Key Stage 4 Courses - for students who started Key Stage 4 before September 2023
Those students who commenced their Key Stage 4 studies before September 2023 follow core, compulsory GCSE courses in:
- English Language
- English Literature
- Mathematics
- Religious Studies
- At Least Two Sciences
All Key Stage 4 students also participate in non-examined Physical Education lessons.
In line with our high ambitions for our students, we are increasingly encouraging more students to study the subjects which will enable them to achieve the academically challenging and well-respected suite of qualifications known collectively as the English Baccalaureate (or EBacc for short).
The subjects which count towards the EBacc are English (Language and Literature), Mathematics, two Sciences, a Modern Foreign Language (French or Spanish) and a Humanity subject (History or Geography) - six specific GCSE qualifications in total.
In addition, students are guided towards an appropriate mix of other optional courses from a range of GCSE and vocational qualifications. These optional courses include:
- Art & Design: Fine Arts
- Business Studies
- Computer Science
- Design Technology
- Drama
- Food Preparation & Nutrition
- French
- Geography
- History
- Spanish
Vocational qualifications (e.g. BTECs, or Cambridge National Awards) in:
- Child Development
- Creative & Digital Media
- Music
- Performing Arts
- Sports Studies
A small number of students who especially benefit from further support with key facilitating skills in literacy, take additional English lessons in place of one exam course.
Should you have any questions or queries regarding the curriculum, please direct them to Mrs Mel Peeling, Vice Principal, via [email protected].
A summary of the subjects taught and topics covered in each subject during Year 10 and Year 11 can be found by following the links, below:
Key Stage 4 Curriculum Pathways
Students who commenced their Key Stage 4 courses before 2023 follow one of three different curriculum pathways. Details of the choice of courses recommended for students following each of these three pathways can be found within the document entitled 'Pathways Pre-2023'.