KS4 Overview

Classes are set by ability in mathematics from Year 10 but are mixed ability everywhere else. Pupils change form groups at the start of Year 10 when a fifth tutor group is introduced to the pastoral structure.

All pupils follow a compulsory programme of GCSEs in mathematics, English language, English literature, biology, chemistry, and physics.

All pupils select a further four optional GCSE subjects, which must include a language (French, German, or Latin) and a humanities subject (geography or history).

The range of optional GCSE courses on offer varies each year. Typically, pupils select from a list that includes art and design, computer science, design technology, food and nutrition, French, geography, German, history, Latin, music, physical education, and religious studies.

Details of the content of the KS4 courses can be found in the KS4 Curriculum Booklet provides an overview of each course, including links to a mapping document detailing the knowledge and skills being covered each term, and a summary of the pastoral and academic systems that are in place to support pupils in their studies.

In KS4 pupils follow compulsory non-examined courses in PSHCE, Statutory RS, Core PE and the KS4 enrichment programme. The enrichment programme seeks to ensure that all pupils continue to access a broad range of subjects. Weekly lessons, designed by subject specialists, ensure a universal provision beyond KS3. Pupils continue to take lessons in art, music, computing, food and nutrition, and creative writing, and are introduced to new subjects such as economics, politics, ecology, earth sciences, classics, ethics, ab initio languages such as Italian, and many more. The courses are designed to complement the GCSE programme of study to ensure pupils are not duplicating work and are delivered by subject specialists to ensure quality delivery.

GCSE Astronomy has recently been added to the co-curriculum programme.

All external examinations are taken at the end of Year 11.