Option Descriptors (new S4-S6)
Click on the links below to view the subject course descriptor:
“Scotland’s workforce needs constantly developing skills, knowledge and capabilities to thrive in this complex ever-changing environment.”
(Skills Development Scotland)
Are you looking for a challenge? Fancy something a little bit “different” in S4-6?
Why not have a look at what’s on offer through the Marr College Skills Academy?
Marr College Skills Academy currently offers 3 vocational subjects.
Scroll down for more information or click the links below to jump to the required section.
(Skills Development Scotland)
Are you looking for a challenge? Fancy something a little bit “different” in S4-6?
Why not have a look at what’s on offer through the Marr College Skills Academy?
Marr College Skills Academy currently offers 3 vocational subjects.
Scroll down for more information or click the links below to jump to the required section.

Rural Skills
Why study Rural Skills?
National 4 Rural Skills is delivered as part of the Marr College Skills Academy. We have developed a vocational and skills based brand named ‘Marr Grows’ who are developing practical skills ideally matched for any student interested in land based employment such as: agriculture, horticulture, landscaping or agricultural crops. This course is designed for students in S4-S6 and, as a Skills for Work course, prepares students for employment after school. Even if a student does not enter a rural skills career, the practical nature of the course would benefit many students interested in practical subjects. This course provides opportunities to visit local workplaces including farms and golf courses as well as providing college links.
By completing the course, students will develop :
For more information, click here https://www.sqa.org.uk/sqa/69491.html
Why study Rural Skills?
National 4 Rural Skills is delivered as part of the Marr College Skills Academy. We have developed a vocational and skills based brand named ‘Marr Grows’ who are developing practical skills ideally matched for any student interested in land based employment such as: agriculture, horticulture, landscaping or agricultural crops. This course is designed for students in S4-S6 and, as a Skills for Work course, prepares students for employment after school. Even if a student does not enter a rural skills career, the practical nature of the course would benefit many students interested in practical subjects. This course provides opportunities to visit local workplaces including farms and golf courses as well as providing college links.
By completing the course, students will develop :
- understanding of the workplace and the employee’s responsibilities
- for example time-keeping, appearance, customer care
- self-evaluation skills
- positive attitude to learning
- flexible approaches to solving problems
- adaptability and positive attitude to change
- confidence to set goals, reflect and learn from experience
For more information, click here https://www.sqa.org.uk/sqa/69491.html

Cycle Maintenance
SQA Level 4 Cycle Maintenance. (Max 10 students)
The general aim of this unit is to enable the learner to develop the skills and knowledge to identify both routine and non-routine maintenance/repair tasks required on a cycle.
The learner will be required to develop and use a systematic method of checking the cycle to assist in the identification of faults. The learner will develop a maintenance and lubrication schedule designed to keep the cycle in optimum condition. This approach is designed to encourage a proactive rather than a reactive approach to cycle maintenance. The learner will also carry out a range of both routine and non-routine maintenance/ repair tasks to ensure the cycle is well maintained and safe to use. This will include disassembly and reassembly and the correct setting up of various sub systems of the cycle.
Learners who complete this Unit will be able to:
Once this course is complete pupils will gain a SQA Level 4 in Cycle Maintenance.
SQA Level 4 Cycle Maintenance. (Max 10 students)
The general aim of this unit is to enable the learner to develop the skills and knowledge to identify both routine and non-routine maintenance/repair tasks required on a cycle.
The learner will be required to develop and use a systematic method of checking the cycle to assist in the identification of faults. The learner will develop a maintenance and lubrication schedule designed to keep the cycle in optimum condition. This approach is designed to encourage a proactive rather than a reactive approach to cycle maintenance. The learner will also carry out a range of both routine and non-routine maintenance/ repair tasks to ensure the cycle is well maintained and safe to use. This will include disassembly and reassembly and the correct setting up of various sub systems of the cycle.
Learners who complete this Unit will be able to:
- Carry out a safety cycle check and identify faults.
- Develop and make use of a regular maintenance and lubrication schedule for a cycle.
- Carry out a range of less frequent and specialised repair and maintenance tasks.
Once this course is complete pupils will gain a SQA Level 4 in Cycle Maintenance.

Nail Bar
With Ayrshire College support we cover 3 units of a VTCT qualification which is an Entry Level Award in Hair and Beauty skills.
The pupils study:
We focus on customer care and have a strong and positive work ethic promoting a positive attitude in the work place for our young people. Budgeting, reception duties, stock control, buying and getting value for money are only some of the skills, as well as becoming an expert in painting nails, you will gain when working in our Nail Bar.
With Ayrshire College support we cover 3 units of a VTCT qualification which is an Entry Level Award in Hair and Beauty skills.
The pupils study:
- Communication skills,
- Care for your own hands and
- Paint your own nails.
We focus on customer care and have a strong and positive work ethic promoting a positive attitude in the work place for our young people. Budgeting, reception duties, stock control, buying and getting value for money are only some of the skills, as well as becoming an expert in painting nails, you will gain when working in our Nail Bar.