Y9 Choices Briefing 2016 Foundation Learning

Key Stage 4 overview The standard KS4 offer at Henry Box is for students to study 10 or 11 GCSE subjects (English, maths and science being compulsory) Also have compulsory RS, PE and PSHE (Pdev) Students typically get to choose 4 subjects that they wish to continue to study/start studying at KS4 on top of these

Experience of KS4 Experience tells us that for a large number of students this works well and they progress onto what they want to do Some students have struggled with so many academic courses and so we have brought in some new vocational courses Some students require a different curriculum to help them achieve what they need in order to make their preferred progress at age 16…

Foundation Learning Foundation Learning is a curriculum pathway for students who may not want/be able to access a large number of academic qualifications at KS4 It is aimed at best supporting those who will most likely wish to progress onto vocational College courses, or employment with training at age 16

Foundation Learning This ‘pathway’ has been designed by the school and Abingdon & Witney College in order to provide the best chance of successful transfer from school to College at 16 for our students All courses on this pathway have been approved by the DfE and recommended by the College We think that your sons/daughters will enjoy this course and find it helpful in achieving their intentions post 16

Course makeup 1 day a week at College studying one of: – Land-based studies/Horticulture – Hair & Beauty – Construction – Animal Handling & Care – Motor Vehicle* Your son/daughter will have to choose 1 of these and then the College will let us know whether the course will be running next year. We are looking at extending the range of courses and are waiting for College to get back to us on this!

Course makeup continued… In-school: – OCR National Certificate in ICT – ASDAN CoPE (tailored to the interests of the group) – English, maths & science – Core PE, RS and PSHE – Possibly work experience We will try and get the ‘best fit’ we can that will provide the qualifications and experiences required to get onto College courses post 16

By the end of KS4… Students will have gained significant experience at College (in 1 or more vocational areas) and be well prepared to transfer there if they wish Students will have a good spread of qualifications in English, maths, science and vocational areas that will help them onto courses/into jobs Students will have improved their ‘employability’ skills and received significant careers support & work experience to enable them to find a job/career path

Timetable: Student Foundation Learning meeting before half term Choices form with type of College course clearly indicated handed in by 4 th March Between now and then students can talk to staff at school (particularly Mr Manthorpe and Mrs Hopes) if they have any questions