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Opening minds to success

The Leigh AcademyPost 16 Course Guide

An IB World School delivering the IBCP

Course Directory

Courses

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IB BiologyIB Diploma Business ManagementIB ChemistryIB Diploma English Language and LiteratureA Level English LiteratureIB Diploma FilmA Level Fine ArtA Level FrenchIB Diploma GeographyIB Diploma Global PoliticsA Level Graphic CommunicationA Level HistoryA Level MathematicsIB Diploma Mathematics: Applications and InterpretationA Level PhotographyIB PhysicsA Level Product DesignIB Diploma PsychologyIB Diploma Social and Cultural AnthropologyA Level TextilesBTEC National Applied ScienceBTEC BusinessBTEC ComputingBTEC Creative Media ProductionBTEC EngineeringBTEC Health and Social CareBTEC Information TechnologyBTEC Performing Arts (Acting)BTEC National Extended Certi� cate in SportFinancial Studies (LIBF Certi� cate and Diploma)Dartford Football Club

2 3The Leigh Academy Course Directory2 The Leigh Academy Course Directory

IB Biology Level 3

Contact: [email protected] of Learning – Science

Entry Requirements • 5+ GCSEs 9-4 grades• Grade 6 in Mathematics• Grade 6-6+ in Combined Science

or 6+ in Biology

Future courses & possible careers• Lecturer• Microbiologist• Nature Conservation O� cer• Pharmacologist• Research Scientist

Quali� cation Aims and Objectives

Biology is the study of life. Biologists attempt to understand the living worldat all levels using many di� erent approaches and techniques. At one end ofthe scale is the cell, its molecular construction and complex metabolicreactions. At the other end of the scale biologists investigate the interactions that make whole ecosystems function.

An interest in life is natural for humans; not only are we living organismsourselves, but we depend on many species for our survival, are threatenedby some and co-exist with many more.

Course Outline

Core1. Cell biology2. Molecular biology3. Genetics4. Ecology5. Evolution and biodiversity6. Human physiology

Additional higher level (AHL)7. Nucleic acids8. Metabolism, cell respiration and

photosynthesis9. Plant biology10. Genetics and evolution11. Animal physiology

Assessment of Course

Component Overall Weighting (%) Duration (hours)

Paper 1 20 1

Paper 2 36 2 1/4

Paper 3 24 1 1/4

Internal assessment 20 10

Pathways

343435

Your pathwaysIBCP pathwayCurriculum o� er 2020/21

IB Diploma Business ManagementLevel 3

Contact: [email protected] of Learning – Business Studies

Entry Requirements • 5+ GCSEs 9-4 grades• Grade 4 in English and

Mathematics

Future courses & possible careers• Business Management• Accounting• Finance• Retail management• Banking• Project Management


The Business Management course is designed to develop students’ knowledge and understanding of business management theories, as well as their ability to apply a range of tools and techniques.

Students learn to analyse, discuss and evaluate business activities at local,national and international levels. The course covers a range of organisationsfrom all sectors, as well as the socio-cultural and economic contexts in whichthose organisations operate.

The course covers the key characteristics of business organisation andenvironment and the business functions of human resource management,� nance and accounts, marketing and operations management. Links betweenthe topics are central to the course. Through the exploration of six underpinning concepts (change, culture, ethics, globalisation, innovation and strategy), the course allows students to develop a holistic understanding of today’s complex and dynamic business environment.

Course Outline

• Unit 1: Business organisation and environment• Unit 2: Human resource management• Unit 3: Finance and accounts• Unit 4: Marketing• Unit 5: Operations management


Exam Paper 1 – this is based on a prereleased case study. Students will be asked to apply their knowledge to a particular business. This paper counts for 40% of the total mark.

Exam Paper 2 – students will be asked questions about a range of di� erent businesses and will need to use key analytical tools to understand a business scenario. This paper counts for 35% of the total mark.

Coursework – this involves the students using their knowledge to solve a problem for a real business. This is through a 2000 word research project investigating, analysing and solving the business problem.

5The Leigh Academy Course Directory4 The Leigh Academy Course Directory

IB Chemistry Level 3


Entry Requirements • 5+ GCSEs 9-4 grades• Grade 6 in Mathematics• Grade 6-6+ in Combined Science

or 6+ in Chemistry

Future courses & possible careers• NHS• Environmental Sciences• Chemical Industries• Biosciences


Chemistry is an experimental science that combines academic study with theacquisition of practical and investigational skills. It is often called the centralscience, as chemical principles underpin both the physical environment in whichwe live and all biological systems. Apart from being a subject worthy of study inits own right, chemistry is a prerequisite for many other courses in highereducation, such as medicine, biological science and environmental science andserves as useful preparation for employment.

Course Outline

Core1. Stoichiometric relationships2. Atomic structure3. Periodicity4. Chemical bonding and structure5. Energetics/thermochemistry6. Chemical kinetics7. Equilibrium8. Acids and bases9. Redox processes10. Organic chemistry11. Measurement and data processing

Additional higher level (AHL)12. Atomic structure13. The periodic table14. Chemical bonding and structure15. Energetics/thermochemistry16. Chemical kinetics17. Equilibrium18. Acids and bases19. Redox processes20. Organic chemistry21. Measurement and analysis



Paper 1 20 1

Paper 2 36 2 1/4

Paper 3 24 1 1/4


IB Diploma English Language andLiterature Level 3

Contact: [email protected] of Learning – English

Entry Requirements • 5+ GCSEs 9-4 grades• Grade 5 in English Literature

and Language

Future courses & possible careers• Education• Writing• Law• Research• Media


English Language and Literature builds upon the skills developed at GCSE. Students learn to critically explore and analyse a range of texts, both literary and non-literary; use theoretical approaches and consider the impact of historical, cultural and other contextual factors on texts; and produce their own literary or non-literary texts, in order to explore the source material they have studied. This is a two-year Higher-Level Diploma course.

Course Outline

In the Language part of the course, students will study a range of nonliterary texts, which could include articles, advertisements, speeches, brochures, autobiographies, letters and other forms of writing. In the Literature part of the course, students will study six texts from a prescribed list of authors and texts, including a text in translation.


External Examinations (50%)• Paper 1 - comparative textual analysis of unseen non-literary texts• Paper 2 - essay in response to the three literary texts studied

Internally Assessed Tasks {50%)• One written task, based upon a literary text• One oral activity, comparing a non-literary text and a literary text


A Level English Literature

Contact: [email protected] of Learning – English

Entry Requirements • 5+ GCSEs 9-4 grades• Grade 6 in English Literature

and Language

Future courses & possible careers• Education• Writing• Law• Research• Media


English Literature builds upon the skills developed at GCSE. Students learn to critically explore and analyse a range of texts, use theoretical approaches and consider the impact of historical and other contextual factors on texts. This is a two year A Level Course.

Course Outline

Section A – Love Through The Ages• Pre-1900 Love Poetry*• The Great Gatsby (F Scott Fitzgerald)*• Othello (William Shakespeare)*

Section B – The Modern World Since 1945• Journey’s End (RC Sherri� )• Scars upon my Heart Poetry Anthology (various)*• The First Casualty (Ben Elton)*

* Texts are subject to change


You will be examined by � nal written examinations for 80% of the total marks but must complete one comparative essay as coursework, worth 20% of the total marks. This essay will compare two texts of the student’s choice.

IB Diploma Film Level 3

Contact: [email protected] of Learning – Media and Film

Entry Requirements • 5+ GCSEs 9-4 grades• Grade 4 in English Literature or

Language

Future courses & possible careers• Screenplay Writer• Novelist• Director• Producer


Film is a rigorous and academic course designed for 16-19 years olds who are passionate about the world of � lm. There are opportunities to explore theory behind � lm making, looking at the history of � lm, developing your own ideas before creating an original � lm production using camera, sound and editing equipment.

Course Outline

• Assessment 1: Textual Analysis• Assessment 2: Comparative Study• Assessment 3: Film Portfolio• Assessment 4: Collaborative Film Project


You will be assessed solely on the creation of a portfolio of evidence that shows your engagement with a range of � lms from a range of di� erent genres through written studies, your ability to present to groups of people and via the making of � lm production work.


A Level Fine Art

Contact: [email protected] of Learning – Expressive Arts

Entry Requirements • 5+ GCSEs 9-4 grades including

English• Grade 4 in Art

Future courses & possible careers• Visual Designer• Creative Specialist• Photographer• Fashion Designer• Product Designer• Architect• Advertiser


Fine Art is a creative and expressive subject. If you think you can be innovative and creative and are ready for challenges, then this course is for you. Students will develop a range of skills and build a broad body of knowledge about Art and Design across time, place and culture. This is a two year A Level Course.

Course Outline

Year 1• Coursework Portfolio

Year 2• Personal Investigation• Coursework Portfolio• Externally Set Assignment


On the course students are expected to be self-directed and to develop their own theme to explore. During their coursework they will further develop and improve their practical skills in relation to their chosen area of study. They will develop their drawing, painting and 3D skills, experimenting with media and exploring a range of Art and Design contexts.

Alongside the critical research they do, students will write an extended essay of 3000 words which link to the student’s own practical investigations. This is marked separately. This is the coursework unit. For A2 there is a timed public examination of 15 hours with a question set by Edexcel.

A Level French

Contact: [email protected] of Learning – MFL

Entry Requirements • 5+ GCSEs 9-4 including English• Grade 6 in French

Future courses & possible careers• Finance, law, engineering• Translation / interpreting• Working in education• Travel industry jobs• Civil servant / Diplomatic

service


The A Level French course aims to develop the skills and knowledge acquired throughout the GCSE French course. Students will be expected to use their � air and passion for languages to independently immerse themselves in French language and culture. Students will develop their capabilities in reading, writing and speaking and listening. This quali� cation aims to prepare students for a globalised workplace, where the ability to speak another language will prove invaluable.

Course Outline

• Unit 1: Listening, Reading and Writing – language-based exam• Unit 2: Writing exam on cultural topics studied (� lm / literature)• Unit 3: oral exam

Topics studied at A level: aspects of French speaking society: current trends, such as the impact of the internet on society; artistic culture in the French speaking world, including work on French cinema, music and literature as well as political life in France. Each theme is dealt with in considerable depth. The course thus develops problem-solving skills and the student’s ability to understand and respond to complex issues.


You will be tested by � nal examinations in speaking, listening, reading and writing. You would be expected to practice your language skills away from lessons and with the Foreign Language assistant.


IB Diploma Geography Level 3

Contact: [email protected] of Learning – Humanities

Entry Requirements • 5+ GCSEs 9-5 grades• Grade 5 in English Language or

Literature• Grade 6+ in Geography

Future courses & possible careers• Town Planner• Teacher• Meteorologist• Surveyor


The Diploma Programme geography course integrates both physical and human geography, and ensures that students acquire elements of both scienti� c and socio-economic methodologies. It examines key global issues, such as poverty, sustainability and climate change. It considers examples and detailed case studies at a variety of scales, from local to regional, national and international, including local � eldwork.

The aims of the geography syllabus are to enable students to:• develop an understanding of the interrelationships between people, places,

spaces and the environment • develop a concern for human welfare and the quality of the environment,

and an understanding of the need for planning and sustainable management

• appreciate the relevance of geography in analysing contemporary issues and challenges, and develop a global perspective of diversity and change.

Course Outline

Paper 1 - Core Theme - Patterns and Change (four compulsory topics)1. Population in Transition2. Disparities in Wealth and Development3. Patterns in Environmental Quality and Sustainability4. Patterns in Resource Consumption

Paper 2 - Optional Themes (three are studied)A. Freshwater - Issues and Con� ictsB. Oceans and their Coastal MarginsC. Extreme EnvironmentsD. Hazards and Disasters - Risk Assessment and ResponseE. Leisure, Sport and TourismF. The Geography of Food and HealthG. Urban Environment

Paper 3 - Global Interactions1. Measuring Global Interactions2. Changing Space - The Shrinking World3. Economic Interactions and Flows4. Environmental Change5. Sociocultural Exchanges6. Political Outcomes7. Global Interactions at the Local Level


Three externally assessed examinations and one piece of internally assessed � eldwork.

IB Diploma Global Politics Level 3


Entry Requirements • 5+ GCSEs 9-4 grades• Preferably Grade 6 in a

Humanities related subject and Grade 5 in English

Future courses & possible careers• Politician• Lawyer• Solicitor• Teacher• Senior Business Leader• Journalist


The IB Diploma in Global Politics engages students with key political concepts and contemporary political issues in a variety of contexts and through a variety of approaches. Through teaching and learning in the subject, students develop a holistic and nuanced understanding of global politics and acquire the skills needed to analyse, evaluate and act on political issues they encounter inside and outside of the classroom.

Course Outline

Core units: people, power and politics

Four compulsory units:• Power, sovereignty and international relations• Human rights• Development• Peace and con� ict

Global Political ChallengesPolitical issues in two of the following six global political challenges researched and presented through a case-study approach:• Environment• Health• Borders• Poverty• Identity• Security


Coursework:A political issue of personal interest, complemented with research. Coursework assesses the ability to research, write and present information and is equal to 20% of the overall grade.

Examinations:In the examinations there is an emphasis on written skills, testing your ability to form an argument and interpret information and is equal to 80% of the overall grade.


A Level Graphic Communication


Entry Requirements • 5+ GCSEs 9-4 grades• Grade 4 in English• Grade 4 in Art or Graphics

Future courses & possible careers• Graphic Designer• Visual Merchandiser• Creative Specialist• Fashion Designer• Product Designer• Architect• Web Designer


Graphic Communication is a subject which will require you to be innovative, analytical and gives the opportunity to make creative personal responses. It will provide you with lots of challenges and design briefs, which you will need to ful� l. This course will help you build a portfolio to support application to Art and Design based courses.

Whilst studying Graphics you will be creating individual responses and learn a range of new skills and developing a professional practice. This includes the use of Photoshop, Illustrator, Wacom tablets and Photography as well as more traditional methods. This is a two year A Level Course.

Course Outline


Year 2• Personal Investigation• Coursework Portfolio• Externally Set Assignment


On the course students are expected to be self-directed and to develop their own theme to explore. During their coursework they will further develop and improve their practical skills in relation to their chosen area of study. Alongside the critical research they do, students will write an extended essay of 3000 words which link to the student’s own practical investigations. This is marked separately and forms the coursework component.

A Level History


Entry Requirements • 5+ GCSEs 9-4 grades• Grade 5 in English Language

or Literature• Grade 6 in History

Future courses & possible careers• Historian• Museum Curator• Politician• Lawyer• Solicitor• Teacher• Senior Business Leader


History is a challenging subject which requires students to use evidence, to research, organise and articulate their � ndings ina coherent written form. History challenges students to form their own conclusions from the available evidence – independent learners are most welcome and will bene� t from the depth and breadth of the content that can be accessed through History.

Course Outline

AS Level (Year 1)• Paper 1 - Britain transformed, 1918–1974• Paper 2 - The USA, c1920–55: boom, bust and recovery

A2 Level (Year 2)• Paper 1 - Britain transformed, 1918–1974• Paper 2 - The USA, c1920–55: boom, bust and recovery• Paper 3 - The witch craze in Britain, Europe and North America, c1580–c1750


Coursework: The USA and Depression is worth 20% of the overall grade.There are three examination papers worth 80% of the overall grade. These assess the students’ ability to form arguments with knowledge based essays, as well as source and interpretations analysis.


A Level Mathematics

Contact: [email protected] of Learning – Mathematics

Entry Requirements • 5 GCSEs 9-4 grades• Grade 8 in Mathematics• 80% on core number and

algebra test given in week 1

Future courses & possible careers• Mathematician• Teacher• Finance Director• Accountant


This course is intellectually demanding and only students who have proven ability at GCSE level are likely to make the transition to A Level study successfully. The majority of students who apply to study A Level Mathematics are expected to continue onto a higher education degree course. A Level Mathematics is an essential requirement for all Engineering, Accountancy and most Science and Business degree courses, as well as IT courses and Economics.

Course Outline

AS Level (Year 1)• Pure Mathematics 1• Pure Mathematics 2• Statistics and Mechanics

A2 Level (Year 2)• Pure Mathematics 1• Pure Mathematics 2• Statistics and Mechanics


You will be examined by � nal written examinations at the end of year 13.

All examinations include: Pure Mathematics 1, Pure Mathematics 2 and Statistics and Mechanics. They are all equally weighted. AS students are assessed on the same content but at an AS level.

IB Diploma Mathematics: Applicationsand Interpretation (standard level)This quali� cation is worth half an A Level equivalent

Contact: [email protected] of Learning – Mathematics

Entry Requirements • 5+ GCSEs 9-4 grades• Grade 6 in GCSE Mathematics

Future courses & possible careers• Accountant• Engineer• Research Scientist• Attorney


Mathematics Applications and Interpretation has an emphasis on applications of mathematics and statistical techniques. It is designed for students with varied mathematical backgrounds and abilities. It prepares students to be able to solve problems in a variety of settings, to develop more sophisticated mathematicalreasoning and to enhance their critical thinking.

Course Outline

• Topic 1: Algebra• Topic 2: Functions• Topic 3: Geometry & Trigonometry• Topic 4: Statistics & Probability• Topic 5: Calculus

ProjectThe project is an individual piece of work involving the collection of information or the generation of measurements, and the analysis and evaluation of the information or measurements.


This quali� cation is made up of 80% external assessment split between two equal weighted exam papers (both require a graphical calculator) and 20% internally assessed project.


A Level Photography


Entry Requirements • 5 GCSEs 9-4 grades including

English• Grade 4 in Art or Graphics

preferred

Future courses & possible careers• Photographer• Journalist• Teacher• Visual Artist• Curator• Advertiser• Film/ TV editor


A Level Photography will give you the opportunity to be creative and expressive. You will learn the technical aspects of photography, as well as how to create sophisticated pieces. It would be an advantage to have a digital SLR camera at the beginning of the course. This is a two year A Level Course.

Course Outline


Year 2• Personal Investigation• Externally Set Assignment


Students are expected to be self-directed and to develop their own theme to explore. Through their coursework they will further develop and improve their practical skills in relation to their chosen area of study. They will develop their drawing, painting and 3D skills, experimenting with media and exploring a range of Photography contexts and aspects of street, studio and issue based Photography.

Alongside the critical research they do, students will write an extended essay of 3000 words which link to the student’s own practical investigations. This is marked separately. This is the coursework unit. For A2 there is a timed public examination of 15 hours with a question set by Edexcel. Students are expected to have developed con� dence and a sophisticated approach to their work and to be independent learners keen to achieve their best.

IB Physics Level 3


Entry Requirements • 5 GCSEs 9-4 grades• Grade 6 in Mathematics• Grade 6-6+ in Combined Science

or 6+ in Physics

Future courses & possible careers• Physicist• Engineer• Doctor• Teacher


Physics is the most fundamental of the experimental sciences, as it seeks to explain the universe itself from the very smallest particles – currently accepted as quarks, which may be truly fundamental – to the vast distances between galaxies.

Despite the exciting and extraordinary development of ideas throughout the history of physics, certain aspects have remained unchanged. Observations remain essential to the very core of physics, sometimes requiring a leap of imagination to decide what to look for. Models are developed to try to understand observations, and these themselves can become theories that attempt to explain the observations.

Course Outline

Core1. Measurements and uncertainties2. Mechanics3. Thermal physics4. Waves5. Electricity and magnetism6. Circular motion and gravitation7. Atomic, nuclear and particle

physics8. Energy production

Additional higher level (AHL)9. Wave phenomena10. Fields11. Electromagnetic induction12. Quantum and nuclear physics



Paper 1 20 1

Paper 2 36 2 1/4

Paper 3 24 1 1/4



A Level Product Design

Contact: [email protected] of Learning – Design & Technology

Entry Requirements • 5 GCSEs 9-4 grades• Grade 6 in Mathematics• Grade 6 or higher in GCSE D&T,

preferably Product Design

Future courses & possible careers• Product Designer• Architect• Interior Designer• Graphic Designer• Design Consultant• Product Buyer• Set Designer


Product Design is a creative and stimulating subject that encourages students to develop a broad view of design and technology. It enables the ability to design and make products whilst appreciating the complex relationships between design, materials, manufacture, the history of design and the evolution of technology.

Students will need to be creative, inquisitive risk-takers who are able to work independently to achieve best results; they will work closely alongside clients to meet self-generated or given briefs and will develop their communication, analytical and problem solving skills.

Course Outline

Students will cover a wide range of units and by the end of the course will be able to determine, classify and analyse a comprehensive range of materials and components; understand and analyse the necessity of designing for our surroundings, considering the environment, inclusiveness; consumer safety and technological developments and be familiar and con� dent with an array of manufacturing processes and fabrication methods at di� erent scales of production.


Each year you will be examined by a � nal written examination; a design portfolio, supported by a design thinking sketchbook and a practical product.

Year 1• DT 1: Examination, 2-hour paper.• DT 2: Design and Make Task

Year 2• DT 3: Examination, 2.5-hour paper.• DT 4: Major Project

IB Diploma Psychology Level 3



Literature• Grade 6 in Biology or 6-6 in

Combined Science

Future courses & possible careers• Psychologist• Child Psychologist• Doctor• Mental Health Worker• Social Worker• Teacher


Psychology is the systematic study of behaviour and mental processes Psychology has its roots in both the natural and social sciences, leading to a variety of research designs and applications, and providing a unique approach to understanding modern society.

IB psychology examines the interaction of biological, cognitive and socioculturalin� uences on human behaviour, thereby adopting an integrative approach.

Course Outline

Part 1: Core• The biological level of analysis• The cognitive level of analysis• The sociocultural level of analysis

Part 2: Options• Abnormal psychology• Developmental psychology• Health psychology• Psychology of human relationships• Sport psychology

Part 3: Qualitative research methodology• Qualitative research in psychology

Part 4: Simple experimental study (SL/HL)• Introduction to experimental research methodology


You will be examined by � nal written examinations (80%) and internally assessed in producing a report of a simple experimental study you have conducted (20%).


IB Diploma Social and CulturalAnthropology Level 3



Literature• Preferably Grade 6 in a related

Humanities subject

Future courses & possible careers• Historian• Museum Curator• Politician• Lawyer• Solicitor• Teacher• Senior Business Leader


Social and cultural anthropology is the comparative study of culture and human societies. Anthropologists seek an understanding of humankind in all its diversity. This understanding is reached through the study of societies and cultures and the exploration of the general principles of social and cultural life. Social and cultural anthropology places special emphasis on comparative perspectives that challenge cultural assumptions.

Topics of anthropological inquiry include social change, kinship, symbolism, exchange, belief systems, ethnicity and power relations. Social and cultural anthropology examines urban as well as rural society and modern nation states.

Anthropology contributes to an understanding of contemporary issues such as war and con� ict, the environment, poverty, injustice, inequality, and human and cultural rights.

Course Outline

• What is anthropology?• Theoretical perspectives in anthropology• Fieldwork


There are three examination papers contributing to 75% of the marks. The internally assessed � eldwork component, worth 25% of the � nal mark, enables students to gain personal experience of anthropological � eldwork and the methodology used.

A Level Textiles

Contact: [email protected] of Design and Technology

Entry Requirements • 5+ GCSEs 9-4 grades• Grade 5 in Textiles or a related

Art/Design subject

Future courses & possible careers• Designer• Fashion Designer• Teacher• Print Designer• Interior Designer• Graphic Designer


A Level Textiles extends the skills acquired at both GCSE Textiles or GCSE Art and Design and encourages a more adventurous and thorough exploration of textile techniques and concepts. Students will be required to express their ideas and interests through a Textile portfolio, exploring di� erent techniques, such as embellishment, printing and stitching skills as well as presenting and recording their ideas through drawing and samples in order to determine their own manufacture.

The course o� ers the ability to study a more hands-on subject with a practical examination for both Unit 2 and 4. This is a quali� cation for students wishing to further their design career supporting both foundation and degree subjects.

Course Outline

Students will have an awareness of the elements of textile design, including shape, texture, colour and pattern; an awareness of the intended audience; appreciate the relationship of form and function; understand a variety of textile methods and will respond to concepts.


You will be examined by practical portfolio, personal investigation as well as two practical examinations.

Year 1• Unit 1: Coursework Portfolio• Unit 2: Externally Set Assignment

Year 2• Unit 3: Personal Investigation• Unit 4: Externally Set Assignment


BTEC National Applied Science(Single - Extended Certi� cate)


Entry Requirements • 5+ GCSEs 9-4 grades• Grade 5 in Mathematics• Minimum Grade 5-5 in

Combined Science or Minimum Grade 5 in Separate Science

Future courses & possible careers• Microbiologist• Nature Conservation O� cer• Research Scientist• Environmental O� cer


Designed for learners who are interested in learning about the sector alongside other � elds of study, with a view to progressing to a wide range of higher education courses, not necessarily in applied science. To be taken as part of a programme of study that includes other appropriate BTEC Nationals or A Levels.

Course Outline

• Principles and Applications of Science• Practical Scienti� c Procedures and Techniques• Science Investigation Skills• Topic 4: Able to select one from a range of 8 units


Unit one is examined through a one and a half hour written exam. Unit 2 is assessed internally through practical assessments. All optional units are assessed internally through the completion of assignments.

BTEC Business(Single - Extended Certi� cate)


Entry Requirements • 5+ GCSEs 9-4 grades• Grade 4 in English Language

and Mathematics

Future courses & possible careers• Business Management• Accounting• Finance• Retail management• Banking• Project Management


BTEC Nationals use a combination of assessment styles to give you the con� dence you can apply your knowledge to succeed in the workplace – and have the study skills to continue learning on higher education courses and throughout their career.

With input from over 5,000 teachers, employers and higher education institutions, this new BTEC National in Business combines up-to-date industry knowledge with the right balance of the practical, research and behavioural skills you need to succeed in higher education and in your careers.

Course Outline

Extended Certi� cate (Single)• Exploring Business• Developing a Marketing Campaign• Personal and Business Finance• 1 Optional unit


The Extended Certi� cate (Single) has one unit which is assessed by a written external examination, with the remaining units being assessed using internally or externally set coursework style tasks.


BTEC Computing(Extended Certi� cate)

Contact: [email protected] of Learning – ICT

Entry Requirements • 5+ GCSEs 9-4 grades• Grade 4 in English Language or• Literature, Mathematics and a

Science-related subject• Grade 5 in Computing or

Computer Science

Future courses & possible careers• Software Designer• Controller• Computer Game Designer• Teacher


The BTEC National Extended Certi� cate is a practical, work-related course. Students will develop computational thinking skills to e� ectively analyse a problem, break it down into its component parts and design and evaluate solutions. Students learn by carrying out external examination and assignments that are based on realistic workplace situations, activities and demands.

Students focus on a particular subject area and develop a range of specialist skills and knowledge. The course also bene� ts from a � exible unit structure which matches content to students’ interests. Possible optional units include Digital Graphics animation, mobile apps development and computer games development.

Course Outline

Year 1• Unit 1: Principles of Computer Science• Unit 2: Fundamentals of Computer Systems

Year 2• Unit 7: IT systems Security and Encryption• Unit 15: Website Development


Two units are assessed by examination and other units are assessed by reference to achieving speci� ed learning outcomes.

BTEC Creative Digital Media Production(Single)

Contact: [email protected] of Learning – Media and Film


Literature• Grade 4 in GCSE IT• Demonstratable passion for

creativity

Future courses & possible careers• Screenplay Writer• Novelist• Director• Producer


Creative Media explores how old and new media shapes workand how it is used in the real world. The course focuses on pre-production techniques such as storyboarding and planning, production methods including camerawork or sound and delves into post-production processes that include editing and special e� ects.

Course Outline

Units include:• Pre-production techniques• Communication skills• Research techniques• Drawn design• Media Theory• Computer based production


You will be assessed solely on the creation of a portfolio of evidence that shows your engagement with a range of media production techniques used in the industry. In addition, you will complete speci� c units based around selected areas of the media from television, advertising, print and sound.


BTEC Engineering(Single - Extended Certi� cate)

Contact: [email protected] of Learning – Design & Technology

Entry Requirements • 5+ GCSEs 9-4 grades• Grade 5 or above in

Mathematics and Science• Merit or above in BTEC Level 2

Engineering

Future courses & possible careers• Engineer• Designer• Teacher


Students will study four units to provide them with the practical skills and theoretical principles that are essential for a successful future career in the Engineering sector.

All units are set around a vocational context and are delivered through hands on practical application. Students will have access to a fully equipped workshop with up-to-date technologies and advice from specialist technicians.

Students are required to provide clear and accurate evidence of their learning for all units and are encouraged to use their own learning styles to produce this evidence using a range of media.

Course Outline

Year 1• Unit 1: Engineering Principles, Written Exam Externally Assessed• Unit 2: Delivery of Engineering Processes Safely as a Team, Internally

Assessed

Year 2• Unit 3: Engineering Product Design and Manufacture, Externally Assessed 8

Hour Controlled Assessment.• Unit 10: Computer Aided Design for Engineers


The course contains a written exam, an externally assessed unit and 2 internally assessed units. All assessment requirements will be shared at the beginning of each unit so that expectations are clear.

BTEC Health and Social Care(Single – Extended Certi� cate)



Literature, Mathematics and a Science-related subject

Future courses & possible careers• Nurse• Community Therapist• Midwife• Social worker• Primary School Teacher


BTEC Level 3 Extended Certi� cate in Health and Social Care will give students the opportunity to become occupationally ready to take up employment in the health and social care sector at the appropriate level. This can follow either directly after achieving the quali� cation, or via the stepping-stone of Higher Education (HE) in University or college.

Course Outline

Year 1• Unit 1: Human Lifespan Development• Unit 5: Meeting Individual Care and Support Needs

Year 2• Unit 2: Working in Health and Social Care• Optional Unit: based on class interest


Two of the Units are coursework (Unit 5 and the Optional unit) with two being exam based (Units 1 and2).


BTEC Information Technology (Single)

Contact: [email protected] of Learning – ICT


Literature, Mathematics and ICT

Future courses & possible careers• Mathematician• Teacher• Finance Director• Accountant


The BTEC National Extended Certi� cate is a practical, work-related course. Students learn by carrying out two examinations and assignments that are based on realistic workplace situations, activities and demands.

Students focus on a particular subject area and develop a range of specialist skills and knowledge. The course also bene� ts from a � exible unit structure which matches content to students’ interests. Possible optional units include social media in business, data modelling and website development.

Course Outline

Year 1• Unit 1: Information Technology Systems• Unit 2: Creating Systems to manage information

Year 2• Unit 3: Using Social media in Business• Unit 6: Website Development


Two units are assessed by examination and other units are internally assessed by reference to achieving speci� ed learning outcomes.

BTEC Performing Arts Acting (Single)

Contact: [email protected] of Learning – Drama

Entry Requirements • 5+ GCSEs 9-4 grades• Grade 4 in GCSE Performing Arts

Future courses & possible careers• Actor• Theatre Practitioner• Scriptwriter


A dynamic and diverse course centered on creativity. Through specialist workshops you will have the opportunity to explore a wide range of practitioners, styles, techniques, and skills; developing your knowledge and craft as an actor, theatre practitioner, scriptwriter, and director.

Working with highly-trained sta� , both of whom have professionally trained and worked in the acting profession., you will also have access to workshops and projects with industry professionals.

Course Outline

Year 1• Unit 1: Investigating Practitioners• Unit 2: Developing Skills for Performance• Unit 3: Group Performance

Year 2• Unit 1: Investigating Practitioners• Unit 19: Acting Styles• Unit 3: Group Performance


Two units are internally assessed by reference to achieving speci� ed learning outcomes.Two units are externally assessed by Edexcel moderators.


BTEC National Extended Certi� catein Sport

Contact: [email protected] of Learning – Physical Education


Literature• Grade 4 in a Science related

subject• Grade 5 in Physical Education• Grade 5 in the PE written

examination

Future courses & possible careers• Sports Coach• PE Teacher• Sports Therapist• Performance Analysis• Nutritionist• Physiotherapist


BTEC Sport will provide a coherent introduction to study of the sport sector, as part of a two-year programme.

In units assessed by assignments, we will create an assignment brief for students to carry out set tasks and create evidence to work-related scenarios. Assignments can include research, projects, investigations, � eldwork, and experiments, and often link theory with practical exercises.

Course Outline

Mandatory Units:• Anatomy & Physiology (written exam, externally marked must be passed,

1 hour 30 minute exam that will contain a mix of short and long answer questions)

• Fitness Training & Programming for Health, Sport & Well-being (synoptic task unit externally marked & unit must be passed)

• Professional Development in the Sports Industry (internal assignment internally marked, must be passed)

+ Optional unit at the teacher’s discretion


Externally marked unitsEach external assessment for a BTEC National is linked to a speci� c unit. All of the units developed for external assessment are to allow students to demonstrate breadth and depth of achievement. Each assessment is taken under speci� ed conditions, then marked by Pearson and a grade awarded. Students must achieve all external units at pass grade or above. You are permitted to resit any external assessment only once during the programme.

Internally assessed unitsMost units in the sector are internally assessed and subject to external standards veri� cation. This means that we set and assess the assignments that provide the � nal summative assessment of each unit.

The synoptic assessment requires students to demonstrate that they can identify and use e� ectively, in an integrated way, an appropriate selection of skills, techniques, concepts, theories and knowledge from across the whole sector as relevant to a key task. BTEC learning has always encouraged students to apply their knowledge in realistic contexts using scenarios and activities that will permit them to draw on and apply their learning to a variety of di� erent sporting situations.

Financial Studies(LIBF Certi� cate and Diploma)


Entry Requirements • 5+ GCSEs 9-4 grades• Grade 4 in Mathematics• Grade 4 in English

Future courses & possible careers• Finance• Business• Accountancy• Retail• Banking• Administration


This course aims to help young people make informed and con� dent decisions about their � nances. In year 1, students will gain knowledge about the concept of “money”, develop understanding of the typical � nancial needs and the range of services available.

Additionally, students will be able to gain an awareness of risk and reward and the overall scope of the � nancial services industry. In year 2 students then apply this to a broader � nancial environment. In depth studies into various � nancial products extends students’ awareness of the � nancial environment in which they live.

Course Outline

LIBF Certi� cate (CertFS / Year 1)• Financial Needs• Financial Service Products• Awareness and Appreciation of Risk and Reward• Role of Financial Services Industry

Diploma (DipFS / Year 2)• Personal Financial Planning• Financial Service Providers• Current Accounts, Credit Cards, Loans, Stocks and Shares• Insurance products and pensions


Multiple choice online tests and written examination for each unit.


Dartford Football Academy

Contact: [email protected]

Entry Requirements • 5+ GCSEs 9-4 grades• Su� cient grades to access 3

subjects• Successful football trial at

Dartford FC

Future courses & possible careers• Professional footballer• Football coach• Football Development• O� cer

A unique opportunity to...

• Be part of the successful Post-16 community at The Leigh Academy• Study THREE A Level, IB Diplomas or BTEC courses• Be supported to apply for university, higher apprenticeships or employment• Participate in regular after school football training• Receive coaching from highly quali� ed FA coaches• Represent Dartford Football Academy in leagues between Youth Conference

Alliance and the new SCL League• Progress to the First Team or higher

The Leigh Academy and Dartford Football Clubhave created a new and exciting opportunity for male students who wish to develop

their football skills alongside a challenging academic programme in Post 16.


Contact: [email protected] of Post-16 and IB Coordinator

Your pathways

The Academic Pathway

A combination of A Levels and/or IB Diploma courses.

The Vocational Pathway

A combination of vocational quali� cations, such as BTECs

Mixed Academic and Vocational Pathway

A combination of A Levels, IB Diploma courses and vocational quali� cations.

The International Baccalaureate Career-related Programme (IBCP) Pathway

A suite of one double or two single vocational quali� cations, two IB Diploma courses and a Core Programme of Personal and Professional Skills, Language Development, Service Learning and a Re� ective Project.

Dartford Football Club Academy Pathway

Any combination of three A levels, IB Diploma courses and/or vocational quali� cations, plus participation in Dartford Football Club Academy.

This Pathway will equip you for Higher Level Apprenticeships, employment or university study at undergraduate level. The IBCP Pathway is an outstanding opportunity to:

• Study an internationally-recognised suite of quali� cations

• Earn more UCAS points than your peers, so that you have access to a greater variety of courses atuniversity

• Receive a bespoke core programme, designed to equip you with personal and professional skills that will make you ready to ‘hit the ground running’ in either the workplace or university

To join the IBCP Pathway, you must choose one of these combinations of subjects:• The equivalent to two vocational quali� cations (either

two single quali� cations or one double) + two IB Diploma courses + the Core Programme

• One vocational quali� cation + two IB Diploma courses + one A level course + the Core Programme

Entry requirements

• 5+ GCSEs 9-4 grades• Su� cient grades to access 4 subjects

The International Baccalaureate Career-related Programme (IBCP) Pathway

Suite Block A Block B Block C Block D

Business Business Management (IB) Financial Studies (LIBF) Business (BTEC)

Creative Film (IB) Creative Digital MediaProduction (BTEC)

Performing Arts (Acting) (BTEC)

English Language andLiterature (IB)English Literature (A Level)

IT IT Single (BTEC) Computing (BTEC)

Visual Arts Graphic Communications (A Level)

Textiles (A Level) Photography (A Level) Fine Art (A Level)

Design Graphic Communications (A Level)Product Design (A Level)

Mathematics (A Level)Mathematics Applications& Interpretations (IB)

Physics (IB) Engineering (BTEC)

Global French (A Level) Geography (IB)History (A Level)

Social & CulturalAnthropology (IB)

Global Politics (IB)

Sciences Psychology (IB)Health & Social Care Sin-gle (BTEC)

Mathematics (A Level)Mathematics Applications& Interpretations (IB)

Sport (BTEC)Physics (IB)

Chemistry (IB)Applied Science (BTEC)

We are exceptionally proud of our curriculum o� er. You have the choice of 30 courses and you can choose 3 subjects, each from a di� erent block and can mix A Levels, IB Diplomas and BTEC courses. Students choosing the IBCP Pathway must choose four subjects: two IB Diplomas, one BTEC or LIBF course and either an A Level or another BTEC/LIBF course.

Curriculum O� er 2020/21

AL = A Level (two year course) IB = IB Diploma (two year course) BTEC = Vocational (two year course)

the leigh academyleighacademy.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2019/12/the-leigh-academy-post... ·...

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