Land Based Studies
BTEC Level 1 Introductory Award
This course provides a foundational, highly practical introduction to the skills and knowledge required for maintenance and personal development within the Land-based industry. The curriculum is delivered through hands-on projects, focusing on real-world maintenance tasks around the school site.
Course Focus and Context
The BTEC Level 1 Introductory Award in Land-based Studies prepares students for further education or entry-level roles in maintenance, construction, and site supervision. The learning environment at the school is used as a living, practical workspace, requiring maintenance of both an old building and large outdoor spaces (including trees, plants, and pond areas).
Core Unit Overview
The course is structured around two key units designed to link practical skills with personal progression.
Unit LBS13: Developing Estate Maintenance Skills
This unit is a highly practical collaboration with the school site supervisor and focuses on essential upkeep and environmental care.
- Key Skills & Activities:
- Maintenance Audit: Students learn to carry out an audit to identify and prioritise maintenance tasks around the building and grounds.
- Task Planning: Students work out realistic time scales, plan the steps for maintenance tasks, and identify necessary equipment.
- Health & Safety: A strong emphasis is placed on understanding and applying health and safety requirements for all practical work.
- Practical Tasks: Students carry out a variety of maintenance tasks as required by the site supervisor and work schedule.
Unit A2: Developing a Personal Progression Plan
This unit guides students through self-assessment and career exploration within the Land-based sector to prepare them for their next steps.
- Progression Activities:
- Career Research: Students participate in workshops and research possible courses and careers related to Land-based studies (e.g., maintenance, site supervisor, construction).
- Skills Assessment: Students identify their own skills and behaviours and compare them with those desirable for their selected jobs.
- Development Planning: Students identify specific habits, behaviours, and skills that need improving and create a plan to work on them.
- Interview Preparation: Students prepare for potential interviews for jobs or further education.
- Community Service: Students can explore opportunities to provide maintenance or other services to the local community.
Assessment Method
Assessment for both units is continuous and focused on providing practical evidence:
- Practical Work: Performance of maintenance tasks and participation in progression planning workshops.
- Evidence Gathering: Students compile evidence of their work using diaries and by filling out worksheets with annotated photos of the practical tasks they have successfully completed.
Contact
Land Based Studies Teacher
Steve Timson - steve.timson@prus.newham.sch.uk