Curriculum

We offer a range of subjects at Alpha, the subjects a student take will depend on their age, the number of days they attend with us and their ability.

Below is a full list of subjects we offer. Please scroll down to read further information about each subject and qualification.

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Maths

At Alpha Learning, a full Mathematics Curriculum is offered which incorporates GCSE and Functional Skills qualifications (Entry 1 – Level 2).

The curriculum is offered across KS3 and KS4.  Each student will complete assessments at the start of their placement which provides a baseline from which we are able to track progress on a termly basis.

Topics covered include:

• Number
• Algebra
• Multiplicative reasoning
• Geometry & Measure
• Probability & Statistics.

English

At Alpha Learning, a full English Curriculum is offered which incorporates GCSE and Functional Skills qualifications (Entry 1 – Level 2).

The Curriculum offered at Alpha Learning aims to inspire and motivate students through relevant and engaging lessons. They have an opportunity to read a wide range of texts, discover an understanding in relation to the correct use of grammar and improve their spelling and punctuation.

Students have an opportunity to study creative writing and explore how to use descriptive techniques to enhance their work. 

Each student will complete assessments at the start of their placement which provides a baseline from which we are able to track progress on a termly basis

English Literature

English Literature is offered as an option at KS3 and KS4, with a GCSE qualification at the end of Year 11.

 Students will study a mixture of the following texts :

• A work of William Shakespeare (Macbeth, Romeo & Juliet))
• A 19^th Century Novel (Frankenstein, Dr Jekyll & Mr Hyde, A Christmas Carol)
• Modern Texts (Our Day Out, The Woman in Black, Lord of the Flies)
• Poetry (Power & Conflict and Unseen Poetry)

Science

Alpha Learning offers an Entry Level Science Curriculum across KS3 and KS4 which is designed to help to build confidence and engagement in Science

The Entry Level Certificate in Science has specifically been designed to closely match the programme of study and provide a progression route to GCSE Combined Science. The certificate supports advancement in science by cementing core understanding and maximising engagement with the subject.

Qualification aims and objectives

The aims and objectives of this Science course are to enable students to:

• acquire a body of basic scientific knowledge and an understanding of some important
• scientific ideas consistent with the programme of study
• develop basic experimental and investigative abilities
• develop a basic understanding of some of the important technological and environmental
• applications of science and the economic, ethical and social implications consistent with the programme of study
• develop an interest in science leading to further study at a higher level, e.g. the Edexcel GCSE in Combined Science.

Biology 1A – Cells, genetics, inheritance and modification

Biology 1B – Health, disease and the development of medicines

Chemistry 1A – Atoms, compounds and states of matter: Atomic structure, The periodic table, Ionic bonding, Covalent bonding, Metallic bonding, States of matter

Chemistry 1B – Separating mixtures, breaking down substances, acids and metals

Physics 1A – Forces, movement and energy

Physics 1B – Waves and radiation: Waves, Electromagnetic spectrum, Atoms, Radiation

BTEC Sport

Alongside the extensive practical work which is offered within the gym, and other off-site sporting activities, students at Alpha Learning are given the opportunity to study the BTEC Introductory Level and Level 1 & 2 in Sport. (Level 1 & 2 Optional)

Theory lessons are delivered for the course, alongside numerous practical activities.

Units studied may include the following dependant upon the course taken :

• Personal Progression Plan
• Playing Sport
• Fitness for sport
• Practical Performance in Sport
• Applying the Principles of Personal Training
• The Mind and Sports Performance
• The Sports Performer in Action
• Leading Sports Activities.

Btec Level 1 Introductory Level  in Sport

 Skills-based qualification designed to help learners develop the personal and social skills needed to help them to progress to independent living, future employment or further vocational study. All units are 100% internally assessed

Designed for learners wishing to gain an introduction to a chosen vocation area. The Award offers the opportunity for learners to study a sector unit and plan for their next steps by completing the mandatory unit: Developing a Personal Progression Plan.

 

 ICT  – one of 2 qualifications will be covered.  Either Pearson Entry Level 3 in ICT or the new Digital Skills Qualification – Entry 3 – Level 1.

Pearson Entry Level 3

In order to pass this qualification, the evidence that the learner presents for assessment needs to demonstrate that they can meet all the skill standards for the qualification. The coverage and range determine the standard required to achieve the qualification.

At each level, this has been sub-divided into:

• using ICT
• finding and selecting information
• developing, presenting and communicating information.

Digital Skills Qualification ICT  Entry Level – Level 1

The Digital Skills Qualification is designed to meet digital knowledge gaps and provide vital skills, such as:

• Using devices and handling information
• Creating and editing
• Communicating
• Transacting
• Being safe and responsible online.

This qualification is available at Entry Level 3  and  Level 1, which is perfect for our learners needs.

Humanities

The programme of study sets out learning opportunities for young people to engage in History, Geography and Religious Studies

ASDAN Short Courses in Religious Studies, Geography and History and their relevant schemes of work will be implemented in order for most young people to have the opportunity for Certification within the relevant programmes of study.

Each topic is designed in such a way that they can be adapted to suit the needs of the young people and ensures opportunities to develop knowledge, skills and attributes through their programme that are relevant and appropriate to the ethos of our school and the needs of our young people.

All ASDAN short courses are multi-level and focus on completing challenges and skills development according to individual ability, rather than attainment at a specific level.,

 

PSHEE

Working within the guidelines of the PHSEE Association Programme Builders ‘Thematic Model’ our programme of study sets out learning opportunities for each key stage, in three core themes : Health and Wellbeing, Relationships and Living in the Wider World.

Each topic is designed in such a way that they can be adapted to suit the needs of the young people and ensures opportunities to develop knowledge, skills and attributes through their programme that are relevant and appropriate to the ethos of our school and the needs of our young people.

• Drug Education
• Financial Education
• Sex and Relationships Education (SRE)
• Healthy Lifestyles.

Students will be encouraged to share knowledge and opinions and listen to and accept the opinions/beliefs of others.

 

BTEC First Award Health & Social Care Level 1 / 2 (Optional)

Adds breadth to learners’ knowledge and understanding of the Health and Social Care sector as part of their career progression and development plan

Areas of study  :

Human Lifespan Development (External Examination)

Health and Social Care Values

Effective Communication in Health and Social Care

Healthy Living

Promoting Health and Wellbeing

 

Preparation for Work

We employee external providers, who offer our students accredited courses that both inform and increase awareness of practical aspects of life. Whilst doing so, these courses also arm them with accreditations that are desirable to employers, should they chose to follow the path of apprenticeships, when they leave us. Courses include;

• First Aid
• Fire Safety
• Conflict Handling
• Manual Handling