GCSE in Citizenship

Why study this subject?

Citizenship puts students in touch with the world around them giving them the ability to think more widely than their own immediate circumstances. A themed approach leads them to consider issues as diverse as how individuals can bring about change in their local community and the UK's relationship with international organisations.

What will I learn?

In citizenship students are encouraged to focus on a number of citizenship concepts such as stereotyping, sustainable development and community cohesion and through these, to develop skills such as tolerance, collaborative working and negotiation. During lessons, students apply their learning to real-life scenarios on both a local and global scale. During the course you will:

• engage with topical citizenship issues and contribute to debates on challenges facing society, involving a wide range of political, social and ethical ideas, issues and problems in different contexts.
• develop and apply understanding of key citizenship concepts (justice, democracy, rights and responsibilities, identities and diversity) to deepen their understanding of society and how communities change over time.
• use an enquiring, critical approach to distinguish facts, opinions and bias, build arguments and make informed judgements.
• develop the necessary skills, knowledge and understanding to take action with others to address citizenship issues in their communities.

How will I be taught?

Citizenship Studies provides the opportunity for students to work individually to develop their own knowledge and also encourages students to work with others and take part in group activities to bring about a change encourage candidates to be inspired, moved and changed by following a broad, coherent, satisfying and worthwhile course of study and gain the confidence and conviction to participate in decision making and play an active role as effective citizens in public life.

How will I be assessed?

Assessment will be on-going throughout the whole course to make sure you are maximising your potential and you are well prepared for your final exams. Regular tests will allow you to practise exam-style questions and improve your understanding of the course. You will be externally assessed through both examination and coursework.

What qualifications will I get at the end of the course?

You will receive a GCSE in Citizenship.

What can this qualification lead to afterwards?

This is a good GCSE to have if you are thinking for a career in the public sector (for example in the police) or in nursing. Employers rate highly the skills developed in this GCSE.

Post-16 Progression

Those achieving a good grade in GCSE Citizenship, can study the course at A-Level.

How much homework will I have to do?

There will be one piece of homework set per week.

Where can I find out more about this qualification?

Speak to Mrs Bird for more information.