Key Stage 4
At Key Stage 4, our students’ curriculum consists of core, extended core and a very wide range of optional subjects, leading to GCSE qualifications in the four entitlement areas (the Arts, Design and Technology, the Humanities and Modern Foreign Languages).
All students study at least one Modern Foreign Language, the vast majority of our students study three separate Sciences and most students study two Humanities subjects. In total, students have 16 options to choose from and most will take the full EBacc. This is not a requirement but is strongly encouraged as this is a set of subjects at GCSE that keeps young people’s options open for further study and future careers.
Core Subjects
The core curriculum consists of English, Mathematics, Biology, Chemistry, Physics, and at least one Modern Foreign Language (French, German or Spanish).
Optional Subjects
Our challenging, academic curriculum is specifically designed to meet the needs and match the interests of all of our students, and students have three additional choices to allow them access to a range of subjects that suit their individual interests and strengths. From Art, Dance and Drama to Religious Studies, Geography, Psychology and Business, students have a wide choice. Please click below to read our latest Options Booklet, which includes details of all subjects studied at Key Stage 4.
Curriculum Options BookletWe also provide a number of exciting opportunities to specifically challenge our exceptionally able students. For example, our most able mathematicians are able to prepare for A Level and undergraduate learning by studying GCSE Further Mathematics alongside GCSE Mathematics.
Non-Examined Extended Core
Throughout Key Stage 4, our students all follow a comprehensive, timetabled PSHE programme (including units of work on Citizenship, Sex and Relationships and Careers Education) and enjoy two hours of Physical Education per week in Years 9 and 10 and three hours per fortnight in Year 11. Ethics is taught once a week in Year 9 and once a fortnight during Years 10 and 11.
To further support and extend students’ understanding of important historical movements and events across the world, ‘Modern Society’ is a standalone course, taught in Year 9, and an important part of our academic curriculum.
A well-planned Arts programme has also been designed and is taught across Year 9, allowing students to further develop their creativity and continue their engagement with the Arts. Throughout the year, during Curriculum Enrichment Days and through other opportunities such as assemblies, form and House events, students are encouraged to take part in national projects and competitions, engage with community theatres and explore their world creatively which in turn helps to develop their ‘Cultural Capital’.
Please click below for Years 9, 10 and 11 Curriculum booklets.