OPTIONAL GCSE Subjects

Triple Science students will sit six exams at the end of Year 11 (two for each subject: Biology, Chemistry, and Physics). Unlike Combined Science, Triple Science students receive three separate GCSE qualifications, one for each subject.

Each exam is assessed separately, and the results are recorded as individual GCSE grades. Students who write the foundation tier can achieve grades 1-5, Students who write higher tier will be able to achieve up to 9. One of the major benefits to taking this option is that student grades reflect their ability in each scientific discipline more distinctly than in the Combined Science course.

Science is a valuable qualification for a wide range of post-16 options. A strong understanding of separate sciences is particularly beneficial for those interested in:

• Further education: Students may go on to study A-Levels in Biology, Chemistry, or Physics.
• STEM careers: Triple Science is ideal for students aiming for careers in engineering, medicine, research, or technology, where in-depth scientific knowledge is essential.
• Employers value the logical thinking, problem-solving, and practical skills developed through studying science. Careers in fields such as healthcare, pharmaceuticals, environmental science, and research are particularly aligned with Triple Science qualifications.

The AQA Triple Science GCSE course provides an in-depth and rigorous understanding of Biology, Chemistry, and Physics, preparing students for further study and exciting careers in science and technology fields.

This course is made up of two components.

Component 1: Portfolio (60%)

• Students will develop a portfolio of work demonstrating their ability to investigate, refine, experiment, record, and present photographic responses.
• The portfolio consists of two projects: Altered Images and The Built Environment.
• Research into photographers and visual artists will support creative responses.
• Students complete a ten-hour mock exam in both Year 10 and Year 11 to prepare for the externally set task.

Component 2: Externally Set Assignment (40%)

• Students will respond to a theme set by AQA, developing preparatory studies before completing a 10-hour supervised practical outcome.
• The final response should demonstrate creativity, originality, and technical skill in photography.
• The Externally Set Task is delivered at the end of April in Year 11.
• The assignment is externally moderated but assessed internally.

In January of Year 11, a portfolio of coursework units will be submitted for assessment and the resultant grade counts as 60% of the overall GCSE grade. The remaining 40% is based on a final exam project, lasting for a number of weeks, with the final piece(s) being produced under exam conditions (10 hours).

Photography opens up a wealth of career opportunities within the creative industries. As digital media continues to expand, skilled photographers are in demand across multiple sectors.

Career opportunities include:

• Commercial Photography: Advertising, editorial, product, and fashion photography.
• Journalism & Media: Photojournalism, documentary photography, press photography.
• Fine Art & Exhibition: Fine art photography, gallery curation, museum work.
• Film & Television: Cinematography, visual storytelling, film editing.
• Marketing & Digital Content: Social media photography, content creation, brand photography.
• Event & Portrait Photography: Wedding, event, and portrait photography.

Photography also provides transferable skills applicable to careers in media, publishing, design, and technology. The ability to visually communicate ideas, adapt to new technologies, and work independently is highly valued across industries.

This course is made up of three components.

Component 1: Understanding Theatre (Written exam 40%)

In this unit, students will develop their knowledge of drama and theatre, as well as studying a set play, learning how to apply their own ideas to the text. Students will also be evaluating the work of live theatre makers, visiting theatres to experience different styles of live theatre.

Component 2: Devising Theatre (Practical 40%) Internally Assessed

In this unit, students will create a piece of theatre, Analysing, Performing and Evaluating their own work. They can contribute as a Performer, Lighting Designer, Set Designer, Costume Designer and Sound Designer.

Component 3: Text in Practice (Practical 20%) Externally Assessed 

In this unit, students must perform two extracts for a play which will be chosen to suit the performers ability. Students can contribute as a Performer, Lighting Designer, Set Designer, Costume Designer and Sound Designer.

Over the course of two years you will explore different techniques and styles to allow you to explore theatre at a mature level, you will student further than the components listed, working practically developing an appreciation of how theatre can be developed and performed. Over the course you will have the opportunity to watch live theatre and participate in workshops to see how culture is ever changing in the world of theatre, and how you can use what you see in your own creations.

• Component 1 – 40% – externally assessed written exam (year 2)
• Component 2 – 40% – internally assessed performance and coursework (year 1)
• Component 3 – 20% – externally assessed performance (year 2)

Drama is a fantastic course which leave you open to a multitude of different career options

• Post 16: Drama and Theatre A Level, Btec Level 3 Production or Performance
• Higher education: Drama and Theatre based courses at degree level. Drama supports university applications showing your ability to work collaboratively, work to deadlines, and thinking of creative solutions.
• Careers: Drama displays to many employers that you have spent time developing key fundamental skills that are needed in all jobs at all levels such as critical thinking, problem solving and time management. Many students who study drama go into a variety of different careers supported by their skills learnt in the drama classroom.

This course has been designed to enable a balance between practical and theoretical knowledge and understanding. It is divided into six areas of content with two tasks for each of the assessments. This specification in food preparation and nutrition enables learners to make connections between theory and practice so that they are able to apply their understanding of food science and nutrition to practical cooking. This content relates to the study of both food and drinks.

By studying food preparation and nutrition students will:

• be able to demonstrate effective and safe cooking skills by planning, preparing and cooking a variety of food commodities whilst using different cooking techniques and equipment
• develop knowledge and understanding of the functional properties and chemical characteristics of food as well as a sound knowledge of the nutritional content of food and drinks
• understand the relationship between diet, nutrition and health, including the physiological and psychological effects of poor diet and health
• understand the economic, environmental, ethical and socio-cultural influences on food availability, production processes, diet and health choices
• demonstrate knowledge and understanding of functional and nutritional properties, sensory qualities and microbiological food safety considerations when preparing, processing, storing, cooking and serving food
• understand and explore a range of ingredients and processes from different culinary traditions (traditional British and international) to inspire new ideas or modify existing recipes.

Component 1: Principles of Food Preparation

This component will consist of two sections both containing compulsory questions and will assess the six areas of content as listed in the specified GCSE content.

Section A: questions based on stimulus material.

Section B: structured, short and extended response questions to assess content related to food preparation and nutrition.

Component 2: Food Preparation and Nutrition in Action Assessment 1: The Food Investigation Assessment (8 Hours)

A scientific food investigation which will assess knowledge, skills and understanding in relation to scientific principles underlying the preparation and cooking of food.

Assessment 2: The Food Preparation Assessment (12 Hours)

Prepare, cook and present a menu which assesses the knowledge, skills and understanding in relation to the planning, preparation, cooking and presentation of food.

These assessments will be based on a choice of tasks released by WJEC annually.

Principles of Food Preparation and Nutrition

Written examination: 1 hour 45 minutes 50% of the qualification

100 marks

Students will be given the opportunity to develop technical skills through practical and experimental work. This opportunity will allow students to develop sound technical skills whilst exploring and consolidating knowledge and understanding relating to food preparation and nutrition.

Areas of Content

1. Food commodities
2. Principles of nutrition
3. Diet and good health
4. The science of food
5. Where food comes from
6. Cooking and food preparation

Food Preparation and Nutrition in Action

Non-examination assessment 50% of the qualification

100 marks

The non-examination assessment is composed of two assessments that are set by WJEC. Students will be able to select from a choice of two tasks for each assessment.

A Food Preparation & Nutrition GCSE can open doors to a variety of exciting career paths! Here’s a list of potential options;

Culinary Arts:

• Chef: From entry-level Commis Chef to Head Chef, this classic path involves creating delicious dishes in restaurants, hotels, or other food establishments.
• Baker/Pastry Chef: Specializing in bread, cakes, pastries, and other baked goods.
• Caterer: Planning, preparing, and serving food for events and occasions.
• Food Stylist: Making food look visually appealing for photography, magazines, and cookbooks.
• Food Writer/Blogger: Sharing recipes, reviewing restaurants, and writing about food-related topics.
• Recipe Developer: Creating and testing new recipes for cookbooks, magazines, or food companies.

Food Science and Technology:

• Food Scientist: Researching and developing new food products, improving food safety, and analyzing food composition.
• Food Technologist: Working in food production, ensuring quality control, and developing new processing techniques.
• Nutritionist: Providing advice on healthy eating and dietary plans.
• Dietitian: Assessing nutritional needs and creating personalized dietary plans for individuals with specific health conditions.
• Quality Control Inspector: Ensuring food products meet safety and quality standards.
• Product Development Chef: Combining culinary skills with food science knowledge to create innovative food products for manufacturers.

Hospitality and Management:

• Restaurant Manager: Overseeing the operations of a restaurant, including staff management, customer service, and financial control.
• Hotel Manager: Managing the food and beverage services within a hotel.
• Event Planner: Coordinating the food and beverage aspects of events and celebrations.

Education and Training:

• Food Technology Teacher: Sharing your passion for food and nutrition with students in schools or colleges.
• Catering Instructor: Teaching culinary skills and food preparation techniques to aspiring chefs or food professionals.

Other Related Fields:

• Food Photographer: Capturing stunning images of food for various media.
• Food Retail Manager: Overseeing the food section of a supermarket or grocery store.
• Health Promotion Specialist: Working to improve public health through nutrition education and awareness campaigns.

This course is made up of two components.

Component 1: Portfolio (60%)

• Students will develop a personal portfolio of work that demonstrates their ability to investigate, develop, refine, record, and present creative responses.
• The portfolio consists of three projects: Organics and Mechanics, My Environment, and Consumerism.
• Research into artists, designers, and craftspeople will support practical responses.
• Students complete a ten-hour mock exam in both Year 10 and Year 11 to prepare for the externally set task.

Component 2: Externally Set Assignment (40%)

• Students will respond to a theme set by AQA, developing preparatory studies before completing a 10-hour supervised practical outcome.
• The final response should demonstrate creativity, originality, and technical skill.
• The Externally Set Task is delivered at the end of April in Year 11.
• The assignment is externally moderated but assessed internally.

GCSE Art and Design: Art, Craft and Design (AQA) is assessed through two main components:

Component 1: Portfolio (60%)

This is a personal portfolio of work that demonstrates your skills, creativity, and understanding of art and design. It includes:

• A collection of coursework: This can include sketchbooks, research, preparatory work, and final outcomes. The portfolio should showcase your development and exploration of different techniques, media, and ideas.
• Process and development: The assessment looks at how you develop and refine your ideas, explore different methods, and reflect on your work.
• Final outcomes: The portfolio should include a final piece or pieces that reflect the culmination of your project, demonstrating your understanding and application of the concepts studied.
• Assessment criteria: The portfolio is assessed based on four main criteria:
  1. Developing ideas (through research, experimentation, and refinement)
  2. Refining techniques (skills with materials, media, and processes)
  3. Recording ideas (through drawing, photography, and other methods)
  4. Final outcome(s) (quality and realization of the final work)

Component 2: Externally Set Task (40%)

This is a final exam project where students respond to a set theme provided by AQA. The process includes:

• Preparation: Students are given the exam paper with a range of starting points. They can explore the theme and create a personal response in the same way as Component 1.
• Final 10-hour exam: The final piece or pieces are created in a supervised 10-hour exam session, where students work to bring their ideas to life.
• Assessment criteria: The same four criteria as in Component 1 are used to assess the externally set task.

In summary, the assessment for this course is heavily portfolio-based, with the emphasis on process, development, and personal response to the theme. Both the portfolio and final exam are assessed on the same criteria, ensuring that students demonstrate both practical skills and creative thought throughout the course.

The creative industries are one of the fastest-growing sectors in the UK economy, contributing over £100 billion annually. Art and Design qualifications provide students with access to a wide range of career pathways, equipping them with highly transferable skills such as creativity, critical thinking, problem-solving, communication, and digital literacy. These are essential for many careers, both within and beyond the creative industries.

Post-16 Options: Many students go on to study A-Level Art and Design, BTEC Level 3 in Art and Design, or a Foundation Diploma in Art and Design. These pathways help to develop a specialist portfolio, opening up further education and employment opportunities.

Higher Education: A GCSE in Art and Design can lead to degrees in Fine Art, Illustration, Graphic Design, Fashion and Textiles, Animation, Architecture, Interior Design, Product Design, Theatre and Set Design, and Digital Media, among many others. Many universities and creative institutions offer specialised courses that prepare students for the professional world.

Careers in the Creative Industries: Students who study Art and Design can progress into a vast range of careers, including but not limited to:

• Fine Art & Illustration: Professional artist, illustrator, muralist, art therapist.
• Graphic Design & Digital Media: Graphic designer, web designer, branding specialist, UX/UI designer, advertising creative.
• Photography & Film: Commercial photographer, photojournalist, cinematographer, film editor.
• Fashion & Textiles: Fashion designer, textile designer, costume designer, stylist.
• Architecture & Interior Design: Architect, interior designer, set designer, landscape designer.
• Product & Industrial Design: Product designer, furniture designer, packaging designer, automotive designer.
• Animation & Gaming: Animator, concept artist, game designer, 3D modeller, visual effects artist.
• Teaching & Arts Administration: Art teacher, curator, gallery manager, arts education coordinator.

Beyond the creative industries, Art and Design qualifications also equip students with key skills that are sought after in industries such as marketing, advertising, media, technology, and business. The ability to think creatively, solve problems, communicate visually, and work independently is increasingly valued in a rapidly changing job market.

Year 1

Over the first year you will complete a number of small ‘mini’ projects that will allow you to develop the knowledge and skills to understand working with the different materials. This will focus on the theory aspect of the course as well as develop coursework skills and techniques ready for their given brief that is created by the exam board.

Year 2

In the final year you will be given a design brief from the exam board. You will be expected to respond to the brief and will produce approximately 20 to 30 pages of A3 paper for your design, make and evaluation for your design, along with any models and your final prototype.

GCSE Product Design (D&T) AQA is assessed through two main components:

Component 1: Written Exam (50%)

This is a theoretical exam that lasts 2 hours. It covers a wide range of topics related to product design and technology. The exam tests your knowledge and understanding of:

• Materials and components: Properties of materials, manufacturing processes, and environmental impact.
• Design and market influences: How products are developed, including user needs, product functionality, and innovation.
• Technology and manufacturing: Methods of production, including CAD/CAM (Computer-Aided Design/Computer-Aided Manufacturing), and modern manufacturing techniques.
• Sustainability: How design can be influenced by environmental concerns and sustainability practices.
• Designing and making principles: Theoretical knowledge of design principles, ergonomics, aesthetics, and product functionality.

The written exam will consist of a mix of multiple-choice, short answer, and extended response questions.

Component 2: Non-Examination Assessment (NEA) – Design and Make Project (50%)

This is a practical project where students are required to design and make a product in response to a brief. The assessment is divided into the following key stages:

• Investigating the Brief: Researching the design challenge, understanding the client or user needs, exploring existing products, and investigating materials and manufacturing processes.
• Designing: Developing initial design ideas, considering user needs, aesthetics, functionality, and sustainability. This includes producing concept sketches, detailed design drawings, and CAD models.
• Making: Constructing the product using appropriate materials and tools. The making process must demonstrate practical skills and the ability to follow a plan to create a functional product.
• Testing and Evaluating: Once the product is made, students must test it, evaluate how it meets the original brief, and suggest improvements. This includes considering the product’s performance, quality, and functionality.
• Documentation: The project must be well-documented, including planning, research, design development, making process, and evaluation.

The NEA is externally moderated by AQA, and it is a significant part of the assessment for the course. It showcases both practical and design skills, as well as critical thinking and problem-solving abilities.

Summary:

• Written exam (50%): Tests theoretical knowledge of materials, processes, and design principles.
• Design and Make Project (50%): Assesses your ability to research, design, make, and evaluate a product in response to a given brief.

Completing a Product Design GCSE provides a foundational skillset that can open doors to a variety of career opportunities, either directly or as a stepping stone to further education and specialized roles. Here’s a breakdown of potential career paths:

Direct Career Opportunities and Entry-Level Roles:

Design Assistant: Assisting experienced designers with tasks such as sketching, model making, and CAD work.

CAD Technician: Using computer-aided design software to create technical drawings and plans.

Model Maker: Creating physical prototypes and models of designs.

Junior Designer Roles: In some cases, with a strong portfolio, entry-level design positions may be available in manufacturing or design studios.

Pathways to Further Education and Specialized Careers: Further Education:

A Product Design GCSE can serve as a strong foundation for A-levels, BTECs, or other vocational qualifications in design-related fields.

This can lead to higher education, such as university degrees in:

• Product Design
• Industrial Design
• Engineering Design
• Interior Design
• Graphic Design

With further education, you can pursue careers such as:

• Product Designer: Designing consumer products.
• Industrial Designer: Designing manufactured goods.
• User Experience (UX) Designer: Designing user-friendly digital products.
• Automotive Designer: Designing vehicles.
• Furniture Designer: Designing furniture.
• Packaging Designer: Designing product packaging.
• Engineering Roles: Product design skills are valuable in various engineering sectors.