Why is it important to study Computer Science?

Studying Computer Science is crucial as it provides you with the knowledge and skills needed to navigate and contribute to our increasingly digital world. It empowers you to be both creative and analytical, developing solutions to complex problems and innovating new technologies. This subject helps you develop an awareness of the opportunities and risks of new technologies, ensuring you are well-prepared for future advancements.

Our Computer Science curriculum ensures students receive a comprehensive, coherent, and rigorous education. This prepares students for further study, apprenticeships, or employment, helping them make informed decisions about their future in a tech-driven world.

What are the skills and knowledge you will learn in Computer Science?

In Computer Science, you will develop essential skills and knowledge that will enable you to thrive in a technical and creative environment. You will learn about hardware, software, and programming, gaining insights into how these elements interact to create the technology we use every day. The course covers computational thinking, problem-solving, system design and ethics, providing a strong foundation in both theoretical and practical aspects of the subject.

You will also develop practical skills through regular projects that apply academic principles to real-world systems. These projects will enhance your ability to create digital solutions, manage projects, and understand the implications of living in a digital world.

What are the pathways and opportunities that studying Computer Science will open both at school and beyond?

Studying Computer Science opens a wide range of pathways and opportunities in both academic and professional settings. At school, it prepares students for further studies at A-Level and beyond, including university courses in computer science, cyber security, software engineering, and data science.

Professionally, a qualification in Computer Science is beneficial for careers in various sectors, such as web or mobile app development, graphic design, game design, data science, software engineering, IT management, IT support, and robotics engineering. The evolving tech industry offers diverse and dynamic career opportunities for those equipped with technical skills and a deep understanding of technological systems.

Students will develop skills that are highly valued in any career path, including critical thinking, problem-solving, project management, and digital literacy.

Why is it important to study DESIGN & TECHNOLOGY?

Design and technology is an inspiring, rigorous and problem solving subject. Using creativity and imagination, pupils design and make products that solve real and relevant problems within a variety of contexts, considering their own and others’ needs, wants and values. They acquire a broad range of subject knowledge and draw on disciplines such as mathematics, science, engineering, computing and art.

Pupils learn how to take risks, becoming resourceful, innovative, enterprising and capable citizens. Through the evaluation of past and present design and technology, they develop a critical understanding of its impact on daily life and the wider world.

What are the skills and knowledge you will learn in DESIGN & TECHNOLOGY?

At Park House School, students of Design and Technology will improve their problem solving, investigation, design and practical skills. They will engage with a variety of contexts/problems, improving their skills and, where relevant, producing outcomes using a range of different materials.

In KS3, pupils will learn about timber, polymers, papers and boards and electronic systems, and CAD CAM, with 2 lessons per two week period for the whole of the academic year.

At KS4, if D&T is chosen as an option subject, these skills will develop further and also expand to cover metals. If chosen for A Level at KS5, the quality and independence using materials, machinery and equipment will be further improved, leading to the development of independent design practitioners who can work successfully with Stakeholders.

Consequently, Design and Technology is unique amongst subjects as it teaches practical skills alongside critical thinking and problem solving, alongside creativity, a sense of aesthetics and use of the student’s imagination.

What are the pathways and opportunities that studying DESIGN & TECHNOLOGY will open both at school and beyond?

Students will have the opportunity to work in teams to enter competitions such as the Design 4 SDGs and RSA Pupil Design Awards, and may have the opportunity to create scenery for school productions or produce outcomes that enhance the school environment. There may also be trips to Teentech and Product Design in Action.

Post -16 or -19 opportunities could be apprenticeships within the field of design or engineering e.g AWE, or local design companies, or onto higher education NVQs in Craft, Creative Arts or Design or degree level study in Graphic Design, Product Design, Illustration, Product Engineering, Materials Engineering, Games and Digital Design, Architecture, etc.

Where can studying D&T take you?

Why is it important to study Dance?

Dance is a powerful and expressive subject which encourages students to develop their creative, physical, emotional and intellectual capacity, whatever their previous experience in the subject. Dance is an exhilarating and liberating activity. The instinct to dance is fundamental and joyous. It draws young people together, encourages discipline, fosters creativity and builds team work. Dance has the ability to improve well-being whilst building confidence and self-esteem. It is a subject which promotes self-expression which can enliven your body, spirit and mind. The study of dance will contribute to the wider development of the whole young person by developing imaginative thinking, interpersonal skills, dedication, flair and artistic appreciation. It is a subject which can inspire passion and, in some cases, ultimately change your life.

What are the skills and knowledge you will learn in Dance?

Students who study dance will learn to perform, choreograph and appreciate dance as an art form. They will learn to respond creatively and imaginatively to different stimuli, solve problems, communicate ideas and understand a variety of choreographic devices. They will develop their physical, expressive and technical dance skills whilst working collaboratively with others. They will learn to analyse, evaluate and appreciate professional dance works in a range of styles which will provide a springboard for engaging practical activities. Understanding of health, well-being and safe dance practice will underpin the learning.

What are the pathways and opportunities that studying Dance will open both at school and beyond?

Many young dancers often dream of a performing career in dance but there are a multitude of other careers in which a trained dancer can also succeed.  Opportunities can take place in a range of different environments such as hospitals, arts centres and community centres and are not just restricted to the theatre or stage. Dance at Park House is a stand alone subject in Key Stage 3 with the option to progress through to GCSE and Performing Arts courses in the sixth form. Following this, many students have chosen to audition for a place at a university or a conservatoire to train professionally in dance. Once complete, they will have gained a huge variety of skills and techniques to equip them for a multitude of roles including performance, choreography, teacher, community practitioner, costume/set designer, dance/arts culture manager, specialist dance film maker, educational practitioner, journalist, lecturer, dance photographer, lighting designer and an endless variety of fitness roles.

Why is it important to study Drama?

Studying Drama will allow you to build your confidence, communication skills, creativity and imagination. It will enable you to experience real life scenarios and critically analyse the outcomes. You will also develop an appreciation for performance, the theatre and acting.

What are the skills and knowledge you will learn in Drama?

You will learn about the process of creating drama, interpretation of text through different performance styles, context of a play and the intentions of the playwright. Drama also allows you to develop empathy and understanding by experiencing situations of life within the drama studio.

What are the pathways and opportunities that studying Drama will open both at school and beyond?

Studying Drama at school will allow you the opportunity to be involved in school shows and performances, whether that be as an actor or as a member of the creative team. You can further continue this line of study within the sixth form where courses in performing arts are offered, allowing you to further develop your skills

Drama and Performing Arts can be studied at acting school or university. Studying at this level will allow you to gain access to the wider world of theatre and film and the many other careers relating to the performing arts industry such as a creative designer, director or special effects artist.

Why is it important to study Food Preparation and Nutrition?

Studying Food Preparation and Nutrition is essential for numerous reasons. Firstly, it provides students with fundamental life skills, enabling them to prepare nutritious meals that promote health and well-being. Understanding food preparation techniques and food science ensures safe and hygienic cooking practices, minimising the risk of foodborne disease and illnesses.

Knowledge of nutrition and ingredient use helps in making informed dietary choices, facilitating a balanced diet that supports overall physical and mental health. Moreover, studying this subject encourages creativity in meal planning, accommodating diverse dietary needs and preferences while optimising ingredient utilisation. Ultimately, Food Preparation and Nutrition at Park House School empowers students to lead healthier lifestyles and significantly enhances their overall quality of life.

What are the skills and knowledge you will learn in Food Preparation and Nutrition?

In Food Preparation and Nutrition, you'll learn essential cooking techniques like baking, roasting, sautéing, and steaming. It's crucial to understand food safety and hygiene for safe handling and preventing cross-contamination. You'll gain knowledge in nutrition to create balanced meals based on dietary guidelines and preferences. Meal planning skills will help you prepare nutritious dishes effectively. Understanding ingredients and their roles in cooking, along with exploring food science, enhances your culinary abilities. Overall, the subject of Food Preparation and Nutrition empowers you to make healthy food choices, fosters creativity in the kitchen, and promotes overall well-being.

What are the pathways and opportunities that studying Food Preparation and Nutrition will open both at school and beyond?

Studying Food Preparation and Nutrition offers many opportunities both in school and beyond. It teaches essential cooking skills that are important for careers in food service and daily cooking. Learning about food safety ensures safe handling and hygiene, crucial for roles in hospitality and catering.

Understanding nutrition helps create balanced meals, useful for careers in nutrition counselling and dietetics. It also provides a foundation for further education in fields like culinary arts and hospitality management. Beyond academics, it opens doors to starting food-related businesses and community nutrition programs.

Personally, it fosters cultural appreciation through diverse cuisines and promotes healthier lifestyles. Whether pursuing a career or improving personal skills, studying Food Preparation and Nutrition offers practical knowledge for various paths in life.

Why is it important to study Geography?

The Geography curriculum in both KS3 and 4 aims to develop pupils so that they become inquisitive and confident learners. It will foster an understanding of students’ roles within society, on a local, regional, national and global scale and the impact they as individuals have upon the environment. We aim to promote an understanding of the opportunities and challenges that people have in relation to their social, economic and environmental impacts. The curriculum will nurture the skills needed in evaluation to develop reasoning for sustainable management strategies which can be used to adapt and mitigate to the challenges our world faces in the future.

What are the skills and knowledge you will learn in Geography?

Geography is unique as it offers opportunities to conduct fieldwork investigations in and around the local area. This will develop skills in areas such as:

• Data Collection, presentation and analysis
• Research
• Statistical analysis
• Group work skills
• Evaluation
• Map reading.

In addition to this, the course will also develop the following skills:

• Thinking skills
• Extended writing
• Information Communication Technology
• Decision making
• Global perspectives.

In KS3:

We endeavour to develop an understanding of what Geography is, as some pupils start KS3 unaware they have actually studied Geography. This will give pupils the opportunity for deeper thinking around concepts which will be accessed at GCSE. We have created activities throughout all topics so pupils understand and create links between their work, which helps to build the skills needed to be a sound Geographer and make GCSE more accessible (these include fieldwork; data collection, OS map, comparison, evaluation and statistics). Students are given the opportunity to practice fieldwork including data collection, presentation, analysis, evaluation. Geographical terminology  is key throughout our whole curriculum and embedded in extended writing, retrieval quizzes and deliberate practice. Which helps students practice exam techniques with questions structured similar to GCSE.

In KS4:

At Key Stage 4 you will study a variety of different topic areas in depth. You will develop skills in research, debate and engaging with ideas and arguments critically. You will learn how to become an independent learner who can produce extended pieces of writing, and speak about a range of different topics, both accurately and confidently.

We further extend opportunities for complex thinking through questioning at a higher level and develop the understanding of key concepts across the all topics of the GCSE AQA Geography curriculum. Students will continue to develop Geographical terminology used and further improve their confidence in answering exam questions. There are multiple opportunities for greater understanding of planning and undertaking fieldwork activities and applying these to both physical and human geography. Students are encouraged to develop key skills needed at GCSE level including map skills, presenting data with graphs, interpreting data and GIS.

What are the pathways and opportunities that studying Geography will open both at school and beyond?

Geography offers opportunities for many career paths and as a “facilitating subject” as defined by the leading Russell Group of universities is well regarded by institutions of higher education and employers. Careers for geographers split into the following broad groups:

leisure & culture; travel; environment & sustainability; the business world;
development & global issues; settlement & planning (e.g. housing manager, town planner); social occupations (e.g. teacher, HR, market research); physical systems (e.g. hydrologist) and occupations based on geographical techniques (e.g. cartography, developing GIS).

Why is it important to study Health and Social Care?

Health and Social Care is vital to our society. Approximately, 3 million people are employed in the Health and Social Care sector in the UK. Care, in whatever form it takes, is critical for our physical and mental well-being. Now, more than ever, we rely on carers to be there in our hour of need, and it is important that these carers perform their duties effectively. Health and Social Care encompasses many facets, including a holistic approach to both our bodies and minds, ensuring comprehensive well-being.

In the Health and Social Care department, we aim to provide students with the knowledge, skills, and interdependence required to work in this industry. Real-life scenarios and case studies are integral to both KS4 and KS5 courses, helping students develop resilience, empathy, and the ability to apply theory to context. This prepares students for life beyond school, both academically and emotionally.

What are the skills and knowledge you will learn in Health and Social Care?

The Curriculum Purpose of Health and Social Care is to develop students’ knowledge and understanding of a wide range of opportunities within the field, whilst preparing students for the world of work. It is a vocational qualification which takes an engaging, practical and inspiring approach to learning and assessment.  The curriculum challenges students to work independently (through assessment-based tasks) and collaboratively and empowers every student to develop a curiosity and a desire for knowledge.

When studying Health and Social Care, students will develop a range of skills and knowledge that are essential for working in the care sector.

At KS4, students develop an understanding of physical, intellectual, emotional, and social development throughout various life stages. They learn how life events can impact individuals and develop compassion and skills to provide physical, emotional, and social support. The curriculum covers health and social care values, enabling students to understand their impact on service users.
At KS5, students build on their knowledge from KS4, although new students can also join the course. They study patterns of human growth, focusing on environmental, social, and financial factors. Students develop skills in analysing theorists and understanding their impact on the industry. They explore current legislation and initiatives affecting the health and social care sector, providing insights into careers such as social work and nursing. Students create personalised care plans based on their learning, preparing them for professional roles.

What are the pathways and opportunities that studying Health and Social Care will open both at school and beyond?

Studying Health and Social Care opens numerous pathways and opportunities in both academic and professional settings. It prepares them for further studies at A-Level and beyond, including university courses in nursing, social work, healthcare management, and related fields. Apprenticeships are also available from Level 2 through to Level 7 in over 350 different NHS and Social Care careers.

Professionally, a qualification in Health and Social Care is beneficial for careers in education, nursing, dentistry, physical and holistic therapies, and many other roles within the Health and Social Care sector. The skills and knowledge gained from this subject are highly valued and provide a strong foundation for a successful career in caring professions.

Taking Health and Social Care not only equips students with written and communication skills but also focuses on their well-being, building their confidence, self-esteem, and belief in their abilities. By engaging with this comprehensive curriculum, students will be well-prepared and excited to pursue further studies and much demanded careers in the health and social care sector.

Why is it important to study maths?

Firstly, studying maths equips a student with the essential skill of being able to follow a set of instructions or a set method to achieve a correct answer. Secondly, maths contains topics and processes, which, once mastered, can be applied to unfamiliar situations. These mastered skills can be transferred across all subjects; they are to think holistically in order to problem solve. Studying maths helps students build a resilience to approaching challenging problems, a determination to apply knowledge and a confidence manipulating numbers and data in real-life and everyday problems. A basic level of mathematical literacy helps decode the modern world, ensuring students can manage work and social situations involving numbers.

What are the skills and knowledge you will learn in maths?

Learning maths allows students to become numerically literate, able to manipulate numbers confidently and independently. Such skills are essential for life situations involving money, such as tax, NI, loans and mortgages, for example. Maths also encourages students to work methodically, breaking problems and ideas down into manageable problems. The confidence to do this is a transferable skill applied to all aspects of life. Moreover, a confidence with numbers and data allows students to think critically, analysing data and recognising errors. The study of maths also allows its learners to develop their use of technology, as well as their ability to think practically, visually and abstractly. Indeed, the love of learning maths for its abstract concepts must not be underrated. Whilst its practical application and following of methodical processes is undeniable, the enjoyment students get from exploring maths’ abstract ideas must not be ignored. 

What are the pathways & opportunities that studying maths will open, both at school and beyond?

At Park House, we are able to offer a real breadth of optional further study of maths: core maths, A level and further maths A level. We also allow our students the opportunity to improve their own ability or develop their love of the subject through house maths, the extended maths certificate and through extra maths questions on Sparx. As well as the obvious continuation of mathematical study itself at GCSE, A level and further education, there are many other subjects that require a certain level of mathematical competence. Psychology, geography, economics, engineering, medicine, sciences and business would be just a few examples of these. Apprenticeships such as carpentry, electrics, mechanics or plumbing would also be suitable for someone with a mathematical fluency developed from its study at school. Furthermore, numerical literacy is imperative in family life to support other family members with problems at work, with school work or with personal finances.

Why is it important to study Media Studies?

Media Studies is crucial as it acts as a lens through which we can view, question, and challenge the representations and messages communicated through various media products in the fastest-growing industry globally. Media Studies teaches you not to accept ideologies and messages at face value, but to critically evaluate and analyse these ideas by deconstructing media products and applying academic theories.

Media Studies at GCSE level offers students the chance to explore their interest in this subject while achieving excellent academic results. Consistently one of the highest achieving subjects at both KS4 and KS5, the Media Studies team brings specialist knowledge and passion to every lesson, making it one of the most popular option choices at the school.

Our Media Studies curriculum aligns with the government's specification to ensure students receive a broad, coherent, and rigorous course of study. This prepares students to make informed decisions about further study and progression to A Level, employment, apprenticeships, or university.

Given the widespread popularity of social media and online entertainment streaming, skills in this field are increasingly in demand. A GCSE and/or A-LEVEL in Media Studies provides students with an improved potential to secure employment and careers in this ever-developing industry.

What are the skills and knowledge you will learn in Media Studies?

In Media Studies, you will develop essential skills and knowledge that enable you to understand the world around you. You will become a mindful, critical thinker, learning to question and interpret the messages conveyed by the media. The course covers the deconstruction and creation of various media products used for global communication, enhancing your analytical, creative, and technical skills.

You will also develop your practical media skills when creating a media product for the NEA (coursework).

Throughout the course (both GCSE and A-LEVEL), students will develop an understanding and analytical approach to various media forms, including television, radio, music videos, video games, advertising, film, print media, and online and social participatory media. The curriculum encourages critical evaluation skills and personal approaches to a variety of texts. Students will reflect on their own experiences with the media industry and critically consider its role in their lives.

The Media Studies curriculum includes opportunities for cross-curricular links with English language, history, politics, psychology, and sociology. The inclusion of multiple theoretical studies allows students to explore how media texts are purposefully manipulative and the strategies media production teams have refined over the last century. The curriculum is underpinned by engagement with key concepts: industry, audience, language, representation, and the contexts of social, historical, cultural, political, and economic understanding.

In addition to exam requirements, students have the opportunity to work on and produce their own coursework. This allows them to demonstrate creativity, independence, and organisational skills, which are highly valued in both employment and further education. The freedom of personal choice in their coursework design, working to a chosen brief, embodies the intent of the Media Studies course—to encourage passionate, personal interaction with this vast, creative, and constantly evolving industry.

What are the pathways and opportunities that studying Media Studies will open both at school and beyond?

Media Studies opens a wide range of pathways and opportunities in both academic and professional settings. At school, it prepares you for further studies at A Level and beyond, including university courses in media, communication, journalism, and related fields. Professionally, a qualification in Media Studies is beneficial for careers in journalism, film and television production, magazine and newspaper editing, marketing and research, editing and design, social media content creation, public relations, and many more. The evolving media industry offers diverse and dynamic career opportunities for those equipped with media literacy and analytical skills.

By engaging with this diverse curriculum and honing their technical abilities through practical projects, students will be well-prepared and excited to continue their media studies at A Level and beyond. This foundation equips them with the skills and confidence needed for a successful future in the media industry.

Why is it important to study Music?

Studying music in school holds significant importance for various reasons. Firstly, it enhances cognitive development by improving skills like memory, attention, and reasoning, crucial for academic success. Emotionally, it serves as a powerful outlet for self-expression and creativity, allowing students to articulate feelings through music. Culturally, it introduces students to diverse musical traditions, fostering appreciation for different cultures and historical contexts.

Moreover, learning music instills discipline and patience as students practice and master instruments or vocal techniques. It promotes teamwork and collaboration in group settings like bands or choirs, teaching students to work towards common goals and communicate effectively. Performing music builds confidence and self-esteem, as students overcome stage fright and take pride in their musical achievements.

Analysing music also sharpens critical thinking skills, as students dissect compositions to understand their structures and meanings. Importantly, music education cultivates a lifelong love and appreciation for music, offering skills and joys that extend far beyond the school years.

In essence, music education enriches students’ academic, emotional, and social development, making it an integral part of a comprehensive education system.

What are the skills and knowledge you will learn in Music?

Studying music involves acquiring a diverse set of skills and knowledge across several key areas. Firstly, you delve into musical theory, where you grasp fundamental concepts like rhythm, harmony, melody, and musical structure. This also includes learning to read and interpret musical notation. Another crucial aspect is developing proficiency in playing musical instruments, which entails mastering techniques specific to each instrument.

Composition and arrangement are essential components too, allowing you to create original music pieces across different genres. Understanding music history provides context, exploring the evolution of music, major composers, and cultural influences over time.

Performance skills are honed through practice and experience, focusing on stage presence, interpretation, and effective communication of musical expression. Ear training and aural skills development help in identifying musical elements by ear, such as intervals, chords, and rhythms.

Collaboration and ensemble playing teach teamwork and musical interaction within bands, orchestras, or other groups.

What are the pathways and opportunities that studying Music will open both at school and beyond?

Studying music offers a wealth of opportunities both during your academic years and beyond. In school, it can enhance your academic performance, particularly in subjects like math and languages, by fostering creativity and critical thinking through composition, improvisation, and analysis. Participating in musical ensembles or bands also cultivates teamwork, cooperation, and leadership skills, while delving into various musical traditions provides insights into different cultures.

Beyond school, studying music opens doors to diverse career paths. You could pursue music performance professionally, whether as a soloist, in ensembles, or as a session musician. Teaching music at schools, colleges, or privately is another avenue, while careers in music therapy use music to aid healing processes. For those inclined towards creation, opportunities in composition for film, video games, or commercials await. Technical roles in music production, engineering, and audio technology offer paths into the technical aspects of the industry. Arts administration, music journalism, and entrepreneurship in music-related fields are also viable options.

The benefits extend beyond career opportunities. Studying music fosters networking with fellow musicians and industry professionals, while developing valuable life skills such as time management, self-discipline, and resilience. Ultimately, studying music not only enriches your academic experience but also offers personal fulfilment through mastering an instrument or contributing creatively to musical projects.

Why is it important to study MFL (French or Spanish)?

At Park House School we believe that every student should be given the opportunity to study a foreign language of either French or Spanish. We encourage students to explore new languages and cultures with openness, and help them to appreciate the value of understanding and communicating in an additional language. By studying French or Spanish, students will have the opportunity to flourish and enhance many valuable transferable skills such as memory, analytical skills, intercultural awareness, and tolerance. Learning French or Spanish will also improve your grammatical skills in English as well as the foreign language. We want students to not only feel confident, but also to develop a sense of pride in the development of their modern foreign language skills.

What are the skills and knowledge you will learn in MFL (French or Spanish)?

Our MFL curriculum is ambitious and challenging; using three time frames and complex structures from the very beginning. This allows our students to develop strong foundations across listening, speaking, reading and writing skills.

New language is introduced in chunks to enable better retention and faster transferral to long term memory, and grammar is initially taught implicitly so that students recognise patterns, but communication is not hindered. Previously learnt language is constantly recycled and built upon to increase complexity throughout the 5-year curriculum.

In Years 7-9, students learn the foundational target language vocabulary and structures via 6 thematic contexts: My personal world, Lifestyle and wellbeing, My neighbourhood, Media and technology, Studying and my future, Travel and tourism. Each thematic context is repeated every year, with prior learning interleaved throughout and more complex vocabulary and structures built in as students progress through the curriculum.

At GCSE, students study an enriching range of topics within the same 6 thematic contexts, combined with challenging grammatical concepts which require higher-level thinking and well considered responses to help students develop the key skills necessary to continue on to higher education.

What are the pathways and opportunities that studying MFL (French or Spanish) will open both at school and beyond?

Universities and employers highly value linguistic knowledge and tenacity demonstrated via learning other languages, even if it is not the main focus of the course or job. At Park House School, we want you to have high aspirations and learning a language is a vital part of this.

Every student will study either French or Spanish from Year 7 to Year 9. In Year 9, students will be given the option of continuing learning the language up to the GCSE. We also offer and encourage the study of French or Spanish at A-Level.

Studying a language will open doors and be useful if you want to study linguistics, literature, law, medicine and many other jobs such as journalism, international aid and marketing. There are some universities that demand GCSE foreign language skills in order to study their courses.

Why is it important to study PE?

Physical Education develops a broad range of skills with transferable techniques and experiences across a variety of sports and physical activities to inspire lifelong participation. PE also promotes physical, social and mental wellbeing through enjoyment and competition.  

What are the skills and knowledge you will learn in PE?

Through PE you’ll learn to improve and refine physical motor skills, develop technical and tactical knowledge as well as other attributes such as resilience, teamwork, confidence, perseverance, communication and leadership skills.

What are the pathways and opportunities that studying PE will open both at school and beyond?

Within school students are encouraged to participate in our extra-curricular programme that provides a variety of opportunities to train and compete in regular District, County and National competitions. This can lead to external club participation which is supported by school club links.

Students can also volunteer as a sports leader and support local primary school events.

Students are also able to study courses such as GCSE PE and A Level to gain qualifications. These can support apprenticeships, BTEC courses or Higher Education courses such as Sports Science, Physiotherapy, Coaching, Sports Management to name a few. For some students it can also lead to a career as a professional athlete.

Why is it important to study Photography?

Studying photography is important because it teaches us how to capture and express ideas through images. Whether we're using old-fashioned film or digital cameras, learning about settings, lighting, and composition helps us take better pictures. It also improves our ability to understand and analyse photos, which is crucial in today's digital age where images are everywhere.

Learning photography involves both traditional techniques like developing film in a darkroom and modern skills like editing photos in Photoshop. These skills not only let us create beautiful images but also teach us patience, attention to detail, and how to tell stories visually.

Photography isn't just about taking pretty pictures; it's also about documenting cultures, raising awareness of important issues, and communicating messages effectively. By studying photography, we learn how to see the world differently and share our perspectives with others.

What are the skills and knowledge you will learn in Photography?

Photography at Park House School teaches you a variety of skills and knowledge that are essential for capturing and editing images effectively. You begin with learning how to operate cameras, both traditional film and modern digital ones. This includes adjusting settings like aperture and shutter speed to control how light enters the camera and affects your photos. In digital photography, you'll become familiar with editing software like Adobe Photoshop or Lightroom. You will delve into traditional photography and discover darkroom development processes and techniques. This involves developing film and making prints by hand, using chemicals and specialised equipment. It's a hands-on process that teaches patience and precision.

Beyond technical skills, studying photography also develops your eye for composition and lighting. You'll learn how to arrange elements in your photos and use light effectively to create mood and impact. Overall, studying photography at Park House School is not just about taking pictures. It's about mastering technical skills, learning creative techniques, and understanding how to convey messages and emotions through images.

What are the pathways and opportunities that studying Photography will open both at school and beyond?

Studying photography offers many paths and opportunities, both during school from GCSE to A-Level and afterwards. Beyond school, it can lead to degrees in fine arts or media studies, preparing you for careers in vast array of advanced creative and professional roles.

Beyond Park House School, photography opens doors in various fields. These include, Advertising, Fashion, Commercial, Portrait or Fine Art Photography, Photojournalism, Freelancing, Conservation, Development, Gallery or Museum Curation, Travel, Event, Documentary, Wildlife and Nature Photography.

Studying photography equips you with skills for careers in advertising, fashion, art, media, journalism, and entrepreneurship, offering diverse opportunities to showcase your creativity and visual storytelling.

Overview of how PSHE/RE is taught across all areas

For KS3 (Year 7 - 9) they will have PSHE/RE is taught one hour a week per year group.

For KS4 (Year (Year 10 & 11) and KS5 ( Sixth form) this will be taught once every two weeks with assemblies and additional speakers and visits.

Teachers will alternate from PSHE one week to Religious Education the following week.  There will be centralised resources created including separate booklets and lesson presentations to ensure consistency of content and delivery.  Students will progress from one topic to the next completing a booklet.  Retrieval quizzes are used at the start of each lesson to recall key content.  Use of discussion and turn and talk help students ask and answer questions and any misunderstandings be resolved. Core themes are repeated across the different years and key stages as lessons become more detailed and age appropriate.  

PSHE themes are also taught within other areas of the school and other touchpoints including assemblies, TTRP (tutor time reading) where themes are explored within different fictional books they are reading and tutors will discuss key vocabulary.  Key themes may also be displayed on notice boards, TV screens around school, included in roll call messages. PSHE is taught by teachers but it is also something that non-teaching staff are made aware of with the PSHE/RE curriculum map so they can support with any pastoral trends that occur. We also are keen to invite external visitors (e.g. Police, drama groups) to emphasise key messages.  We also look to bring topics to life and build opportunities for trips to key destinations, e.g. churches.  Finally, where there is a key requirement to adapt or emphasise topics PSHE/RE we will send letters home to parents about trends or concerns in student behaviour or external risks in local community.  (e.g. county lines).

Why is it important to study Psychology?

Psychology allows us to discover 'why we do what we do'. Studying Psychology helps us to understand human mind and behaviour - both of others and ourselves. It develops a range of valuable skills, including critical analysis, independent thinking and gathering research which supplements many other subjects within our enriched curriculum. We offer it at Park House at GCSE as well as the traditional A Level.

What are the skills and knowledge you will learn in Psychology?

GCSE and A level Psychology is a popular course that looks at how we behave in a variety of topics. These topics include how we are influenced by those around us, how our childhoods and early attachments may affect our adult lives, exploring different types of mental disorders and why people become offenders.

This understanding helps students to grasp how people think and also passes on relationship building skills to last a lifetime. You’ll also develop your communication, research and critical thinking skills and apply this to a range of scenarios in the Psychology world.

What are the pathways and opportunities that studying Psychology will open both at school and beyond?

Psychology is a subject that can lead to many opportunities, whether this be in education, clinical psychology, forensics, neuropsychology and many more. With the skills and knowledge learnt on the course, your knowledge of the human mind will help you work in any career, especially those that help others.

Having GCSE Psychology available allows students to get a taste of this subject earlier than other establishments. The path into A-Level helps (but it is not a barrier) to provide the fundamentals ready for the detail required at KS5. It is a growing area at universities and has become an important subject within society and can open up many opportunities in the working world.

Why is it important to study Textiles?

Textiles are integral to our world, playing crucial roles in nearly every aspect of our daily lives. Understanding the functional, creative, cultural, and historical significance of Textiles is essential for thriving in today's world. At its core, Textiles is an art form, manifesting as clothing, functional interior products, and decorative designs. To truly grasp its essence, one must immerse themselves in the boundless world of creative textile design and construction.

Textiles are woven into every facet of our lives, and the dexterity and fine motor skills developed through working with Textiles are unparalleled. These skills are vital for professionals across various fields, including surgeons, architects, scientists, designers, engineers, and artists. The precision and practical abilities honed through hands-on textile work are indispensable. The sophisticated language of touch and fine motor control is universally needed, making Textiles not just an important subject, but arguably one of the most crucial areas of study.

What are the skills and knowledge you will learn in Textiles?

In the study of Textiles, you will acquire skills and knowledge in the fundamental elements and principles of design, including form, line, shape, colour, value, texture, pattern, and space. This foundation will enable you to explore your creativity to the highest level. Students will examine the work of various artists, designers, and cultural influences, ensuring they are well-informed, inspired, and exposed to a diverse range of creative expressions.

Throughout the course, students will develop skills in drawing, painting, fabric manipulation, collage, hand and machine embroidery, weaving, construction, felting, pattern design, dyeing, and printing, among many other techniques. These skills are cultivated in response to contemporary trends in the wider world of Textiles, Art, and Design.

The aim of Textiles at Park House School is for you to leave the learning environment with more knowledge and ability than when you entered, empowering you to create, design, and produce whatever your creative mind envisions.

What are the pathways and opportunities that studying Textiles will open both at school and beyond?

Textiles begins in Year 7 at Park House, with pathways available for students to continue their creative studies at GCSE and A-Level. Beyond these options, students who study Textiles have access to a vast array of career opportunities. These include fields such as Fibre Science, Art Therapy, Engineering, Interior Design, Fashion Design and Construction, Surface Design, Tailoring, Costume Design, Graphic Design, Illustration, Trend Forecasting, Consulting, Buying, Marketing, Practicing Artist, Product Design, Fabric Design, Print and Pattern Design, Education, Styling, Visual Merchandising, and Jewellery Design, among many others.

Textiles offers a future-proof subject and career opportunities thanks to its versatility across various industrial, creative and practical pathways. The creative, practical, and fine motor skills, alongside resilience, organisation, and time-management abilities nurtured through studying Textiles, are transferrable applicable across diverse industries, beyond just creative fields. With a world of endless possibilities ahead, where will you let Textiles lead you?