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| Information and Co-Curricular Activities | ||
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We are delighted that our results are well up this year.
GCSE Pupils have been achieving 5 or more (A* - C) up by 10% over last years results
Pupils have also been
achieving 5 or more (A* - G) up by 24% over last year.
Our sixth form courses results have been excellent.
The Art
and Design Department of Coleraine College offers all students the
opportunity to work in a wide range of art and design areas. there are two
well equipped studios, with two pottery rooms and a range of state of the
art I.C.T equipment for pupils use.
All classes are given opportunities to produce work in a wide range of media, incorporating a variety of skills. Pupils work in textiles and fashion, graphics and drawing media, 3D work including ceramics, painting, printing, photography and I.C.T. Pupils are given the opportunity to set their work in context by studying the work of other artists, designers and craft workers.
Art and design is compulsory for Years 8,9 and 10 but in Year 11 pupils can continue their studies through G.C.S.E, Occupational Studies in Design and Entry Level. In 2007 the art department will offer a post 16 course.
Business
Studies is an integrated course which emphasises the need for students to
develop the ability to make rational decisions based on the knowledge and
skills which they can acquire through the subject. It improves their
critical thinking skills and gives them an insight into the world of
business and broadens their horizons. Students will be able to explore the
business world and develop their knowledge so that they will be better
equipped to enter the world of work or move into further study of the
subject.
The syllabus is wide and allows pupils to gain knowledge of the practical world of business studies and includes business aims, human resources, production, marketing, finance and accounting.
Assessment is in the form of two external written papers and an internally assessed component.
Careers
education as a cross-curricular theme is covered by a variety of subjects in
Years 8 and 9. In Year 10 there is a large input into the P.S.H.E programme
where pupils deal with self-assessment techniques and develop
decision-making skills in preparation for choosing their key stage 4
examination subjects and take part in a career planning workshop.
In Years 11 and 12 pupils are given opportunities to participate in discussions, involving job seeking skills, C.V. preparation and interview techniques during P.S.H.E lessons. They are encouraged to develop appropriate career plans. These aspects of career planning are dealt with comprehensively during a series of workshops run by Sentinus, when pupils are interviewed by some local employers. In Year 11 pupils receive one week of work experience. During Year 12 some pupils take part in work experience one day a week. There is a close liaison between the school and the Training and Employment Agency with a Careers officer interviewing all school leavers during Year 12.
Coleraine College is fortunate to have a large number of computers for
pupils to use. We have five fully equipped computer rooms where the whole
class can work at one time. There also is a large number of systems
available for classroom use.
In junior school all Year 8 and 9 pupils are allocated one hour per week to follow a course which provides an overview of the main uses of computers. Opportunities are given to develop I.C.T skills through practical use of Word Processors, Databases, Spreadsheets, Graphics, Multimedia and Communications and software. Pupils also use I.C.T in the course of their work in many subjects.
The I.C.T option has become increasingly popular at G.C.S.E level as students have the opportunity to achieve the full range of grades including A* from a very practical and enjoyable course.
The
central principle upon which the English Department bases its approach to
the teaching of English is in the philosophy enshrined in the Northern
Ireland Curriculum; to empower young people to achieve their potential and
make informed and responsible choices throughout their life.
With this in mind the following skills are developed through engagement with a variety of stimuli including: poetry, prose, drama, fiction, non-fiction, media and the pupil's peers. This enhances creativity and stimulates curiosity and imagination throughout their schooling.
Throughout their English course young people have the opportunity to become creative workers, careful thinkers and effective learners by:
Expressing viewpoints
Talking - including debates, role-plays, interviews, active listening and reporting back
Reading for key ideas, enjoyment, engagement and empathy
Writing for different audiences
Taking part in a range of drama activities
Interpreting film and visual forms
Developing knowledge of how language works and accuracy in using it
Communicating through I.C.T formats
Learning to research individually
All Year 11 and 12 pupils are entered for G.C.S.E or ELC examination according to their ability based on Key Stage 3 examination and teacher assessment at the end of Year 10. English Literature may be offered at G.C.S.E level.
At the
college, Geography gives pupils the opportunity to learn about the world in
which they live - from global issues (global warming) to local issues
(traffic congestion in Coleraine). Pupils come to recognise how their lives
are affected by these issues and also how they can influence and change
their world.
Geography also provides a medium through which a range of skills are learned - from the specific (map reading) to the general (working with others). We always use current events to enhance pupil learning:- e.g. Extreme weather events - Hurricane Katrina, Global Trade and Economics - Live 8 concert. In order to sustain interest we adopt a wide range of learning methods in the Geography classroom including:-
Independent investigations
Model making
Project based group work
Daily weather recordings
Decision making exercises
All pupils study Geography at Key Stage 3 and at Key Stage 4, two courses are offered- G.C.S.E or Entry Level qualification.
G.C.S.E Leisure and
Tourism (Double Award)
This
course is offered as an independent subject in Years 11 and 12, although
pupils are given a 'taster' in Year 10. It is a double G.C.S.E and pupils
who choose the subject achieve a high degree of success, in part because of
its vocational nature.
The course covers three units:-
Investigating Leisure and Tourism - this is a general overview of the industry and is based on local case studies.
Marketing - following a visit to a local leisure facility, pupils learn how the organisation markets itself to the public; they then use their creative skills to produce their own piece of promotional material.
Customer Service - in this section pupils evaluate the customer service offered by a local tourist organisation. They also get to practice their own customer service skills in a series of role-plays.
The
study of History aims to provide pupils with a broad and balanced view of
evens that have shaped our world today. It stresses the importance of
investigation and encourages pupils to think for themselves by studying
evidence and reaching their own conclusions. In particular the History
programme of study gives pupils the opportunity to examine their own
Cultural Heritage and encourages them to became more tolerant of other
cultures and points of view.
At Key Stage 3 some of the topics studied are the Normans, the Tudors and Stuarts and the First World War. The G.C.S.E. syllabus focuses on the events in the 20th Century and includes such topics as the Rise to Power of Adolf Hitler, the events leading to the Second World War and the Superpower Rivalry after the war. Pupils not opting for G.C.S.E may not follow an alternative Certificate of Education course. these courses help to develop skills of observation and deduction which will be of value to our pupils in later life.
Home
Economics is a practical subject that is taught to all pupils during Years
8, 9 and 10. We aim to give pupils the knowledge, understanding and skills
enabling them to make informed choices about home and family thus improving
the quality of the pupils' lives.
The subject has three essential strands:-
Diet and Health
Family life
Choice and Management of Resources
Home Economics and Child Development can be studied at G.C.S.E level. At this level assessment is through coursework and external examination.
CACHE Certificate and Diploma courses are offered to post 16 students in the sixth form. These vocational courses involve two days placement each week in a Child Care setting and are assessed through assignments and external examination. The diploma course is equivalent to three A levels.
Mathematics is one of the core subjects in the curriculum and is studied by
every pupil throughout their five years at the College.
In the Mathematics Department, our aim is to ensure all pupils develop their mathematical knowledge, in a manner, which encourages confidence to read, write and talk about Mathematics in a variety of ways. We endeavor to equip all pupils with the skills of reasoning, problem solving and communication by using a variety of teaching methods and resources. Investigative work, a compulsory element of the Key Stage 4 course, is introduced in Year 8. The Mathematics curriculum enables all pupils to develop skills in the use of the calculator and the computer through the use of I.C.T in completing tasks. All pupils are encouraged to produce their work to a high standard. At the end of Year 10, all pupils are entered for Key Stage 3 Mathematics at a level commensurate with their ability. The examination consists of two written papers and a mental Maths paper. At the end of Year 12, all pupils are entered for AQA GCSE Mathematics or CCEA Certificate of Education Achievement in Mathematics.
French
will be studied by every pupil during their first three years in the
College. The range of courses offered allows French to be studied by pupils
of all abilities. At the beginning of Key Stage 4, pupils will be given the
option to study GCSE French
The aims of the Department are:
To Develop the ability to use a foreign language effectively for purposes of communication.
To develop an understanding of, and foster positive attitudes to speakers of the target language and the countries in which they live.
To make language learning an enjoyable, successful and intellectually stimulating affair.
In fulfilling the requirements of the Northern Ireland Curriculum, a variety of teaching strategies enable pupils to reach high levels of achievement in the four Attainment Targets of Listening, Reading, Speaking and Writing.
A variety of resources exists within the department to enable teachers to deliver the Curriculum. These include classrooms equipped with cassette records, Projectors, televisions, videos and computers. A new up to date language course with associated text books, cassettes, worksheets and assessment sheets has recently been introduced. Relevant language games, songs and websites will also be used.
During their time at the College pupils may have the opportunity to visit France on a school trip. 'Bon Voyage!' on your exciting language journey at Coleraine College!
In
response to pupil demand and relevance in the modern world, we have
introduced Spanish into our Modern Languages curriculum. Pupils will have
the opportunity to study Spanish alongside French at Key Stage 3 and we hope
this will prove to be a popular addition.
Motor Vehicle and Road User Studies
For many
years it has been accepted that our educational system must equip young
people not only with the knowledge to pass examinations but also with the
skills necessary to cope with everyday life after school. In that context
one of the most important life skills is the ability to cope with road and
driving conditions as they exist in Northern Ireland.
What is involved?
A GCSE course has been introduced to the school curriculum to help realise this aim. Motor Vehicle and Road User studies leads, after two years to an examination in three parts.
One of the two theory papers each carrying 60% of the overall marks.
The Foundation Tier lasting 1½ hours will carry a range of grades C - G inclusive.
The Higher Tier paper lasting 2 hours will carry grades A* - D with E being awarded to those narrowly failing to achieve grade D.
Topics covered include:
| The Highway Code | Motor Vehicle Technology |
| Alcohol abuse with special reference to road users | Legal requirements such as documentation and different types of insurance available |
| Motoring mathematics including the buying and selling of vehicles | Post accident procedure |
An
Investigative Study carried out during the two-year course and with
marks allocation of 20%. This will involve selection from a range of
options such as an in-depth study of traffic problems at a location near
the school.
Practical riding carried out on a 49cc moped within the school grounds, not on public roads, carrying 20% of the marks.
Varied
musical activities are offered to pupils both in the classroom and through
co-curricular activities. In the classroom, pupils have the opportunity to
experience music through listening, composing and performing.
The department is well equipped to deal with all aspects of the curriculum, with keyboards, percussion instruments, recorders, recording / audio equipment, video and television for the use of pupils. Extra curricular activities include, choir, orchestra, steel band, chime group, string ensemble, wind band and music / drama productions. Consideration is always given to any request pupils may have for an after school club related to music. We also have the support of the Area Board Music Service peripatetic teachers.
Caribana Steel Band was formed in 1991 under the direction of the music teacher, Mrs. Sandra Mailey. It was the first post-primary steel band in Northern Ireland. Our band has proved to be a popular and most successful musical venture and since 1991 approximately 350 pupils have enjoyed the learning experience of playing a steel pan and being part of a band.
All pupils follow a common course in Year 8-10. In Years 11 and 12 GCSE is offered. All pupils have the opportunity to take part in the annual Carol Service, Music / Drama production and Spring Concert.
When occasions arise pupils entertain in the local community - they are always willing to share their talents!
The P.E
staff offer a wide range of activities to the pupils. In Years 8,9 and 10
pupils have two hours of P.E each week and are introduced to the following
sports: athletics, aerobics, badminton, cross-country, dance, fitness
testing, hockey, minor games, netball, educational gymnastics, rhythmic
gymnastics, rounders, swimming, tennis, trampolining, volleyball, rugby,
football, cricket and basketball. Pupils also have the opportunity to take
part in outdoor educational trips and ski trips. All school teams
successfully compete in local League, NEBSSA and Northern Ireland
competitions. The athletics team and the cross-country team compete in area
and district championships.
In Years 11 and 12 the emphasis changes towards more recreational activities: aerobics, archery, athletics, badminton, basketball, fitness training, golf, health related P.E, squash, table tennis, trampolining, orienteering and volleyball, as well as major team games. Pupils are also given the opportunity to study GCSE P.E.
Our sports facilities include one gymnasium, one assembly hall, two all-weather hockey pitches, two soccer pitches and an athletics track with facilities for throwing events, long jump and high jump areas. Two tennis courts are also available within the campus. In the local area the school also has use of Coleraine Leisure Centre for the Year 12 P.E programme. The Trim Trail and Downhill Forest are used for orienteering and cross-country activities.
Religious Education makes a vital contribution to the education of young
people by confronting them with relevant topical material at a formative
time in their lives. The department aims to help the pupils achieve
knowledge, understanding and evaluation of religious beliefs, practices and
concepts to enable them to understand their own beliefs and traditions and
also respect the different rights of others to hold beliefs different from
their own.
All pupils follow the Northern Ireland Core syllabus in R.E. The emphasis of the programme will be Bible based and pupils are encouraged to apply Bible and church teachings to everyday living.
Pupils at Key Stage 4 are offered the opportunity to study Religious Studies at GCSE level whilst others still follow the programme of study.
Courses
in Occupational Studies are designed for pupils in Years 11 and 12 who want
to get fully equipped for and experience what work is like in a range of
occupational areas. There are a number of areas of study with a choice of
units in each area. For this course two occupational units must be studied
each year - these units can be chosen from more than one area.
The Qualifications
The level 2 Qualification is equivalent to GCSE Grades A* - C and is awarded at Distinction.
The Level 1 Qualification is equivalent to GCSE Grades D - G and is awarded at either Pass or Merit.
The Entry Level Qualification will be awarded at Entry 1, 2 or 3.
The Qualifications have been developed within the rigorous procedures set down by the regulatory authorities.
The Occupational areas currently on offer are:-
Sport
Retail
Office Administration
Carpentry and Joinery
Hairdressing
Hospitality and Catering
Design
Electrical Wiring
The Courses are run in partnership with other provider such as Causeway Institute and Rutledge Joblink. In the future it is hoped to extend the level at which they may be studied.
The
Science Department aims to enable pupils to understand a range of scientific
concepts, facts and principles. We try to develop the thinking skills of
making and testing, preferably their own hypotheses in situations where
variables need to be controlled.
Importantly we try to develop an interest in, and a good attitude to Science. All pupils are encouraged to present their work to a high standard.
At the end of Key Stage 4 all pupils are entered for either CCEA GCSE Double Award, AQA Single Award or CCEA Entry Level Certificate. Science is taught throughout the school as a common core subject in accordance with the requirements of the Northern Ireland Curriculum.
Pupils are taught to handle and manipulate apparatus safely, use measuring instruments with the required degree of accuracy, make careful observations and measurements safely and understand a range of scientific concepts, facts and principles.
For a number of years pupils from the school have been involved in project work for the following exhibitions, Aer Lingus Young Scientist Exhibition (Dublin): Sir Arthur Edwards Lucas Prizes (London): Creativity in Science and Technology (University of Surrey): Young Engineer for Britain and Young Electronic Designer Awards. The pupils involved have had remarkable success over the years in all of these exhibitions.
It has
been stated that 'Technology is man's attempt to shape his environment'.
This subject allows for opportunities to develop the capability to design, to work with a range of materials and to gain knowledge in many technological processes, including electronics, mechanisms, structures, graphics, computer control and computer aided design.
All pupils in Years 8, 9 and 10 study Technology.
Technology and Design is an option in Years 11 and 12 and at Key Stage 4 pupils may follow a course in either GCSE Technology and Design or an Occupational studies course in Carpentry and Joinery.
In the
College we pride ourselves at being at the forefront of educational changes
and challenges. In the future Learning for Life and Work will be one of the
most important subjects in the new Curriculum. Year 8 pupils in 2006 will
begin their studies in this newly developing area.
This topic is already well established in the College at Key Stage 4 as a GCSE subject and pupils enjoy the relevance of the subject to their lives as well as the varied nature of the course which covers the three areas of:
Personal, Social and Health Education
Local and Global Citizenship
Education for Employability
Initially studies will be in the Citizenship module. Pupils will investigate their cultural identity, human rights, the role of the government and how to resolve conflict. Together we shall endeavor to work towards a better world, more opportunities and the importance of being responsible citizens.
Over the
past number of years we have established regular music / drama productions
in the college. All pupils are encouraged to participate in these
productions and everyone in the college is given the opportunity to audition
for a part or to be a member of the stage, sound and lighting crew.
Pupils who have had the pleasure of participating in the past have gained a great deal of satisfaction, confidence and pride in themselves and in their achievements musical, dramatic and artistic.
Our past successes have included 'My Fair Lady', 'Calamity Jane', 'Little Shop of Horrors', 'Grease', 'Joseph', 'The Wizard of Oz', 'The Fortune Seekers', 'Oklahoma', 'Oliver' and 'Annie'.
In October 2005 we completed a very successful production of "Calamity Jane" with a cast and back-stage crew of nearly sixty young people not to mention the staff team involved. It was encouraging that we played to three packed houses, so maybe next time we will attempt four performance! Visits to both professional and amateur productions are organised and when the opportunity arises pupils are encouraged to participate in workshops and festivals with several of our young people taking part in Youth Music Theatre productions here, London and Edinburgh.
Drama is studied at GCSE level in the college and pupils enjoy the practical nature of the course.
In keeping with the aims of the school to develop the all-round potential of each pupil a large number of co-curricular activities are encouraged. To emphasise their importance, we have chosen to call them co-curricular rather than extra-curricular since they can be seen as an integral part of the life at school. Pupils throughout the school are encouraged to participate in worthwhile activities to enrich their educational experience and better prepare them for adult life. The list that follows portrays only a sample of these activities.
Athletics
Caribana Steel Band
Choirs
Citizenship
Concerts
Exhibitions And Shows
Cross Country
Drama
European Studies
Educational Field Trips - Home And Abroad
Football
Golf
Hockey
Key & Lett Programmes
Netball
Olympic Gymnastics
Orchestra
Orienteering
Outdoor Pursuits
Public Speaking
Riding For The Disabled
Rugby
Rhythmic Gymnastics
Scripture Union
Seven Schools
Steel Band
Swimming
Trampolining
Volleyball
Young Business Enterprise
