Some of these courses have been written from scratch, others have been adapted from modular GCSEs and the remaining programmes are existing GCSE courses with schemes of work which place much more emphasis on work related contexts. The construction course gives the pupils two qualifications. Before the end of Year 10 pupils achieve a full NVQ qualification and then go on to get a GCSE at the end of Year 11. Each course is practical in nature and requires pupils to work to industrial standards. Employers have helped write the courses, but most of the work has been done by the borough's teachers.
Early results are very promising.
Standards are high with good GCSE results being achieved. There is a marked improvement in the behaviour, attitude and attendance of many pupils.