Our Curriculum
Students in the Fourth and Fifth Form study nine academic subjects, leading to between 8 and 10 GCSEs.
Core Subjects
All students study five core subjects: English, Mathematics, Biology, Chemistry and Physics
Through the study of English, students achieve two GCSEs in English Language and English Literature.
Although all students study and sit exams in all three sciences, the majority of students will be working towards Double Award Science, which amounts to two GCSEs in Science A selection of students will have the option of taking Separate Award Science where they achieve three GCSEs with one separate GCSE for each science. A decision on which Science pathway is most suited to your child will be made after the Fourth Form Exams in the Summer Term but rest assured that both pathways provide sufficient grounding for success studying science subjects at Sixth Form.
Optional Subjects
Students should also select four optional subjects, one from each column in the table below. In cases where a student would benefit from lessons in English as a Foreign Language (EFL) or Study Support instead, they will be permitted to take only three other Optional Subjects.
A
B
C D
French Economics Gratin Drama
History German Latin EET
Geography History History History
Mandarin Geography Economics Physical Education
Spanish Classical Civilisation Computer Science Geography Study Support Study Support Spanish Study Support Music Geography Study Support
Students must take one language out of French, German, Latin, Mandarin or Spanish. Students selecting Latin are urged to consider taking a second language, especially if thinking about applying to Bristol University or German/Swiss universities in the future.
Please note that all language GCSEs are only available to those who are already taking these subjects in Third Form; they are not beginners’ courses in Fourth Form. However, new students joining Fettes in the Fourth Form may be able to take Spanish, German, Latin or Mandarin (not French) without previous experience on the understanding that they would have additional preparation tasks over the summer.
There is an opportunity for students taking Latin to also take Classical Greek alongside (listed as ‘Gratin’ in Column C), for which they would achieve an additional GCSE.
Students taking Engineering, Enterprise and Technology (EET), achieve a Higher Project Qualification rather than a GCSE. This is a highly regarded qualification worth approximately half a GCSE.
Ifthereareanysubjectcombinationsthatyourchildwouldliketostudy,whicharecurrentlynot possible,therewillbeanopportunityontheoptionsformtostatethis,andwewillmakeevery endeavourtoaccommodatethem.
Considerations
Ability and interest should be the main guiding principles in making the choices between these optional subjects, as commitment and motivation will be key to success at GCSE. Future intentions in respect of university and careers should also play a role but it is important to remember that the transferable skills gained through various subjects are more important than knowledge gained at GCSE level. The only major career that might be ruled out is Architecture if a student did not choose Art and Design.
Below is a list of courses and recommended subjects we share with students as they go into Sixth Form, which may also help with determining some of the options as your child goes into Fourth Form:
University Course
Accountancy and Finance
Recommended Subjects at Sixth Form
Maths
Agriculture Biology
Architecture Art, Maths, Physics
Art Art
Biology
Business Studies
Biology, Chemistry, Physics
Economics
Chemistry Chemistry, Biology, Physics
Classics Latin, Greek
Classical Civ / Ancient History
Computer Science
Classical Civilisation, History
Maths, Computer Science
Dentistry Chemistry, Biology
Drama / Theatre Technology
Drama
Economics Maths, Economics
Engineering (Chemical) Chemistry, Physics
Engineering (Other Types) Maths, Physics
English English
French French
Geography
Geography
Geology Maths, Physics, Chemistry
German German
History History
History of Art History, Art
International Relations Politics, History
Law History, English
Mathematics Maths
Medicine Chemistry, Biology
Modern Languages
Music
Pharmacy
Two Modern Languages
Music
Chemistry, Physics, Maths or Biology
Philosophy Maths
Physics Physics, Maths
Politics Politics
Psychology
Any two science subjects
Sociology Psychology
Spanish Spanish
Sport Science
Television, Film & Media
Physical Education
Drama
Veterinary Science Chemistry, Biology
Complementary Subjects
Economics, Computer Science
Geography, Maths, Economics
History
English
Maths, PE, Geography
English, History, Geography
Maths
English, History
English, Latin, Greek
Physics
English
English
Maths
Computer Science
Another Language, History
Another Language, English
Economics, Biology
Geography, Biology, History
Another Language, English
English, Politics
English
English, Geography, a Language
A Language
Physics
English, Latin or Greek
A Language
History, Classics, Politics
Chemistry
History, English, Economics
Geography, History, PE
History, Geography
Another Language, English
Biology
English, History, Politics
Our Subjects
Art and Design
Art touches us all daily in its various forms, even if we are not consciously aware of it. Every time we get dressed, sit on a chair, walk into a building, watch television, look at a poster, take a trip to the cinema, theatre or gallery, the work of creative, imaginative people affects and involves us. Visual awareness and creativity are as important in the development of the individual as literacy and numeracy.
The GCSE course is divided into two parts:
• Component 1: Portfolio: One complete project plus other supporting work. Worth 60% of the GCSE
• Component 2: Externally set assignment: Several weeks of preparation plus a ten-hour exam, worth 40% of the GCSE
Students will develop creativeskills andfindnewwaystoexploreideasthrough working with a wide range of materials and across different discipline. This might include drawing and painting, printmaking, textiles, ceramics, sculpture, photography and animation. Knowledge and understanding of Art and Design will be developed through research into the work of other artists.
The most important factors for success are enthusiasm, desire to be creative, and genuine interest in the subject. The vast majority of students who study at this level have a great sense of fulfilment and enjoyment as well as a sense of pride in their achievements.
LauraSutherland
Classical Civilisation
Over the two years of the Classical Civilisation course, students will study two modules. The first explores the world of Homer, reading the story of theOdysseyand following Odysseus on his adventures with the Cyclops into the Underworld and his return home as well as Mycenaean culture from 1250BC: the palaces, wall paintings and tombs. The second module examines Roman and Greek gods and heroes, looking in detail at mythological stories (like Hercules) and the foundation myths of Athens and Rome; as well as temples and sacrifices, exploring ancient burials and the journey to the Underworld.
The course consists of two exams, one on each module (50% each), containing a mixture of comprehension questions, and some longer essay-style answers. There is no coursework.
Everything in this course is studied in English, with no priorknowledge of Latin and Greek required. It is therefore perfect for anyone interested in learning about the ancient world, myths, archaeology but who either has no Latin or Greek knowledge or would prefer a non-linguistic approach to the Classical World.
ClareMcDonnell
Computer Science
Computer Science is a subject that is so much more than just using and building computers. Students who study Computer Science develop a range of skills that are transferable to all fields of study and areas of interest. They will develop excellent problem-solving and logical thinking skills, enhance their creativity and be able to make fact and evidence-based evaluations with resilience and confidence.
Whether wanting to go on to study law, medicine, science, engineering, languages, or any other field, Computer Science is relevant and will give students the ability to be at the forefront of modern thinking.
For half of the course, students will learn the Python programming language, developing solutions to increasingly challenging problems. The theory portion of the course covers a range of topics, including how computers work, how they communicate, and their impact on the world around us.
The course consists of two papers, each of which are worth 50% of the final grade:
• Paper 1: Principles of Computer Science – A written exam covering topics such as Computational Thinking, Data, Computers (and how they work), Networks, and Issues and Impacts
• Paper 2: Application of Computational Thinking – An onscreen coding exam where students write Python programs to solve a set of given problems
DanielStewart
Drama
IGCSE Drama is a challenging and dynamic course which is unashamedly practical and produces confident actors and creators of theatre. To gain the highest grades, students will have to be practically able as well as critically reflective and this combination of the practical and theoretical makes for a rigorous and engaging course, which gives students real-life skills, useful far beyond the confines of school.
It must be stressed that the course is not designed with the ‘talented few’ in mind: it is often the less confident students who benefit most from the ‘life skills’ element of the subject, such as movement and voice training. That said, it is not a soft option for those looking for a ‘non-academic ‘subject either and does demand a commitment and interest in theatre, including seeing live productions and getting involved in school performances.
There are two components to the course:
• Component 1: Written examination (40%) - A final written exam which is based on practical work (including acting, directing, stage management, lighting, sound, make-up, costume etc.) done in response to pre-release material in the Autumn and Spring Term
• Component 2: Coursework (60%) - The coursework involves a total of three performances which are internally assessed and externally moderated by the exam board: one individual and one group performance based on an extract from a play and one group performance based on an original devised piece
KirstyDuVivier
Economics
Most textbooks will start by telling you that Economics is about the concept of scarcity and the problem of resource allocation. Though true, there is so much to the study of Economics. More than anything else, it is the study of choice. More broadly, it is the study of how our decisions (and the institutional contexts in which we make those decisions) impact our success in achieving our wants and addressing our needs.
Economics therefore helps us to understand how the world works, and how to make it a better place. Studying Economics helps students to develop an analytical approach to some of the major problems of our time, such as climate change, inequality, poverty, globalisation, automation, and many
others. Effective solutions to these problems require the insights provided by Economics.
Students should be aware that effective study of Economics demands academic rigour and high-quality study skills. Students who are considering Economics should have an interest in current affairs as well as a desire to understand contemporary economic and political issues. We prepare candidates for the International GCSE Economics course offered by Edexcel. There are two exams for IGCSE Economics, each worth 50% of the final grade:
• Paper 1: Microeconomics and Business Economics
• Paper 2: Macroeconomics and the Global Economy
Each paper consists of four compulsory questions, each worth 20 marks. The sub-questions are a mixture of multiple-choice, short-answer, data response and open-ended questions. There is no coursework.
MattMcBride
Engineering, Enterprise & Technology (EET)
In EET, students work towards a Higher Project Qualification (HPQ), which technicallyequates to half a GCSE but offers broader experience of real iterative design work for those interested in engineering and design pathways without the pressure of examinations (100% coursework). An article in The Scotsman captured the innovative approach that EET offers and can be found here: EET at FettesThe Scotsman, December 2023
Building upon their Third Form experience, students in the Fourth Form will continue to develop their design proficiency by completing structured projects around engineering sectors before embarking on a project of their own choosing. EET provides an opportunity for students to develop problem-solving skills through real-world hands-on experience.
The major project will take students through the full design process by researching, designing and developing each aspect of their chosen problem. With a heavy focus on iterative design, students will be encouraged to explore a wide range of solutions - modelling their ideas physically as often as possible. Students will produce a completed physical artefact as well as a portfolio of work visually presenting their design process and the work undertaken. At the end of the project students will submit a short essay to reflect and summarise their experience.
MichaelAlton
English
We prepare candidates for the IGCSE English courses offered by Edexcel. These IGCSE courses offer a wide range of opportunities for students to hone their English skills. They will study a wide range of literary and non-fiction texts during the two years of their course, which, in turn, will furnish them with skills that will serve them well in the Sixth Form and beyond.
InternationalGCSEEnglishLanguageA(Edexcel)
The IGCSE for English Language consists of a single written exam (60%) plus written coursework (40%):
• Written Exam: This requires students to study a range of non-fiction passages in advance (including pieces by the likes of Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie, Benjamin Zephaniah and Helen MacDonald) and to make comparisons with a previously unseen passage. Their writing skills will also be tested as they will produce a single piece of personal writing for a distinct purpose and audience
• Coursework: This consists of two carefully drafted essays to demonstrate students’ skills in literary comparison and in imaginative writing. The literary essay will require them to compare two
poetry and prose texts taken from the Edexcel Anthology. The imaginative essay offers numerous creative possibilities
InternationalGCSEEnglishLiterature(Edexcel)
IGCSE English Literature consists of one written exam (60%) and two pieces of written coursework (40%):
• Written exam: This involves exploration of Poetry and Modern Prose, which is divided into unseen poetry, poetry in the Edexcel anthology and Modern prose text (includingThingsFall Apart,ToKillaMockingbird,OfMiceandMen,TheWhaleRider,TheJoyLuckClub)
• Coursework: All students produce a response to a Modern Drama text (such as AViewfrom the Bridge, An Inspector Calls, The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-time, Kindertransport,DeathandtheKing’sHorseman)and a Literary Heritage text (for example, Macbeth, The Merchant of Venice, Romeo and Juliet, Pride and Prejudice, Great Expectations,TheScarletLetter)
We hope that all students find something to enjoy in the IGCSE English courses and that they provide plenty of variety and appropriate challenge to students of all abilities.
Geography
Geography is unique in bridging the social sciences and natural sciences, complementing both humanities and sciences at GCSE. Human Geography concerns the understanding of the dynamics of cultures, societies and economies, and Physical Geography concerns the understanding of the dynamics of landscapes and the environment.
Geography puts this understanding of social and physical processes within the context of placerecognising the great differences in cultures, political systems, economies, landscapes and environments across the world, and exploring the links between them. Understanding the causes of differences and inequalities between places and social groups underlie much of the newer developments in Human Geography.
The CIE IGCSE course consists of two exams and coursework:
• Paper 1: Physical Geography – This assesses five themes: Changing river environments; Changing coastal environments; Changing ecosystems; Tectonic hazards; and Climate change as well as transferrable skills, including reasoning, analysis and critical thought
• Paper 2: Human Geography – The five themes in this section include: Changing populations; Changing towns and cities; Development; Changing economies; and Resource provision. Sustainability is considered when teaching the content for all topic areas, especially when studying management strategies and techniques
• Coursework: One, centre-based, assignment of up to 2000 words, completed at the end of Fourth Form, worth 27.5% of the final grade. We study our local river; The Water of Leith and how it changes downstream
HannahCockburn
AndrewSpeedy
History
History at IGCSE revolves around the twentieth century: the post-war settlement in 1919; the rise and fall of Nazism; the breakdown of relations between the United States and the Soviet Union resulting in US involvement in Asia and Soviet control over Eastern Europe. Some of these features of the past still exist today: negative elements such as wars, dictatorships, terrorism, and genocide, as well as positive elements such as peace treaties, international co-operation and scientific achievements.
The IGCSE course engenders a lasting interest in history for many of our students but it also develops the skills of written and verbal discussion and debate. Students learn how to critically evaluate and analyse source material and interpretations, and to apply their own knowledge to decide between truth and propaganda. The course will help all students to understand more clearly the world in which they live.
The exam is assessed in three components:
• Paper 1: Knowledge-based questions on Core Content: ‘The Twentieth Century: international relations from 1919’ and Depth Content: ‘Germany: 1918-1945'
• Paper 2: Source Questions on one of the Core Content topics (the topic is known in advance but the sources are unseen)
• Coursework consists of one 2000-word assignment and accounts for 30% of the total mark
TaraMcDonald
Latin and Greek
Latin can be studied as a GCSE option by itself. If a student wants to study both Latin and Greek, they are taught as a ‘Gratin’ option both subjects are taught in the space of one option subject, so students get two GCSEs for the price of one!
During lessons, students will continue to learn new vocabulary and grammar in order to tackle more interesting and challenging stories about myths and ancient history. In addition, they will also study two texts, which are realpieces of Latin or Greek, written over 2,000 years ago. These are by some of the most famous ancient authors (including Virgil and Homer). The stories can cover a wide range of topics, including epic battles of life and death, superstitions about witches, love stories and violent volcanic eruptions. As well as translating these set texts, they will also analyse the literary techniques used by the authors to maximise the effect of their words.
Both the Latin and Greek courses follow a similar structure: one language exam (50%) and two literature exams (25% each) – all of which involve a mixture of translation and comprehension questions. There is no coursework.
Students who have enjoyed exploring translations and reading stories in Latin and Greek during Third Form are sure to enjoy these subjects at GCSE level.
ClareMcDonnell
Mathematics
All students study Mathematics at IGCSE. Mathematics is concerned with learning rules and skills to deal with numbers, formulae and equations. The aim of the course is to continue to stimulate student interest, enjoyment and curiosity in this and to promote an understanding of mathematics in its widest context to help develop transferable skills such as problem-solving.
The course is split into four sections – Numbers, Algebra, Geometry and Statistics. It consists of two papers at either Foundation or Higher Tier, and both allow the use of a calculator. Both papers are equally weighted and are two hours long. A top grade at this level should enable successful progression to A Level or IB and beyond. It will also provide a qualification which will be sufficient for nonmathematical careers.
For the most able mathematicians we also offer an Extended Maths Certificate at GCSE level during lesson time, designed to prepare students for a full range of mathematics courses in the Sixth Form at Fettes College. It is intended for students on target for a Grade 9 in IGCSE Maths and where it is felt taking this additional course will enhance a student’s academic profile.
KatySpencer
Modern Foreign Languages
Modern Foreign Languages foster an interest in other cultures and prepare students for life in an increasingly global world. It also keeps a wide range of options open for Sixth Form, particularly the IB, which requires a language; and for university study, especially if thinking about applying to Bristol University or German/Swiss universities in the future. In fact, many students choose to study two Modern Foreign Languages at IGCSE, as skilled linguists are highly valued in the workforce.
At IGCSE, students build on the foundations laid in the Third Form, learning to respond to different text types, engage in spontaneous discussion, and deepen their understanding of the culture and contemporary issues of the countries where the language is spoken. Regular oral lessons with native speakers allow them to gain fluency and confidence quickly.
Spanish, German and French are examined at IGCSE (Edexcel) through Reading and Writing (50%), Listening (25%) and Speaking (25%). Mandarin is offered at GCSE (AQA), with equal weighting across Reading, Writing, Listening and Speaking. Alongside developing their core language skills, students broaden their grammar and vocabulary, explore history, society, film, music and literature, and acquire valuable qualities such as the ability to think on their feet, thereby improving self-confidence.
Native or near-native speakers may also be able to take an additional GCSE qualification, subject to assessment in the first term and the availability of exam-focused tuition. Beyond the classroom, students benefit from a wide range of opportunities including film nights, visiting speakers, cultural activities, and trips abroad. In the Fourth Form, they also have the opportunity to apply for the Language Leaders programme, which leads to a nationally recognised Routes into Languages qualification.
SoniaGausinetSerrano
Music
GCSE Music develops and demonstrates skills that universities and employers value universally, including detailed analysis, creative thinking, collaborative working, the ability to present in front of an audience, and a wider appreciation of the world around us. The Edexcel course suits musicians from any musical background, although there is an expectation that students will develop their ability to read staff notation. It is expected that those students who hold Music Scholarships and Exhibitions will take Music at GCSE.
The course is based on four Areas of Study: Instrumental Music 1700-1820; Vocal Music; Music for Stage and Screen; Fusions. These pillars are explored through the study of eight set works (two from
each) and wider listening around stylistic conventions that define them. This is then assessed across three components:
• Component 1: Performing (30% - internally marked and moderated): This requires candidates to (audio) record a total of at least 4 minutes of music in any style, including one solo performance on any instrument/voice, and one ensemble performance. A maximum of Grade V standard is required, and pupils should look to be working towards at least this by Fifth Form
• Component 2: Composing (30% - internally marked and moderated): Students produce two compositions: one based on a brief set by the exam board, and one free composition. Both compositions must reach at least three minutes in duration
• Component 3: Listening and Appraising (40%): This is assessed by a listening exam of 1 hour 45 mins. Candidates are expected to respond to questions about the eight set works and write an extended answer comparing one of the set works to an unfamiliar piece of music
ChrisFoster
Physical Education
PE at GCSE draws on knowledge from disciplines such as Biology, Chemistry, Physics, Sociology, History and Psychology and applies them to physical activity and sport. This allows studentsto see how the body and brain are influenced and therefore provides an understanding of how people function both physically and emotionally. This is a subject that can be applied not only to a student’s own sports performance but to many aspects of everyday life.
The syllabus is divided into seven sections: Applied Anatomy and Physiology, Movement Analysis, Physical Training, Use of Data, Sports Psychology, Socio-cultural influences, Health, fitness and well-being.
The GCSE assessment is as follows:
• Paper 1: The human body and movement in physical activity and sport (30%) - A written exam, assessing knowledge of Applied Anatomy and Physiology, Movement Analysis, Physical training, and Use of Data
• Paper 2: Socio-cultural influences and well-being in physical activity (30%) - A written exam, assessing knowledge of Sports Psychology, Socio-cultural influences, Health, fitness and wellbeing, and Use of Data
• Coursework (40%): Practical Performance in three physical activities, at least one team activity and one individual activity with analysis and evaluation of performance to bring about improvement in one activity
MichaelHenderson-Sowerby Science
Science underpins our understanding of the modern world. From medical advances to climate change, daily news is filled with scientific ideas and applications. To engage critically with these, all students at Fettes study all three sciences at IGCSE, either as part of a Double Award scheme or as three separate IGCSEs in Biology, Chemistry, and Physics.
While the Separate Sciences pathway is more demanding in content and leads to familiarity with some of the content taught at IB and A level, students from the Double Award pathway have also enjoyed great success studying Sixth Form sciences. The decision on whether a student follows the Double or Separate Award is taken at the end of the Fourth Form to ensure that a student is
on the science pathway that best fits their needs.
DoubleAwardScience
The Double Award Science course covers content from each of the three sciences (Biology, Chemistry, and Physics). Students sit three exams – one in each subject – in the summer of Fifth Form with marks aggregated across the papers to give students the equivalent of two GCSEs.
The syllabus is engaging and modern, providing an excellent final qualification for some students while also offering a strong foundation for those progressing to A Level or IB. Practical and experimental work is central to the course, ensuring students develop investigative skills and hands-on experience that prepare them well for advanced study.
Students are taught by subject specialists and receive six periods per cycle for each science. Assessment is through a theory paper in Biology, Chemistry, and Physics, each contributing equally (33.3%) to the overall Double Award grade.
SeparateScience
The Separate Sciences route follows the same broad framework as Double Award but explores each subject in greater depth and breadth. Students study Biology, Chemistry, and Physics as three distinct IGCSEs, providing additional stretch and challenge for our most able scientists. Students following this route sit the same three papers as those studying the Double Award, but also sit one additional paper per subject, covering the extra material studied.
NeilWard
Biology
Biologyisasubject that combineswell withbothscienceandartssubjects andis often thoughtthemost accessible of the sciences. It blends skills learnt in Mathematics, Chemistry, Physics and Geography and incorporates a good understanding of the English language.
IGCSE Biology is divided into five sections: Nature and the Variety of Living Organisms; Structure and Function of Living Organisms; Reproduction and Inheritance; Ecology and the Environment; and Use of Biological Resources.
The course is begun in the Third Form and builds on the recommendations of the National Curriculum and of the Curriculum for Excellence in the pre-GCSE years. In Fourth Form, students build on the work done on cells, reproduction and ecology covered in Third Form. Lessons include discussion, modelling tasks, demonstrations and experiments, including dissections.
SvendLarsen
Chemistry
Chemistry continues to build and expand on the topics of the states of matter, elements and compounds, the periodic table and the chemical reactions of a wide range of substances from the Third Form. It is divided into four sections: Principles of Chemistry; Inorganic Chemistry; Physical Chemistry; and Organic Chemistry.
During the course we look at the atom, the central building block of matter. The first surprise we get is that matter is mostly empty space. An understanding of how atoms combine to form the millions of materials we see daily is the foundation on which the course is built.
With knowledge of what matter is and how it reacts we look at some industrial processes. How is
oil refined to make fuels and innumerable useful products? How is fertiliser made, and what has it to do with Fritz Haber? Are chemists responsible for destroying the environment or are they trying to save it? How can a chemical engineer save a company millions of pounds in a year by adjusting a few valves?
We explore all these issues and much more in what is a fascinating insight as to how chemists use the resources around us to make everything you see and touch on a daily basis.
EuanCathro
Physics
Physics enables students to acquire a systematic body of scientific knowledge, and the skills needed to apply this in new and changing situations in many domestic, industrial and environmental contexts. There is also a large emphasis placed on the practical nature of Physics, where students are encouraged to acquire experimental and investigative skills based on correct and safe laboratory techniques.
The course is split into eight sections of study: Forces and motion; Electricity; Waves; Energy resources and energy transfer; Solids, liquids and gases; Magnetism and electromagnetism; Radioactivity and particles; and Astrophysics.
Each of these sections has core and extension material, which is used to challenge the more able students throughout the entirety of their IGCSE.
NeilWard
We hope this provides a helpful overview of the curriculum and subjects available for study across Fourth and Fifth Form at Fettes College. These are important decisions and we are here to help you and your child in that process. If you are a current Fettes family, please do speak to your Houseparent in the first instance.
If you are not currently at Fettes, please do contact our Admissions Department or Anushka Chakravarty, Deputy Head (Academic) at a.chakravarty@fettes.com