RAY Programme

Applications for the 2023/4 Ray Programme will be opening soon

Introduction to the Programme

The RAY Programme is an exciting opportunity for Year 10 students which will help to develop a broad range of skills. By taking part in this programme, you are taking the first important step towards realising your academic potential.

Throughout the one-year RAY Programme, you will take part in a range of activities, seminars and visits which will broaden your horizons, teach you new skills, and help you to make new friends. You will find the programme both enjoyable and challenging. At times you will be outside of your comfort zone, but this is all part of the fun and excitement of the course.

You will be in mixed groups with students from other schools. Your teachers will make the sessions enjoyable and interesting. They will take you beyond the level you are currently working at in school. This will undoubtedly help you when you return to school. We hope to support your GCSE work through developing positive study behaviours and a love of learning.

Aim of the Programme

RAY is an innovative programme that introduces Year 10 students to the fundamental elements of critical thinking they will need for success at GCSE, and beyond. We aim to strengthen their research and communication skills evaluating different types of evidence and explanation, and constructing persuasive arguments orally and in writing. The course will enable pupils to not only learn from a range of lecturers, but also from each other. We have designed the small and interactive classes to allow pupils to learn from collaborating and debating with classmates from other schools. The classes are carefully designed to be challenging yet accessible to Year 10 students and therefore cover a lot of curriculum topics, that differ from those taught at school.

Benefits of the Programme

• Development of core skills transferable to future study and employment
• Development of skills to support your GCSEs
• New curriculum areas and methods of study to be experienced
• Enhancement of your Record of Achievement
• You will become an inquisitive and independent learner
• Your aspirations to be raised and your horizons broadened
• You will make new friends

For more information on the RAY Programme, contact Simon Christian at schristian@bolton-sfc.ac.uk