Construction

GCSE

The CCEA GCSE Construction and the Built Environment specification features up-to-date content that reflects modern-day practices in the construction industry.

It encourages students to develop their knowledge of the industry, which they then apply in relevant and work-related contexts.

Students learn to interpret drawings of domestic buildings and explore the materials and sustainable methods used in domestic and commercial construction. The specification also helps students to appreciate the importance of health and safety in the construction industry.

To enhance their practical skills, students complete a craft project based on woodwork, brickwork or blockwork. They also develop their computer-aided design knowledge, understanding and skills by producing a portfolio of work.

This qualification builds on the knowledge, understanding and skills developed through the Science and Technology Area of Learning.

This specification is unitised, so it’s possible to take part of the assessment at the end of the first year of study.

The specification has four units:

• Unit 1: Introduction to the Built Environment
• Unit 2: Sustainable Construction
• Unit 3: The Construction Craft Project
• Unit 4: Computer Aided Design in Construction.

BTEC

This qualification will prepare learners for direct employment in the construction sector or progression to a higher level of study. The course requires applied learning that brings together knowledge and understanding with practical and technical skills. This is achieved through learners performing vocational tasks that encourage the development of appropriate vocational behaviours and transferable skills such as the use of AutoCAD and Surveying instruments. These transferable skills help to develop better communication, teamwork, planning and completing tasks to high standards, which are valued in both the workplace and in higher education.

Year 1:

Construction Principles - External Unit (32 Points)

Construction Technology - Internal Unit (16 Points)

Health & Safety in Construction - Internal Unit (16 Points)

Graphical Detailing in Construction (AutoCAD) - Internal Unit (16 Points)

Building Regulations and Control in Construction - Internal Unit (16 Points)

Year 2:

Construction Design - External Unit (32 Points)

Surveying in Construction - Internal Unit (16 Points)

Housing Design Project - Internal Unit (16 Points)

Projects in Construction - Internal Unit (16 Points)

Renewable Energy for Housing - Internal Unit (16 Points)

External Assessment (33%)

A task set and marked by Pearson and completed under supervised conditions. The supervised assessment is in a specified session timetabled by BTEC with a written submission of evidence.

Internal Assessment (67%)

An assignment is a distinct activity completed independently by learners that is separate from teaching activities that learners complete with direction from teachers.