Vocational Subjects

Department staff:

Mrs. J Iley

Mrs. Michelle Booth

Why study Health and Social Care? 

This course allows students to study the key aspects of health and social care. The qualification has three units; two are assessed by set assignments and one being assessed through an examination.  

Course outline 

Core units include:  

• RO32: Principles of care in health and social care settings – Examination 

• RO33: Supporting individuals through life events- Coursework 

• RO35: Health promotion campaigns -Coursework 

How is the course assessed?  

Assessment includes an externally assessed unit; the remaining units are internally assessed and based on a credit system. At the end of the course students will be awarded a Pass, Merit, Distinction or Distinction* grade (4, 5/6, 7/8.5 respectively). This will be calculated from the credits achieved throughout the course. 

Unit Breakdown 

The examination unit students will learn about the key topics that are important when caring for and protecting people in health and social care.  

Topics include: 

• Topic Area 1 The rights of service users in health and social care settings 

• Topic Area 2 Person-centered values  

• Topic Area 3 Effective communication in health and social care settings 

• Topic Area 4 Protecting service users and service providers in health and social care settings 

A separate unit is assessed by a Set Assignment. In this unit, students will learn about growth and development through the life stages. They will also learn how to understand the needs of individuals who have been affected by life events and how to recommend support to meet their needs.  

Topics include: 

• Topic Area 1 Life stages 

• Topic Area 2 Impacts of life events  

• Topic Area 3 Sources of support 

The third unit is also assessed by a Set Assignment. In this unit, students will research health promotion campaigns and learn about their benefits to society. They will also plan and deliver their own health promotion campaign. 

Topics include: 

• Topic Area 1 Current public health issues and the impact on society  

• Topic Area 2 Factors influencing health  

• Topic Area 3 Plan and create a health promotion campaign  

• Topic Area 4 Deliver and evaluate a health promotion campaign 

Department Staff

Mrs C. Carey, Miss B. Gordon

Why study Retail Business?

This course allows students to develop their knowledge and understanding of the retail business sector and provide them with opportunities to develop associated practical skills. It covers the business of retail, customer service for retail business and merchandising and marketing retail products.

Course Outline

Core units include:

Unit 1 – The business of retail – Examination (40 % of overall grade)

Unit 1 introduces learners to the business of retail and provides them with the opportunity to explore the dynamic and competitive nature of the retail industry. They will gain knowledge and understanding of different types of retail business and retail activity, as well as the impact of external factors on the industry.  

Unit 1 topics

1. 1. Introduction to retail business

1.1.1 Types of retail business activity

1.1.2 Types of retail business ownership

1.1.3 The different scale of retail businesses

1.1.4 Aims of retail businesses

1.1.5 Functional areas of retail businesses

1.1.6 The supply chain of retail businesses.

 

1. 1. The retail business environment

1.2.1 The competitive and dynamic environment

1.2.2 The location of retail businesses

1.2.3 External factors and retail businesses

1.2.4 Seasonality and retail businesses.

 

1.3 Using data and recommending solutions to retail business issues

1.3.1 Using retail business data in a variety of different formats

1.3.2 Using mathematical techniques to calculate retail business data

1.3.3 Interpreting retail business data

1.3.4 Making judgements and offering solutions to retail business issues.

 

 Unit 2 – Customer service for retail business - Coursework (30 % of overall grade)

Unit 2 allows learners to develop knowledge and understanding of the principles of customer service for retail business and offers the opportunity for learners to develop skills in investigating the customer service experience across retail organisations.

Unit 2 topics

2.1 Introduction to customer service

2.1.1 Importance of customer service to retail businesses

2.1.2 Features of good customer service

2.1.3 Principles of good customer service

2.1.4 Situations when retail businesses interact with customers

2.1.5 Online customer services.

 

2.2 Meeting customer expectations

2.2.1 Types of retail customers

2.2.2 Expectations of different types of retail customers

2.2.3 How retail businesses meet the expectations of different types of customers.

 

2.3 Investigate customer experiences in retail businesses

2.3.1 Research tools used to gather customer feedback information on retail businesses

2.3.2 Good practice in carrying out customer research

2.3.3 Presenting research information on retail businesses

2.3.4 Using research information on retail businesses to inform decision making.

 

Unit 3 – Merchandising and marketing retail products - Coursework (30 % of overall grade)

Unit 3 provides learners with the opportunity to develop their understanding of the importance of merchandising and marketing retail products, and how retail businesses use merchandising and marketing to achieve their aims. Learners will also apply their knowledge and understanding to develop skills in designing visual merchandising installations and promotional materials that achieve specific aims

Unit 3 topics

3.1 Visual merchandising for retail business

3.1 Visual merchandising for retail business

3.2 Marketing retail businesses and products

 

3.2 Marketing retail businesses and products

3.2.1 Identifying and targeting customers

3.2.2 The marketing mix

3.2.3 Designing promotional materials for retail businesses

3.2.4 Use of technology in promotion

3.2.5 How marketing activities contribute to aims.

How is the course assessed?  

Assessment includes an externally assessed unit; the remaining units are internally assessed and based on a credit system. At the end of the course students will be awarded a Pass, Merit, Distinction or Distinction* grade (4, 5/6, 7/8.5 respectively). This will be calculated from the credits achieved throughout the course. 

 

Department Staff:

Mr. Jack Hope

Subject Background:

The Travel and Tourism department is committed to inspiring all learners to believe in themselves by achieving success and enjoying their learning journey. Travel and Tourism is a subject for everyone—not just those with prior knowledge or experience—because every learner can develop an appreciation for the world around them and the dynamic industry that supports global travel.

We aim to foster a deep understanding of the travel and tourism sector, encouraging students to explore destinations, customer service, and the economic and cultural impact of tourism. Through engaging and practical learning experiences, we help students build confidence, develop essential skills, and take ownership of their learning.

Our goal is to ensure that every student works to the best of their ability and gains maximum enjoyment and satisfaction from their studies. The subject encourages individual responses and personal development, which are valued equally when students give their best effort. In a supportive, well-structured, and stimulating environment, learners’ interest, ability, and aspirations grow.

At Key Stage 4, the Pearson BTEC Level 1/2 Award in Travel and Tourism provides a broad and balanced curriculum. Students gain a wide range of knowledge, understanding, and vocational skills across key areas such as travel destinations, customer needs, and the role of organisations within the industry. Each unit is carefully planned to build on prior learning and ensure clear progression throughout the course.

Learners are encouraged to explore real-world scenarios, investigate current trends, and develop transferable skills such as communication, research, and teamwork. They also gain insight into the historical, social, and economic factors that shape the travel and tourism industry. Assessment focuses on both knowledge and practical application, including research tasks, scenario-based activities, and project work.

Department Staff

Mrs. J Iley (jiley@stmichaels.bhcet.org.uk)

Why Study Child Development?

This exciting and practical course gives students the opportunity to develop their understanding of children's growth, development, health and wellbeing from pre-conception through to five years of age. Students explore how children learn and develop physically, intellectually and socially, whilst gaining valuable practical skills that are relevant to childcare, education, health and social care careers. The qualification combines theoretical knowledge with real-life applications, making it ideal for students who enjoy both coursework and practical learning.

Course Outline

The OCR Cambridge National in Child Development consists of three mandatory units. One unit is assessed through an examination, and two units are assessed through practical coursework assignments. Students investigate child development, nutrition, health, safety and play, while developing important transferable skills such as communication, research, planning and evaluation.

Unit R057: Health and Well-being for Child Development (Examination)

Students develop knowledge and understanding of the factors that influence child development before birth and during early childhood.

Topics include:

• Pre-conception health and reproduction
• Antenatal care and preparation for birth
• Postnatal checks and care
• Developmental needs of children
• Childhood illnesses
• Creating safe environments for children

Unit R058: Create a Safe Environment and Understand the Nutritional Needs of Children from Birth to Five Years (Coursework)

Students explore how childcare settings provide safe and nurturing environments for young children and investigate children's dietary and nutritional needs.

Topics include:

• Creating safe childcare environments
• Preventing accidents and hazards
• Choosing suitable childcare equipment
• Government healthy eating recommendations
• Nutritional needs from birth to five years
• Planning and preparing meals for young children

Unit R059: Understand the Development of a Child from One to Five Years (Coursework)

Students learn about expected developmental milestones and the importance of play in supporting a child's learning and development.

Topics include:

• Physical, intellectual and social development
• Developmental norms from one to five years
• Stages and types of play
• Observation of children's development
• Planning and evaluating play activities
• Supporting children's learning through play

How is the Course Assessed?

The qualification is assessed through a combination of examination and coursework:

• 40% Examination: Unit R057 Health and Well-being for Child Development
• 60% Coursework: Units R058 and R059

Students complete practical assignments throughout the course, allowing them to demonstrate their knowledge and skills in realistic childcare situations. Final grades are awarded at Level 1 Pass, Merit and Distinction, and Level 2 Pass, Merit, Distinction and Distinction*.

Skills Developed

This qualification helps students develop a wide range of skills that are valued in education, employment and everyday life, including:

• Research and investigation skills
• Communication and interpersonal skills
• Observation and analysis
• Planning and organisation
• Problem-solving and decision-making
• Evaluation and reflection
• Understanding the needs of others
• Teamwork and independence

Students also gain practical knowledge of child development, nutrition, safety and play, all of which are highly relevant to careers working with children and families.

Progression Opportunities

The Child Development qualification provides an excellent foundation for further study and careers within childcare, education, health and social care sectors.

Possible progression routes include:

• Level 2 and Level 3 Health and Social Care qualifications
• T Level in Education and Childcare
• Early Years Educator Apprenticeships
• Childcare and Education courses at college
• A Levels including Biology, Psychology and Sociology

The course is particularly beneficial for students considering future careers such as:

• Early Years Practitioner
• Nursery Nurse
• Teaching Assistant
• Primary School Teacher
• Midwife
• Health Visitor
• Paediatric Nurse
• Social Worker

Department Staff

Mr N Butt (nbutt@stmichaels.bhcet.org.uk)

Why study Creative iMedia?

Creative iMedia is an exciting and practical course that develops students’ digital creativity and technical skills. Students explore how digital media products are designed, created and used within the media industry. The qualification combines knowledge-based learning with hands-on projects, helping students develop valuable skills for further education and future careers in the creative and digital sectors. It consists of three units: one examined unit and two coursework-based units.

Course outline

Core units include:

• R093: Creative iMedia in the Media Industry – Examination
• R094: Visual Identity and Digital Graphics – Coursework (Mandatory)
• One optional coursework unit from:
  • R095: Characters and Comics
  • R096: Animation with Audio
  • R097: Interactive Digital Media
  • R098: Visual Imaging
  • R099: Digital Games

How is the course assessed?

Students complete three units in total: one externally assessed examination and two internally assessed coursework units. The examination is worth 40% of the qualification and the coursework units make up 60%.

At the end of the course, students can achieve grades ranging from Level 1 Pass through to Level 2 Distinction*. The qualification is equivalent in size to a GCSE and is included in the Key Stage 4 performance tables.

Unit Breakdown

R093: Creative iMedia in the Media Industry (Exam):

In this unit, students develop an understanding of the creative digital media sector and the processes involved in planning and producing media products.

Topics include:

• Topic Area 1: The Media Industry
• Topic Area 2: Factors Influencing Product Design
• Topic Area 3: Pre-production Planning
• Topic Area 4: Distribution Considerations

R094: Visual Identity and Digital Graphics (Coursework):

This mandatory coursework unit focuses on developing visual identities and creating professional digital graphics for clients. Students learn how businesses use branding, colour, typography and graphic design to communicate with their audiences.

Topics include:

• Topic Area 1: Develop Visual Identity
• Topic Area 2: Plan Digital Graphics for Products
• Topic Area 3: Create Visual Identity and Digital Graphics

Optional Coursework Unit

Students will complete one of the following units:

R095: Characters and Comics

• Plan Characters and Comics
• Create Characters and Comics
• Review Characters and Comics

R096: Animation with Audio

• Plan Animation with Audio
• Create Animation with Audio
• Review Animation with Audio

R097: Interactive Digital Media

• Plan Interactive Digital Media
• Create Interactive Digital Media
• Review Interactive Digital Media

R098: Visual Imaging

• Plan Visual Imaging Portfolios
• Create Visual Imaging Portfolios
• Review Visual Imaging Portfolios

R099: Digital Games

• Plan Digital Games
• Create Digital Games
• Review Digital Games

Students who study Creative iMedia develop skills in graphic design, digital imaging, animation, game development, interactive media and project planning. The course provides an excellent foundation for progression into A Levels, T Levels, apprenticeships and vocational qualifications in Digital Media, IT and related creative industries.

Department Staff

Mr T Hall (thall@stmichaels.bhcet.org.uk)

Miss L Dunning (ldunning@stmichaels.bhcet.org.uk)

Why study Sport Studies?

This course allows students to develop their knowledge and understanding of sport while building practical performance, leadership and analytical skills. Students will explore contemporary sporting issues, develop their own sporting performance, and gain insight into the role of media and outdoor activities within the sports industry. The qualification consists of three units, including one examined unit and two units assessed through coursework.

Course Outline

Core units include:

R184: Contemporary Issues in Sport – Examination

R185: Performance and Leadership in Sports Activities – Coursework (Mandatory)

R186: Sport and the Media or R187: Increasing Awareness of Outdoor and Adventurous Activities – Coursework (Optional)

How is the course assessed?

Assessment includes one externally assessed examination worth 40% of the qualification and two internally assessed coursework units worth 60%. Students are awarded a final qualification grade ranging from Level 1 Pass to Level 2 Distinction*.

Unit Breakdown

Contemporary Issues in Sport (Examination)

In this unit, students will learn about key issues that affect sport and participation. They will explore how sport can promote positive values, investigate the impact of major sporting events, examine the role of National Governing Bodies, and evaluate the use of technology in modern sport.

Topics include:

• Topic Area 1: Issues which affect participation in sport
• Topic Area 2: The role of sport in promoting values
• Topic Area 3: The implications of hosting a major sporting event
• Topic Area 4: The role of National Governing Bodies (NGBs)
• Topic Area 5: The use of technology in sport

Performance and Leadership in Sports Activities (Coursework)

In this mandatory coursework unit, students develop practical skills in two sporting activities and learn how to plan, lead and evaluate sports sessions. They will analyse their own performances and apply methods to improve their skills, while developing confidence, communication and leadership abilities.

Topics include:

• Topic Area 1: Key components of performance
• Topic Area 2: Applying practice methods to support improvement
• Topic Area 3: Organising and planning a sports activity session
• Topic Area 4: Leading a sports activity session
• Topic Area 5: Reviewing leadership and performance

Optional Unit: Sport and the Media (Coursework)

Students explore the relationship between sport and the media, including how media coverage influences participation, sponsorship, commercial opportunities and sporting role models. They also investigate the challenges and negative effects that media attention can create for sports and performers.

Topics include:

• Topic Area 1: Different sources of media that cover sport
• Topic Area 2: Positive effects of the media in sport
• Topic Area 3: Negative effects of the media in sport

Optional Unit: Increasing Awareness of Outdoor and Adventurous Activities (Coursework)

Students investigate a range of outdoor and adventurous activities available both locally and nationally. They learn about equipment, safety, planning and risk assessment, before participating in activities and evaluating the benefits of taking part.

Topics include:

• Topic Area 1: Provision for outdoor and adventurous activities in the UK
• Topic Area 2: Equipment, clothing and safety considerations
• Topic Area 3: Planning and participating in outdoor activities
• Topic Area 4: Evaluating participation in outdoor and adventurous activities

Future Pathways

Sport Studies provides an excellent foundation for further study in Sport, Physical Education, Sport Science, Coaching, Psychology, Sociology and Media Studies. It also helps develop transferable skills such as leadership, teamwork, communication, research and problem-solving that are highly valued by employers and colleges.