Toempowereverystudenttodeveloptheirfullpotentialandachieve personal excellence in all endeavours, enabling them to lead successful,fulfillinglivesandenrichtheworld.
Our DBIS Mission is enacted through our values of Courage, Respect and Integrity.
Our Core Values
Courage
We embrace challenges, persevere and work hard to reach our full potential.Weareresilientandalwaysstrivingtolearnandgrow.
Respect
We value our diverse community, appreciating their unique contributions, needs and rights. We foster positive relationships throughkindnessandempathy,embracingaglobalmindset.
Integrity
We act with honesty and make responsible choices, understanding the impact of our actions on ourselves and others. We are self-aware,compassionateandaccountable.
Welcome to Our Secondary School
This handbook is for Year 10 students entering the two-year IGCSE programme in August 2025 and for Year 11 students who started the the two-year IGCSE programme in August 2024. It will give you an overview of the key skills and content covered in their courses until their exams at the end of Year 11. Our (I)GCSE and BTEC Level 2 curriculum offering is engaging and challenging and is intended to ensure that students are fully equipped to navigate the rigours of their personal programme of study, developing the skills, knowledge and competencies to succeed. The qualifications we afford our learners are highly reputable, with courses primarily examined by Pearson Edexcel International or Cambridge. This ensures access (upon satisfaction of our entry requirements) to our A Level/BTEC Level 3 programme of studyinSixthForm.
Whilst a student’s individual programme of study is specific to them, all students undertake core subjects that we believe are integral to their development and that provide a fundamental platform for academic, personal and social progress.
CoreSubjects
● English Language & Literature
● Mathematics
● Science
● Learning for Life*
● Physical Education*
*Non-examined subjects
Please take the time to read through this document and use it to discuss learning priorities and progress with your child as they work through their courses. By working in partnership with your child, you can make a big difference in promoting positive learning behaviours, and sharing high aspirations can be of great benefit to the students as they undertake this important phase of their educational journey.
Please don’t hesitate to reach out to myself, your child’s teachers or the relevant Head of Department/Year with any queries you may have about learning in Years 10 and 11 –together we can support your child in excelling with their studies.
SimonOakley Head of Secondary
Key Personnel
Name Role Email
Simon Oakley Head of Secondary soakley@dbis.edu.hk
Jason Broderick Deputy Head of Secondary jbroderick@dbis.edu.hk
David Coburn Assistant Head of Secondary dcoburn@dbis.edu.hk
Alexander Kilford Assistant Head of Secondary akilford@dbis.edu.hk
Bobby Wilson Head of Year 10 bowilson@dbis.edu.hk
Amrith Prabhu Head of Year 11 aprabhu@dbis.edu.hk
Graham Glew Head of Mathematics gglew@dbis.edu.hk
Amy Hii Head of English ahii@dbis.edu.hk
Alexander Jamali Head of Science ajamali@dbis.edu.hk
Tom Boddington Head of Humanities tboddington@dbis.edu.hk
Myra Mi Head of Chinese & Modern Foreign Languages mmi@dbis.edu.hk
Nicolas Ng Head of Computing & Learning Technologies nng@dbis.edu.hk
Christopher Preddy Head of Music cpreddy@dbis.edu.hk
Naomi Higgins Acting Head of Art and Design & Technology nhiggins@dbis.edu.hk
James Lugg Head of Physical Education & Sport jlugg@dbis.edu.hk
How to Use This Document
This document is intended to provide additional insight (complementing the relevant (I)GCSE/BTEC Level 2 options booklet) into each examined subject area, outlining the course content studied in each term and academic year.
Curriculum content labelled Year 10 applies to students entering Year 10 in August 2025. Curriculum content labelled Year 11 applies to students entering Year 11 in August 2025.
Where applicable, pertinent deadlines are included for subjects that involve coursework or non-examined assessment (NEA) components. The timelines are designed to help ensure students can successfully manage their key learning commitments.
The dates outlined are applicable to the 2025–26 academic year for the respective year groups.
Year 11 coursework dates/dates to note for the 2026–27 academic year (i.e. for students who are in Year 10 in 2025–26) will be published in next year’s handbook.**
EXAMINED SUBJECTS
IGCSE ENGLISH LANGUAGE & ENGLISH LITERATURE
Pearson Edexcel International 4XEA1 & Pearson Edexcel International 4XET1
OVERVIEW
The IGCSE English programme of study covers both English Language and English Literature. The aims of the course are to enable students to:
● Study the language, form, structure, style and viewpoint of prescribed texts;
● Write for a range of purposes;
● Undertake sustained deep studies of English Literature and English Language through modular examinations;
● Engage creatively/critically with a range of language text types and literary genres;
● Develop and apply knowledge of literary analysis and evaluation;
● Develop comparative skills;
● Explore the contexts of texts.
LEARNINGFOCUS
Term 1
Y10
Y11
● Language Unit 2: Poetry & Prose, & Imaginative Writing
Term 2
● Literature Unit 2 Drama: Macbeth
Term 1–2
● Literature Unit 2 Drama: An Inspector Calls
Term 2–3
● Language Unit 1 Language: Non-Fiction Texts & Transactional Writing
● Spoken Language Endorsement
● Exam Revision
Term 1
● Literature – Anthology Poetry
● Literature – Practise Comparative Responses
● Literature – Unseen Poetry
● Language – Pearson Anthology Texts
● Literature Novel Study –Start Of Mice and Men
Term 2
● Literature Novel Study –Of Mice and Men
● Language – Pearson Anthology Texts
● Language –Transactional Writing
Term 3
● Complete Language Texts
● Literature – Unseen Poetry
● Language & Literature Exam Technique & Revision
MODULAR
(applicable to students entering Year 10 in August 2025)
YEAR10s
EXAMINATIONS
Language Unit 2: Poetry & Prose, & Imaginative Writing - November 2025
Literature Unit 2: Drama - May/June 2026
Language Unit 1: Non-Fiction Texts & Transactional Writing - May/June 2027
Literature Unit 1: Poetry & Modern Prose - May / June 2027
IGCSE MATHEMATICS
Pearson Edexcel International 4MA1
OVERVIEW
The IGCSE in Mathematics is a linear qualification. It consists of two examinations available at either foundation or higher tier. Both examinations must be taken in the same series at the end of the course of study. This qualification enables students to:
● Develop their knowledge and understanding of mathematical concepts and techniques;
● Acquire a foundation of mathematical skills for further study in the subject or related areas;
LEARNINGFOCUS
Term 1
Y10
● Numbers & the Number System
● Equations, Formulae & Identities
Y11
● Data & Statistics
● Numbers & the Number System
COURSEWORK
Term 2
Concepts
● Sequences, Functions & Graphs
● Geometry & Trigonometry
● Sequences Functions & Graphs
● Equations, Formulae & Identities
There is no coursework for IGCSE Mathematics.
Term 3
● Data & Statistics
● Calculus
● Vectors & Transformation Geometry
IGCSE SCIENCE
Pearson Edexcel International
OVERVIEW
The IGCSE Science programme aims to extend students’ knowledge and understanding by broadening and deepening skills. Students develop the ability to:
● Investigate the practical nature of Science and develop experimental skills based on correct and safe laboratory techniques;
● Apply understanding of scientific concepts and principles to a range of scientific
● Investigate the practical nature of Science and develop experimental skills based on correct and safe laboratory techniques;
● Analyse, interpret and evaluate data and experimental methods, drawing conclusions that are consistent with evidence from experimental activities and suggesting possible improvements and further investigations;
● Evaluate experimental methods within Science;
● Present scientific ideas clearly and logically, using scientific vocabulary, definitions and conventions;
● Develop a logical approach to problem solving in a wider context.
LEARNINGFOCUS
Term 1
YI0
● Reproduction & Inheritance
● Inorganic Chemistry
● Electricity & Waves
Term 2
● Ecology & the Environment
● Organic Chemistry
● Energy Resources & Transfers
● Solids, Liquids & Gases
Term 3
● Use of Biological Resources
● Physical Chemistry
● Magnetism
Y11
● Biological Resources
● Physical Chemistry
● Astrophysics
● Radioactivity
COURSEWORK
● Revision (Double Candidates)
● Triple Biology/ Chemistry & Physics
There is no coursework for IGCSE Science.
● Revision (Double Candidates)
● Triple Biology/ Chemistry & Physics, & Revision
IGCSE FRENCH
Pearson Edexcel International 4FR1
OVERVIEW
The IGCSE French course is designed for students learning French as a foreign language. The aim is to develop the ability to use the language effectively for the purposes of practical and meaningful communication. The course is assessed according to the language skills of listening, reading, speaking and writing, and these are taught through lively, interesting and motivating materials as students progress through the topics. The syllabus also aims to offer insights into the culture and civilisation of countries where the language is spoken, thus encouraging positive attitudes towards language learning and towards speakers of foreign languages.
LEARNINGFOCUS
Term 1
Y10
Y11
● My Friends & Family: Family Members, Relationships, Friendships
● Life At Home, & Hobbies: Routine, Time, Helping at Home, Hobbies
● My Town: What Is/Isn’t in My Town, Directions, Problems in Town, Town vs Country
● Global Issues & Environment: Global Issues, Solutions, Benefits & Risks of Technology/Social Media, Mobile Phones/Laptops
DATESTONOTE**
Year11s
Term 2
● Life at School: School Subjects, Timetables, School Facilities, School Rules, Ideal School
The speaking exam takes place in late March/early April 2026 (TBD).
** See note in ‘How to use This Document’ on page 05
IGCSE MANDARIN CHINESE
Chinese as a Foreign Language
Cambridge IGCSE Mandarin as a Foreign Language 0547
OVERVIEW
The subject content of the IGCSE Mandarin as a Foreign Language course is organised around five broad topic areas which provide contexts for the acquisition of vocabulary and the study of grammar and structures. Through the study of these topic areas, students gain insight into target language countries and communities.
Topic Areas:
● Everyday Activities
● Personal & Social Life
● The World Around Us
● The World of Work
● The International World
LEARNINGFOCUS
Term 1
Y10
● Hobbies
● Eating & Drinking
● Health & Fitness
Term 2
● Festival: CNY Culture Study – New Year Traditions
● Home Life
● Living Environment
Y11
● School Routine
● School Facilities
● Learning Chinese as a Foreign Language
● Weather & Climate
● Transportation
DATESTONOTE**
Year11s
● Holiday Experience & Planning
● Future Education & Career Plans
● The World of Work
● Speaking Exams
Term 3
● Mock Preparation & Speaking Assessment
● Mock Exam
● Clothes
● Shopping
● Technology & Social Media
● Revision
The speaking exam takes place in late March/early April 2026 (TBD).
** See note in ‘How to use This Document’ on page 05
Chinese as a Second Language
Cambridge IGCSE Chinese as a Second Language 0523
OVERVIEW
Through the IGCSE Chinese as a Second Language course, students learn to select relevant details, understand the difference between what is directly stated and what is implied, and practise writing for different purposes and audiences. Students listen to a range of spoken material, including talks and conversations, in order to develop listening skills. In both written and spoken Chinese, students respond to factual information as well as abstract ideas. They also engage in conversations on a variety of topics and develop their skills in expressing their viewpoints with a degree of accuracy and clarity. Texts and questions are printed in both traditional and simplified characters on the question papers. Students choose the form they prefer in the examination and may write their answers in either traditional or simplified characters. The speaking test is assessed in Mandarin Chinese only.
LEARNINGFOCUS
Term 1
Y10
● Revision
● School & Education
● Future Career Plans
● Friendship
● Peer Pressure/Conflict
Y11
● Urban & Rural Life
Term 2
● Generation Gap
● Young People ● Healthy Eating ● Sports & Exercises
● Film & the Media
● Travel ● Hometown & Surrounding Areas ● Pollution ● Recycling ● Global Warming ● Festivals & Celebrations
Term 3
● Hobbies
● New Means of Communication
● Social Networking
● Learning Technology
● Customs & Traditions
● Culinary Diversity
● Formal Speaking Exam
● Exam Preparation
Year11s
The speaking exam takes place in late March/early April 2026 (TBD).
** See note in ‘How to use This Document’ on page 05
Chinese as a First Language
Cambridge IGCSE Chinese as a First Language 0509
OVERVIEW
The IGCSE Chinese as a First Language course offers students the opportunity to respond knowledgeably to a range of reading passages. Students use some of these passages to inform and inspire their own writing and write in a variety of text types for different audiences. The passages cover a range of genres and types, including fiction and non-fiction, and may also include other forms of writing, such as essays, reviews and articles. Students have the opportunity to read classical Chinese prose texts to help deepen their knowledge of Chinese culture. We encourage students to become appreciative and critical readers and writers of Chinese.
LEARNINGFOCUS
Y10 ● Revision
● Social Relations
● Home Town
Y11
● Revision ● Chinese Philosophers
● Historical & Heroic Figures
● Natural Landscapes & Travelling
Happiness: Leisure, Arts & Sports
● Virtues & Attitudes to Studying
Everyday Life ● Exam Preparation
DATESTONOTE**
Year11s
The speaking exam takes place in late March/early April 2026 (TBD).
See note in ‘How to use This Document’ on page 05
IGCSE SPANISH
Pearson Edexcel International 4SP1
OVERVIEW
The IGCSE Spanish course is designed for students learning Spanish as a foreign language. It encourages students to develop lifelong skills, including:
● The ability to use a foreign language as a means of practical communication;
● An insight into the culture and civilisation of Spanish-speaking countries;
● A positive attitude towards language learning and other cultures and civilisations;
● Learning techniques which can be applied to other areas of learning;
● A sound foundation for progression to employment or further study.
The course is assessed equally across the four skills of listening, speaking, reading and writing, and these are taught using a combination of traditional and audiovisual resources.
LEARNINGFOCUS
Term 1
Y10
Y11
● My Friends & Family: Family Members, Relationships, Friendships
● Life At Home, & Hobbies: Routine, Time, Helping at Home, Hobbies
● My Town: What Is/Isn’t in My Town, Directions, Problems in Town, Town vs Country
● Global Issues & Environment: Global Issues, Solutions, Benefits & Risks of Technology/ Social Media, Mobile Phones/Laptops
DATESTONOTE**
Year11s
Term 2
● Life at School: School Subjects, Timetables, School Facilities, School Rules, Ideal School
The speaking exam takes place in late March/early April 2026 (TBD).
** See note in ‘How to use This Document’ on page 05
GCSE ART
Pearson Edexcel Art & Design 1AD0
OVERVIEW
The GCSE Art and Design course consists of two internally assessed and externally moderated components. Both components give students opportunities to:
● Actively engage in the creative process of art, craft and design in order to develop as effective and independent learners, and as critical and reflective thinkers with enquiring minds;
● Develop creative, imaginative and intuitive capabilities when exploring and making images, artefacts and products;
● Become confident in taking risks and learn from experience when exploring and experimenting with ideas, processes, media, materials and techniques;
● Develop critical understanding through investigative, analytical, experimental, practical, technical and expressive skills;
● Develop and refine ideas and proposals, personal outcomes or solutions with increasing independence;
● Acquire and develop technical skills through working with a broad range of media, materials, techniques, processes and technologies with purpose and intent;
● Develop knowledge and understanding of art, craft and design in historical and contemporary contexts, societies and cultures;
● Develop an awareness of the different roles and individual work practices evident in the production of art, craft and design in the creative and cultural industries;
● Develop an awareness of the purposes, intentions and functions of art, craft and design in a variety of contexts and as appropriate to students’ own work;
● Demonstrate safe working practices in art, craft and design.
LEARNINGFOCUS
Term 1
Y10
● Skill Development
● Exploring Materials, Processes & Techniques Through the Formal Elements of Art
● How to Develop a GCSE Sketchbook
Term 2
● Coursework Project
● Researching The Work & Approaches of Artists, Craftspeople or Designers from Contemporary &/or Historical Contexts
● Exploring a Theme in Which Meanings, Ideas & Intentions Can Be Communicated in a Range of Visual Media
Term 3
● Experimenting & Developing Ideas & Observations through a Variety of Materials Relevant to Intentions
● Identifying Strengths & Refining Skills as the Project Progresses
Y11
● Evaluation & Modification of Ideas for a Final Piece
● Presenting a Personal & Meaningful Response
● Exam Materials Released by the Exam Board Early January 2024
● Develop Ideas through Investigations, Demonstrating Critical Understanding
● Refine Work by Exploring Ideas, Selecting & Experimenting with Appropriate Media, Materials, Techniques & Processes
● Record Ideas, Observations & Insights Relevant to Intentions
● Present a Personal & Meaningful Response
● Externally Set Assessment
COURSEWORK
Year10s
Start Component 1 Coursework Project
Year11s
Component 1 Completion Deadline: December 2025
Component 2 (Externally Set Assessment) Exam Paper Released: January 2026 (Exam Date TBC)
** See note in ‘How to use This Document’ on page 05
The aims of the IGCSE Business Studies course are to enable students to:
● Apply their knowledge and critical understanding to current issues and problems in a wide range of business contexts;
● Make effective use of relevant terminology, concepts and methods, and recognise the strengths and limitations of the ideas used in business;
● Distinguish between facts and opinions and evaluate qualitative and quantitative data in order to help build arguments and make informed judgements;
● Appreciate the perspectives of a range of stakeholders in relation to the business environment, individuals, society, government and enterprise;
● Develop knowledge and understanding of the major groups and organisations within and outside business, and consider ways in which they are able to influence objectives, decisions and activities;
● Develop knowledge and understanding of how the main types of businesses are organised, financed and operated and how their relations with other organisations, consumers, employees, owners and society are regulated;
● Develop skills of numeracy, literacy, inquiry, selection, use of relevant sources of information, presentation and interpretation;
● Develop an awareness of the nature and significance of innovation and change within the context of business activities;
● Acquire a foundation for further study of Business or other subjects.
LEARNINGFOCUS
Term 1
YI0 ● Understanding Business Activity
Term 2
People in Business
Term 3
Marketing
Y11 ● Operations Management & Financial Information & Decisions ● External Influences on Business Activity ● Exam Technique & Revision
COURSEWORK
There is no coursework for IGCSE Business Studies.
BTEC BUSINESS
OVERVIEW
The Edexcel BTEC Level 2 qualification in Business is designed to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of the fundamental principles and practices of the business world. This vocational qualification is widely recognised and respected by employers and educational institutions alike.
The course covers a broad range of topics, allowing students to develop essential skills and knowledge in various areas. The curriculum typically includes units on business communication, customer service, marketing, finance and teamwork. These units are carefully designed to provide a well-rounded understanding of the business environment and its operations.
LEARNINGFOCUS
Term 1
Y10 ● Business Purposes: The Understanding of Ownership & Different Environments in Which Businesses Operate
Term 2
● Finishing Business Purposes: The Understanding of Ownership & Different Environments in Which Businesses Operate
● Starting Business Organisations: Business Aims & Objectives; Functional Areas & Their Interaction
Term 3
● Finishing Business Organisations: Business Aims & Objectives; Functional Areas & Their Interaction
Y11 ● Starting Financial Forecasting for Business: Exploring the Costs & Revenue of a Business, to Calculate Profit, Break-Even Analysis & Cash-Flow Forecasting
● Finishing Forecasting for Business: Exploring the Costs & Revenue of a Business, to Calculate Profit, Break-Even Analysis & Cash-Flow Forecasting
● Starting Marketing Concepts: Marketing Involves Understanding Customer Needs & Promoting Products/ Services to Achieve Business Goals
COURSEWORK**
Year10s
Unit 1 Deadline: February 2026
Unit 2 Deadline: June 2026
Year11s
Unit 3 Deadline: November 2025
Unit 4 Deadline: April 2026
** See note in ‘How to use This Document’ on page 05
● Finishing Marketing Concepts: Marketing Involves Understanding Customer Needs & Promoting Products/ Services to Achieve Business Goals
IGCSE COMPUTER SCIENCE
Cambridge 0478
OVERVIEW
The aims of the IGCSE Computer Science course are to enable students to develop:
● Computational thinking skills;
● An understanding of the main principles of solving problems using computers;
● The skills necessary to solve computer-based problems using a high-level programming language;
● An understanding of the component parts of computer systems and how they interrelate;
● An understanding of the internet as a means of communication – and its associated risks;
● An understanding of the development and use of automated and emerging technologies.
LEARNINGFOCUS
Term 1
Y10
Y11
Term 2
● Data Representation ● Data Transmission ● Hardware
There is no coursework for IGCSE Business Studies.
IGCSE DESIGN & TECHNOLOGY
(D&T)
Cambridge 0445
OVERVIEW
The aims of the IGCSE Design & Technology course are to enable students to:
● Develop creative thinking in areas relevant to Design and Technology;
● Apply problem-solving skills to practical and technological problems;
● Develop the communication skills central to design, realisation and evaluation;
● Gain knowledge and understanding of Design and Technology;
● Develop skills in research and investigation;
● Design and make products, taking into consideration sustainability and the wider impact on society;
● Develop the ability to make aesthetic, economic, ethical and technical value judgements.
LEARNINGFOCUS
Term 1
Y10
Y11
● Structures & Skill Development
● Stool Project
● Pewter Tag & Metal Theory
● General Theory
● Development Modelling (continued)
● Testing
● Materials & Construction
● Plan for Production
● Final Design Drawing
Term 2
● Start Coursework –Research
● Design Criteria
● Existing Product
● Specification
● Initial Ideas
● Manufacturing Diary
● Prototype
● Product Testing
● Evaluation Against Specification
● Opinions
● Strengths & Weaknesses
● Final Conclusion
● Improvements
COURSEWORK**
Year10s
Coursework Starts: November 2025
Year11s
Manufacturing Deadline: End of January 2026
Product Testing & Evaluation Deadline: End of February 2026
** See note in ‘How to use This Document’ on page 05
Term 3
● Idea Development
● Development Modelling
● Detailed Development
● Exam Preparation
IGCSE DRAMA
Cambridge 0411
OVERVIEW
In the IGCSE Drama course, students study the elements of practical Drama, learning how to effectively work with extracts from published plays as actors, directors and designers. They also develop the skills to devise, develop and structure their own original dramatic material using various stimuli such as short titles, poems, pictures, songs, historical events and stories. Students learn to evaluate their contributions to the devising process and assess the success of the final piece. Additionally, they explore the use of staging and design as integral components of a dramatic performance. The course also focuses on developing both individual and group performance skills, emphasising their application in creating compelling characters and effectively communicating meaning to an audience.
The aims of the course are to enable students to develop:
● An interest in and enjoyment of Drama and theatre;
● An understanding of the dramatic process of moving from script to performance skills in devising original Drama;
● Practical performance skills as individuals and within a group;
● An understanding of, and engagement with, the role of actor, director and designer in creating a piece of Drama;
● An understanding of how performers communicate with an audience.
LEARNINGFOCUS
Term 1
YI0 ● Exploration of Theatre Practitioners, Styles & Genres
● Introduction to Monologues
Y11
● Monologue
● Written Exam Preparation
COURSEWORK**
Term 2
● Group Scripted Performance
Term 3
● Group-Devised Performance
● Written Exam Preparation
● Written Exam
Where possible, parents/guardians, peers and teachers are invited to form an audience for the coursework pieces.
Year10s
Group Scripted Performance - Term 2
Group Devised Performance - Term 3
Year11s
Monologue (Individual Performance) - Term 1
** See note in ‘How to use This Document’ on page 05
IGCSE GEOGRAPHY
Cambridge 0460
OVERVIEW
The aims of the IGCSE Geography course are to enable students to develop:
● An understanding of location on a local, regional and global scale;
● An awareness of the characteristics, distribution and processes affecting contrasting physical and human environments;
● An understanding of the ways in which people interact with each other and with their environment;
● An awareness of the contrasting opportunities and constraints presented by different environments;
● An appreciation of and concern for the environment; An appreciation of Earth, including its people, places, landscapes, natural processes and phenomena.
LEARNINGFOCUS
Term 1
Y10
● Population
● Migration
● Rivers
Y11
● The Challenge of Development
● Economic Challenge
● Resource Provision
COURSEWORK
Term 2
● Earthquakes & Volcanoes
● Changing Towns & Cities
● Coastal Environments
● Climate Change
● Changing ecosystems
There is no coursework for IGCSE Geography.
Term 3
● Fieldwork
● Tourism
● Fieldwork
● Consolidation & Revision
IGCSE HISTORY
Pearson Edexcel 4HI1
OVERVIEW
The aims of the IGCSE History course are to enable students to:
● Develop and extend their knowledge and understanding of specified key events, periods and societies in history; and of the wide diversity of human experience;
● Engage in historical inquiry to develop as independent learners and as critical and reflective thinkers;
● Develop the ability to ask relevant questions about the past, investigate issues critically and make valid historical claims by using a range of sources in their historical context;
● Develop an awareness that different people, events and developments have been accorded historical significance, and understand how and why different interpretations have been constructed about them;
● Organise and communicate their historical knowledge and understanding in different ways and reach substantiated conclusions.
LEARNINGFOCUS
Term 1
Y10 ● Germany: The Rise of a Dictatorship
Y11
● Continue: Russia, 1905–24
COURSEWORK
Term 2
● Changes in Medicine
● Russia, 1924–53
There is no coursework for IGCSE History.
Term 3
● Begin: Russia, 1905–24
● Revision
GCSE MEDIA STUDIES
AQA Media Studies 8572
OVERVIEW
The GCSE Media Studies course engages students in the in-depth study of media products in relation to the four areas of the theoretical framework:
● Media Language
● Media Representation
● Media Industries
● Media Audiences
Students are required to study media products from all of the following media forms:
● Television
● Film
● Radio
● Newspapers
● Magazines
● Advertising & Marketing
● Online, Social & Participatory Media
● Video Games
● Music Videos
In addition to the broad coverage of all nine media forms, students must engage in the in-depth study of at least one audio-visual, one print and one online, social and participatory media form. Each in-depth study (Close Study Product) links the specified media form to all four areas of the theoretical framework.
The Close Study Products address the requirement that students engage with products which:
● Possess cultural, social and historical significance in terms of critical acclaim and/or audience popularity;
● Reflect and illuminate the theoretical framework for the study of media;
● Demonstrate contrasts in terms of perceived quality, form and structure;
● Provide rich and challenging opportunities for interpretation and analysis, enabling students to develop a detailed understanding of how the media communicate meanings;
● Are from different historical periods;
● Are intended for different audiences;
● Demonstrate emerging, future developments of the media;
● Are not necessarily the type of products with which students would normally engage.
LEARNINGFOCUS
Term 1
Y10
Term 2
Term 3
● Newspapers ● Magazines ● Advertising & Marketing ● Online/Social Media & Video Games ● Film Industry
Television Y11 ● Radio ● Music Videos
Coursework
Coursework
Close Study Product Recap ● Revision & Exam Preparation
Year11s
Coursework Due: March 2026. Students will choose from a selection of five briefs which changes annually.
** See note in ‘How to use This Document’ on page 05
IGCSE MUSIC
Cambridge 0410
OVERVIEW
When studying the IGCSE Music syllabus, students listen to, perform and compose Music, encouraging aesthetic and emotional development, self-discipline and, importantly, creativity. As a result, students enhance their appreciation and enjoyment of Music, an achievement that forms an ideal foundation for future study and enhances lifelong musical enjoyment. Students study music of all styles; each style is placed in its historical and cultural context, and students are encouraged to be perceptive, sensitive and critical when listening. Although the majority of the syllabus examines western European music, the music of other cultures is always represented.
The aims of the course are to:
● Enable students to acquire and consolidate a range of basic musical skills, knowledge and understanding, through the activities of listening, performing and composing;
● Help students develop a perceptive and critical response to the main historical periods and styles of western music;
● Help students to recognise and understand the music of selected non-western traditions, and thus to form an appreciation of cultural similarities and differences;
● Provide a foundation for the development of an informed appreciation of music;
● Provide a foundation for further study in Music at a higher level.
Record Solo & Ensemble Performances: February 2026
Term 3
● Music for Small Ensembles
● Composition 1
● Revision
Submit Final Drafts of Composition 1 and Composition 2: March 2026
** See note in ‘How to use This Document’ on page 05
IGCSE PHYSICAL EDUCATION
Cambridge 0413
OVERVIEW
The IGCSE Physical Education syllabus provides students with an opportunity to study both the practical and theoretical aspects of Physical Education. It is also designed to foster enjoyment in physical activity. The knowledge gained should enable students to develop an understanding of effective and safe physical performance.
Students study all of the following topics:
● Anatomy & Physiology
● Health, Fitness & Training
● Skill Acquisition & Psychology
● Social, Cultural & Ethical Influences
Students also undertake four different physical activities chosen from at least two of seven categories (please see the Cambridge exam board specification, as linked from the relevant options booklet).
LEARNINGFOCUS
Term 1
Y10
● Applied Anatomy & Physiology
● Movement Analysis Part 1
Term 2
● Movement Analysis Part 2
● Physical Training Part 1
Term 3
● Physical Training Part 2
● Use of Data
Y11
● Sports Psychology
● Social and Cultural Influences
● Practical Final Moderations
COURSEWORK**
Year11s
● Participation in Sport
● Health & Wellbeing
● Injuries & Risk Assessments
Final Filming of Practical Performance: March 2026
Final Submission of Practical Performance: April 2026
** See note in ‘How to use This Document’ on page 05
● Exam Preparation
NON-EXAMINED SUBJECTS
PHYSICAL EDUCATION (PE)
OVERVIEW
Students are given the opportunity to develop and sustain a healthy, active lifestyle and become lifelong learners. We strive to raise the levels of participation and commitment to sport across all phases of the school. Students are encouraged to work together in order to develop a variety of skills, including teamwork, resilience and sportsmanship. Our PE department challenges students to perform at their best, celebrates their achievements and supports them throughout their learning journey. We harness the value of sport and Physical Education in promoting wellbeing for all members of the DBIS community.
LEARNINGFOCUS
Term 1
Y10 & 11
● Basketball
● Invasion Games (Netball/Handball)
● Swimming
Term 2
● Water Polo
● Invasion Games (Football/Tag Rugby)
● Badminton
Term 3
● Table Tennis
● Health & Fitness
● Cricket & Softball
● Life Saving
LEARNING FOR LIFE (L4L)
OVERVIEW
Learning for Life (L4L) is a non-academic subject through which pupils develop the knowledge, skills and attributes they may need to manage their lives, now and in the future. It helps children and young people to stay healthy and safe, whilst preparing them to make the most of life and work.
LEARNINGFOCUS
Terms 1, 2 & 3
Y10 & 11 L4L addresses both students’ current experiences and preparation for their futures. The programme of study therefore provides a spiral curriculum to develop knowledge, skills and attributes, where prior learning is revisited, reinforced and extended year on year. This is grounded in the established evidence base for effective practice within PSHE and the UNESCO education framework. More on this and other relevant research can be found in the evidence and research section of the PSHE Association website.
Many of the learning opportunities refer to ‘managing’ or ‘responding to’ challenging situations. By these terms, we mean a variety of strategies which, depending on the context, might include: being able to identify risks or warning signs; resisting internal or external pressures; making informed decisions; exit strategies for unsafe situations; and knowing whom, how and when to ask for help, including reporting concerns. The programme of study also offers career exploration and the development and care of our physical and mental health.
Learning Enhancement & English as an Additional Language
In line with our philosophy of supporting students in their individual development, we offer a great deal of additional support both inside the classroom and through personalised courses of study.
Students who have English as an Additional Language (EAL) needs will be supported in acquiring further English skills to ensure they are able to access the curriculum. This may take the form of educational assistant (EA) provision during classes as well as additional EAL classes, where necessary.
Students who require learning enhancement will be provided with a structured plan from the Learning Enhancement team and the student’s subject teachers. It is our commitment as a school that all students reach their individual potential, and learning support forms an element of this commitment.
Secondary Parent Handbook
We encourage you to read through our Secondary Parent Handbook, which includes an overview of the day-to-day information that will be applicable to your child’s life at DBIS. The handbook will provide you with access to additional information, including the necessary links to all Secondary School policies and procedures.
We are extremely proud of everything the DBIS Year 10–11 curriculum has to offer all our students, and we warmly welcome you to our unique school community.
Should you have any questions, or if you would like any further information, please don’t hesitate to contact us.
Simon Oakley Head of Secondary soakley@dbis.edu.hk
David Coburn
Assistant Head of Secondary dcoburn@dbis.edu.hk
Jason Broderick Deputy Head of Secondary jbroderick@dbis.edu.hk
