Background
In 2006 Hayesbrook became one of the first Vocational Specialist Schools in the country. Although the phrase Applied Learning has since replaced Vocational, the aim is still the same; to encourage the development of learning in a practical rather than a theoretical way. This means linking what is learned in the classroom directly with the world of work. It is something that is equally relevant to all students regardless of age or ability. It is also something that requires schools to work in partnership, collaborating to widen the opportunities that are available.
The Curriculum
Applied courses are now offered in place of GCSE and A level qualifications in a number of subjects. These courses are directly linked to the workplace. They also involve the compilation of a portfolio rather than relying on a final exam.
Key stage 4:
- BTEC First in Sport
- BTEC First in Business Studies
- BTEC First in Music
- BTEC First in Performing Arts
- BTEC First in Interactive Media
- OCR National Certificate in ICT
Key stage 5:
- BTEC First in Public Services
- BTEC First in Art and Design
- BTEC First in Travel and Tourism
- Diploma in Digital Applications (DIDA)
- BTEC National in Sport
- BTEC National in Sport and Exercise Science
- BTEC National in Business Studies
- BTEC National in Science
- OCR Nationals in ICT
Diplomas at the Hayesbrook School
Hayesbrook is one of the first schools in West Kent to offer the government's new diplomas. These will be delivered in collaboration with other providers including West Kent College, Hillview School and Mascalls School. Diplomas will be available in the following subjects:
- Construction and the Built Environment
- Creative and Media
- Society, Health and Development
More subjects are due to follow and the expectation is that all 17 diplomas will be available by 2013.
Young Apprenticeships
This scheme is designed to allow students to undertake an apprenticeship while still at school. They spend 3 days a week in school studying English, maths and science, one day focusing on the main subject of the apprenticeship and one day on an extended work experience placement. Apprenticeships are currently available in sports management, engineering, construction and hairdressing.
Vocational Initiative Programme
Students on the Vocational Initiative Programme spend one day a week at West Kent or Hadlow Colleges. They are able to learn aspects of vehicle maintenance, construction including bricklaying, decorating and plumbing and animal or land management. As well as providing an insight into the skills needed in the workplace, this programme also offers a stepping stone to college post-16.
Enterprise Days
Once a term the school runs an enterprise day, designed to develop the students' independent learning skills. Each year group works for the day on a project designed by different subjects working in collaboration.
Work Related Learning
All students in year 10 complete a day's work shadowing. This is followed up in year 11 by a week's work experience. Many of these placements are with local businesses but an increasing number of students choose to go further afield. Feedback from employers is universally positive and a number of students have been offered work directly as a result of the impact they have made whilst on work experience. Current year 10 students should be thinking already about their placements for October. If you are a local employer and can offer work experience we would love to hear from you. Please contact us at
simmons@hayesbrook.kent.sch.uk
