Vocational
At North Star 180, we give the students opportunities to follow subjects that capture their imagination and help them progress on their learning journey.
Digital Media BTEC level 1
The qualification is intended to be accessible to a wide
range of learners of all abilities. It is designed for learners who wish to
achieve Level 1 qualification in preparation for future study. The qualifications
are not designed to lead directly to employment but will maximise opportunities
for learners to progress by focusing on the development of transferable and
sector-related skills.
Projects we have completed up to this date involved using variety of software and apps such as Adobe AfterEffects, Wix website creator and Adobe Photoshop. Students also gain theoretical knowledge on the given subject and complete their planning before working on the main task.
BTEC Digital Media also involves completion of at least one Core unit during the first year of study – Developing a Personal Progression Plan. During the second year another Core Unit has to be completed – Being Organised.
GCSE Photography
Students are introduced to a series of exciting termly
projects that enable them to gain knowledge about different photographic
techniques and enable them to gain confidence and develop their creative
skills.
Starting in term 1 our students learn about composition
techniques, use of lighting and practice using manual mode to control aperture,
ISO and shutter speed. They are also introduced to a variety of photographers
and learn to share their insights and observations. They learn to objectively
reflect on their own work and think about strategies for improvement.
In term 2 and 3 we expand on the skills listed above and
start working in sketchbooks. We explore and practice different types of
photography, including landscape and portrait photography. Students are
introduced to working in photoshop and experiment with their photographs.
At the end of term 3 students are required to come up with
topics for their coursework, which they will be working on until beginning of
January of year 11. The coursework makes 60% of the overall grade and is
assessed under 4 different criteria: research and contextual investigations,
experimentation, recording of ideas and presenting a final piece.
At the beginning of January students will begin their exam
work. They will choose one of 7 topics given to them and will work on it until
May. In May student will be assigned 2 x 5h sessions to complete their exam.
This involves creating their final piece of work which is worth 40% of their
final grade.
BTEC Construction
The BTEC Construction qualification has been put together to help be accessible to the wide range of learners we have at NorthStar180 and to help set our students up with future learning, giving working towards a Level 1 qualification which help them develop transferable skills which are sector related.
We aim to take our students a two-year course and we start our journey establishing the skills our students have building a fun project as a team. We will then move on to;
Making Carpentry Joints
Making Minor Repairs in a house
Developing Building Maintenance Skills
These have been chosen to help teach real life skills our pupils can take on to future needs they can use at home as well work.
As well as
Being Organised and Developing a Personnel Progression Plan
