GCSE Course Guide - 2026 Entry

GCSE Course Guide 2026 Entry

This document, along with the main school prospectus, describes the broad principles on which Dean Close Kingham Hill School is presently run and gives an indication of our history and ethos. They are not part of any agreement between the parents and the school. Whilst every effort has been made to ensure that the information provided in this document is correct at the time of printing it is subject to change. This is especially true of course specifications which may be subject to alteration. Parents wishing to place specific reliance on a statement or information in this booklet, or the general prospectus, should seek written confirmation before accepting the offer of a place.

GCSE Course Guide - 2026 Entry

GCSEs at Dean Close Kingham Hill School Starting GCSE courses marks an important and exciting step in your educational journey.

For many of you, this will be the first time that you begin to have a measure of choice over the direction your life and studies will take, and at Kingham Hill there is a full range of options available to you across the sciences and humanities.

Most pupils will take nine GCSEs here: English Language and English Literature, Mathematics, and six additional subjects including at least one of the Sciences.

Making good decisions is vital, of course, so use this document as a starting point.

Do talk to teachers, tutors, and your parents. A good rule of thumb, though, is to choose subjects that you are most passionate about and engaged by, rather than those you think you ought to do for someone else’s sake. Do what you enjoy and do what you are good at! I would also advise you to speak to older pupils, especially Sixth Form pupils, to understand more effectively what it is like to study these different subjects for two years.

Please think about this carefully and ask lots of questions if you are unsure about what choices to make.

Mr Last Head

GCSEs at Dean Close Kingham Hill School 3 Academic Information 4 English and Mathematics 4 Additional subjects 4 American pupils 4 How to choose your options 4 The grading system 4 Subjects 5 Animal Management BTEC 5 Art & Design GCSE 6 Biology GCSE 6 Business GCSE 7 Chemistry GCSE 7 Design & Technology GCSE 8 Drama GCSE 8 English Language IGCSE 9 English Literature IGCSE 9 English as a Second Language 10 (ESL) IGCSE French IGCSE 10 Geography GCSE 11 History GCSE 11 Mathematics GCSE 12 Music GCSE 12 Physical Education GCSE 13 Physics GCSE 13 Religious Studies GCSE 14 Spanish IGCSE 14

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Dean Close Kingham Hill School

Academic information English and Mathematics

How to choose your options

Most pupils will sit a GCSE in English Language and a GCSE in English Literature. A small number of pupils each year begin their studies pursuing a GCSE in English Language only. Mathematics leads to one GCSE, but achieving a pass in both English Language and Mathematics is vital as it is a requirement in most instances for continuation to Higher Education. Any pupil who doesn’t achieve a 4 or above in these two subjects is legally required to continue with them over the next two years, until they pass. Some professions also stipulate that a 5 or above is the minimum requirement.

After consultation with teachers and tutors, pupils will be asked to complete an online form expressing their initial GCSE choices. After February half-term we will then use these preferences to draw up the option blocks. We will endeavour to give every pupil their top choice of subjects, but it may not be possible to accommodate all combinations of subjects.

If this is the case, we will contact parents and pupils personally to discuss alternatives. It is possible to switch subjects after the timetable has been drawn up, but from that point choices will be restricted by the confines of the option blocks.

Additional subjects The timetable allows for pupils to take a maximum of six additional subjects, alongside English and Mathematics. At least one of these subjects must be chosen from the Sciences, but our strong recommendation would be to pick at least two (especially if you are intending to continue with Science subjects at A Level): • Biology • Chemistry • Physics • Animal Management In place of a GCSE subject choice, some pupils may be advised to take one of the following: • Greens (additional assistance from the Learning Support Department) • ESL (additional support for pupils with English as an additional language, often leading to an ESL IGCSE)

American pupils In addition to English and Mathematics, American Program pupils should sign up for: • Biology • Chemistry • History • Geography • One fine art, performing art, language, or a career/technical class (such as Design & Technology)

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Provision of Courses In common with many small schools, we cannot run courses if there is insufficient take-up by pupils. As far as possible we will give advance notice if we are unable to run a course and will help each pupil to find a suitable alternative course combination.

The grading system ‘Old’ grades (A* to G)

‘New’ grades (9 to 1)

Note

A* A

9 8 7

The proportion of new 9 to 7 grades awarded is roughly the same as the proportion of old A* and A grades awarded – so at the top end of the grade range, the new system is more specific.

In time, this might mean that the top universities will get more exact (and rigorous) in their entry requirements.

B C

6 5 4

The Department for Education have defined a 5 as a “good pass” (the top of the old C grade) and a 4 as an “awarding” grade (the bottom of the old C grade).

D E F G

3 2 1

There is now less differentiation in the grades that do not constitute a good pass – the grades that fall below the old “C or above” threshold. This reflects the fact that under the old system few employers or further/higher educational institutions made much distinction between Es, Fs and Gs.

U

U

A U is still a U, rather than a 0.

GCSE Course Guide - 2026 Entry

Subjects

Animal Management BTEC Exam Board: Pearson Edexcel

(603/7057/9)

About the course This course is a comprehensive introduction to working in the animal management industry. It is designed to provide you with a good understanding of the knowledge, skills and practical elements needed to care for animals. You will work with the range of animals in the Kingham Hill collection and learn in both practical and theoretical ways appropriate husbandry for meeting and exceeding health and welfare standards.

You should be prepared to work independently on assignments, meet deadlines and refer to success criteria for guidance. You will undertake weekly practical tasks and care for the animals on site, which may involve getting muddy and working outside in all weathers!

What will I learn?

BTEC qualifications are primarily designed to support progression to employment, where learners develop knowledge and understanding by applying their learning and skills in a work-related context. Additionally, they are popular and effective because they encourage learners to take responsibility for their own learning and to develop skills that are essential for the modern-day workplace. These skills include: team working, working from a prescribed brief, working to deadlines, presenting information effectively and accurately completing administrative tasks and processes.

Areas you will study during the course are: 1. Animal handling 2. Animal housing and accommodation 3. Animal health and welfare

Why should I study Animal Management?

Studying Animal Management can be incredibly rewarding, offering a range of personal and professional benefits. If you love animals, this subject can turn a passion into practical knowledge and skills, whether that is caring for pets, farm animals, or wildlife.

How will I be assessed?

• Assessment (30%): Topic 1, 8 hours • Assessment (30%): Topic 2, 6 hours • Written exam (40%): Topic 3, 2 hours

The animal care industry is rapidly expanding.

From working as a veterinary nurse, animal behaviourist or zookeeper, to roles in animal welfare organisations, there are a wide variety of career opportunities available.

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Dean Close Kingham Hill School

Art & Design (Fine Art) GCSE

Exam Board: AQA (8202)

Biology GCSE

Exam Board: AQA (8461)

About the course

About the course

Art & Design provides a balance with other subjects, giving you the opportunity to develop and extend your creative, imaginative and technical skills. You will explore and investigate the visual world through experimentation with a range of traditional and digital media, such as drawing, painting, printmaking, photography and ceramics. You will also develop your critical skills, making connections and reflecting on the work of artists and designers, learning to communicate your own ideas and opinions. You are able to express your individuality through sketchbook research and the development of quality final responses.

GCSE Biology is the study of all living organisms, their interaction with each other and the world around them. It is a fabulous course for anyone interested in the natural world, and provides essential preparation for A Level Biology. There are a range of practicals throughout the course that will allow you to develop a deeper understanding of the subject.

This is a linear, coursework-based specification and you need to be able to sustain a project over a period of some weeks. Independence, self-discipline and resilience are therefore important, as well as commitment and a willingness to respond to feedback.

What will I learn?

What will I learn?

The Fine Art specification allows you the freedom to explore ideas, experiences or themes of personal interest in any medium of your choosing.

4th Form:

5th Form:

• Natural forms: An introductory project which encourages experimentation in a series of short, fun, practical workshops allowing you to broaden your experience and develop creative thinking.

• Skills workshops: An introduction to oil-painting, approaches to drawing, printmaking and ceramics.

• Personal choice: This is a major, extended project where, with support, pupils select a theme in which you are personally interested and produce an in-depth body of work leading to a final response, using any media or techniques you wish to explore.

Why should I study Art & Design?

This subject can be the first step for considering a career in the creative industries, such as architecture, fashion and textiles, photography, game design, graphic design, illustration, interior design etc.

How will I be assessed?

• Portfolio (60%) • Externally set assignment (40%): You will choose and explore a theme from the

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Biology is a challenging course and should not be chosen because other subjects in an option block might not appeal. A ‘can do’ attitude is paramount for this subject, in addition to a good grasp of the English language and an ability to learn new terms quickly. You must be able to think logically and communicate your ideas using precise words. Having good mathematical skills is also very useful for Biology.

AQA question paper over several weeks, developing your own ideas and responses during lessons. The final response is completed over a ten-hour period under supervised conditions.

Work is marked in accordance with four assessment objectives for which you are expected to show the ability to respond to artists, record, experiment with materials and ideas, and produce a resolved final response.

Areas you will study during the course are: 1. Cell biology 2. Organisation 3. Infection and response 4. Bioenergetics

5. Homeostasis and response 6. Inheritance, variation and evolution 7. Ecology

The development of your practical skills will underpin much of the theory work, and you will regularly plan and undertake experiments in the laboratory.

Why should I study Biology?

Studying Biology suits those with a natural curiosity about the world around them, and anyone who has enjoyed the spectacular BBC productions ‘Planet Earth’ and ‘The Blue Planet’.

Others choose Biology because they are passionate about conservation and want to reduce the negative impact humans are having on the planet.

Others are more interested in the human side and want to find out more about how our

bodies work. Some prefer the tiny things, the microbes and minibeasts. This course covers all of those areas, so there is a little bit for everyone.

How will I be assessed?

• Written exam (50%): Topics 1–4, 1 hour 45 minutes • Written exam (50%): Topics 5–7, 1 hour 45 minutes

GCSE Course Guide - 2026 Entry

Business GCSE

Exam Board: Pearson Edexcel (1BS0)

Chemistry GCSE

Exam Board: AQA (8462)

About the course

About the course

GCSE Business will introduce you to the world of business and enterprise, helping you to understand how businesses operate and make decisions. You will explore real-life business contexts, developing skills in problem-solving, decision-making and understanding the impact of business activity on individuals and society.

GCSE Chemistry is really the study of ‘stuff’. You will learn about the material world around you – what it is made of, what holds it together and why chemical reactions happen. There is so much complexity, and yet once you see the patterns and principles you can appreciate that Chemistry is simple, but certainly not always easy. There is much practical work that we do throughout the GCSE course and this allows you to develop a deeper understanding of the subject and where we get our ideas from.

The course is assessed through two exam papers, with a strong focus on applying knowledge to practical scenarios. You will analyse case studies, interpret data and consider how businesses respond to challenges such as competition, finance and marketing, building valuable skills for further study and future careers.

What will I learn?

Areas you will study during the course are: Theme 1: Investigating small business Topic 1.1 Enterprise and entrepreneurship Topic 1.2 Spotting a business opportunity Topic 1.3 Putting a business idea into practice Topic 1.4 Making the business effective Topic 1.5 Understanding external influences on business

Theme 2: Building a business Topic 2.1 Growing the business Topic 2.2 Making marketing decisions Topic 2.3 Making operational decisions Topic 2.4 Making financial decisions Topic 2.5 Making human resource decisions

Why should I study Business?

How will I be assessed?

If you are interested in how businesses operate and how decisions are made in the real world, GCSE Business is for you. You will learn how businesses start, grow and respond to challenges, whilst developing skills in problem-solving, analysis and decision-making. GCSE Business provides a strong foundation if you are looking to study A Level Business or Economics in Sixth Form.

• Written exam (50%): Theme 1: Investigating small business, 1 hour 45 minutes • Written exam (50%): Theme 2: Building a business, 1 hour 45 minutes

For many pupils, studying for a GCSE in Business is the first step towards a wide range of careers, including marketing, finance, management, entrepreneurship, law and roles across the public and private sectors.

Chemistry GCSE is a challenging course that will take full commitment on your part. However, the hard work will make it all the more worthwhile when you successfully complete a rewarding and valuable qualification. A ‘can do’ attitude is paramount for this subject, in addition to a good grasp of the English language and an ability to learn and use new terms well. You must be able to think logically and communicate your ideas using precise words.

Having good mathematical skills is also very useful for Chemistry.

What will I learn?

Areas you will study during the course are: 1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

Atomic structure and the periodic table Bonding, structure and properties of matter Quantitative chemistry Chemical changes Energy changes

6. The rate and extent of chemical change 7. Organic chemistry 8. Chemical analysis 9. Chemistry of the atmosphere 10. Using resources

The development of your practical skills will underpin much of the theory work, and you will regularly plan and undertake experiments in the laboratory.

Why should I study Chemistry?

If you are interested in what makes up the world and how stuff works, chemistry is for you. If you think you might possibly wish to have the option to study A Level Chemistry in the future, then it is crucial to choose GCSE Chemistry. For many, this course is the beginning of a journey through A Level, and perhaps university, into a range of potential careers. Careers open to individuals that study Chemistry include: material science

research and development; medicine and treatment development; Biochemistry; chemical engineering; atmospheric studies and other exciting roles that make a difference.

How will I be assessed?

• Written exam (50%): Topics 1–5, 1 hour 45 minutes • Written exam (50%): Topics 6–10, 1 hour 45 minutes

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Dean Close Kingham Hill School

Design & Technology GCSE

Exam Board: AQA (8552)

Drama GCSE

Exam Board: AQA (8261)

About the course

About the course

Design & Technology focuses on the broad range of skills needed for life in the twenty-first century.

It is often the subject where pupils achieve the most satisfaction when seeing their ideas realised.

GCSE Drama is aimed at engaging and encouraging pupils to become confident performers.

As such, there is a lot of flexibility in the choice of texts studied and much opportunity for you to do what you would like as part of the devising component.

Before opting for Design & Technology, it is important to remember that you will not be ‘making’ all of the time. You should consider whether working on an extended project – lasting up to a year – is something that you will enjoy. This style of working develops useful skills for life beyond school.

This qualification is mainly practical, with 60% of the final mark requiring you to explore ideas in the classroom. The qualification is also heavily text-based. All pupils are expected to read, analyse, watch and review plays throughout the course

What will I learn?

What will I learn?

1.

• Devising drama: Developing ideas that communicate meaning in a devised theatrical performance; collaboration with others; rehearsal, refining and amending; analytical and evaluation skills.

• Understanding drama: Characteristics of performance texts and dramatic works; social, cultural and historical contexts; how meaning is interpreted and communicated; drama and theatre terminology and how to use it properly; the roles and responsibilities of theatre makers in contemporary professional practice.

• Texts in practice: Interpreting texts; creating and communicating meaning; realising artistic intention in text-based drama.

2.

3.

Core technical principles: New and emerging technologies; energy generation and storage; developments in new materials; systems approach to designing; materials and their properties.

Specialist technical principles: Selection of materials or components; forces and stresses; ecological and social footprint; sources and origins; using and working with materials; stock forms, types and sizes; scales of production; specialist techniques and processes; surface treatments and finishes.

Designing and making principles: Investigation, primary and secondary data; environmental, social and economic challenge; the work of others; design strategies; communication of design ideas; prototype development; selection of materials and components; tolerances; material management; specialist tools and equipment; specialist techniques and processes.

Why should I study Design & Technology?

Design & Technology suits pupils with enquiring minds, who are creative thinkers and have a good degree of independence and self-management. These skills are nurtured throughout the study of the subject itself, reflective learning, team-working and effective communication.

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How will I be assessed?

Why should I study Drama?

How will I be assessed?

• Written exam (50%): 2 hours • Assessment (50%): Design and make task, 30–35 hours

Drama is not just for those wishing to pursue a career in the performing arts industry. This course is accessible to everyone. You will enjoy this course if you enjoy working in a practical and creative way.

• Coursework (40%): Planning, rehearsing and performing an original piece of drama as part of a group, documenting your process throughout.

• Written exam (40%): 1 hour 45 minutes • Practical exam (20%): Performing two extracts from a play to a visiting examiner

All pupils will benefit from this course as there are many transferable skills regardless of your future career goals. These include problem-solving, collaborating with others, thinking analytically and critically, as well as evaluating effectively. You will gain confidence and have opportunities to pursue your ideas whilst reflecting upon and refining your work.

GCSE Course Guide - 2026 Entry

English Language IGCSE Exam Board: Pearson Edexcel (4EA1)

English Literature IGCSE Exam Board: Pearson Edexcel (4ET1)

About the course

About the course

This course explores the written word and develops pupils’ ability to write with precision, power and flair. You will read and analyse a range of fiction, poetry and non-fiction extracts as part of the course, whilst being encouraged to read widely of your own volition. All of the texts studied within this course are contained within an anthology booklet which will be given to each pupil.

This makes it quite a manageable task, providing you work at note taking and practice the core skills.

This course delves deeply into the ideas, themes and messages of a text. You will have the opportunity to explore the psychologies of characters, the motives of authors and the social, political, historical and cultural contexts in which great pieces of literature were created. The aim is for you to understand the important role that literature plays in society, and how it encourages us to continue questioning and exploring what it means to be human. You will study a range of literary genres from the sixteenth to the twenty-first century.

What will I learn?

What will I learn?

• Non-fiction and transactional writing • Fiction and imaginative writing You will learn critical reading and comprehension, how to summarise, synthesise and compare texts, and how to evaluate a writer’s choice of vocabulary, form, grammatical and structural features.

The course will teach you to produce clear and coherent text, how to write for impact and present information and ideas. During the course you will also practise responding to spoken language.

Investing fully from the earliest opportunity in reading widely, vocabulary learning and improving spelling, punctuation and grammar will pay dividends for all candidates taking this exam.

• A collection of poetry, collated in an anthology from the exam board, and a modern prose text (recently the school has studied Of Mice and Men by John Steinbeck).

• A modern drama text (recently the school has studied An Inspector Calls by J.B.Priestly) and a literary heritage text (recently the school has studied Macbeth by William Shakespeare).

You will learn to write both concise and extended answers to thematic and character questions, in addition to honing close analysis. You will also study historical and biographical context and will practise applying this to the literary text, to arrive at a deeper understanding of author intention and style. Spelling, punctuation and grammar will pay dividends for all candidates taking this exam.

Why should I study English Language?

How will I be assessed?

Why should I study English Literature?

English Language is vital for academic attainment across the curriculum. Since this is a core subject, every pupil is expected to take it. Many later qualifications are dependent on achieving at least a ‘5’ in English Language and Maths.

•

English Literature is vital for academic attainment across the curriculum. Since this is a core subject, generally pupils are expected to take it. This subject suits pupils who love reading, human stories, imaginary situations, and a bit of human psychology. It is a great training ground for stretching your comprehension, analytical and evaluation skills a notch higher than average. You need to be willing to embrace texts that contain subtleties and ambiguities, and that belong to very different time periods and cultural settings.

•

Written exam (60%): Questions related to two non-fiction texts (one of which you will have studied in class) [45 marks] and a transactional writing text (such as a speech, letter, article, etc.) [45 marks], 2 hours 15 minutes.

Written exam (40%): A question on a poem or prose extract (which you will have studied in class) [30 marks] and an imaginative piece of creative writing [30 marks], 1 hour 30 minutes.

English Literature is highly valued by universities and employers as a subject for the skills of analysis and writing that are required for success in it, but is also highly

valued by pupils because of the opportunity to see the world through others’ eyes and to engage thoughtfully with ideas.

How will I be assessed?

• Written exam (60%): A question on a poem not seen before [20 marks], then a choice of questions comparing two poems that you will have studied in class [30 marks] before a question on the modern prose text [40 marks], 2 hours • Written exam (40%): A choice from two questions on the modern drama [30 marks) and another choice from two question on the literary heritage text [30 marks], 1 hour 30 minutes.

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Dean Close Kingham Hill School

English as a Second Language (ESL) IGCSE

Exam Board: Pearson Edexcel (4XES2)

ESL lessons and qualifications provide the chance for pupils with English as a second language to consolidate and expand their knowledge of both spoken and written forms of English.

What will I learn?

Classes are taught through interactive activities, pair and group work, and discussion and language exercises associated with a range of topics.

Comprehension is improved, as is the ability to use more complex forms of the English language. In addition, there is a focus on various aspects of British life and culture as you prepare for further study in an English-speaking environment.

This qualification will help you to gain the communication skills required to progress in education, the workplace and beyond.

Exam Board: Pearson Edexcel (4FR1)

About the course

About the course

Why should I study English as a Second Language?

French IGCSE

How will I be Assessed?

• • • •

Reading exam (25%): 1 hour Listening exam (25%): 45 minutes Writing exam (25%): 1 hour 15 minutes Speaking exam (25%): 22–23 minutes

French is an excellent qualification for further developing skills you have learnt through 1st to 3rd Form. Through this course you will be able to understand and respond to spoken and written French.

It is important to note that French is a challenging subject and it may not suit everyone. To succeed in the subject, you will be required to work hard and take responsibility for reviewing and practising your language skills outside lesson and prep time. Like playing a musical instrument, speaking a foreign language only improves through practice and performance.

What will I learn?

The course is topic-based, divided into the following themes: • Home and abroad • Education and employment • Personal life and relationships • The world around us • Social activities, fitness and health

Why should I study French?

How will I be assessed?

There is also the option to sit a Cambridge English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL) exam at either Cambridge First (FCE) or Cambridge Advanced (CAE) level, if appropriate.

French is a language which can open up many doors in the future; it is therefore particularly suited to pupils who see themselves as global citizens, and are keen to broaden their horizons.

• Listening exam (25%): 35 minutes • Reading and writing exam (50%): 1 hour, 45 minutes

Tests measure achievement against the benchmarks of Levels B1-C1 of the Council of Europe’s Common European Framework of Reference for Languages.

The IGCSE is also highly respected by universities as a challenging benchmark qualification.

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• Speaking exam (25%): 8–10 minutes

GCSE Course Guide - 2026 Entry

Geography GCSE

Exam Board: Pearson Edexcel (1GB0)

History GCSE

Exam Board: Pearson Edexcel (1HI0)

About the course

About the course

Geography is a topical subject that can help you to make sense of the world around you.

The Geography GCSE will help you to think deeply about some of the most pressing issues of our time by deepening your understanding of geographical processes and the impact of complex people-environment interactions.

This course contains a mixture of medieval and modern topics. History is all about intellectual curiosity because trying to work out the motives behind the actions of people in the past is enduringly interesting. You will be fascinated, entertained and along the way you will develop your arguing abilities and evidence handling skills.

“I think it broadens the mind – that’s one obvious thing, but it also, I think it just helps us to understand how other countries are the way they are, and this is really very important in just helping us to realise that we all share the same planet and we should know more about what makes us different as well as what makes us similar.” Actor and Comedian, Michael Palin, on Geography.

What will I learn?

Areas you will study during the course are: • Medicine in Britain, c1250–present • Superpower Relations and the Cold War, 1941–91 and The Reigns of King Richard I and King John, 1189–1216 • Russia and the Soviet Union, 1917–41

What will I Learn?

Areas you will study during the course are: Global geographical issues: • Hazardous earth • Development dynamics • Challenges of an urbanising world UK geographical issues: • The UK’s evolving physical landscape • The UK’s evolving human landscape • Geographical investigations

People and environmental issues – making geographical decisions: • People and the biosphere • Forests under threat • Consuming energy resources

Why should I study Geography?

How will I be assessed?

This subject will suit anyone who has an enquiring mind about the world around them. Skills which make for a good geographer include organisation, good literacy and numeracy or a willingness to improve these; being ready to state what they think based on evidence, being willing to work and discuss their learning with other pupils and a readiness to ask questions about the world. It is a great subject for keeping options open because it is both a science and a humanity, and is multidisciplinary in nature.

• Written exam (37.5%): Global geographical issues, 1 hour 30 minutes • Written exam (37.5%): UK geographical issues, 1 hour 30 minutes • Written exam (25%): People and environmental issues – making geographical decisions, 1 hour 30 minutes

Why should I study History?

How will I be assessed?

History is a subject for the intellectually curious and naturally argumentative. It is also a key subject if you are interested in becoming a lawyer where there is a need to weigh up evidence when making complex decisions.

• Written exam (30%): Thematic study and historic environment, 1 hour 20 minutes • Written exam (40%): Period study and British depth study, 1 hour 50 minutes • Written exam (30%): Modern depth study, 1 hour 30 minutes

History is highly regarded by universities and employers because it allows pupils to demonstrate the ability to think critically and communicate clearly.

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Dean Close Kingham Hill School

Mathematics GCSE

Exam Board: Pearson Edexcel (1MA1)

Music GCSE

Exam Board: Pearson Edexcel (1MU0)

About the course

About the course

GCSE Mathematics is a compulsory subject for which all pupils will take exams. Kingham Hill streams all Mathematics classes at Key Stage 4, to differentiate the work that each set completes, and enable pupils to move at a pace suitable to their ability. Teachers will recommend a suitable tier (foundation or higher) for each pupil at the beginning of the course.

GCSE Music combines the three musical skills which are developed throughout 1st to 3rd Form; performing, composing and appraising (listening).

At foundation level a grade of 1–5 obtainable, with learning from previous years consolidated.

At higher level new topics are introduced alongside topics studied in previous years – a grade of 4–9 is achievable. It is important to note that some post GCSE courses require higher mathematics grades.

GCSE Music lessons are primarily focused on appraising, exploring four main areas of musical study:

What will I learn?

In line with the National Curriculum, the course covers number, algebra, ratios, proportion and rates of change, geometry and measures, probability and statistics.

Why should I study Mathematics?

How will I be assessed?

Maths is everywhere in daily life - from budgeting to cooking. Studying Mathematics is not only essential for academic success, but it also provides a strong foundation for your future career and personal life. This subject teaches you to approach problems logically, think critically, and find solutions through analysis and strategy. Since this is a core subject, every pupil is expected to take it.

• Written exam (33.3%): Non-calculator, 1 hour 30 minutes • Written exam (33.3%): Calculator, 1 hour 30 minutes • Written exam (33.3%): Calculator, 1 hour 30 minutes

Further Mathematics GCSE All Set 1 pupils are given the option to study the Further Mathematics GCSE Course, in addition to the standard Mathematics GCSE course. Pupils will study Further Mathematics material alongside their regular GCSE course, as the majority of it is the extension and further application of the material covered at standard higher GCSE level.

Each child who chooses to participate in the Further Mathematics GCSE course will have an additional session of taught Mathematics each week (usually during an activity session or lunchtime) and be issued with a textbook covering the course material. They will also be expected to complete one extra prep each week of up to approx. 30 minutes.

Please note: It is not compulsory for Set 1 pupils to take Further Maths and it can be opted out of at any point. Further information will be provided to Set 1 pupils at the start of 4th Form.

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What will I learn?

• • • •

Instrumental music (1700–1820) Vocal music Music for stage and screen Fusions

Within each of these areas of study, there are two set works which showcase a variety of styles and genres of music. You will learn to describe and analyse each of these pieces of music alongside its historical context.

On this course, you will also learn key listening skills and develop your own composition. As well as being guided by your instrumental teacher and class teacher, you will be expected to spend your own time practicing and honing your performance.

Why should I study Music?

How will I be assessed?

GCSE Music is for anyone who enjoys making music. You can play an instrument or sing, but we generally suggest that candidates are working at the level of Grade 3 or above, from the start of the 4th Form, continuing to work upwards throughout the course.

• Assessment (30%): Performance • Assessment (30%): Composition • Written Exam (40%): Appraising, 1 hour 45 minutes

However, you do not have to have taken any practical or theory exams, or be able to read music – these will be helpful, but we will learn notation and musical analysis skills along the way. As long as you want to perform, compose and listen to a range of music, this course is for you.

GCSE Course Guide - 2026 Entry

Physical Education GCSE Exam Board: Pearson Edexcel (1PE0)

Physics GCSE

About the course

About the course

GCSE PE is an excellent way to begin a career in sport or to enhance your passion for sport.

The course will develop your knowledge of training to improve sports performance, and your understanding of how the body works to keep you exercising.

Physics is one of the natural sciences and encompasses the study of the universe from both macro and micro perspectives. From the largest galaxies, some millions of light years away, to the smallest subatomic particles such as quarks, mesons and strings, physics studies them all.

Physics is based on observation and experimentation and seeks to understand how our universe is so finely tuned as to enable life to exist. It is the study of space and time and how they interact with one another. Physics involves using various formulae to define physical quantities and for understanding how the fundamental laws of the universe apply in different circumstances, and how those laws can be applied; from sending astronauts into space on Space X to searching for subatomic particles in the CERN Hadron Collider. Physics explains the fundamental laws of the universe and introduces concepts that are also important for the study of biology and chemistry.

There are close links to the GCSE science syllabus in the four body systems topics of the skeletal, muscular, cardiovascular and respiratory systems with knowledge from each being applied to sport and physical activity.

What will I learn?

Areas you will study during the course are: • • • •

Anatomy and physiology Fitness and training Performance enhancing drugs Injuries and injury prevention

Why should I study Physical Education?

This subject is an ideal prerequisite for CTEC Sport which is offered in the Sixth Form at Kingham Hill. This could then lead to numerous degrees under the sports and health umbrella.

There will always be a desire to improve sports performance and with it, the need for young motivated sports people to enter the profession.

• Health and well-being • Sports psychology • Socio-cultural influences in sport

How will I be assessed?

• Written exam (36%): Fitness and body systems, 1 hour 30 minutes • Written exam (24%): Health and performance, 1 hour 15 minutes • Assessment (30%): Practical performance • Coursework (10%): Personal exercise programme

Exam Board: AQA (8463)

In GCSE Physics, the essential scientific concepts of energy, electricity, the particle theory of matter, atomic structure, forces, waves, magnetism and electromagnetism and space physics will be studied through investigating, observing, experimenting or testing out ideas and thinking about them. This will involve talking about, reading and writing about physical concepts, doing practical experiments, as well as representing physics in its many forms both mathematically and visually through models.

What will I learn?

Areas you will study during the course are: 1. Energy 2. Electricity 3. Particle model of matter

4. Atomic structure 5. Forces 6. Waves

7. Magnetism and electromagnetism 8. Space physics (physics only)

The development of your practical skills will underpin much of the theory work, and you will regularly plan and undertake experiments in the laboratory.

Why should I study Physics?

If you are entertaining the slightest thought of studying physics at A Level then you should study GCSE Physics. Physics suits anyone who has a curiosity about how and why things are the way they are or why they work the way they do. If you have watched TV programmes such as ‘The Planets’ presented by Professor Brian Cox, or the Horizon episode ‘Hubble: The Wonders of Space Revealed’ or ‘Shock and Awe: The Story of Electricity’ and found yourself engrossed in them – Physics is

undoubtedly for you. If your passion for physics is not like that but you want to understand more about the physical world you live in, then GCSE Physics is also for you.

How will I be assessed?

• Written exam (50%): Topics 1–4, 1 hour 45 minutes • Written exam (50%): Topics 5–8, 1 hour 45 minutes

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Dean Close Kingham Hill School

Religious Studies GCSE

Exam Board: AQA (8062)

Spanish IGCSE

Exam Board: Pearson Edexcel (4SP1)

About the course

About the course

At Kingham Hill Judaism and Christianity are studied due to the close connection in the history of these two great religious traditions.

Spanish is an excellent qualification for further developing skills you have learnt through 1st to 3rd Form. Through this course you will be to understand and respond to spoken and written Spanish.

The course itself is broken into a beliefs and practices section followed by a thematic section that looks at ethical and philosophical issues. The themes studied include families and relationships and a comparison with contemporary Western views on these areas of life.

We also look at environmental ethics and views surrounding difficult topics such as euthanasia and abortion as well as modern warfare.

It is important to note that Spanish is a challenging subject and it may not suit everyone. To succeed in the subject, you will be required to work hard and take responsibility for reviewing and practising your language skills outside lesson and prep time. Like playing a musical instrument, speaking a foreign language only improves through practise and performance.

What will I learn?

What will I learn?

The course is topic-based, divided into the following five themes:

Areas you will study during the course are: • Beliefs • Practices • Relationships and families

• Religion and life • Existence of God • Religion, war and peace

• • • • •

Why should I study Religious Studies?

How will I be assessed?

Why should I study Spanish?

How will I be assessed?

This subject really suits those who are open minded and willing to explore other world views and have their own challenged. It is a subject that suits those who are academically curious and are willing to engage with questions beyond the everyday.

• Written exam (50%): The study of religions: beliefs, teachings and practices, 1 hour 45 minutes • Written exam (50%): Thematic studies, 1 hour 45 minutes

Spanish is a language which can open up many doors in the future; it is therefore particularly suited to pupils who see themselves as global citizens, and are keen to broaden their horizons.

• Listening exam (25%): 35 minutes • Reading and writing exam (50%): 1 hour 45 minutes

You do not need to have any religious beliefs but may simply be interested in the phenomenon of religion that has been and remains so pervasive in our culture and beyond.

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Home and abroad Education and employment Personal life and relationships The world around us Social activities, fitness and health

The IGCSE is also highly respected by universities as a challenging benchmark qualification.

• Speaking exam (25%): 8–10 minutes

GCSE Course Guide - 2026 Entry

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Dean Close Kingham Hill School Kingham, Chipping Norton Oxfordshire OX7 6TH 01/26

Tel: 01608 658999 Email: reception@kinghamhill.org Visit: www.kinghamhill.org.uk

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