Note: If you are not sure who your child’s teacher is for certain subjects or what option subjects your child is studying then please contact your child's form tutor for more information.

 

Year 11/12 English Language (Ms McGhee, Mr Sullivan and Mr Battersby):

This term, learners will engage in coursework for the Cambridge IGCSE. They will begin by honing their descriptive writing skills, focusing on scenes such as a train station and a celebration. Following this, they will work on narrative writing, using images as inspiration to craft engaging stories. Additionally, learners will practise for Language Paper 1, developing their comprehension and analysis skills.

 

Y11 English Literature (Mrs Margarita):

Learners will begin their English Literature course by studying the play ‘An Inspector Calls’ by J.B. Priestley. The play will be read as a class and learners will develop their understanding of the characters, themes and contextual issues through watching videos, completing written tasks and class discussions. As this is a coursework element of the qualification, learners will be asked to write a discursive essay on a given topic, which will be internally assessed and moderated.

 

Maths (Mr Stephen):

The first half term is both a continuation of new learning and the start of revision. Learners will study more advanced topics such as proof, graphs, trigonometry and vectors, while consolidating key prior knowledge like Pythagoras’ theorem, area and volume, substitution and algebraic reasoning. Some classes may also tackle quadratic graphs, circle theorems and bearings. Alongside this, lessons focus strongly on exam technique and applying knowledge to composite problems. Some learners will also be working towards a Functional Skills Level 1 or 2 qualification by the end of the academic year.

 

PE (Mr Green and Mr Lee): 

In P.E lessons, learners will take part in various different sporting activities including invasion sports, net and racket, target sports, athletics and health related fitness. In year 11 we are looking for learners to be able to perform skills consistently whilst showing leadership skills when participating in sport. We also work with learners to think about the next steps of leading a healthy active lifestyle beyond school. 

 

PSHE (Mr Watkins):

The PSHE curriculum in year 11 will cover topics from the three main strands of ‘Living in the Wider World’, ‘Health & Wellbeing’ and ‘Relationship & Sex Education’. All topics can be found on our school website, however, learners will cover perseverance and procrastination, the importance of sleep, positive risk taking, being aware of our digital footprint, effective revision tips, college applications, how we can prepare for independent living, preparation for job interviews and how trade unions support workers rights.

 

Careers: 

In careers this half term learners will be discussing Post 16 options. The unit will include sessions on A-Levels, BTECs, T-Levels and apprenticeships. In this unit we will be encouraging learners to think about what they want to pursue after Year 11 and encourage them to research and take ownership of their choices.

 

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Option Subjects

 

Chemistry GCSE (Mrs McCran, Dr Allouis):

At the start of the half term, the Chemistry course covers several short topics, including groups of the periodic table, rates of reaction and heat energy transfers and chemical reactions. After half term, learners will complete units of work on fuels, earth and atmospheric science and hydrocarbons.

 

Physics GCSE (Dr Allouis):

At the start of the term, learners will cover the short topic of forces and their effects, which provides a foundation for the larger topic of electricity. After half term, the course progresses to static electricity, magnetism and the motor effect, which naturally lead into the study of magnetic induction.

 

Biology GCSE (Mrs McCran):

The term begins with plant structure and function, allowing learners to collect and examine sample material before the weather changes. After half term, the focus shifts to animal coordination, control and homeostasis.

 

Entry Level Biology (Dr Doza and Mr Gamble)

This is now a GCSE foundation course, covering topics including cells and control, genetics, evolution, genetic modification, and health, disease and the development of diseases.

 

Art (Mrs Easton): 

Learners are currently creating individual projects based on the skills they have identified they wish to develop. However as the term progresses they will be given the opportunity to help create props and scenery for The Gretton Pantomime “The Wizard Of Oz.” This work will also be able to be used as part of their coursework for the Silver Arts Award. 

 

History GCSE (Mr Miller)

In History this term, we will be starting our topic on Weimar and Nazi Germany, 1918-39, and looking at the origins of the Weimar Republic, the challenges it faced, its recovery from near collapse and the effect it had on German society. After half term, we will chart Hitler’s rise to power by looking at the early development of the Nazi Party, the Munich Putsch and the lean years of the Nazi Party between 1923 and 1929. We will then examine the growth in support for the Nazis after 1929 and how Hitler managed to become Chancellor in January 1933.

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Drama (Mrs Khairdean)

Learners will lead and innovate within the Christmas pantomime ‘The Wizard of Oz,’ taking on a main role and/or leading production responsibilities. They will critically evaluate and implement directorial and design ideas, manage elements of rehearsal and act as role models for younger performers. Performance development will focus on advanced vocal techniques, nuanced pacing and timing, physical characterisation and comic effect, in line with external benchmarks such as LAMDA Grades 5 and 6, demonstrating high levels of professionalism, confidence and creative independence.

 

Psychology GCSE (Dr Allouis):

This half term we are completing the Social Influence unit which covers conformity, obedience, bystander and prosocial behaviour and crowd and collective behaviour. We then move onto the language, thought and communication unit which will continue after the half term break. In this unit we examine the development of thought and language and how they influence each other, the differences between animal and human communication and non-verbal communication. As we cover these topics we will evaluate the studies and theories that form the basis of our current understanding in these topics.

 

Food Technology (Mr Langsdon):

In Year 11 this half term, learners will focus on developing ideas for their BTEC coursework, exploring different ways to present dishes to make them visually appealing. They will also study how combining different ingredients can create balanced and colourful dishes. Alongside this, learners will continue to refine their knife skills and reinforce safe practices in the kitchen.

 

Design Technology: 

Learners are continuing with their NCFE Level 1 qualification,  investigating a design brief and developing a collection of design ideas. These ideas will then be refined and developed into prototypes and developed. As part of the course, learners will also be introduced to a range of craft processes, such as wet felting, which will allow them to explore materials, techniques and methods that can enhance their design work.