Qualifications
Information for Students
GCSE & Vocational Studies
At Sporting Stars Academy, we offer students a range of GCSE & BTEC qualifications, giving students transferable skills that they achieve and benefit from once they graduate.
Students have the opportunity to gain qualifications in a range of theory and practical subjects.
GCSE/BTEC Subjects
- GCSE English Language (AQA)
- GCSE Mathematics (Pearson/Edexcel)
- GCSE Science (Double Award) – Synergy (AQA)
- GCSE History (AQA)
- GCSE Art & Design (AQA)
- GCSE Photography (AQA)
- BTEC Sport
- BTEC Personal, Growth & Wellbeing
- BTEC Public Services
- BTEC Workskills
Pearson Functional Skills
Functional Skills English and maths are also offered to students as an alternative pathway, with opportunity to gain qualifications from Entry Level to Level 2 equivalent.
AQA Awards
Additionally, students at Sporting Stars have the opportunity to achieve a number of AQA awards. These awards give our students the opportunity to gain transferable practical skills. These awards will be gained in their practical lessons, for example, Physical Education or Outdoor Education and also in their theory based lessons, such as Mathematics, English & Science.
Supporting Students
At Sporting Stars Academy, we know that exams are stressful and we do our best to provide support for all of our students. We provide booster sessions, revision guides, mock examinations (to prepare for the real thing) as well as frequent retrieval and feedback. In order to support our students, we ensure that their individual needs are catered for through access arrangements, whether that be extra time, rest breaks or a scribe.
Exams can be a stressful time for any teenager, but for those with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND), the pressure can feel even more overwhelming. The unfamiliar structure, time constraints, and large amounts of information to retain can make revision particularly challenging. However, with the right support at home, parents can play a crucial role in reducing stress and helping their child feel more confident and prepared. Here are some practical ways parents can support their teenager with SEND through the revision process while managing exam-related stress.
Create a Study Schedule
Help your child to plan a realistic and consistent revision timetable, breaking subjects into manageable chunks with regular breaks.
Use Multisensory Techniques
Incorporate different learning styles, such as visual aids, mind maps, audio recordings, and hands-on activities, to engage their senses and make information more accessible.
Provide a Quiet, Organised Space
Ensure a calm, distraction-free study area with the necessary resources easily available.
Incorporate Assistive Tools
Use technology like apps, voice-to-text software, or flashcards that cater to your child’s specific learning needs, making revision more accessible and engaging.
Practice in Small Chunks
Short, regular revision sessions work better than long periods of study. Encourage active recall, practice questions, and quizzes to reinforce learning.
Offer Emotional Support
Encourage a positive mindset, reassure your child of their abilities, and remind them that progress, not perfection, is the goal. Emotional encouragement is vital to boost their confidence and reduce anxiety.
Break Tasks into Steps
Help them break down revision tasks into smaller, more achievable steps to prevent overwhelm, and celebrate their achievements along the way.