FULFORD School pupils in York have visited an RAF base as part of a curriculum scheme called Certificate Of Personal Effectiveness (COPE).

The Fulford group chose RAF Linton-on-Ouse where they were able to tick a number of boxes in their portfolio.

They also had an introduction to a later unit, which covers problem solving when they were given a workshop to show how pilots spot and solve problems, often in a split second.

At the end of the session, the group showed they too could plan solutions using lateral thinking.

Anne Fenech, who runs the programme at Fulford School, said the visit also showed the group there were routes to jobs and careers otherer than colleges and universities.

She said: "COPE aims to develop and demonstrate a range of personal, key and employability skills which lead to personal effectiveness.

"We look at a wide range of subjects from health and fitness to environmental issues. The pupils are also taught lifestyle skills, such as managing personal finances and how to work as part of a team."

"The purpose of today's visit was to offer a wider view of life. The pupils will now write a report saying what they have learned from the experience and that will go into their portfolio."

The scheme, which has been running for two years, is proving a hit with pupils. Many who are able to perform well at GCSE are also opting in because of the lifestyle skills it teaches. Portfolio evidence varies from writing reports, surveys, pictures and diaries and is assessed by external moderators.

"It is very popular and offers another route to success at GCSE level away from the sometimes daunting exam process," said Mrs Fenech.


Coping strategy

THE COPE scheme is designed to give qualifications to those who find the traditional GCSE route too inflexible for their learning needs.

There is no final exam, but pupils build a portfolio of work which is marked both in school and at an exam centre.

One of the key sections of the course concerns Citizenship And Community. To achieve a credit, pupils must present evidence of being aware of their own community.