Alternative Pathways to GCSE

"Life isn’t about finding yourself. Life is about creating yourself.” — George Bernard Shaw

In each options block there is one course that is an alternative to a full GCSE. 

These vocational subjects are less demanding than the full GCSEs and offer a more practical approach to learning with opportunities for progression to local colleges for Key Stage 5.  


The three courses are:

                                                                              

Boys can choose all three of these options or choose one or two alongside GCSEs.

Why choose Workskills?


A nationally recognised qualification which introduces students to the world of work. 


Supports students to develop their skills, knowledge and confidence in a range of work related subjects. 


Student work is scrutinised by the exam board to ensure it is of the highest standard.

Course Content

Pearson BTEC Level 2 Certificate in Workskills

Workskills comprises 6 units studied over 2 years. The qualification is assessed through 11 assignments which are a mix of practical and written activities. Students must pass all assignments to gain their certificate. There are no exams.

Topics include:

Why choose Public Services?


Can you name the different public services actively providing support where you live? 


Every day people use public services, for example to obtain assistance in an emergency, to get crime or fire prevention advice, or to seek medical attention. 


This course offers a practical  introduction to many different employment opportunities.

Course Content

Pearson BTEC Level 1 Introductory Certificate in Public Services

Public Services is assessed through practical and written assignments there are no exams. Students can obtain the qualification at Pass, Merit or Distinction and all work is scrutinised by BTEC to make sure it is of the highest standard. Progression on to Level 2 and Level 3 Public Services courses is possible at local colleges.

Topics include:

Why choose Functional Skills?


Functional skills are a different way to learn English and maths. They are nationally recognised qualifications with content that is relevant to the workplace. 


These qualifications will assess the boys’ underpinning subject knowledge and their ability to apply this knowledge to different contexts. 


Functional skills provide a foundation for progression to college and employment and develop skills for everyday life. 

Course Content

Functional Skills in English and Maths

English

Can be taken at Entry 3 or Level 1 and will be assessed through:


Maths

Can be taken at Entry 3 or Level 1 and will be assessed through:

"Workskills is a great subject that I find fun and enjoyable.It also gives me the knowledge and understanding that I’m going to need when applying for jobs in future. In addition to this, I love the fact that it does not involve tests or GCSE papers" - Y10 student

Here are some examples of Alternative Pathways GCSE work produced by our students this year...

"I enjoy this subject because we learn about all types of jobs we could do when we leave school and also what we can do to work towards our dream job." - Y11 student

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