Key Stage 4 & GCSE

Pupils are in Key Stage 4 during Years 9, 10 and 11. This is when they study for GCSEs

Details of all GCSE courses are given in a booklet distributed to Year 8 students just after Christmas. A copy of last year’s booklet is available on request. The courses available may not be the same from year to year. Also it may not be possible to run every course every year. It will depend on numbers of students wishing to study it and the availability of staff to teach it.

In total pupils usually study eleven GCSEs based upon the following structure:

• English Language and English Literature

• Mathematics. Gifted Mathematicians may also study a qualification beyond standard GCSE.

• Biology, Chemistry and Physics as GCSEs in Science and Additional Science.

• A Modern Foreign Language

• An Applied Learning Course (including Business Studies, Applied Languages, Applied Computing, Music Technology, Design and Realisation, Leisure and Tourism, Applied Science)

• Either a second Modern Foreign Language or a second Applied Learning option

Pupils also select three of the following options: A third Science (making separate GCSEs in Biology, Chemistry and Physics), A third Modern Language, Art, Classical Civilisation, Geography, Design Technology, History, Latin, Media Studies, Physical Education, Religious Studies, Design Technology (either Electronic Products or Resistant Materials).

In addition pupils will also take compulsory courses in PE and Games, ICT, Religious Studies and Personal Development and Citizenship.

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