GCSE Curriculum

Examination Board: AQA
Specification Code: 8300
Available Levels: Foundation and Higher
Teachers: Mr M Paris & Mr A Preston
Email Address: m.paris@webberindependentschool.co.uk, a.preston@webberindependentschool.co.uk

Course Description

The course builds on the Mathematics at Key Stage 3 and emphasizes the skills of applying
mathematics in context, problem solving, reasoning and the functional elements of mathematics.
Students will develop and refine their problem solving strategies and build the confidence and
skills required to tackle unfamiliar challenges. It also prepares students to function
mathematically in the world and provides a thorough grounding for further study in Mathematics.

Course Structure

The course is assessed using 3 written examinations taken in the summer of Year 11.
Paper 1 – non calculator, 33⅓% of final grade.
both Foundation and Higher Tier papers – 1 Hour 30 minutes

Paper 2 – calculator, 33⅓% of final grade.
both Foundation and Higher Tier papers – 1 Hour 30 minutes
Paper 3 – calculator, 33⅓% of final grade.
both Foundation and Higher Tier papers – 1 Hour 30 minutes

Foundation Tier grades 1 – 5
Higher Tier grades 4 – 9

Careers

Numerous careers will require Mathematics in one form or another. Many Sixth Forms, College
courses and all University courses require Mathematics GCSE at grade 5 or above.
It is a government requirement to have a grade 4 pass in both English and Mathematics before
leaving formal education.

Examination Board: AQA
Specification Code: English Language 8700
English Literature 8702
Available Levels: Single uniform tier
Head of Department: Mr P. Posner
Email Address: p.posner@webberindependentschool.co.uk

Course Description

This is a two year course, leading to dual certification in English Language and English Literature.
English Language equally develops the skills of speaking and listening, reading and writing,
developing skills of analysis and expression. English Literature further investigates genres of
poetry, prose and drama, across traditions and cultures from Shakespeare to the present day. The
syllabus is wholly examined, i.e. 100% examination and no controlled assessments.

Course Structure

Assessment is linear; i.e. at the end of the two-year programme. Our students will be thoroughly
prepared for the final assessments through examination in both subjects at the end of Year 11.

Course Content

English Language prepares for two equally rewarded examination papers (1 hr 45 mins each) in
both of which reading and writing skills are equally assessed:
Paper 1: Explorations in creative reading and writing.
Four questions on one chosen literary text; one extended creative writing piece (description or
narrative).
Paper 2: Writers` viewpoints and perspectives.
Four questions on two (linked) extracts: one non-literary, one literary non-fiction; one piece of
extended writing to present a viewpoint (argue, persuade or advise).
English Literature prepares for two examination papers.
Paper 1: Shakespeare and the C19th novel (1 hr 45 mins paper; 40% of assessment)
Section A: one question on a selected Shakespeare play (Macbeth), covering extract analysis and
relation to wider play.
Section B: as above question for a selected nineteenth century novel (A Christmas Carol).
Paper 2: Modern texts and poetry (2 hr 15 mins paper; 60% of assessment)
Section A: Modern texts: one question on a selected modern drama text (An Inspector Calls).
Section B: one comparative question on two prepared poems from a selected poetry cluster
(Power & Conflict).
Section C: two questions: one analysis of an unseen poem; one comparative, comparing the first
unseen poem to an additional unseen poem.

Assessment

Both English Language and English Literature, in terms of final awarded grades, will be assessed
by 100% examination. Speaking and Listening is assessed separately and a graded endorsement
will be awarded, outside of the full qualification, (i.e. reported and recorded on the certificate but
not calculated into the final grade).
The grading system of 9-1 will carry the expectation that Grade 5 and above equates with a ‘strong
pass’; Grade 4 with a ‘standard pass’.
Further Study and Career Opportunities
GCSE English Language (at least Grade 5 level) is an indispensable qualification for post 16
education from Advanced Level upwards and, additionally, for a vast proportion of worthwhile
employment. English Literature is valuable to anyone wishing to take essay based subjects at A
Level or beyond.
It is a government requirement to have a Grade 4 pass in both English Language and
Mathematics before leaving formal education.

Examination Board: AQA
Specification Code: 8461
Available Levels: Foundation and Higher
Teachers: Mr M. Marsden
Email Address: m.marsden@webberindependentschool.co.uk

Course Description

Biology is the study of life and is a fascinating subject. The world has changed much within the
last few decades, partly as a result of human activities, that it is now more important than ever
before that students develop an appreciation of the unique position and consequent
responsibilities that mankind has on this planet. Other aims of the course are to develop an
interest and enjoyment in the study of living organisms and to promote respect for all forms of
life. Students should opt to study this single award GCSE if they intend to progress to study
Biology at GCE A level, go into careers which require a knowledge of Biology or who want to
specialise and develop their understanding of living things.
⮚ Cell Biology
⮚ Organization
⮚ Infection and Response
⮚ Bioenergetics
⮚ Homeostasis and Response
⮚ Inheritance, Variation & Evolution
⮚ Ecology

Assessments

This qualification is linear. Linear means that students will sit all their external examinations at
the end of the course.
Paper One
Written Examination
Foundation and Higher Tier
1hr 45minutes
50% of GCSE
Topics 1-4
Cell Biology, Organization, Infection & Response and Bioenergetics
Paper Two
Written Examination
Foundation and Higher Tier
1hr 45 minutes
50% of GCSE
Topics 5-7
Homeostasis and response, Inheritance, Variation & Evolution and Ecology

Careers

A wide range of employers recruit graduates for biology-related jobs including:
⮚ universities and clinical research organizations
⮚ pharmaceutical and biotechnology companies
⮚ private hospitals and NHS trusts
⮚ national and global health and environmental charities
⮚ scientific and technical consultancies
⮚ outreach organizations such as museums, science centers and broadcast companies

Examination Board: AQA
Specification Code: 8462
Available Levels: Foundation and Higher
Teachers: Mr C. Cullen
Email Address: c.cullen@webberindependentschool.co.uk

Course Description

Chemistry is the study of the properties of the various substances which make up our universe. It is an
ever expanding subject: new facts lead to new theories which in turn lead to new facts.
Students should opt to study this single award GCSE if they intend to progress to study chemistry at GCE
A level, go into careers which require a knowledge of chemistry or who want to specialise and develop
their understanding of chemistry. It is a mandatory subject for students considering careers in medicine
or veterinary science and is also necessary for study of biology at higher levels. Chemistry also goes very
well with geography and supports the physical and geological aspects of that subject as well as going well
with food technology.

Course Structure

Students following this course would cover two units: Chemistry 1, Chemistry 2.
⮚ Both units will be assessed by a written terminal examination. Each paper will have multiple
choice question. (Each paper 50% of the marks)

Unit 1 Chemistry
1. Atomic structure and the periodic table
2. Bonding, structure, and the properties of matter
3. Quantitative chemistry
4. Chemical changes
5. Energy changes

Unit Chemistry 2
6. The rate and extent of chemical change
7. Organic chemistry
8. Chemical analysis
9. Chemistry of the atmosphere
10. Using resources

Careers

The study of this science can lead to many exciting careers. Chemists apply their knowledge to fields as
diverse as man-made fibres, fertilizers and pharmaceuticals. Chemistry is a requirement for careers such
as:
⮚ Archaeology
⮚ Medicine
⮚ Biology
⮚ Nursing
⮚ Dentistry
⮚ Pharmacy
⮚ Dietetics
⮚ Veterinary

Examination Board AQA
Specification Code 8463
Available Levels Foundation and Higher
Teacher Mrs U Garwood
Email Address u.garwood@webberindependentschool.co.uk

Physics is a subject which, apart from being vital for careers such as those in engineering or
science, can show prospective employers that a student is able to think in a clear and logical
manner. Students should opt to study this single award GCSE if they intend to progress to study
Physics at GCE A level, go into careers which require a knowledge of Physics or who want to
specialise and develop their understanding of Physics.

Course Description

⮚ Forces
⮚ Energy
⮚ Waves
⮚ Electricity
⮚ Magnetism and Electromagnetism
⮚ Particle Model of Matter
⮚ Atomic structure
⮚ Space Physics

Assessments

This qualification is linear. Linear means that students will sit all their external examinations at
the end of the course.
How it’s assessed
Paper 1
Written exam: 1 hour 45 minutes
Foundation and Higher Tier
Topics: Energy, Electricity, Particle Model of Matter,
Atomic Structure
100 Marks
50% of GCSE
Paper 2
Written exam: 1 hour 45 minutes
Foundation and Higher Tier
Topics Forces, Waves, Magnetism and
Electromagnetism, Space Physics
100 marks
50% of GCSE

Careers

Physics is a seriously useful subject for the majority of STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Art and Maths)
careers and you will find physicists everywhere, in industry, transport, government, universities, the armed
forces, the secret service, games companies, research labs and more.
Physics is especially helpful for jobs that involve building things and developing new technologies, including:
engineering (flight, buildings, space, you name it…), astronomy, robotics, renewable energies, computer science,
communications, space exploration, science writing, sports and games technology, research and
nanotechnology (that’s engineering on a seriously tiny molecular scale).
A spokesperson for the Institute of Physics says: “Physicists are involved in finding solutions to many of our most
pressing challenges – as well as studying atoms or making sense of the extra-terrestrial, physicists diagnose
disease, model the climate, design computer games, predict markets and design hi-tech goods. Studying physics
opens doors.”

Examination Board: OCR
Specification Code: J277
Available Levels: One Level
Teachers: Miss Ellis
Email Address: n.ellis@webberindependentschool.co.uk

Course Description

Computer Science involves the challenge and fun of programming your own computer code
to make solutions to problems. You will learn to become confident in Visual Basic, Python
and SQL programming in lessons and for home learning, making a variety of your own
computer code projects which work on Windows computers and on the Internet. The course
focuses on looking under the lid at how computers work at the processor level and there is
much theory to cover for the Unit 1 exam. We also provide free software and video tutorials
which enable you to develop your programming skills outside lesson time, often basing the
projects on developing computer games and simulations, including code-breaking projects.
Taking Computer Science at GCSE is highly recommended in order to be able to take
Computer Science beyond Webber at a 6th Form or University. Students who are good at
programming in Year 9 and who are good at Maths should strongly consider this course as it
helps set up a future path into STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Maths) subjects
at University and beyond.

Assessments

Paper One – J277/01 Computer systems
Written Examination
1hr 30 minutes – 50% of GCSE
– Systems Architecture
– Memory and Storage
– Wired and wireless networks
– Network topologies, protocols and layers
– Network security
– System software
– Ethical, legal and cultural concerns
Practical Programming Project
– Programming techniques
– Analysis
-Design
-Development
-Testing and evaluation

Paper Two – J277/02 Computational
thinking, algorithms and programming
Written Examination
1hr 30 minutes – 50% of GCSE
– Algorithms
– Programming fundamentals
– Producing robust programs
– Boolean logic
– Programming languages and IDEs
Although the coursework unit, comprising of a minimum of 20 hours of coding projects,
is compulsory, its marks do not count towards the overall qualification.

Careers

Software, IT and database skills are now a major part of many different jobs and careers
in the Science, Technology, Engineering and Maths sectors. Computer Science is a
creative, exciting and developing STEM subject and can provide you with huge
opportunities across a vast number of industries. It is the course of choice for employable
skills for the future. The list below shows just a few of the jobs and careers it may lead
you into:
– Computer programmer
– Games developer
– Animation developer
– Hardware engineer
– Machine learning engineer
– Virtual Reality Designer
– Systems Analyst
– Software tester
– Robotics engineer
– CAD designer
– 3D printing materials manager
– Games developer
– Legoland designer
– Clothes designer
– Tumblr product manager
– Software developer
– Software architect
– Geographical information systems officer
– Secondary school teacher
– Technical author
– Music data analyst
– Cyber Security Expert
– MI5 MI6 and GCHQ
– Digital Marketing Analyst

Examination Board: Edexcel
Specification Code: B
Head of Department: Mrs E. Charlton
Email Address: e.charlton@webberindependentschool.co.uk

Geography

The world in which we live is likely to change more in the next 50 years than it has ever done
before. Geography explains why, and helps to prepare you for those changes.
Geography tackles the big issues:
· environmental responsibility
· global interdependence
· cultural understanding and tolerance
· commerce, trade and industry

The transferable skills which geography fosters are an asset in the complex world of employment
today. Geography is about the future and encourages flexible thinking.

Geography is classed by the Russell Group of top UK universities as a facilitating subject, these are
the subjects most commonly required or preferred by universities to get on to a range of degree
courses. They can help students keep their options open when choosing a degree and many of
the top universities will ask you to have at least one A level in a facilitating subject when you apply.
Geography graduates are among the most employable. They possess the skills that employers
look for. In part this is because the subject combines a knowledge of science and an understanding
of the arts.

Successful Geography students are equipped with an excellent range of transferable skills – team
workers, self-starters, highly IT literate, good data interpretation and research skills. Geography
can help you access career opportunities in a wide range of sectors including business, civil
service, education, environmental management, ICT, logistics, planning, travel and tourism.

GCSE Geography Course Overview

The aims and objectives of this qualification are to enable students to build on their Key Stage 3
knowledge and skills to:
● develop and extend their knowledge of locations, places, environments and processes, and of
different scales, including global; and of social, political and cultural contexts (know
geographical material)
● gain understanding of the interactions between people and environments, change in places
and processes over space and time, and the interrelationship between geographical phenomena
at different scales and in different contexts (think like a geographer)
● develop and extend their competence in a range of skills, including those used in fieldwork, in
using maps and Geographical Information Systems (GIS) and in researching secondary evidence,
including digital sources; and develop their competence in applying sound enquiry and
investigative approaches to questions and hypotheses (study like a geographer)
● apply geographical knowledge, understanding, skills and approaches appropriately and
creatively to real-world contexts, including fieldwork, and to contemporary situations and
issues; and develop well-evidenced arguments, drawing on their geographical knowledge and
understanding (applying geography).

Case Studies and located examples (Cost Involved)

2 days of fieldwork are completed, one day physical Geography, 1 day Human Geography.
Students write about their fieldwork in their examinations at the end of the 2 Year course.

Examination Board: AQA
Specification Code: History 8145
Available Levels: One Level
Head of Department: Mr T Troy
Email Address: t.troy@webberindependentschool.co.uk

Course Description

The course is assessed by two examined papers and no coursework.
Paper 1: Understanding the Modern World, helps students to understand key developments and
events in modern world history. The paper is divided into two sections:
Section A: Period Studies (one topic studied)
Each period study has a focus of one country over a period of around 50 years.
Section B: Wider World Depth Studies (one topic studied)
Each depth study investigates international conflict. Students will be able to deepen their
understanding of the modern world.
Paper 2: Shaping the nation enables students to understand key developments and events in the
history of Britain. The paper is divided into two sections:
Section A: Thematic studies (one topic studied)
Each thematic study gives students a coherent understanding of change and continuity across a
long sweep of history. Although each option has a distinct focus, they all illuminate social,
political and economic change and the part played by various factors in shaping the history of
Britain.
Section B: British Depth Studies (one topic studied)
The depth studies are either from the Medieval or Early Modern era (between 1000 to 300 years
ago). They focus on a particular time and people from that time who shaped the nation.
Students will build a coherent understanding of the complexity of society and the interplay of
different aspects within it. The historic environment is embedded within the depth studies.
Students will be able to make connections and evaluate how specified sites have been shaped
by the historical events and developments of the time.

Course Structure

⮚ Unit 1: Understanding the Modern World, written paper, – 50%
For the Unit 1, Section A Period Study we will chose ONE from three options: America, 1840-
1895, Germany 1890-1945 and Russia 1894-1945. America 1840-95 includes events such as the
American Civil War, the struggle to end slavery and the deliberate destruction of the Native
Americans’ way of life. Germany 1890-1945 looks at how Germany was at the heart of two world
wars and how a civilised German nation embraced Hitler and the Nazis. Russia 1894-1945 looks
at how the world’s largest nation became a brutal Communist regime capable under the ruthless
Joseph Stalin of defeating the Nazis.

For the Unit 1, Section B Wider World Study we will chose from either: Conflict and tension in
Asia, 1950-1975 or Conflict and tension 1990-2009. Conflict and tension in Asia looks at the brutal
and long wars in Korea (1950-1953) and Vietnam (1954-1975). Conflict and tension 1990-2009
looks at conflict in the Middle East, specifically the causes, events and consequences of the first
Iraq War (1990), the Wars in Afghanistan/against Al Qaeda, the causes of the second Iraq War
(2003) and its consequences to 2009.

⮚ Paper 2: Shaping the Nation, written paper – 50%
For the Unit 2, Section B Thematic study we will chose from either: Britain: Migration, empires
and the people: c790 to the present day or Britain: Power and the people: c1170 to the present
day. Britain, Migration, empires and people looks at the impact of successive waves of
immigration and change, from the Vikings to modern Britain. The impact of trade, conflict,
religion, ideas and individuals are examined, looking at how modern Britain and the British
identity is based on 1,200 years of change. Britain: Power and the People looks at how from 1170
to the present day fundamental freedoms such as democracy, human rights and equality have
emerged through struggle and revolution. As with the previous option the role of a wide range of
social and economic influences is examined along with political and revolutionary struggle.

For the Unit 2, Section B Depth Study we will chose from: Norman England, c1066-1100, Medieval
England – the reign of Edward I, 1272-1307 or Elizabethan England, c1568-1603. Norman England
looks at the ruthless and complete Norman takeover of England under William the Conqueror and
his son. Medieval England – the reign of Edward I looks at the life under Edward I, which saw for
example the ruthless conquest of Wales, castle building on an epic scale, an endless war to
conquer Scotland and the murderous expulsion of the Jews from England in 1290. Elizabethan
England, c1568-1603 looks at how under the determined genius of Elizabeth 1st England changed
into a more modern state and society that flourished in the face of foreign attack and religious
disagreements at home. Part of the topic chosen will include an examination of an historic site
such as a castle, palace, town, battlefield or group of buildings, with the student will be required
to explain how the site relates to the period studied. The Unit 2 Section B Depth Study will include
questions on both the topic studied and the historic site studied.

Careers

The successful study of History proves a candidates ability to collate and sift information to
produce convincing written and spoken arguments, key skills for anyone looking to work in a
leadership or management role. Students who are going to study sciences for A level and at
university often also study History at GCSE or A level to prove that they can produce effective
written arguments over and above the boundaries of the sciences they are studying. Many History
graduates go on to train as lawyers. There are also tourism, heritage and teaching based career
paths for those seeking to continue working within the discipline.

Examination Board: AQA
Specification Code: 8132
Head of Department: Mrs E Charlton
Email Address: e.charlton@webberindependentschool.co.uk

Course Description

Students will consider the practical application of business concepts. The units provide opportunities to
explore theories and concepts in the most relevant way, through the context of events in the business
and economic world. The knowledge and skills gained from this specification will provide students with a
firm foundation for further study.

Course Structure

Students apply their knowledge and understanding to different business contexts ranging from small
enterprises to large multinationals and businesses operating in local, national and global contexts.
Students develop an understanding of how these contexts impact on business behavior.

Subject content

1. Business in the real world
2. Influences on business
3. Business operations
4. Human resources
5. Marketing
6. Finance

Assessments

Paper 1: Influences of operations and HRM on business activity
Written exam: 1 hour 45 minutes
90 marks
50% of GCSE
Paper 2: Influences of marketing and finance on business activity
Written exam: 1 hour 45 minutes
90 marks
50% of GCSE

Careers

As well as providing students with a firm foundation for studying Business Studies at A-Level, Business
Studies GCSE also allows students to progress on to studying A Level Economics or Accounting.
Business Studies GCSE prepares students for careers in a number of different fields, including
economics, finance, marketing, human resources, management and many more, as well as giving
students the knowledge they need to set themselves up in their own business, should they choose to
follow this path.

Examination Board: Edexcel International (IGCSE)
Specification Code: 4FR1 / 4SP1
Entry Levels: Prior study at Key Stage 3 (this may not be
an essential requirement for native speakers).
MFL Staff & e-mail Addresses: Mrs. Barratt
i.barratt@webberindepedentschool.co.uk
Mrs. Villalba
m.villalba@webberindependentschool.co.uk

Course Structure

The Edexcel International GCSE in French or Spanish qualifications assess skills across five topic
areas:
● Home and abroad
● Education and Employment
● Personal life and relationships
● The world around us
● Social activities, fitness, and health

The topics are assessed through three examination papers, all externally marked by Edexcel.

Paper 1: Listening (25% of the total International GCSE)
Assessment is through a 30-minute examination paper, plus five minutes of reading time. This
paper will consist of seven tasks, based on a recording.
Paper 2: Reading and Writing (50% of the total International GCSE)
Assessment is through a 1-hour and 45-minute examination paper. The reading section will
consist of five tasks, each based on a collection of short texts and a longer single text. The writing
section will consist of two writing tasks and a grammar-based task.
Paper 3: Speaking (25% of the total International GCSE)
Total assessment time is 8-10 minutes, in a speaking test conducted by the class teacher. Students
are required to convey their understanding through three speaking tasks. They will answer
questions from a photograph, describe possible past or future events related to people in the
photograph, respond to questions about the photograph and its related topic, and then take part
in a spontaneous conversation on two other topics. In each conversation, students must develop
their responses, show initiative, express and justify points of view and refer to past, present, and
future events.

Course Description

If you enjoy communicating with other people, finding out how language works, and learning
about different countries and cultures, studying IGCSE French or Spanish is an excellent choice for
you. You will be able to develop your ability to share your interests, ideas and opinions with other
people who speak that foreign language.

You will add an international dimension to your choice of GCSE subjects, which is something many
future employers and higher education providers look for. You will learn many skills which are
useful in a wide range of careers, such as the ability to communicate clearly, being confident when
speaking in public, and using problem-solving strategies.

Having studied the chosen foreign language at Key Stage 3, you should be prepared to carry on
with IGCSE. You already should know a lot of the vocabulary and grammar you will need for IGCSE.
You know how to talk about yourself, your family and friends, your hobbies and interests, where
you live, school, holidays and daily routine. You will build on these topics during your IGCSE
course, as well as on many new subjects, such as the environment, the use of technology and
future careers.

Careers

With a Modern Foreign Language qualification, you will create greater opportunities for yourself
to study or work abroad, or for you to work with companies in the UK with international links.
Many employers look for people who speak a foreign language to cover a variety of roles in
different industries.

People with language skills and knowledge are highly thought of in the modern world. They stand
out as talented and successful people, with broad and exciting horizons.

Examination Board: Edexcel
Specification Code: 1AD0
Head of Department: Mrs. S. Anacootee
Email Address: s.anacootee@webberindependentschool.co.uk

Course Description

GCSE Art, Craft and Design is about having an adventurous and enquiring approach to art and design and
enjoying the process of developing the skills to communicate your ideas. There is an emphasis on building
the exploration of your ideas in work journals and developing a very personal response to set briefs. All
students will have to submit evidence of using drawing to support the development process and use
written annotation and appropriate specialist terminology to record their ideas, observations, insights and
independent judgements.

Course Structure

Component 1: Personal Portfolio 60% 3 units of work
centre-assessed and moderated by Edexcel

Component 2: Externally Set Assignment 40% 10 hours set by Edexcel
centre assessed and moderated by Edexcel
Component 1: Personal Portfolio
Over the two year course, students will complete a number of projects. These projects will become part
of the personal portfolio. Students will present their project investigations in work journals. These journals
along with other two and three dimensional work should include research, supporting studies and work
showing the development of ideas. Each project will culminate into a final personal response. Students
will be given close guidance on choice of materials in order to build upon existing skills and develop
techniques they find more challenging.

Externally Set Assignment

The Externally Set Assignment will contain one theme and suggestions for possible starting points. During
the 20 hours preparation time, students should explore the theme by addressing all assessment
objectives. Students have a 10-hour sustained focus period in which to produce a personal response. The
preparatory studies, along with the final piece, will then be submitted for assessment.
Through the Assessment Objectives, the course will give students the opportunity to:
⮚ Develop ideas through investigations, demonstrating critical understanding of sources.
⮚ Refine work by exploring ideas, selecting and experimenting when appropriate media, materials,
techniques and processes.
⮚ Record ideas, observations and insights relevant to intentions as work progresses.
⮚ Present a personal and meaningful response that realizes intentions and demonstrates
understanding of a visual language.
At the end of the GCSE course, both coursework and examination work journals and personal responses
are displayed in a final exhibition.

Careers

The skills developed during this course will build confidence with visual communication. Students may
wish to study GCSE in Art, Craft and Design for its own sake, perhaps to form the basis of a future interest.
Students might wish to pursue a career where it is useful to have had experience of art, craft and design,
or where they will need to use some of the skills developed during this course. These might include careers
in such fields as advertising, interior design, marketing, design, architecture, publishing and the media.
Whichever you choose, the study of Art can help develop transferable skills, which can be taken into any
career or job.

Examination Board: Edexcel
Specification Code: 1MU0
Head of Department: Mr. R. Baker
Email Address: r.baker@webberindependentschool.co.uk

Course Description

GCSE Music offers students the opportunity to develop their knowledge, understanding and skills
in performing, composing listening, appraising and is well worth considering for anyone who plays
an instrument or sings.

Students will learn how to:

⮚ Improve their performing skills
⮚ Through composing gain an insight into how music is constructed from initial ideas
through to finished product
⮚ How to analyse music in a variety of styles and discover the social and historical context
in which it was composed

Entry Requirements

Students taking Music need to be able to play an instrument or to sing to at least Grade II
standard, and should also be receiving instrumental tuition on a regular basis too.

Course Structure

⮚ Unit 1 – Performing – This unit encourages students to improve their skills by playing
and performing a variety of pieces of music. They need to be able to play or sing one
solo piece and one ensemble piece (playing in a group with other people). These are
recorded and internally assessed before being moderated by the examination board.
(30% of total mark)
⮚ Unit 2 – Composing – In this unit students learn how music can be constructed. During
the course they will compose at least two pieces of music, one of which is a free choice
and the other is to a set brief. These are internally assessed under controlled conditions
and then externally moderated. (30%)
⮚ Unit 3 – Listening and Appraising – This unit encourages students to develop their
listening and appraising skills through the study of music across a variety of styles and
genres. It is assessed in a 90 minute written listening exam containing questions based
on the pieces and music studied. (40%) There are four areas of study with two set works
in each.

The four Areas of Study are:
⮚ Instrumental music 1700 – 1820
⮚ Vocal Music
⮚ Music for Stage and Screen
⮚ Fusions

Coursework

Units 1 (Performing) and 2 (composing) are both coursework modules. The work to be assessed
can be completed at any stage in the two year course. However, final pieces are usually selected
and completed in Terms 1 and 2 of Year 11.

Careers

The skills developed during this course feed into A-level in Music, Music Technology or Performing
Arts. Music demonstrates a large number of very important skills required in both the world of
work and higher education. These include self-discipline, team-work, perseverance, presentation,
analytical skills, communication, organizational and planning skills, decision-making, enterprise,
enthusiasm and creativity.
Careers available in Music include performing, sound-engineering, theatre work, artsadministration, advertisement, composing for the media, radio and broadcasting, publishing,
sales, recording industry, television, and music therapy and further openings are numerous in
journalism, music retail, orchestral management, teaching, composing and many other areas.

Examination Board: AQA
Specification Code: 8582 Full Course
Available Levels: One level
PE Department: Mrs. K. Willis & Mr. R. Knapper
Email Address: k.willis@webberindependentschool.co.uk

Course Description

GCSE PE is designed to enable students to understand the benefits of living a healthy and
active lifestyle and to provide routes to study PE in further education. The areas covered
theoretically are as follows; applied anatomy and physiology, movement analysis,
physical training, sports psychology, socio-cultural influences and health, fitness and wellbeing. Practically, students will be assessed in three activities.

Course Structure

Non-Exam assessment (NEA) 40% Internal assessment and externally
moderated
Examination 60% AQA Centre assessed
NEA
Broken down into two sections:
i. Performance assessment (practical performance in 3 sports, minimum of one
team and one individual sport) = 30%
ii. Performance analysis assessment (analysis and evaluation) = 10%
Students choose three sports that they will be assessed in practically; either as a player
or performer (minimum of 1 team sport and 1 individual). Students will also complete a
written report of an analysis and evaluation of their own performance or the performance
of another person. Students must be competing regularly in at least one sport, outside
of school.

Examination

The written examination consists of two papers of 1 hour 15 minutes equaling 78 marks
(30%), including a combination of multiple choice, short answer and extended writing
questions.

The specification at a glance
Component 1
The human body and
movement in physical
activity and sport
30%
● 1hr 15 min paper
● 78 marks
● Combination of multiple choice, short answer and
extended writing questions
● Applied anatomy and physiology, movement
analysis, physical training and use of data
Component 2
Socio-economic influences
and well-being in physical
activity and sport 30%
● 1hr 15 min paper
● 78 marks
● Combination of multiple choice, short answer and
extended writing questions
● Sports psychology, socio-cultural influences,
health, fitness and well-being and use of data
Component 3
Practical performance in
physical activity and sport
NEA
40%
● 100 marks
● Internal assessment, external moderation
Activity List
Team activities
Association
Football
Badminton
(Doubles)
Basketball Cricket Dance
Gaelic Football Handball Hockey Hurling Lacrosse
Netball Rowing Rugby League Rugby Union Squash
Tennis Table Tennis Volleyball
Individual activities
Amateur boxing Athletics Badminton Canoeing Cycling
Dance Diving Golf Gymnastics Equestrian
Kayaking Rock Climbing Rowing Trampolining Skiing
Snowboarding Squash Swimming Table tennis Tennis

Careers

GCSE PE can lead into many different careers and pathways including teaching, coaching,
physiotherapy, sports journalism, sports management, dietician/nutritionist, sports
psychologist etc.

Our priority is making sure that all of our GCSE students have the right support and attention. That’s why we offer GCSE Booster Classes, at no additional cost, during lunchtime and after school.

Preparing our students with the skills and mindset for the modern workplace is one of our top priorities. We have developed a robust Business & Enterprise programme that includes access to TED Talks, Career Fairs, Business Conferences and workplace visits, in addition to a one week Work Experience Placement.

We further support our young people through the development of their Curriculum Vitae and Letters of Application, as well as honing their interview skills. We have a number of clubs and societies that help build leadership and business skills, including the Entrepreneur’s Club, Duke of Edinburgh’s Award and The Army Cadet Force.

Our Study Skills Programme is designed to give students the confidence required to do well in their GCSEs. Our programme focuses on providing our young people with the skills and tools to aid with exam revision, which includes the development of mindset and well-being habits. Additionally, we provide a personalised Gap Analysis with detailed feedback following the Mock Examinations, giving all of our students guidance on where to apply their focus.

Our team is here to make sure your son or daughter is well looked after and supported to achieve the best possible exam outcomes.