Curriculum Leader
Mrs L Denton-Allin
The Welsh Baccalaureate qualification (WBQ) actually consists of 2 qualifications:
1.The GCSE or Advanced level Skills Challenge Certificate (SCC):
This is a standalone GCSE or A level qualification that is attained following the successful completion of 4 challenges over the course of the 2 year KS4/5 curriculum. At GCSE level, the SCC is graded A*-C, Pass* or Pass. At A level it is graded A*-E.
2.The Welsh Baccalaureate at Foundation, National or Advanced level
This is an ‘umbrella’ qualification that is attained if learners successfully complete the Skills Challenge qualification plus the supporting qualifications*. Consequently, it is possible for learners to attain the Skills Challenge qualification at GCSE or A level but not attain the WBQ Foundation/National/Advanced.
| *Supporting Qualifications | ||
| GCSE Foundation WBQ | GCSE National WBQ | Advanced WBQ |
| GCSE English/Welsh language grades D-G GCSE Maths grades D-G GCSE SCC at Pass/Pass* 2 additional GCSE’s grades D-G | GCSE English/Welsh language grades A*-C GCSE Maths grades A*-C GCSE SCC at A*-C 2 additional GCSE’s grades A*-C | GCSE English/Welsh language grades A*-C GCSE Maths grades A*-C Advanced SCC at A*-E 2 additional A level/BTEC Level 3 qualifications |
Overview of the qualification
The primary aim of the Welsh Baccalaureate qualification (WBQ) is to enable learners to develop and demonstrate an understanding of, and proficiency in, essential and employability skills. These skills include:
- Communication
- Numeracy
- Digital Literacy
- Planning and Organisation
- Creativity and Innovation
- Critical Thinking and Problem Solving
- Personal Effectiveness.
These skills are developed through the GCSE or Advanced level Skills Challenge Certificate qualification, which forms part of the core studies for learners in KS4 and 5. The assessment involves the application of these skills in a real life context, through three Challenge Briefs and an Individual Project.
The Challenges
1.The Individual Project
The purpose of the Individual Project is to develop learners’ skills, through carrying out a research activity in an area of personal interest or one that reflects future educational or career aspirations. During the Individual Project learners will explicitly develop skills in Digital Literacy, Planning and Organisation and Critical Thinking and Problem Solving and apply them in an appropriate manner
2.The Community Challenge
The purpose of the Community Challenge is to develop learners’ skills, whilst encouraging learners to identify, develop and participate in opportunities that will benefit the local community. During the Community Challenge learners will explicitly develop skills of Planning and Organisation and Personal Effectiveness and apply them in an appropriate manner.
3.The Global Citizenship Challenge
The purpose of the Global Citizenship Challenge is to develop learners’ skills, whilst providing opportunities to understand and respond appropriately to global issues. During the Global Citizenship Challenge learners will explicitly develop skills of Critical Thinking and Problem Solving and Creativity and Innovation and apply them in an appropriate manner.
4.The Enterprise & Employability Challenge
The purpose of the Enterprise and Employability Challenge is to develop learners’ skills, whilst providing opportunities for learners to develop enterprising skills and attributes and enhance employability. During the Enterprise and Employability Challenge learners will explicitly develop skills in Digital Literacy, Creativity and Innovation and Personal Effectiveness and apply them in an appropriate manner.
Information for GCSE level learners
A handbook to accompany the course can be downloaded herehttps://www.wjec.co.uk/qualifications/welsh-baccalaureate/welsh-bacc-from-2015/ks4-national-foundation/National+Foundation+Student+Handbook.pdf
Information for Advanced level learners
A handbook to accompany the course can be downloaded here https://www.wjec.co.uk/qualifications/welsh-baccalaureate/welsh-bacc-from-2015/Advanced/Advanced-Student-Handbook-Sept-2018-pdf.pdf?language_id=1
