Construction and the Built Environment (Technical Award)
An EDUQAS qualification in Construction and the Built Environment is a great decision for pupils who might like to pursue a career in the construction sector. Students will be introduced to a variety of trades covering many aspects of the industry.
Students will explore the skills of Tiling, Painting and Decorating, Electrical Installation, Plumbing, Bricklaying and Carpentry, along with key topics such as sustainability. It will also build their confidence in the use of Mathematics that is needed in a Construction career.
HOW STUDENTS WILL STUDY
Students will learn a wide range of skills and knowledge enabling them to be independent learners in order to complete the internally assessed elements of the course.
This will require the use of a range of tools including hand tools, power tools and workshop machinery.
The practical elements of the year11 coursework cover Bricklaying, Carpentry and Electrical Installation.
DEPARTMENT STRENGTHS AND RESOURCES
Teachers have a very wide range of experience in education and working directly in the Construction topic area. This enables them to relate all topics to ‘real world’ situations.
Highfields School has an inclusive construction centre and workshops are equipped with both traditional and up to date equipment and machinery that would be used on real construction sites and workshops.
HOW STUDENTS WILL BE ASSESSED
Internal assessments are marked by the teacher in line with EDUQAS assessment criteria and moderated by the exam board. Subject knowledge is tested at regular intervals throughout the course. Exam preparation and skill development are important parts of year 10 with examinations and practical coursework submissions taking place in year 11. Students study 2 units of work, 1 of which is an externally assessed exam and the other is a series of internally assessed projects which focuses on delivering the 3 practical aspects and evidencing the quality of work whilst focusing on Health and Safety.
The 2 units are individually assessed and awarded a grade. These are then totalled to give the students a final grade for the course. Unit 1 is the externally assessed unit, and is worth 40%, unit 3 is the internally assessed unit, and is worth 60% of the final grade.
PROGRESSION ROUTES
This qualification provides opportunities for learners to progress to either academic or more specialised vocational pathways. This could include becoming a bricklayer, carpenter, construction management roles, surveyors, etc. The wide range of problem solving transferable skills that students will learn provides an excellent foundation for all vocational courses.
More info:
Head of Department:
Mr M Cullis - Lead Teacher of Design & Technology
Student Quote
‘Following a vocational construction course was really enjoyable. It gave me the chance to look at several skills that are used in construction and can be used in other areas of work. After completing the course, I had the chance to go to college or follow an apprenticeship. I have now completed my first year with Wolverhampton Homes as an apprentice plumber.’