Land-Based: Synoptic Assignment Preparation

The point at which we start this section depends upon the successful completion of the 3 content areas listed (Land use, Science & Technology).

After the November mock exams, we will complete a previous Synoptic Assignment together and I will then mark them to the standards set out by our awarding body. From this, you can plan improvements to your methods etc.
No Later than the end of February, you will complete the "unseen" assignment set by the awarding body in examination conditions.
Your work, along with my record sheets will be uploaded to the awarding body for moderation.

Before you begin to construct your Synoptic Assignment, you get an opportunity to make some notes. These notes need to be checked by your teacher and you are allowed to take them into the lessons inwhich you are working on your Synoptic Assignment. These are very important because, although you will be typing up your work, the computers will not allow you to access the internet. These notes are a maximum of 2 sides of A4, use the the space wisely.

You need to produce 2 detailed risk assessments. The first is for your soil testing proceedure and the second is for your handling of the animals (health checks and the feeding/cleaning).
Remember the key words:
Hazard: A hazard is anything that has the potential to cause harm/hurt somebody.
Risk: This is how likely it is that hazard will cause harm.
In the risk assessment, you need to identiry all of the hazards such as sharp objects, sharp teeth, slippery surfaces. Then, for each, say how likely they are to hurt somebody. Now you can identify the things that you have done in order to reduce the risk then reevaluate the chances of harm taking place (residual risk).

In your written report, you will be given areas to cover. Here are some ideas that you should consider.
Animals:Are you going to make use of animals? Would the piece of land benefit from a petting zoo? You need to think about the animals that you will have there, are they safe with the public (safe for the animals and safe for the public). Ensure that it is realistic and that they can be cared for easily and that there is enough land for them, Most importantly, think about the 5 freedoms and the laws governing safety.
Environmental projects: Are you going to attract wildlife? Think about bug hotels, ponds and birdboxes, if you want to increase biodiversity in the area or save water or have reedbeds for sewage, research it thoroughly and link carefully to any existing projects or areas of SSSI.
Leisure activities: As well as having the animals to attract visitors, think about how you could increase visitor numbers with things like a climbing wall or a tennis court. Be very mindful of the size of your land, it may not support a golf course but may be ideal for a single bowling green. Think about cost and safety too.
Technology: What special technology could be used in this land? Power supplied by renewable means would not only reduce the impact on the environment but it would allow it to run without cost. Be realistic about what would fit on the land and think about planning permission. Other technologies such as CCTV for security and trail cams to record nocturnal animals that you may be lucky enough to attract will attract visitors too.
Horticulture: What plants are you going to have in the area? This could range from trees and shrubs to flowers and vegetables. Think carefully about this and how it will link to the brief as well as the overall theme of your plan.