Welsh Baccalaureate

                   
A new Diploma-style qualification which includes:                   

The Skills Challenge Certificate, together with GCSEs in English, Maths and 3 other subjects. 

The Welsh Baccalaureate is part of a national drive to raise standards and help you to become “Qualified for Life”.

WHAT ARE THE AIMS OF THE NEW WELSH BACCALAUREATE?

The new qualification aims to help pupils raise their skills levels and confidence, so you can play an active role in our diverse society.  Learners will develop knowledge and understanding of society from a local, national and global perspective. 

WHAT DOES IT INVOLVE? 

In September 2015, all Year 10 pupils will start work on the new qualification.  To achieve it, you will need to gain:

• The Skills Challenge Certificate (equivalent to 1 GCSE):           
• GCSE English Language
• GCSE Maths — Numeracy
• At least THREE other GCSE or equivalent (eg BTEC) qualifications

You can achieve the new qualification at 2 different levels:

National (Grades A* - C)     OR  Foundation   (Grades A* - G)

We expect that a majority will achieve National level.

ASSESSMENT

There is no examination.  Pupils have to complete 4 Challenges during Years 10 and 11.  Your work will be assessed by teachers and moderated by WJEC.

HOURS OF STUDY

Timetabled:    3 hours a fortnight

Challenge Days:   Blocks of time for extended activities.

THE FOUR CHALLENGES

MORE ABOUT THE CHALLENGES

Overall, you will gain a wide range of knowledge and understanding.  The Challenges have been designed to give you skills and experiences that employers value.  Across the 4 Challenges, you will be involved in:

• volunteering and making a contribution to the community
• investigating important global issues
• working with businesses and other organisations to create products and services
• Managing a  high quality project on a subject of your own choice

HAVING THE RIGHT ATTITUDE

• Turn up for school, don’t fall behind with work or let your team down
• Try your best, even when you feel challenged
• Work to high standards all the time.  Don’t be satisfied with second best.