More information & Past Papers  - WJEC  Art & Design Webpage

Specification - Click here to view / download specification document. 

Art Options Booklet Information 

Careers in Art 

(Acting) Head of Department - Miss E Smith.

Teachers - Mr S Allen, Mr E Edwards

A GCSE in Product Design demonstrates that you can combine academic and practical skills. The application of scientific and mathematical principles along with problem solving and practical skills will be of benefit to most further and higher education qualifications and occupations and are directly linked to numerous fields of employment such as architecture, engineering, construction and various design and creative occupations.

Teacher - Mrs D Kervin

The GCSE Drama course fosters students’ creativity, personal growth, self-confidence, communication and analytical skills through the acquisition of knowledge, skills and understanding and the exercise of the imagination. GCSE Drama is studied by pupils wishing to not only act but produce and design their own performances.

Drama is one of the few subjects that allows students to develop the following skills required by all industries:

• Oral Communication Skills

• Creative Problem Solving

• Team Work

• Self Discipline

• Leadership Skills

• Respect for Deadlines

• Adaptability and Flexibility

• Working Under Pressure

• Confidence

• Respect for Colleagues

Head of Department - Mr R Davies

Teachers - Miss S Bowen

Geography has proved to be one of the most popular and successful option choices in recent years. A qualification in geography is looked on favourably by most institutions of Further Education and employers.

Geography develops learners understanding of key overarching geographical concepts such as cause and effect, cycles and flows, geographical futures, interconnectedness and sustainable communities. It is relevant and covers contemporary issues, such as climate change, energy shortages, poverty, aid, trade, natural hazards, environmental issues and changing populations. It also involves the development of all the key skills required for a balanced education, providing an integral link between other subjects and human development. Fieldwork is an integral component of GCSE Geography.

Head of Department - Mrs D Parry

Teacher - Miss S Bowen

• A study of the past enables us to understand the complexities of the world around us. The study of History demands that students analyse and interpret evidence in order to present arguments and reach judgements. There is no better preparation for life than a course of historical study which trains young people to be alert and responsive to social, economic and political issues.

• In todays fast-changing workforce, the person with broad-based skills has the best foundation for their chosen career.

• “Respect the past, live for the present and look to the future.”

Head of Department - Mr P Davidson

Teachers - Mrs R Jenkins-Thomas

50% theory  - Written paper 2 hours (100 marks) 

50% practical - Controlled Assessment (Practical based)  - Written controlled assessment.

The course is designed to:

• Encourage purposeful and enjoyable practice and study in physical education.

• Allow candidates to select their own practical activities to take into account previous achievement, personal interest and individual levels of motivation.

• Enable the teaching of the theory elements that arise from and during practical activities.

• Enables candidates to acquire self-esteem, respect for others and themselves as well as develop a commitment to an active lifestyle.

Head of Department - Mrs  H Brumwell.

Teachers - Miss A Perrault.

Whether for use on holiday or in your future career, the ability to speak another language will open doors. As well as providing you with the tools to communicate effectively in both written and spoken Spanish, you will gain a range of skills that will improve your employability and broaden your cultural horizons. You will learn how to think creatively and critically to solve problems. Engaging with Spanish grammar develops your cognitive ability. Topics covered, such as global sustainability, enterprise and employability, healthy lifestyle, Spain and the Spanish Speaking World, will prepare you to be a citizen of the world. In the current job market, languages are highly valued by employers in all areas, but especially in business services, finance, travel & Tourism, education, sport, journalism, law, medicine, entertainment, manufacturing, diplomatic services and government.

Head of Department - Miss E Smith

Level 1/2  Award in Hospitality and Catering

The hospitality and catering award is a vocational course which enables learners to gain and develop comprehensive knowledge and understanding of the hospitality and catering industry including provision, health and safety, and food safety. It also enables learners to develop and apply knowledge and understanding of the importance of nutrition and how to plan nutritious menus. They will learn the skills needed to prepare, cook and present dishes.

What is the content of the course? 

Unit 1 – Introduction to the built environment 35% of the GCSE

In this examined unit you will develop knowledge, skills and understanding in the ideas and concepts relating to the built environment. This will include the built environment life cycles, structures, materials, sustainability, careers and health and safety.

Unit 2 – Creating the Built Environment 40 % of the GCSE

This is a non- examined assessment unit with a choice of two pathways: Built In this non-Designing the Built Environment - focus is on 2D and 3D drawing skills Constructing the Built Environment – focus is on the development of 2 practical skills. You are required to select just one pathway. The task in each pathway assesses your knowledge, understanding and skills in relation to identifying, interpreting and calculating information; writing success criteria; carrying out a range of techniques appropriate to the pathway and evaluating tasks.

Unit 3- Exploring the Built Environment 25% of the GCSE

In this non-examined assessment unit (NEA) you will develop knowledge, skills and understanding in relation to the stages of the building life cycle; the stages and processes involved in the design, construction and value & use of the built environment.