explore other materials and processes in the studio prep sessions. In the second-year students create their own sketchbook project, undertaking research into artists and creating pieces inspired by their investigations. All work will be ‘idea-centred’ and you will be encouraged to follow your own individual expressive path. Unit 1 – Foundation Skills – drawing from life, source images and printmaking. Unit 2 – Painting and Mixed Media – exploring new media through multiple pieces. Unit 3 – Independent research project, where students create a sketchbook and series of final pieces exploring a theme. You will learn technical skills, including pen and pencil drawing, etching, lino-cut reductive printing, oil painting, ink and bleach, mono printing, mark making, charcoal and watercolour painting. You will also develop skills in critical analysis and will learn to write with appropriate technical vocabulary. You will learn to work individually and with others to drive projects forward.

WHAT SKILLS WILL YOU DEVELOP

HOW WILL PROGRESS BE ASSESSED

Assessment will cover the process of how you produce work, as well as the final pieces – your sketchbooks and workbooks will provide evidence.

WHO SHOULD TAKE THIS COURSE

The Art Pathway course is open to all pupils who, in the Shells, have shown ability as well as high levels of interest and motivation. You must be prepared to push yourself into unfamiliar areas and work with others.

WHERE COULD THIS COURSE LEAD

This is an excellent preparation for any of the Art courses we offer in Sixth Form.

6

Design and Entrepreneurship Pathway

WHAT WILL YOU STUDY IN THIS COURSE

In this course, pupils will delve into the world of design through four core modules: Architecture, Computer-aided Design (CAD), Industrial Design, and a Collaborative Entrepreneurship Project. In the Fourth Form you will learn the principles of spatial design by exploring structures and built environments; digital modelling by creating precise technical drawings and 3D models using industry-standard software; industrial design by designing functional products that balance aesthetic with practicality. In the Fifth Form you will bring your knowledge and skills together to work collaboratively to bring your own business or design concept to fruition.

WHAT SKILLS WILL YOU DEVELOP

Pupils will develop and refine a range of valuable skills, including creative problem-solving, technical design and digital modelling. Teamwork is essential, the course will enable you to foster project management, communication and collaboration skills essential for real-world entrepreneurship and design work.

HOW WILL PROGRESS BE ASSESSED

Progress will be measured through a design portfolio which is used to document all class and prep work. Each module will have its own set of practical projects, allowing pupils to demonstrate their mastery of the skills they have learned. The Fifth Form project assesses pupils through their portfolio, final product, process (including teamwork, problem solving, and how well the project meets the selected brief) as well as an end of project presentation.

WHO SHOULD TAKE THIS COURSE

This course is ideal for creative and curious pupils who are passionate about design, technology, and entrepreneurship. If you enjoy hands-on projects, problem-solving, and collaborating with others, this course will offer an exciting challenge. Whether you’re interested in pursuing a future in design, engineering, or starting your own business, this course will give you a head start.

WHERE COULD THIS COURSE LEAD

The traditional routes of Design and Technology at A Level and IB will be a natural next step. From there, pupils can go on to study architecture, product design, industrial design, or engineering at higher levels. The entrepreneurial aspects also provide a strong foundation for those interested in starting their own business or innovating within creative industries. Whether pupils aim to design buildings, create new products, or develop their own start ups, this course provides the skills and experience to help them succeed.

7

Drama Pathway

WHAT WILL YOU STUDY IN THIS COURSE

The Drama course is a practical and exciting exploration of drama and theatre. It will give you the best all-round experience of drama that learning in The North Wall can provide – incorporating theatre visits, technical support, and the opportunities to create scripted and devised performances. Our course features practical workshops and creative projects which will allow you to experience drama and theatre as a performer, director and designer, as well as an audience member. You will also learn about theatre history and influential theatre practitioners. You will learn how to develop performances for an audience, focusing on character, structure and meaning, you will deconstruct scripts to find meaning, research the context, explore various interpretations, understand the function of design elements, and write academic essays and reviews. As well as these subject-specific skills, Drama is an excellent subject in which to develop the core skills of collaboration, communication, listening, creative problem solving and risk-taking. Practical assignments, including a fully staged production at Gaudy in the North Wall Theatre, will test your skills and development in all areas of performing and theatre-making. You will keep log books and will be set tasks that ask you to reflect on your learning and how your performance skills and understanding of theatre have developed. You will also develop a workshop on real-world issues which you will run to a local primary school setting. The seminal work will be a devised performance and a scripted performance.

WHAT SKILLS WILL YOU DEVELOP

HOW WILL PROGRESS BE ASSESSED

WHO SHOULD TAKE THIS COURSE

Anyone who is interested in drama and theatre should take this course. It has been designed to allow you to develop as a performer, designer and/or director with the opportunity to specialise in any of these roles. You will also develop essential skills which are required in the modern workplace.

WHERE COULD THIS COURSE LEAD

This course prepares you for Sixth Form study of drama and theatre whether you choose IB or A Level. The confidence you gain through creating and performing will help you to succeed in further education and the workplace, whatever your chosen field.

8

Jewellery and Entrepreneurship Pathway

WHAT WILL YOU STUDY IN THIS COURSE

Unit 1 – Foundation course. An introduction to basic silversmithing techniques, pupils will learn a range of skills to build on throughout the course. With these new skills they will design, make, price and photograph their first piece of silver jewellery, showcasing their new skills in a final piece. Unit 2 – Stone-setting. Pupils will broaden their silversmithing skills and design possibilities by learning two stone-setting techniques. This will be accompanied by further design development, technical drawing techniques, and an introduction to product marketing. Unit 3 – Cold connection and mixed media. Pupils will learn cold connection techniques and explore how to incorporate mixed media into jewellery design. This project includes a collaborative element, enhancing entrepreneurial skills through the presentation and pitching of their ideas. Unit 4 – Independent project. Pupils will combine their practical skills, drawing techniques, design development, research, and business knowledge to create their own jewellery collection and brand.

WHAT SKILLS WILL YOU DEVELOP

You will learn traditional jewellery techniques, including saw piercing, soldering, surface texture methods, forming, riveting, stone-setting, enamelling, and casting/wax work.

Additionally, you will explore creative design development through artist research, photography, observational drawings, mood boards, and creative sketches. Skills in idea development will be cultivated through the selection and critical analysis of sources. Furthermore, you will gain entrepreneurial skills through customer research, costing, pricing, packaging, business planning, branding, collaborative projects, jewellery display, and photography.

HOW WILL PROGRESS BE ASSESSED

Continuous assessment will be conducted through practical work, display boards, sketchbooks and technical diaries.

WHO SHOULD TAKE THIS COURSE

This is for anyone who is interested in developing creative and practical skills to develop their own projects while gaining an insight into the practices of individuals and organisations within the creative industry of Jewellery.

WHERE COULD THIS COURSE LEAD

This leads directly to A Level Jewellery, and possibly to one of the many excellent degree courses in creative design. Even if your career destination lies elsewhere, you will learn many useful project skills in this course.

9

Music Technology and Popular Music Pathway

WHAT YOU WILL STUDY IN THIS COURSE

Unit 1 – An Introduction to Popular Music – students explore a range of pop/rock genres, including music from the 1970s to the present day Unit 2 – An Introduction to Song Writing – students develop their knowledge of composition and performance techniques, and explore the methods of song writing used in the 21st century Unit 3 – Covers, Arrangements and Remixes – students use DAWs (Logic, Ableton, BandLab etc.) to edit and sample audio, using plugins and samples to experiment with styles and effects Unit 4 – Music for Film, Television and Games – students create a composition to a brief, using a detailed storyboard to help deepen their understanding of the film music process Unit 5 – Studio Recording – students develop their knowledge of studio recording, experimenting with microphone placement and studio effects, and editing their own podcast/ concert recording

WHAT SKILLS WILL YOU DEVELOP

You will develop a wide range of skills, including song writing, editing, remixing and recording. Music technology forms a major part of the course, and you will work regularly with DAWs such as Ableton to deepen your understanding of composition and studio effects. You will also explore notation, harmony and general music analysis through both written and practical work.

HOW WILL PROGRESS BE ASSESSED

Assessment is continuous and incorporates a range of practical assignments, including concerts, podcasts and studio recordings. You will keep logbooks with spoken, written and video reflections and examples of work you have produced throughout the course.

WHO SHOULD TAKE THIS COURSE

This course should appeal to anyone with an interest in music technology and/or popular music of today. You do not need to have significant experience in any particular element of the course, but you should be keen to learn more about the performing, composing and music technology/studio processes behind film and popular music.

WHERE COULD THIS COURSE LEAD

This course will equip you with a deeper understanding of the creative skills behind performing and composing, and will enhance your knowledge of music technology and studio recording. The course acts as good preparation for IB Music (SL or HL) or A Level Music Technology. It could also prepare you for RockSchool grades in Music Production, and can lead to university courses in Music or Music Technology. Please note that Music is also available as a GCSE and it is possible to take both. Please speak to the Head of Academic Music for advice on which course(s) would be most appropriate for you.

10

Sports Science Pathway

WHAT WILL YOU STUDY IN THIS COURSE

Unit 1 – Systems of the Body; pupils develop their knowledge and understanding of fundamental anatomy and physiology, including the musculoskeletal, cardiovascular and respiratory systems, and the interlinking effects of sporting performance. Unit 2 – Sporting Performance; pupils are taught how to analyse, enhance and improve their performance through the use of the latest training, sports technology, ergogenic aids and nutritional ideas. Unit 3 – Sports Psychology; pupils learn and apply the theory of how sporting skills are acquired and developed through coaching, including the increasingly prominent role of sports psychology. Unit 4 – Investigating Performance; pupils undertake an independent project, choosing an area of Sports Science to research, investigate, collect and analyse data and form conclusions.

WHAT SKILLS WILL YOU DEVELOP

You will learn subject-specific skills such as biomechanical analysis, coaching, training programme design and training techniques. More generally, you will gain skills in experimental design, data collection and statistical analysis, academic research and writing analytical essays, team work and leadership.

HOW WILL PROGRESS BE ASSESSED

Assessment tasks will include a practical investigation, designing and evaluating your own training programme, writing research essays, carrying out practical coaching assignments and keeping a coaching log, and giving presentations.

WHO SHOULD TAKE THIS COURSE

This is for anyone with an interest in sport and the applied science behind performance. You do not need a high level of practical ability on the playing field, just a curiosity about the world of sport, how the body and mind interact, what affects performance and how it can be improved at all levels, from recreational to elite.

WHERE COULD THIS COURSE LEAD

Sports Science is available at IB in the Sixth Form, which in turn can lead to one of the many Sports Science courses now available at university. You will also be well prepared for other Human Science courses such as Psychology, or a combined honours degree with other subjects. Sport is a multi-million-pound, ever-evolving industry and some of the careers you could follow have not been invented yet. This course will provide you with knowledge and skills for a career in the world of sport or, equally importantly, a fundamental lifelong understanding of how to improve your own physical, mental and social health.

11

Sustainability Pathway

WHAT WILL YOU STUDY IN THIS COURSE

Unit 1 – Diversity. Explore the wonders of the natural environment and discover the incredible variety of life on Earth. You’ll study the diversity of life forms, rocks, and minerals, developing a profound connection and appreciation for the world around you, and learn about how human activities can threaten them. Unit 2 – Unity. Delve into the interconnectedness of all life on our planet and learn how everything is linked in the global web of life – including humans. Explore tools such as Causal Loop Diagrams, Stock and Flow Diagrams and the Iceberg Model, which help us understand how these complex systems work. Unit 3 – Survive. Explore the pressing global environmental challenges we face today and investigate practical solutions to avoid, adapt to, or mitigate these problems. Put your knowledge to work by planning and executing your own sustainability project at school! Unit 4 – Critique. Take a critical look at how humanity interacts with the environment. You’ll develop your Critical Thinking skills and examine how the way we live in our global community is shaped by the way we think about the environment, society and the economy. Unit 5 – Create. Now it’s time to think about solutions! This unit is all about re-imagining our future and designing a more sustainable world. You’ll brainstorm new ways for us to interact with nature and each other, learning from indigenous cultures and other forms of wisdom, and creating a vision for a more sustainable global society.

WHAT SKILLS WILL YOU DEVELOP

You’ll sharpen your observation, collaboration, and communication skills, and develop new skills in critical and systems thinking. This course will empower you to think creatively and act effectively in solving real-world environmental, social and economic issues.

HOW WILL PROGRESS BE ASSESSED

Your progress will be continuously evaluated through diverse methods such as journaling, written reflections, essays, reports, debates, and oral or visual presentations. Your individual sustainability project forms a major part of the Unit 3 assessment. This dynamic approach ensures that every type of learner has a chance to shine.

WHO SHOULD TAKE THIS COURSE

If you’re interested in how our world works, eager to make a positive impact, or just passionate about nature, this course is perfect for you. It’s accessible to anyone, and beneficial to everyone, and is designed to inspire learners who want to make the world a better place.

WHERE COULD THIS COURSE LEAD

The knowledge and skills you develop will be invaluable in any future field, whether you’re heading into science, arts, or humanities, and will be particularly valuable for those who find themselves in leadership roles. The Sustainability Pathway provides a strong foundation for the IB’s interdisciplinary course in Environmental Systems and Societies (ESS), available at both Standard and Higher Levels.

12

GCSE Courses GCSE subjects that everyone will take:

ENGLISH Everyone will take Edexcel IGCSE English Language and the CIE IGCSE in World Literature.

MATHEMATICS Everyone will take Edexcel IGCSE Mathematics. Very able mathematicians will take an additional qualification in Further Mathematics (AQA) which will be taught alongside the IGCSE. SCIENCE All pupils will take Edexcel IGCSE Science Double Award or Triple Award. Whether a pupil pursues the Double or Triple Award will be determined during the course.

MODERN FOREIGN LANGUAGES Everyone will study at least one but no more than two Modern Foreign Languages.

13

Modern Foreign Languages: French, German, Spanish

WHAT WILL YOU STUDY IN THIS COURSE

Each course will train and enable you to communicate in and understand the foreign language in both speech and writing, as well as learn about the culture and society of the countries in which the language is spoken. The courses all cover the following overarching themes, and introduce you to language associated with them in a vibrant and relevant way: • Theme 1: People and lifestyle • Theme 2: Popular culture • Theme 3: Communication and the world around us

WHAT SKILLS WILL YOU DEVELOP

The AQA GCSE courses develop the ability to use the language effectively and confidently through a variety of skills: reading, learning vocabulary, writing, translation, building grammar knowledge, listening and – of course – speaking.

HOW WILL PROGRESS BE ASSESSED

There are four papers, each worth 25% of the overall marks: a listening test which includes a dictation; a speaking test; a reading test which includes written material from various media, and translation from the foreign language into English; and a continuous writing test which includes a translation passage from English into the foreign language.

WHO SHOULD TAKE THIS COURSE

Everyone benefits enormously from studying other languages and cultures, and it is compulsory for all pupils at St Edward’s to take at least one Modern Foreign Language at GCSE.

GUIDANCE FOR FLUENT SPEAKERS OF FRENCH, GERMAN OR SPANISH:

If you speak one of our main GCSE languages fluently, you should take one of the other languages to GCSE. You may still be able to take your own language to GCSE outside the timetable as an additional subject. Equally, if you are fluent in Italian, Russian or Mandarin, arrangements can be made for you to be prepared for GCSE as an additional subject in that language. In either case, please contact the Head of MFL (Mrs Davies) if you would like to explore this possibility. M astering a language other than your own is a huge asset in the modern, globalised world. Whether you plan to study languages in the Sixth Form or at university, or just enjoy the ability to communicate with people from other countries and cultures, a GCSE in a modern language will help improve your critical thinking skills, broaden your cultural horizons and ultimately make you more employable. It is entirely possible to take two modern languages to GCSE.

WHERE COULD THIS COURSE LEAD

You can choose a second Modern Foreign Language in your optional GCSE choices.

14

GCSE Ancient Greek

WHAT WILL YOU STUDY IN THIS COURSE

You will study the language and literature of Ancient Greece. The literature component includes prose authors, like Herodotus and Plato and verse authors, like Homer and Euripides.

WHAT SKILLS WILL YOU DEVELOP

You will learn to develop a sensitive and analytical approach to language generally. Including an awareness of the links between Greek and modern languages. You will read historic and literary texts in their original language, and learn how to read and appreciate Greek literature in its cultural context.

HOW WILL PROGRESS BE ASSESSED

Written exams at the end of the course.

WHO SHOULD TAKE THIS COURSE

Prior experience of Ancient Greek is preferred, but exceptions can be made – please talk to the Head of Classics.

WHERE COULD THIS COURSE LEAD

This course leads naturally to Ancient Greek at A Level or IB, but the skills developed complement the further study of any language. The analytical skills and intellectual flexibility developed through studying Ancient Greek are applicable to any intellectual endeavour, and this remains one of very few GCSEs highly regarded by university admissions departments irrespective of the course to which you are applying.

15

GCSE Ceramics

WHAT WILL YOU STUDY IN THIS COURSE?

Pupils will work towards a GCSE qualification awarded by AQA under the heading of Art and Design (Three-Dimensional Design). In practice they will concentrate on developing building skills in order to produce three-dimensional sculptural work predominately in ceramics. The course is ideas based and consists of creative and technical workshops leading up to a sustained themed project with an emphasis on the use of materials to realise and evolve three-dimensional ideas. Pupils must quickly develop fluency in high quality page layout, and presentation, as all of their work is documented in A3 sketchbooks. Workshops include, slab building, coil building, pinching, extruding, throwing, digital photography, relief-printing, ceramic panels, model making, collage and various forms of drawing. Pupils record from source material individually chosen by them, look at artists, materials and techniques and then develop ideas from these areas. We predominantly use ceramics as the material for the final outcome, and will experience electric (oxidising) firings, gas firing, raku and pit-firing. The outcome can be functional, sculptural, wearable, wall hung, for outdoor or indoor use; it is very open ended. The sustained themed project is ‘idea-centred’ and pupils are encouraged to follow their own individual expressive path to produce high quality and rewarding work that develops their skills and stimulates creativity. Individuals will develop individual work from their creative research and explorations.

WHAT SKILLS WILL YOU DEVELOP?

HOW WILL PROGRESS BE ASSESSED

The portfolio (coursework) is 60% and the externally set task (exam) is 40%. The final piece for the exam must be produced in 10 hours under exam conditions. Evidence of marks will be found predominantly in the sketchbook, where pupils document all of the decisions, contextual references, exploratory design drawings and research.

WHO SHOULD TAKE THE COURSE

The GCSE course in Art & Design is open to all pupils who, in the Shells, have shown ability and exhibited high levels of interest and motivation. The Ceramics Studio supports 18 pupils so, if oversubscribed, pupils will be accepted based on ability and commitment evidenced in Shells. As a qualification it will, naturally lead to IB and A level.

16

GCSE Computer Science

WHAT YOU WILL STUDY IN THIS COURSE?

Computer Science follows the AQA GCSE syllabus. The course is a wide ranging one which covers Computational thinking, code tracing, problem-solving, programming concepts including the design of effective algorithms and the designing, writing, testing and refining of code, as well as computing concepts which is the theory that underpins how modern systems work. Paper 1: This exam looks at the fundamentals of algorithms and the practical application of programming. The assessment features a mixture of multiple choice, short answer and longer answer questions assessing programming, practical problem-solving and computational thinking skills. Paper 2: This exam looks at the more theoretical side of computer science and covers topics such as, data representation, computer systems, networks, cyber security, databases and the ethical, legal and environmental impacts of digital technology. This paper has a mix of multiple choice, short answer, longer answer and extended response questions assessing SQL programming skills and theoretical knowledge. • Learn computational thinking and write Python code • Develop an understanding of the main principles of problem solving using code • Apply this knowledge to develop, test and evaluate computer based solutions to real life problems • Gain an understanding of current technological developments and how they work • Recognise and evaluate the various ethical issues and potential risks that using computers brings

STRUCTURE:

WHAT SKILLS YOU WILL DEVELOP.

HOW WILL PROGRESS BE ASSESSED?

There are two written papers for the course – a computer is not required for the examinations.

WHO SHOULD TAKE THIS COURSE?

This course will suit those with a strong mathematical and scientific background.

WHERE COULD THIS COURSE LEAD?

This course would prepare students well for Computer Science in the Sixth Form.

17

GCSE Geography

WHAT WILL YOU STUDY IN THIS COURSE

Physical Geography covers two topics: hazardous environments and river environments. There will be a physical geography field trip to study river landforms and changes over the course of the river. Human Geography covers three topics: rural environments, urban environments and global issues. A field trip to look at urban land use in Oxford will support your studies. The course will engage with contemporary problems including climate change, fragile environments, changing places, sustainable development and flood management in Oxford.

WHAT SKILLS WILL YOU DEVELOP

As well as subject-specific knowledge, you will develop essential skills in effective verbal and written communication, thinking critically and creatively, research and collaboration. You will develop data interpretation and analysis skills and learn how to use data to support your written responses.

HOW WILL PROGRESS BE ASSESSED

Two written exams at the end of the course: Physical Geography (40% of the total grade) and Human Geography (60% of the total grade).

WHO SHOULD TAKE THIS COURSE

If you have an enquiring mind and want to engage with some of the most pressing contemporary issues we face, both locally and globally, then this course is for you.

WHERE COULD THIS COURSE LEAD

This course is not a prerequisite for Sixth Form study of Geography, but the multidisciplinary approach of the subject complements both Arts and Science courses and makes it attractive to future employers and to universities.

18

GCSE Modern World History

WHAT WILL YOU STUDY IN THIS COURSE

This course focuses on the 20th century with a strong international and contemporary flavour. You will study the following topics: The Development of Dictatorship in Germany 1918–45.

Dictatorship and Conflict in the USSR 1924–53. The USA 1918–1941 (social and economic history). Conflict, Crisis and Change – China 1900 to 1989.

WHAT SKILLS WILL YOU DEVELOP

Learning about the past is challenging, creative and enjoyable. You will learn to analyse the evidence from the past, explain contradictions and critically assess interpretations. You will look at big themes and how they affected real people – you will learn how to position their words and actions in the context of their times. You will also learn how to draw conclusions effectively and convey them in writing and in discussion. Our aim is to develop open-minded, independent thinkers.

HOW WILL PROGRESS BE ASSESSED

Two written exams at the end of the course, with equal weighting.

WHO SHOULD TAKE THIS COURSE

This course is for you if you want to know more about the dramatic upheavals of the 20th century that still echo in our world today. You will study revolution, democracy, dictatorship, international conflict, anti-Semitism, fascism, nationalism, communism and capitalism.

WHERE COULD THIS COURSE LEAD

This course leads most immediately to History at A Level or IB. History is a well-regarded academic discipline in itself; but historical awareness is an essential complement to any field of human endeavour.

19

GCSE Latin

WHAT WILL YOU STUDY IN THIS COURSE

You will study the language and literature of Ancient Rome. The literature component includes prose authors, like Tacitus and Pliny and verse authors, like Virgil and Ovid.

WHAT SKILLS WILL YOU DEVELOP

You will learn to develop a sensitive and analytical approach to language generally, including an awareness of the links between Latin and modern languages. You will read historic and literary texts in their original language, and learn how to read and appreciate Latin literature in its cultural context.

HOW WILL PROGRESS BE ASSESSED

Written exams at the end of the course.

WHO SHOULD TAKE THIS COURSE

Prior experience of Latin is preferred, but exceptions can be made – please talk to the Head of Classics.

WHERE COULD THIS COURSE LEAD

This course leads naturally to Latin at A Level or IB, but the skills developed complement the further study of any language. The analytical skills and intellectual flexibility developed through studying Latin are applicable to any intellectual endeavour, and Latin remains highly regarded by university admissions departments irrespective of the course to which you are applying.

20

GCSE Music

WHAT WILL YOU STUDY IN THIS COURSE

You will learn the history behind four very different styles of music: classical, modern classical, pop and rock, and world music. You will develop your listening skills through studying eight set works of very different styles so you can express what you hear in words and understand how the sound of music has changed over time.

WHAT SKILLS WILL YOU DEVELOP

As well as critical listening and expressive skills, you will develop your skills as a performer and a composer.

HOW WILL PROGRESS BE ASSESSED

There is one final written exam on Music History (40%) and two pieces of coursework: performing (30%) and composing (30%). You will submit recordings of two performances given throughout the course, one as a soloist and one in an ensemble.

WHO SHOULD TAKE THIS COURSE

This is for anyone who plays a musical instrument to any level. For performance, the exam board expects a standard equivalent to Grade 4 on average (you don’t need to have taken the exam). You should be studying an instrument or music tech with one of our instrumental teachers throughout the course.

WHERE COULD THIS COURSE LEAD

Critical and analytical writing are important skills that can be applied to any subject area; but we hope that talented musicians will continue to study academic music in Sixth Form and beyond. Please note that Music is also available via the Music Technology and Popular Music Pathway – and it is possible to take both. Please speak to the Head of Academic Music for advice on which course or courses would be most appropriate for you.

21

GCSE Theology, Philosophy & Ethics (RS)

WHAT WILL YOU STUDY IN THIS COURSE

Central questions about theology, philosophy and ethics will be tackled in this modern and inspiring course: • What is the relationship between religion and science?

• Are war and torture every morally justified? • How should we understand human nature? • Why should humans care about the environment? • How valuable is human life? • Who is Jesus? • Does evil prove there is no God? • How do beliefs shape the way we live? • How similar and different are Christianity and Islam? • What is the role of religion in a secular society?

WHAT SKILLS WILL YOU DEVELOP

You will gain subject-specific skills in philosophical reasoning, analysing and synthesising ideas, critical thinking, interpreting and reflecting on the meaning of texts, and developing your own judgment. You will develop the ability to construct well-argued and informed written arguments, engaging with questions of belief, value, meaning and truth. You will also gain general skills in researching, essay writing, presenting, working with others, and managing your time.

HOW WILL PROGRESS BE ASSESSED

There are two written external exams, equally weighted. Internally, we will incorporate a range of assessment opportunities including presentations, speeches, debates and essays.

WHO SHOULD TAKE THIS COURSE

This is a course for people of all faiths and none, who are interested in studying fundamental questions about how people behave and why. If you have found any aspect of Shell TPE interesting, then this course is for you. Take this course if you are curious about the really big questions in life and want to think for yourself.

22

EVERYONE TAKES ALL OF THESE

English Language GCSE

World Literature GCSE

Science (Double or Triple) GCSE*

Maths GCSE*

MODERN FOREIGN LANGUAGE – CHOOSE ONE

French GCSE

Spanish GCSE

German GCSE

OPTIONS – CHOOSE FOUR

Ancient Greek GCSE

History GCSE

Ancient World Perspective

Jewellery & Entrepreneurship Pathway

Art Pathway

Latin GCSE

Ceramics GCSE

Music GCSE

Computer Science GCSE

Music Technology & Popular Music Pathway

Design & Entrepreneurship Pathway

Religious Studies GCSE

Drama Pathway

Spanish GCSE†

Geography GCSE

Sports Science Pathway

German GCSE†

Sustainability Pathway

We strongly encourage at least one Humanity, ensuring a fully balanced educational experience (Geography, History, Religious Studies, Ancient World). *Very able mathematicians will also take Further Maths as an additional qualification, within the timetable allocation for maths. All pupils will take Double Award Science leading to two GCSEs, with able scientists taking additional papers leading to the award of three GCSEs. † Pupils may take a maximum of two modern foreign languages.

THE FOLLOWING COMBINATIONS ARE NOT POSSIBLE • Art Pathway and Ceramics GCSE

• Design & Entrepreneurship Pathway and Jewellery & Entrepreneurship Pathway

23

‘Leading the way in educational initiatives is instinctive for this dynamic Oxford school.’ TATLER SCHOOLS GUIDE

stedwardsoxford.org

24

MY 12/24