Option Subjects

Key Stage 4 Information

GCSE Computer Science

Head of Department - Mr Neil Angelone.

General Information - The WJEC GCSE in Computer Science encourages learners to:

  • understand and apply the fundamental principles and concepts of computer science, including; abstraction, decomposition, logic, algorithms, and data representation

  • analyse problems in computational terms through practical experience of solving such problems, including designing, writing and debugging programs to do so

  • think creatively, innovatively, analytically, logically and critically

  • understand the components that make up digital systems, and how they communicate with one another and with other systems

  • understand the impacts of digital technology to the individual and to wider society

  • apply mathematical skills relevant to computer science.


GCSE Digital Technology

Head of Department - Mr Neil Angelone .

Teacher - Mr Mike Steadman.

General Information - The WJEC GCSE qualification in Digital Technology is a broad-based qualification that allows learners to build on the digital skills, knowledge and understanding that is used both in their school and everyday lives. The qualification is designed for learners who wish to begin their journey towards a career that utilises digital technologies or to progress onto advanced level programmes of learning involving digital technologies. The qualification will allow learners to develop their understanding of the range of digital technology systems at use in our connected and globalised society. It will also allow learners to explore the ever-evolving nature of digital technology systems and how these systems can be used productively, creatively and safely.

GCSE Geography

Head of Department - Mr Rhodri Haines.

Teachers - Mr Edwyn Davies and Mrs Laurie Fender.

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 populatuions. 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.

More information & Past Papers - WJEC History Webpage

Specification - Click here to view / download specification document.

Pupils at Bryngwyn study:

  • Unit 1C Depression, War and Recovery

  • Unit 2B USA 1910-29,

  • Unit 3 Crime and Punishment 1500-present day

  • Unit 4 NEA task.

GCSE History

Head of Department - Mrs Jessica Bonnell.

Teacher - Miss Lauren Huxtable.

  • 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.”


GCSE Religious Studies

Head of Department - Mrs Amy Lancett.

Teachers - Miss Abigail Stevens & Mrs Bethan Taylor.

The GCSE course looks at a wide variety of issues that are relevant to everybody’s lives from the view point of Christianity and Islam. We study topics of sex before marriage, test tube babies, love and marriage, divorce, abortion and euthanasia, crime and punishment, war and peace, the death penalty, human rights, and many issues, which are not only relevant, but are based on issues regularly reported in the media. The course allows students to study the core beliefs and practices of Christianity and Islam and apply these beliefs to the philosophical and ethical themes mentioned above. Religious Studies is very different from when your parents were in school. The content is applicable to your lives and the teaching and learning is engaging and inspiring.

GCSE Art & Design

Head of Department - Mrs Nicola Williams.

Teacher - Mrs Sarah Bradley.

If you are creative and enjoy talking about and exploring art then this subject is for you! Art is fun but also involves a lot of hard work. Most people find that their art coursework requires more effort than they expected; 100% commitment is required if you’re to guarantee success. Pupils will need to produce work at home as well as in school. Past pupils have gone on to careers in: Photography, set design, typography, curating in museums and galleries, illustrating, art direction, textile design, film making, film direction, teaching, lecturing, fashion, architecture, graphic design, to name but a few!

GCSE Physical Education

Head of Department - Miss Lucy Williams.

Teachers - Mr Alec Jenkins, Mr Lee Smolka and Mrs Clare Vaughan.

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.


GCSE Electronics

Teacher - Mr Mark Hughes.

The Electronic Products course will give you the opportunity to design and make quality electronic products with creativity, originality and flair. You will use a wide range of electronic components with appropriate materials to package the electronic circuit. The specification also provides you with the opportunity to design and make an electronic product using new technologies and modern electronic devices, writing computer programs that control how they function.

GCSE Food & Nutrition

Teacher - Mrs Catrin Davies

The WJEC GCSE in Food and Nutrition will equip learners with the knowledge, understanding and skills required to cook and apply the principles of food science, nutrition and healthy eating. The specification in food and nutrition will enable 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. Pupils will be expected to cook or experiment / investigate foods on a fortnightly basis.

Areas of content:

Food commodities Principles of nutrition

Diet and good health The science of food

Where food comes from Cooking and food preparation

GCSE Design & Technology Product Design

Head of Department - Mr Adrian Davies.

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.

GCSE Textiles

Teacher - Mrs Sarah Lewis

This course is defined as the creation of designs and products for woven, knitted, stitched or printed fabrics and involves an understanding of fibres, yarns and fabrics. Students undertaking the textile design title are required to demonstrate the knowledge, skills and understanding through areas of study relevant to their chosen title.

Areas of study include:

• Constructed textiles • Fashion design • Stitched and/or embellished textiles.

• Digital textiles • Installed textiles

• Dyed fabrics • Soft furnishings

• Printed fabrics

GCSE French

Head of Department - Mrs Sarah Davies.

Teachers - Mrs Eleanor Bozkurt & Miss Bethan Taylor.

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 French, 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 French grammar develops your cognitive ability. Topics covered, such as global sustainability, enterprise and employability, healthy lifestyle, France and the French 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.

GCSE Sociology

Head of Department - Mrs Amy Lancett.

Sociology is the scientific study of how society is organised. It also aims to explore answers to questions such as the ones above. If you choose to study Sociology you will take a fresh look at social behaviour: individuals, groups and cultures. This will help you to understand much better the world we live in and attempt to develop and find solutions to the problems that exist.

There are no right or wrong answers in Sociology. Exploring Sociology encourages debate, evaluation and the ability to support your conclusions with reasoning.

Students who study Sociology often go on to take up careers in; Journalism, Law, Health and Social Care, Education, Business and Human Resources.

GCSE Health & Social Care

Teacher - Mrs Catrin Davies.

The WJEC GCSE in Health and Social Care, and Childcare equips learners with knowledge, understanding and skills related to the development and care of individuals throughout the life cycle from conception to later adulthood. Learners have the opportunity to develop their understanding of influences on human growth, development, behaviour and well-being. They will also gain an understanding of the social, physical, emotional, and cultural needs of people who use care and support services, and recognise that each individual has a unique blend of abilities and needs. Learners will gain an understanding of how service provision in Wales supports the development and well-being of individuals, to be able to make informed decisions now and in later life.


GCSE Music

Teachers - Mrs Majorie Thomas and Mrs Tara Armstrong.

Music GCSE is a qualification that is held in high regard in many different occupations, as it shows that you are able to work as part of a team and have good self-discipline. If you enjoy performing or creating your own music this is a good choice to take!

What is the content of the course?

The course comprises of three parts:

•Performing, either on an instrument or by using your vocal skills

•Composing music in different styles

•Listening to different types of music

BTEC - Public Services

Teacher: Mrs Louise Fensome.

This course is designed to equip you with the knowledge, understanding and skills required for success in future employment or progression to courses such as a Level 3 BTEC Extended Diploma in Public Services. The course is suitable for students wishing to eventually follow a career path in Public Services such as the Emergency Services, Armed Forces, the Prison Service and many more. You will also have the opportunity to develop a range of skills and techniques, personal skills and attitudes essential for successful performance in working life.

Through different specialist units, you will find out about the different public services and how they work individually and interact with each other. You will also have the opportunity to discover the levels of fitness required for each of the uniformed services and how to improve YOUR health and fitness for entry into these services.

UNIT 1: Role and Work of the Public Services

UNIT 2: Working Skills in the Public Service Sector

UNIT 3: Employment in the Public Services

UNIT 4: Public Services and Community Protection

BTEC - Personal and Social Development

Teacher: Mr Gareth Morgan

The SWEET course is a varied, interesting and enjoyable course. You will complete a number of modules in areas that prepare you for life after school and the course allows you to gain skills in wellbeing, confidence and resilience.

What is the content of the course?

Each module is designed to prepare you with crucial skills for life after school and will ensure you are better prepared for your next step. The first 5 modules are closely linked to the PSE programme and contain activities in the following areas:

- Personal Identity

- Managing Relationships

- Healthy Living

- Moving forward/working towards goals

- Money Matters

The final 3 modules are closely linked to the Welsh Baccalaureate skills challenge in the following areas: -

Global Citizenship: understanding global issues and how they can affect us.

- Community: understanding the needs of communities and being able to respond to these needs.

- Enterprise: understanding work related issues and learning about business through enterprise activities.


Tourism - L1 / L2 Qualification

Level 1 Award / Level 2 Certificate (equivalent to 1 or 2 GCSEs)

Teacher: Mrs Laurie Fender

The Tourism Award is an enjoyable and interesting course that is relevant to anyone who has ambitions to work in the tourism industry. Tourism is one of the fastest growing industries in Wales, contributing over £410 million to our economy and providing 100,000 service related jobs in Wales. Tourism is a relevant subject that gives excellent opportunities to work in a growing job of the present and the future.

What is the content of the course?

The WJEC Award in Tourism has 3 units as follows

1. Customer experience

2. The business of tourism

3. Developing UK tourist destinations

The WJEC Certificate in Tourism has a further 3 units

1. European tourism destinations

2. Events tourism

3. Sustainable tourism

Construction - : Level 1/2 Award

Taught in conjunction with Coleg Sir Gar

Level 1/2 Award in Constructing the Built Environment - Exam Board WJEC. (Equivalent to 1 GCSE). Grades achievable: Level 1 pass, level 2 pass, level 2 merit and level 2 distinction.

This qualification is suitable for learners who wish to gain an insight into a number of construction related disciplines and subjects. The trades that the learner will explore are Carpentry, Bricklaying and Plastering. It provides introductory practical skills together with essential theoretical knowledge and understanding to work safely, plan basic construction projects and complete work to a good standard in the Construction industry.

What is the content of the course?

Unit 1 - Safety and Security in Construction Through this unit learners will gain knowledge and understanding in how to comply with various Health and Safety legal requirements for working in the Construction industry. Learners will also gain knowledge and understanding in how to plan for minimising risk to their own and others health and safety in Construction.

Unit 2 - Practical Construction Skills Through this unit learners will be able to interpret technical information to plan and review the refurbishment of buildings. The learner will use the appropriate practical skills in three trade disciplines to carry out the refurbishment tasks to a recognized standard Unit 3 - Planning Construction Projects Through this synoptic unit, learners will bring together the knowledge of practical skills and safety requirements of construction processes gained in units one and two. This unit will also develop further their knowledge and understanding to be able to successfully plan a basic built environment project.



VTCT Hair & Beauty - Level 2 Extended Award in Hair and Beauty skills (VRQ)

Why should I study this subject?

The main purpose of the qualification is to enable learners to develop hair and beauty skills, techniques and knowledge, which will prepare learners to progress to the next level of vocational learning. All the units in this qualification directly prepare learners for further study in the hair and beauty sector. All units in this qualification have been designed as a foundation for further study both in the hair and beauty sector. Learners will develop knowledge of the hair and beauty sector to allow progression into either hairdressing or beauty therapy.

What is the content of the course?

Mandatory unit- Create an image based on a theme Optional units (minimum of 3 units) which could include basic nail art, basic skin care, basic blow dry and finishing hair, shampoo and treat hair, basic plait and twist hair, basic manicure, working in the hair and beauty industries, colour hair using semi-permanent colour.