St Thomas More Catholic College
St Thomas More Catholic College is an 11-18 Comprehensive School in Stoke on Trent with a sixth form of around 150 learners. Although a curriculum entitlement, it was felt by both staff and learners that General RE lacked sparkle and learners did not enjoy or appreciate the experience as much as other post-16 subjects. This was compounded by the fact that there were no qualification outcomes leading to either UCAS or CVA points.
With support from ASDAN, qualification, funding and progression opportunities were identified. After seeking advice from their Diocesan Adviser, the school decided to link part of General RE to the CoPE Level 3 challenge, Global Awareness. A scheme of work and lesson plans were written to complement the teaching and learning of General RE. The assessment approach used the Wider Key Skill Qualification of Working with Others at Level 3 as its outcome. E. Todd, RE Lead, commented, “This year we have introduced WWO in the 6th form as part of the General RE course. Having studied Catholic teaching about various contemporary issues, students have worked together to produce information booklets and displays. Whilst consolidating prior learning of often difficult concepts they have also developed vital life skills including the ability to lead, set objectives, review progress regularly and co-operate”
"Students are eager to attend; you can feel the buzz in the room. An added benefit of WWO is the development of transferable skills and flexibility of delivery for students who may find the move to three A2’s difficult”.
The value to learners themselves was also recognised. One student commented, "I feel completing this project has improved my skills when working with others. I also feel it has helped me to be more motivated and help motivate others”.
The school plan to continue with Working with Others next year. This qualification contributes to one third of the CoPE Level 3 qualification which will be offered as progression for those who are struggling with AS workload.