Key Stage 3
Years 7 to 9 (11 to 14 years)
As GCSE syllabi are reviewed there is an increasing need to teach Key Stage 3 content over a two year time frame. This allows students in Year 9 to embark on aspects of the GCSE syllabus early and especially relates to the core subjects of English, Mathematics and Science.
In Year 9, pupils are asked about their GCSE options and these are timetabled to be taught post the May half-term giving pupils an excellent initial grounding in this important examination phase of their educational journey.
GCSE Key Stage 4
Years 10 and 11 (14 to 16 years)
The curriculum comprises of a group of traditional core subjects and the selection of two or three other subjects from the optional subject list. GCSEs are demanding and pupils need full attendance and a personal willingness to accept advice from teaching staff if they are to maximise their opportunities.
Year 10 pupils are given an Assessment Profile at the end of the autumn term identifying working grades and aspirational grades based on current performances. Parents meetings, further written feedback and target tracking is also used to guide performance.
Appropriate careers and school guidance is delivered to our Year 10 pupils and references for applications to join local independent or state schools, including predicted grades, are prepared early in the autumn term of Year 11. Mock GCSE examinations are taken in the January of Year 11 giving time for revision before the public examination series which always commences in May.
