Construction & the Built Environment (Vocational)

A Technical Award in Construction is a great choice for practical, hands on students with an interest in construction careers or DIY.

HEAD OF DEPARTMENT:
MR O JEFFERSON (Course Leader)

EXAMINATION BOARD:
WJEC

LEVEL:
Level 1/2 Technical award

WEBSITE

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Course outline

This course is suitable for students who are interested in the construction industry as a career or who are just interested in having great DIY skills for the future. The course should suit pupils who enjoy practical tasks such as: 

• Wood e.g. hang a door, make a frame, attach a skirting-board, create a timber stud wall

• Decorate e.g. emulsion a surface, gloss a panel door, paper an internal corner or around a switch

• Tiling e.g. floor and wall, patch repair

• Blockwork e.g. bricklaying and repointing

The course suits those with a general interest in the subject and a commitment to work hard. The course is 60% practical and 40% theory, so writing, IT and presentation skills will also be valuable. An ability to measure (mm) accurately and use hand tools safely is desirable.

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Assessment method

Unit	% of Final Grade	Type of Assessment	Additional Details
1	40%	External	Exam - Health and Safety
2	60%	Internal	Practical assessment of skills such as wood, tiling and decorating

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The future

The successful completion of this qualification, together with other equivalent qualifications, such as in Maths and the Sciences, could provide you with opportunities to access a range of qualifications including A-levels, apprenticeships, vocationally related and occupational qualifications in the construction industry.

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Dance (Vocational)

Dance at Ryburn is one of our strengths. Our BTEC vocational course in Dance is an enjoyable and rewarding course for anyone with a passion for the subject.

HEAD OF DEPARTMENT:
Mrs S Attah

EXAMINATION BOARD:
PEARSON btec

LEVEL:
Level 2 TECH AWARD in Performing Arts - Dance Pathway

Website
Syllabus (PDF)

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Course outline

The course is made up of 3 components with a mix of both theory and practical work, enabling the dancer to develop their technique, knowledge and understanding of Dance in the performing arts industry. Students study a variety of dance styles and explore set works as well as creating performances for different events. Staff have industry links and experience and, where possible, guest teachers deliver master-classes to enhance the student experience. Our dancers form a close knit and inclusive team, supporting each other to build skill, technique and confidence. 

A love of dance and a willingness to try new styles and improve performance skills is required for this course.

“I love my dance lessons; it is such a special environment when you walk into the dance studio. You are made to feel really welcome, all the group gets on really well and we work hard in every lesson. I have learnt so many different dance styles and my dance technique and confidence have really developed.”

— Poppy, Y11

Watch our video for a flavour of what it’s like being a Dancer at Ryburn.

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Assessment method

Unit	% of Final Grade	Type of Assessment	Additional Details
Component 1	30%	Internal	Exploring Performing Arts
Component 2	30%	Internal	Developing Skills and Techniques
Component 3	40%	External	Performing to a Brief

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The future

After completing a BTEC Level 2 Tech Award, learners can go on to study RSL Level 3 Diploma in Creative and Performing Arts (Dance), A-level Dance or BTEC Courses. They may also decide to audition for full time dance schools/courses. Dance is not just for people who want to become dancers! It develops fantastic transferable skills including leadership, creativity, planning, resilience, teamwork and confidence.

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ICT (Technical Award)

Studying a Technical Award in ICT takes a practical approach to developing skills and knowledge of IT and data systems in the workplace.

HEAD OF DEPARTMENT:
Mr L Cleary

EXAMINATION BOARD:
Edexcel

LEVEL:
Level 1/2 Vocational Award in ICT

WEBSITE

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Course outline

The Vocational award in ICT is for learners who want to acquire technical knowledge and technical skills through vocational contexts by studying the knowledge, understanding and skills related to coping with rapid changes in technology, designing, programming, testing and evaluating software systems. Students will specifically gain a working knowledge of databases, spreadsheets, automated documents and images.

Learners will develop a number of skills which are attractive to employer, colleges and universities including:

·      Communication

·      Coping with rapid changes in technology

·      Critical thinking

·      Designing, programming, testing and

·      evaluating software systems

·      Learning independently

·      Numeracy and data handling

·      Problem solving

·      Research

·      Taking on responsibility

·      Time management.

Assessment method

The qualification is made up of 2 units:  

Unit 1: ICT in Society

Unit 2: ICT in Context   

 You will be assessed through a mixture of exams and controlled assessments. Unit 1 will be assessed through an exam which is worth 40% of your qualification. The exam will last 1 hour and 20 minutes, it will be made up of short and extended response questions.  Unit 2 will be assessed with project work (no exam) which is worth 60% of your qualification. As part of this assessment, you will be given a scenario and will need to undertake a number of tasks.

Unit	% of final grade	Type of Assessment	Additional details
Unit 1: ICT in Society	40%	Internal	An exam lasting 1 hour and 20 minutes
Unit 2: ICT in Context	60%	Internal	Assessed project work

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The future

Students who generally achieve at Level 2 across their Key Stage 4 learning might consider progression to A Levels as preparation for entry to higher education in a range of subjects, or to study of a vocational qualification at Level 3, such as a BTEC National in IT. This prepares students to enter employment or apprenticeships, or to move on to higher education by studying a degree in the digital sector.

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Enterprise & Marketing (Vocational)

Ever fancied yourself as an entrepreneur? Whether you dream of your own start up or a career in business, a qualification in Enterprise and Marketing will give you practical skills and experiences.

HEAD OF DEPARTMENT:
Mr W Beaumont

EXAMINATION BOARD:
OCR

LEVEL:
Level 1/2 Cambridge National Certificate

WEBSITE

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Course outline

Enterprise and Marketing is a practical introduction to life and work as an entrepreneur, students will:

• Learn about enterprise and marketing concepts

• Design a business proposal

• Market and pitch a business proposal

Students will learn about what needs to happen to support a start-up business, and what key factors to decide when starting a business. They will design a proposal to meet a specific business challenge, identifying the customer profile for a specific product and completing market research to generate product ideas. Financial calculations will be completed to propose a pricing strategy and determine the viability of their product proposal. They will also work on brand identity and promotion as part of their business pitch.

IT skills are required for this course as well as team work and research skills.

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Assessment method

Unit	% of Final Grade	Type of Assessment	Additional Details
1	50%	Exam	External
2	25%	Internal	Ongoing controlled assessment
3	25%	Internal	Ongoing controlled assessment

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The future

The subject can be taken at A-level in Economics or Business or at Level 3 BTEC Business. There are a wide range of employment opportunities for students that have knowledge of business studies. You could set up a business of your own or work within one to help it to perform better or more effectively.

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Health & Social Care (Vocational)

At the heart of Health and Social Care is care and compassion. This practical course is about working with people, developing understanding and empathy.

HEAD OF DEPARTMENT:
Mrs G Whiteley

EXAMINATION BOARD:
Edexcel

LEVEL:
Edexcel Level 1/2 Technical Award

WEBSITE

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Course outline

This is a vocationally related qualification, which is ideal for students who wish to gain a qualification, which will prepare them for employment in the Health and Social Care sector. It teaches many transferable skills so it also prepares students for any profession in which they work with people. Students will take part in discussion lessons where they explore different concepts and ideas relevant to Health and Social Care. There will also be time for independent research to collect together information and consolidate understanding. Practical tasks and videos are used to help explain the theoretical aspects of the work.

To succeed you will:

• Have a caring personality with a desire to work in the field of Health & Social Care.

• Be able to discuss ideas and work in groups as well as individually.

Course presentation

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Assessment method

Unit	% of Final Grade	Type of Assessment	Additional Details
1	40%	Exam	External Assessment
2–3	60%	Internal	Controlled assessment units – Health and Social Care Values & Human Lifespan Development

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The future

On successful completion of the BTEC Technical Award you may progress on to a BTEC Level 3 Health and Social Care course. You may then wish to continue your education and study to become a care worker, social worker, nursery nurse, midwife, teacher or occupational therapist. Alternatively, after completing the Level 1/ 2 Award you may take on an apprenticeship or a training position.

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Music (Vocational)

Follow your passions. Spend time doing what you love whilst gaining practical and transferable skills through a vocational qualification in Music.

HEAD OF DEPARTMENT:
Mr M Grimes

EXAMINATION BOARD:
Edexcel

LEVEL:
Edexcel Level 1/2 Technical Award

WEBSITE

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Course outline

Students will study the music industry and how to create a music product (such as a CD, video or concert). They will also have the option of learning how to use a recording studio, or using music technology to create their own music, using software such as Garage Band and Logic Pro. They may follow a performance module which can include traditional performance techniques or modern DJ performance styles

Students must be able to play an instrument, sing or at least be willing to learn one.

If you play an instrument or sing and have taken ABRSM exams you could also take a GCSE in Music. You should have achieved Grade 5 by the beginning of Year 11. Sessions will take place at lunch and after school. Entry for this is at the discretion of the Head of Department.

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Assessment method

Unit	% of Final Grade	Type of Assessment	Additional Details
1	40%	Exam	External Assessment
2-3	60%	Internal	Students create a portfolio of evidence linked to various scenarios and tasks

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The future

To progress on to BTEC Level 3 in Music Performance, you would need a Merit at BTEC Music. The course also opens opportunities for employment within the music and entertainment industry in junior roles; venues/ box offices, concert support, administrative roles, radio and television.

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Sports (Vocational)

Follow your passion. If you love sports and fitness, studying Sports will enable you to gain knowledge, experience practical skills and a qualification.

HEAD OF DEPARTMENT:
Ms L Newey

EXAMINATION BOARD:
PeARson/Edexcel

LEVEL:
GCSE (9-1) / BTEC OCR LEVEL 1/2

WEBSITE:
GCSE
TECHNICAL AWARD

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Course outline

The Cambridge National in Sport Science will encourage students to think for themselves about the scientific world of sport whilst putting those theories and concepts into practice in both theoretical and practical sport situations. They will gain a full and complete understanding of these areas to enable progression at level 3

The GCSE PE option enables students to develop their personal practical ability, their knowledge and understanding of tactics, strategies and rules and to study the theoretical side of the subject.  The theory sessions cover a range of different areas including anatomy, physiology, sociology and psychology of sport.

Students need to have an interest in sport and issues surrounding sport. The course will suit students who:

• Have good scientific knowledge

• Are able to perform at least three sports at a good level

• Participate in extra-curricular PE

students will be entered for either the GCSE or Vocational option depending on which better suits them.

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Assessment method

GCSE

Unit	% of Final Grade	Type of Assessment	Additional Details
1–2	60%	Exam	Two written examinations
3–4	40%	Internal	Controlled assessment – two pieces assessed in school. Marks are given for 3 practical activities. Students must be assessed in at least 1 team and 1 individual activity

OCR Sport Nationals

Unit	% of Final Grade	Type of Assessment	Additional Details
1	-	Internal	R180: Reducing the risk of sports injuries and dealing with common medical conditions (written paper exam)
2	-	External	R181: Applying the principles of training: fitness and how it affects skill performance
3	-	External	R183: Nutrition and sports performance

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The future

Physical Education or Sport can be taken at A-level or as a vocational course. It is also a valuable qualification and provides a pathway into higher and further education for a number of different subject areas.

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Travel & Tourism (Vocational)

Do you dream of adventure? Studying Travel and Tourism gives you chance to learn sector-specific knowledge in a practical, applied context.

HEAD OF DEPARTMENT:
Mr W Beaumont

EXAMINATION BOARD:
edexcel / pearson

LEVEL:
BTEC Level 2 Tech Award in Travel and Tourism

WEBSITE

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Course outline

The BTEC Tech award in Travel and Tourism is for students who want to acquire knowledge and technical skills through vocational contexts by exploring the aims of different travel and tourism organisations, the features of tourist destinations, how organisations meet customer requirements, and the influences on global travel and tourism.

Students gain the opportunity to develop sector-specific knowledge and skills in a practical learning environment. You will develop:

• knowledge that underpins the effective use of skills, processes and attitudes in the sector such as the appeal of different tourist destinations to different types of customer, and the factors that influence travel and tourism

• skills such as researching different travel and tourism organisations, the features of tourist destinations, and the products and services available to meet the needs of different customers

• attitudes that are considered to be very important in the travel and tourism sector, including how to develop tourism while respecting the environment and local communities.

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Assessment method

Unit	% of final grade	Type of Assessment	Additional details
Component 1	30%	Internal	Travel and Tourism Organisations and Destinations
Component 2	30%	Internal	Customer Needs in Travel and Tourism
Component 3	40%	External	Influences on Global Travel and Tourism

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The future

Students might consider progression to A Levels as preparation for entry to higher education in a range of subjects, or study of a vocational qualification at Level 3, such as a BTEC National in Travel and Tourism, which prepares learners to enter employment or apprenticeships, or to move on to higher education by studying a degree in the tourism sector. The tourism sector supports many jobs both locally and internationally, so if you dream of travel, it might be the course for you.

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