Secondary Curriculum
Introduction
The pupils who attend Foundry College display a wide range of social, emotional and mental health needs which, by their very nature, can affect their progress. The college therefore provides a flexible academic curriculum that addresses all areas of pupil needs and supports the holistic ‘hidden curriculum’ of Foundry Curriculum. All pupils study English and Maths. In addition, pupils select other available options in response to their specific interests.
The academic curriculum at Foundry College intends to promote learning and personal growth. It includes not only the formal requirements, but also a range of vocational opportunities, work experience placements and cultural activities that the College organises These activities take place both onsite and with outside agencies, in order to enrich the experience and address the challenges faced by the pupils. We aim to teach the pupils at Foundry College positive, responsible attitudes developing knowledge and skills, including social and basic life skills, so that they may become contributory members of the extended community.
Organisation and Planning
Subject plans address aims and objectives, with particular consideration of the requirements of young people with social, emotional and mental health needs in a diverse society. Long term and medium term plans are reviewed regularly in line with current curriculum changes and the changing needs of the college population.
Qualifications on offer 2023-2024
| Subject | Exam Board | Qualification |
|---|---|---|
| Functional Skills English | Edexcel | Entry Level, Level 1 & 2 |
| Step up to English (Entry Level Certificates) | AQA | Level 1, 2 & 3 |
| English Language | Cambridge | GCSE & IGCSE |
| English Literature | Edexcel | GCSE |
| Functional Skills Maths | Edexcel | Entry Level, Level 1 & 2 |
| Maths Entry Level Certificates | AQA | |
| Maths | Edexcel | GCSE & IGCSE |
| Core Science Trilogy Triple Science | AQA | GCSE |
| Biology / Human Biology | AQA/ Edexcel/Pearson | GCSE/IGCSE |
| Chemistry | AQA | GCSE |
| Physics | AQA | GCSE |
| Science – Unit Awards | AQA | Entry Level, Level 1 |
| History | Edexcel | GCSE |
| History – Unit Awards | AQA | Level 1 |
| Geography | AQA | GCSE |
| Food & Cookery | NCFE | Level 1 & 2 |
| Religious Education | Educas | GCSE |
| PSHCE – AQA unit Awards | AQA | Entry Level, Level 1 & 2 |
| Sport | AQA | Level 1 & 2 |
| Award in Exercise Studies | NCFE | Level 1 |
| Drama | AQA | GCSE |
| Occupational Studies in the Workplace | NCFE | Level 1 & 2 |
| Vehicle Maintenance and Repair Diploma | CITY & GUILDS | Level 1 & 2 |
| Creative Craft | NCFE | Level 1 & 2 |
| Photography | AQA |
Vocational Studies
ART & CRAFT – YOUR CREATIVE JOURNEY COULD RE-IGNITE HERE!
Art & Craft students have flexibility and freedom for personal expression. Mistakes are embraced, personalities celebrated. Being creative rests the mind, promoting better mental and physical health. There is much to be said for taking time out to scribble a simple doodle, or to dip one’s hands into cold soft clay. You can find out which AQA Awards are available here.
PE
At Foundry College the pupils who attend have the opportunity to access a range of different academic PE courses – the majority of pupils will follow the NCFE level course so that they leave Foundry College with a recognised qualification in PE. Those pupils who arrive at Foundry College who have already been following a specific exam board or qualification are able to continue their studies to give them the best chance to achieve their intended outcomes.
FOOD & COOKERY
Our school is committed to providing a well-rounded education that includes practical skills, and the NCFE and AQA unit award qualifications in food and cookery are an integral part of our vocational curriculum.
These qualifications are designed to provide students with the knowledge, understanding, and skills required for success in a range of food preparation and cooking roles. It covers a wide range of topics including food safety and hygiene, cooking methods, culinary techniques and menu planning. Students will have the opportunity to develop their practical skills in food preparation and cooking, as well as their understanding of the principles of nutrition and healthy eating.
OCCUPATIONAL STUDIES
Occupational Studies for the Workplace is tailor-made for young people interested in exploring the idea of a vocational career. It provides the opportunity for pupils to gain experience and build practical skills in a wide range of occupational areas. The course of study is particularly well suited to those pupils who are less interested in an academic path and can lead to Level 1 or Level 2 qualifications from NCFE and AQA at the end of Year 11. As a result of the many successes we have seen, we have invested heavily in this area of the curriculum over recent years. We now have a dedicated classroom and large purpose-built workshop appointed with industry quality tools and equipment. During their time with us, pupils build a highly visual portfolio tracking their skill development over time which can be used to support them with their onward journey after they leave us.
The range of subjects that can be included is very large and includes many aspects of construction such as Plumbing, Woodworking, Plastering and Bricklaying. A range of Horticulture based units are also available as are units with a focus on physical fitness, catering, health & beauty and furniture making, options which are generally not available in mainstream schools. At Foundry College we will always try to adapt and develop the course to meet the individual interests, needs and abilities of all our pupils. This approach means that pupils who have struggled to engage in mainstream school can often start rebuilding healthy working relationships with teaching professionals and can begin to find a renewed meaning and purpose to their education and a sense of direction for the future.