Study Support at KS4

Our Curriculum

At King James our KS4 pupils follow four optional pathways in addition to studying English, Maths, Science, PSHE and core PE.  For some pupils this will prove too much due to a variety a factors and these pupils are therefore guided into the Study Support Pathway.  The school will identify those pupils needing to follow this pathway and will speak to pupils and parents/carers about how this time will be used to support their personal development in preparation for post-16 options and support their wider learning in English and / or Maths.

This Pathway is supported by course material from ASDAN who are an educational charity.  As an organisation they believe its their mission "to engage, elevate and empower young people in greatest need".  You can find out more about ASDAN here.  Information about the two courses we currently offer are given below.  In some years we may choose to run the Maths Short course.

Personal Development Programme

Pupils can achieve Bronze, Sliver or Gold award depending on the amount of effort and time they commit to the course.  This course develops learners' personal, social and work-related skills over the two years.  There are 6 core areas:

• Ability to learn 

• Teamwork

• Problem solving 

• IT skills

• Literacy 

• Numeracy

Assessment 

Learners must present a portfolio to demonstrate evidence of their achievements, containing:

1 A completed PDP student book
2 Supporting evidence for each challenge
3 The correct number and type of skills sheets 4 Skills self-assessment and self-reflection
5 Personal review
6 Record of progress and tutor record

English Short Course

The English Short Course accredits up to 60 hours of English language and literature activities. The challenges can be seen as preparation for coursework, as well as assessment opportunities. They can also underpin study of pre-release material and preparation for some elements of GCSE English language and literature examinations.

Assessment 

To gain a Short Course certificate learners need to present evidence of their achievements. They do this by compiling an organised port-folio or e-portfolio of evidence. This acts as proof to the tutor and to ASDAN that they have actually done all of the things they claim to ings have done.  Evidence might include a range of items, such as drawings, travel or event tickets, newspaper clippings, emails, plans, posters, designs and maps to name but a few.