Curriculum

The college curriculum follows the National Curriculum which is summarised below:

Key Stage 3 (Years 7, 8 and 9)

In Year 7 pupils are placed in a mixed ability tutor group with approximately equal numbers of boys and girls. Pupils are taught in these groups for History, Geography, Religious Education, Modern Foreign Languages (French or Spanish) and Personal, Social, Citizenship and Health Education. The pupils are taught in smaller groups for Art, Physical Education, Music, Dance, Drama, Information Technology and Design Technology. English, Mathematics and Science 'set' the pupils according to their particular ability in these subjects.

From June in Year 7 pupils follow a pathways curriculum in Years 8 and 9. This involves pupils being able to learn in smaller class sizes with children of a similar ability in most subjects. We offer a range of opportunities in order to challenge and support their learning. These include accelerated GCSE courses in a variety of subjects which may involve taking a GCSE in Years 9 and 10 for gifted and talented pupils, or extra support for literacy and numeracy for pupils with additional educational needs.

Key Stage 4 (Years 10 and 11)

The curriculum pattern provided for Year 10 and 11 pupils closely follows the National Curriculum requirements for Key Stage 4 (14-16). However, we believe that an element of choice is also very important at Key Stage 4. Therefore within a broad and balanced curriculum we offer pupils choices both within and in addition to the National Curriculum framework. This is subject to change in the future as we review the curriculum annually in order to best meet the needs of our pupils.

Pupils following our accelerated study programmes are often entered for GCSEs in either Year 9 or Year 10. These pupils then usually study AS levels in Year 11.

Physical Education, Careers, Personal, Social, Citizenship, Religious and Health Education are compulsory non-examination subjects for all.

For more information please contact Mrs L Milne, Exams Officer, on 01706 292820 or email lmilne@hollingworthbec.co.uk.

Inclusion

We recognise all of our pupils as individuals, respect them accordingly and are committed to developing the learning of all pupils regardless of ability or background. We are one of a small minority of schools who have been awarded a Charter Mark for excellent practice in this area.

Gifted and Talented

We are committed to stretching our most able pupils to achieve their full potential. In practice, this means we strive to ensure work is differentiated to meet their needs in class and provide access to accelerated GCSE courses during KS3. In addition, many pupils study advanced level (AS) courses in KS4. Also links with colleges, universities and businesses help to raise awareness of future career pathways as well as providing unique opportunities for 'high flyers'.

Learning Support

To help those who have particular learning needs we have a dedicated team of support staff to assist pupils in class. In addition, we also have an Inclusion Centre complete with a dedicated learning resource suite and mentoring facilities.

Homework

We believe that homework plays an important part in the learning and development of all our pupils and we set it as a matter of good educational practice. We deem that homework is such a vital area of study that it positively affects attainment and helps pupils to fulfil their potential. It is because of this that we ask parents to support us in seeing that homework is properly completed and under the best possible circumstances.

Homework is also recognised as something that encourages good study habits. This is because it offers pupils the chance to work independently and helps to develop self-discipline. Finally, homework also gives pupils the opportunity to practice what they have learned during lessons. In conclusion, evidence shows that pupils who attempt their homework conscientiously are the ones who will be likely to make the most of their opportunities at college.

To help pupils plan and record their homework a new Homework Diary is given to every pupil in Years 7, 8 and 9 at the start of each term and a Homework Timetable is arranged to ensure a balance of homework tasks throughout the week. When the pupils move into Years 10 and 11 they are given a Pupil Planner for the year to help them with their planning.

Reporting to Parents

At Hollingworth Business and Enterprise College we provide an annual comprehensive written report on each pupil's achievements. During the course of the year, additional information is sent out to inform parents/carers about their son/daughter's progress.

There are Parents' Evenings for each year group. Parents will be informed of the dates and times during the college year and reminded shortly before they take place.

If at any time parents feel the need to discuss the progress of their son/daughter, they should contact the appropriate Head of Year at college.

Awards Evenings

Every year we hold three Awards Evenings to celebrate the successes of our pupils. These evenings recognise and reward pupils for a variety of accomplishments including academic success, sporting and musical development as well as personal achievement. The awards are designed to recognise the achievements of all pupils irrespective of age, ability or gender.