Key Stage 4 Pathways

The Key Stage 4 Pathway Programme offers a diverse and engaging selection of vocational and creative courses designed to equip pupils with practical skills, industry knowledge, and personal development opportunities that prepare them for future employment or further education. Our pathways in Construction, Hair and Beauty, Sports Leadership, and Art cater to a variety of interests and learning styles, ensuring that every pupil has the chance to explore their potential and achieve success.

• The Construction pathway provides pupils with hands-on experience in key trades such as carpentry, bricklaying, and painting and decorating.
• The Hair and Beauty pathway introduces pupils to the dynamic world of beauty therapy and hairstyling, combining technical skills with theoretical understanding.
• The Sports Leaders pathway develops leadership skills through a combination of sports coaching, event management, and physical education.
• The Art pathway encourages pupils to explore their creativity by experimenting with a variety of mediums, including drawing, painting, sculpture, and digital media.

The Key Stage 4 Pathway Programme provides a tailored, real-world education that combines academic learning with practical experience. These pathways not only prepare pupils for immediate employment opportunities but also support personal growth, confidence, and the development of key life skills. By offering industry-related qualifications and hands-on experience, the programme provides opportunity for every pupil at Mary Astell Academy to be equipped to succeed in their chosen career or pursue further educational pathways.

Construction

The Construction pathway for Key Stage 4 pupils provides a comprehensive and practical introduction to the construction industry, equipping pupils with the skills and knowledge needed for future employment or further study in this field. Our curriculum covers a wide range of construction disciplines, including carpentry, bricklaying, and painting and decorating, allowing pupils to gain hands-on experience in key trades. Through a blend of theoretical instruction and practical application, pupils develop core competencies essential for success in the industry.

A key element of our Construction pathway is the opportunity for pupils to work towards industry-recognised qualifications, such as the City & Guilds Construction Skills Certification (CSCS). These qualifications provide a solid foundation for those seeking to enter the workforce directly after school, while also offering a stepping stone for further vocational training or apprenticeships. The pathway is designed to be accessible to all pupils, with lessons tailored to individual needs and learning styles, ensuring that each pupil can achieve their potential.

By focusing on real-world skills and industry standards, we ensure that pupils leave Mary Astell Academy prepared to pursue a range of careers within the construction sector or to continue their education in specialist areas of the trade. Our curriculum not only supports technical proficiency but also emphasises teamwork, problem-solving, and professional conduct, essential attributes for success in the construction industry.

Hair and Beauty

The Hair and Beauty curriculum provides pupils with a broad introduction to the hair and beauty industry, combining practical skills with theoretical knowledge to prepare them for future careers or further education in this sector. The curriculum covers a wide range of disciplines, including, hair styling, makeup application, skincare, nail care, and basic beauty therapy treatments. Students gain hands-on experience with industry-standard tools and techniques, developing both technical proficiency and creative confidence.

In addition to core hair and beauty skills, students are introduced to essential health and safety practices, client care, and professional standards required within the industry. The curriculum also emphasises personal development, such as communication, time management, and customer service, all of which are critical to succeeding in a salon environment or as an independent practitioner.

Pupils have the opportunity to achieve industry-related qualifications, including First Aid certification and other relevant vocational credentials, which enhance employability and readiness for the workplace. These qualifications serve as a strong foundation for students who wish to continue their education through further training or apprenticeships in hair and beauty.

The Hair and Beauty pathway supports pupils to leave with a well-rounded skill set and a clear understanding of the professional opportunities available in this sector.

Sports Leaders

Our Sports Leaders curriculum provides pupils with a dynamic and engaging pathway that combines leadership skills with a passion for sports. This course is designed to develop pupils' confidence, communication, and teamwork abilities through a variety of practical and theoretical activities related to sports coaching, event planning, and physical education.

Throughout the program, students will explore key aspects of leadership, such as how to plan, organise, and deliver sports sessions to peers and younger students. They will also learn essential skills like health and safety management, risk assessment, and adapting sports activities for different age groups and abilities. This hands-on experience is supported by opportunities to lead and participate in school and community sports events, helping pupils develop real-world leadership capabilities.

Pupils will have the opportunity to work towards a nationally recognised Sports Leaders qualification. This qualification enhances their employability and provides a strong foundation for those considering careers in sports coaching, fitness, or further studies in physical education.

The Sports Leaders pathway not only promotes physical fitness and sports knowledge but also develops essential life skills such as resilience, responsibility, and effective communication. By the end of the course, pupils will be well-prepared to pursue further education, apprenticeships, or entry-level roles within the sports and fitness industry.

Art

The Art curriculum offers pupils a rich and creative environment where they can explore a variety of artistic mediums while developing their own unique style and creative expression. The curriculum is designed to provide pupils with hands-on experience in diverse techniques such as drawing, painting, sculpture, printmaking, and digital media, allowing them to experiment and refine their skills across different forms of art.

A key focus of the course is nurturing individual creativity and encouraging pupils to develop a personal artistic voice. Through guided projects and independent work, students are empowered to interpret ideas, themes, and emotions in their own way, fostering originality and confidence in their artistic process.

Where appropriate, students can work towards external accreditation, which enhances their portfolios and prepares them for future opportunities in art education or careers in the creative industries. In addition to in-class learning, pupils have the opportunity to collaborate with external artistic organisations and professionals, further enriching their experience and broadening their understanding of the art world. These partnerships offer valuable insights into professional artistic practice and provide real-world exposure to various creative pathways.

The Art curriculum equips pupils with the skills, knowledge, and experience to pursue further studies or careers in art and design, while also developing an appreciation for creative expression and visual storytelling.

Supporting ICT Qualifications

Our Additional Vocational Online Qualifications pathway offers pupils the flexibility to expand their knowledge and skills across a variety of industries beyond the classroom. These qualifications are designed to complement our core curriculum by providing pupils with opportunities to explore specialised subjects at their own pace, deepening their understanding of fields such as construction, health and social care, and more.

By offering a broad range of industry-relevant courses, these online qualifications help pupils build valuable, sector-specific skills that enhance their employability and readiness for further education or apprenticeships. Accessible and tailored to individual interests, these qualifications empower pupils to take ownership of their learning, equipping them with the adaptability and confidence needed to succeed beyond Mary Astell.