At St Columba’s College, we are proud of our record in preparing students for success in examinations This booklet helps your child make the right choices as a first step towards that success Ultimately, they will need to think about those subjects which motivate and interest them the most. Parents should discuss the options with the students and, having read the information in this booklet, provide some wise advice. Nevertheless, the final decision rests with the student themselves
The curriculum in Form 4 and Form 5 needs to be broad and balanced This is because it needs to keep open as many doors as possible for subsequent choices to be made, initially for post-16 courses, and then for degree/apprenticeship and career. To ensure that the option subjects complement the core and that the overall curriculum followed by the student is broad and balanced, the vast majority of students will take a modern foreign language Those to whom this does not apply will be notified individually
We shall try our best to give you and your child the choice of GCSEs requested Occasionally, this may not be possible because of the constraints of the timetable, but almost all students will receive what they have requested.
During January and February, GCSE option choices will be a focus of the Pastoral Programme and students will be receiving further information from subject departments
There will be an opportunity to discuss option choices with teachers and house staff at the Form 3 Parents Evening on Wednesday 12th February. At this parents’ evening, there will also be a representative from each of the new subjects that students will not have encountered before.
Please ensure that the GCSE subject choice form – which will be issued at the time of the Parents Evening – is filled in and returned by the deadline of Friday 28th February
The GCSEs or IGCSEs available Students will study:
• English Language
• English Literature
• Mathematics
• Religious Studies
• Science (this provides two GCSEs and covers Biology, Chemistry and Physics). The most able scientists will have the opportunity to gain three GCSE Science qualifications in the separate subjects A decision about which path they will
logy / Drama / Food Preparation and Nutrition / Geography /
(1) You are given a free choice from the list of option subjects The option blocks will only be formed once choices are made Experience has shown that the vast majority of combinations of choices will fit the final scheme However, you will be asked for a reserve choice, just in case there is a problem; I cannot guarantee that all first choices will fit the final scheme.
(2) Physical Education and Games remain a compulsory part of the curriculum which is non-examinable. GCSE PE can be taken in addition to the core PE and Games lessons
(3) All GCSE and IGCSE courses are now graded with numbers 9 is the top grade and 4 is roughly equivalent to a previous grade C
Option Choice Forms will be issued electronically at the Parents Evening on Wednesday 12th February.
GCSE Options
What should you think about when choosing option subjects? There are five considerations, suggested by UCAS, that you should bear in mind:
1.Enjoyment: Choose subjects you think you will enjoy. This means researching content closely and asking teachers and others who know you well for advice If you do not enjoy a subject then you may find it difficult to motivate yourself to learn
2.Aptitude: Choose subjects which you think you will be good at - you will be more likely to enjoy them as well. Think about why you might enjoy particular subjects and how committed you are.
3.Prospects: Think seriously about future ambitions. If you already have a university course in mind, check entry requirements for specific courses at university and work back from there GCSE grades are important in university and job applications so you want to maximise your chances of performing well
4 Balance: If you have no idea what you want to do in the future make sure that your options provide a broad and balanced programme.
5.Independence: Don’t choose on the basis of what friends are doing or on the basis of favourite teachers. Make your own decisions
Should you have any questions regarding careers advice and GCSE choice during this time, then please contact Ms Griffiths Plunkett, Head of Careers, who will attempt to help to answer your question or redirect the question to the most appropriate person.
Board/specification for 2027: Edexcel IGCSE Language A
Course content:
Paper 1: Contemporary non-fiction texts from the Pearson-supplied anthology and transactional writing Paper 2: Poetry and prose texts from the Pearson-supplied anthology and imaginative writing.
How it is assessed:
100% external assessment, 2 exams at the end of Form 5
Why study English Language?
The Edexcel iGCSE language qualification is designed to equip students with essential skills of reading, writing and speaking. Students will develop the ability to read a variety of texts with fluency, comprehension and will develop critical skills
Along with improving reading skills, students will learn to write clearly and effectively and will be able to communicate their ideas assuredly and appropriately for different contexts. Allied to this is the enhancement of students’ grammar, punctuation, spelling and vocabulary knowledge, which allows students to navigate and communicate in English with precision and confidence
Finally, the crucially important ability to speak in public and listen actively are taught and assessed and will appear as an independent grade in their final results.
Almost all further education course and jobs require a grade 4 or above in English language.
English Literature
Board/specification for 2027: Edexcel IGCSE Literature.
Course content:
Paper 1: Unseen poetry, poetry collection from Pearson-supplied anthology, modern text (currently Of Mice and Men) Paper 2: Modern drama (currently An Inspector Calls) and literary heritage text (currently Macbeth)
How it is assessed: 100% external assessment, 2 exams at the end of Form 5.
Why study English Literature? IGCSE English literature is designed to expose students to a diverse range of texts and through those to a range of cultures, times, places and perspectives, allowing them to discover the powerful ways in which writers convey important ideas about life, society and the human condition.
Through studying literature, students will hone their reading and analytical skills, learning how to read beyond the surface of text to understand the deeper meaning and the techniques writers use to create impact As a result, students will have a chance to reflect on their own ideas and opinions as well as gaining a broader view of the world and the experiences of others. They will also study a range of classic texts, giving them a strong foundation for engagement with wider culture.
Trips to the theatre and book clubs support learning outside the classroom
Mathematics
Board/specification for 2027: Edexcel IGCSE Specification A (4MA1)
Course content:
The IGCSE in Mathematics gives students the opportunity to develop the ability to:
Acquire and use problem solving strategies.
Select and apply mathematical techniques and methods in mathematical, every day and real-world situations.
Reason mathematically, make deductions and inferences, and draw conclusions
Interpret and communicate mathematical information in a variety of forms appropriate to the information and context
How it is assessed:
Two written calculator papers
Each paper contributes 50% of the qualification
Each paper is assessed through a two-hour examination
The total number of marks for each paper is 100 Grades 9 – 3 are available
Why study Maths?
The IGCSE qualification in Mathematics encourages students to develop confidence in and have a positive attitude towards Mathematics and to recognise the importance of Mathematics in their own lives and in society This qualification prepares students to make informed decisions about the use of technology, the management of money, further learning opportunities and career choices. The department run Maths Club every day at lunchtime; there is a challenge group and many students take part in the UKMT Individual Maths Challenges
Level 2 Extended Mathematics
Board/specification for 2027: Edexcel Level 2 Extended Mathematics Certificate (7M20)
The top two sets study this qualification.
Course content: Extended Mathematics is split into 5 areas:
This qualification gives students the opportunity to develop the ability to:
Develop fluent knowledge, skills and understanding of mathematical methods and concepts
Acquire, select and apply mathematical techniques to solve problems
Reason mathematically, make deductions and inferences, and draw conclusions
Comprehend, interpret and communicate mathematical information in a variety of forms appropriate to the information and context
Develop a deeper understanding of key mathematics concepts at Level 2
Build upon the foundational knowledge of their IGCSE Mathematics skills and knowledge
How it is assessed:
Two written papers, one calculator and one non-calculator
Each paper contributes 50% of the qualification
Each paper is assessed through a 1 hour 15 minute examination
The total marks for each paper is 60
There is a four-grade scale – pass, merit, distinction and distinction*
Why study Extended Maths?
This qualification has been designed to challenge students to dive deeper into key concepts, to encourage stretch and enjoyment and to help them to achieve their potential It provides relevant, foundational knowledge that builds upon what students already know, and eases the transition to KS5 qualifications, whether Maths, Geography, Science or Psychology.
Religious Studies
Board/specification for 2027: WJEC Eduqas B Catholic Christianity and Judaism (C120PB)
Course Content: Students will examine questions of meaning and purpose through the topics of Origins and Meaning, Good and Evil, Life and Death, Sin and Forgiveness They will also study the Beliefs, Teachings and Practices of Judaism
How it is assessed: There are three examinations at the end of the two-year course.
1) Foundational Catholic Theology Paper – 1 hour 30 minutes (37 5%) 90 marks + 6 for SPAG
2) Applied Catholic Theology Paper – 1 hour 30 minutes (37 5%) 90 marks + 6 for SPAG
3) Judaism Paper – 1 hour (25%) 60 marks
Why study RE?
Religious Studies GCSE at St Columba’s College is aspirational, academic and challenging. The GCSE results are some of the highest in the country Eduqas B GCSE Religious Studies takes a distinctive issues-based approach to the study of religious, philosophical and ethical studies in the modern world through a Catholic, Jewish and Humanist lens Following Eduqas B RS GCSE many of our students go on to choose A level Philosophy and Ethics in the 6th form.
It develops students’ knowledge and understanding of religions and non-religious beliefs, such as humanism, raising awareness of the diversity of the religious traditions of Britain It develops students’ ability to construct well-argued, well-informed, balanced and structured written arguments, demonstrating their depth and breadth of understanding of the subject It provides opportunities for students to engage with questions of belief, value, meaning, purpose, truth, and their influence on human life. It challenges students to reflect on and develop their own values, beliefs and attitudes in the light of what they have learnt and contributes to their preparation for adult life in a pluralistic society and global community.
Students also have many co-curricular opportunities, for instance a trip to Rome to explore some of its Catholic and Jewish heritage which also includes an audience with Pope Francis
What the students say about GCSE RE:
‘Religious Education is one of the best GCSE subjects because it encourages thinking, empathy, and understanding of different beliefs and cultures It helps you develop reasoning skills and explore big questions about morality and identity RE also helps you become an open-minded person and equips you with the knowledge to know about different beliefs and cultures which is what makes RE so enjoyable. Furthermore, the class debates that we have are not only good for you now, but as you go on to do your A levels in the future, and take subjects like Philosophy and Ethics, these debates are going to enhance your thinking and also help you later on in life when working in a career.’ GM Form 5S
GCSE Religious Studies is a springboard to many careers e g Law, Education, Diplomacy, Policymaking, Banking and Business It gives students powerful soft skills which allows them to engage in multiple settings with understanding, compassion and courtesy.
The Sciences
Board/specification for 2027: AQA Combined Science Trilogy 8464 All students follow this pathway in Forms 3 and 4 In Form 5 some students may be offered the opportunity to study the Separate Sciences: AQA Biology 8461, AQA Chemistry 8462 and AQA Physics 8463.
Chemistry: Atoms, bonding & moles, chemical reactions & energy changes, rates, equilibrium & organic chemistry, analysis & the Earth's resources.
Physics: Energy & energy resources, particles at work, forces in action, waves, electromagnetism & space
How it will be assessed:
Two papers per science subject, six in total. All have equal weighting. For Combined Science Trilogy each paper is 1hr15min For the Separate Sciences each paper is 1hr 45min
Why study Science?
Science is a core subject at GCSE as knowledge of the world around us works on key scientific principles. It allows us to make informed choices as adults and can lead to an interesting and varied career. Many students go on to study degree courses in the Sciences, including medicine, chemistry and engineering However, study of the Sciences also provides transferrable skills, such as attention to detail, organisation and team working, which are highly regarded by universities and employers The Science department at SCC offers a wide range of after school and lunchtime support to students: CREST awards, participation in national and worldwide Olympiads and Challenges, the Arkwright scholarship, Biology field trips and a Form 5 trip to the Centre of the Cell at the Queen Mary University of London Blizzard Institute.
Student quote (DH): “The sciences at SCC have provided me with numerous opportunities to broaden my scientific knowledge and thinking, as well as deepen my understanding in areas of science that are not part of the traditional curriculum. Furthermore, the skills I have gained - critical thinking and problem-solving, to name a few - have also complemented my classroom learning. These opportunities would not have been possible without the time and dedication of the staff in the science department, who are always available not only for extra-curricular activities but also for any academic assistance a student studying the sciences might need ”
Board/specification for 2027: AQA 8652
Course Content:
Theme 1: People and Lifestyle
Identity and relationships with others
Healthy living and lifestyle
Education and work
French
Theme 2: Popular Culture
Free-time activities Customs, festivals and celebrations
Celebrity culture
“To have another language is to possess a second soul.” Charlemagne
How it will be assessed:
Theme 3: Communication and the world around us
Travel and tourism, including places of interest Media and technology
The environment and where people live
Why study French?
Whilst demonstrating that you have the skills and knowledge to master French, a GCSE also shows that you are willing and able to learn new skills and makes you more likely to be adept at learning further languages in the future. Linguists are excellent communicators, and people with such finely-honed ‘soft skills’ are highly valued in the world of work. You also have access to another culture, its films, music and literature
As well as providing you with the opportunity to combine other subjects with French later, work and study programmes exist to give you the chance to spend time studying at foreign university, meeting new people and discovering life in another country. In the rest of Europe, and most of the world, languages are compulsory at GCSE and beyond, in recognition of the value they add to your C.V and the many benefits which come from their study. Taking French at GCSE therefore brings you into line with your peers in the rest of the world and ensures that you maintain a competitive advantage
Board/specification for 2027: AQA 8692
Course Content:
Theme 1:
People and Lifestyle
Identity and relationships with others
Healthy living and lifestyle
Education and work
Theme 2: Popular Culture
Free-time activities Customs, festivals and celebrations
Celebrity culture
Theme 3: Communication and the world around us
Travel and tourism, including places of interest Media and technology
The environment and where people live
The love of one's country is a splendid thing. But why should love stop at the border? - Pablo Casals – Spanish Musician (1876-1973)
How it will be assessed:
Translation English-Spanish – 50 words
Why study Spanish?
Spanish as a GCSE shows that you are willing and able to learn new skills and makes you more likely to be adept at learning further languages in the future. Linguists are excellent communicators, and people with such finely-honed ‘soft skills’ are highly valued in the world of work
As well as providing you with the opportunity to combine other subjects with Spanish later, work and study programmes exist to give you the chance to spend time at a foreign university, meeting new people and discovering life in another country. You also have access to another culture, its films, music and literature. In the rest of Europe, and most of the world, languages are compulsory at GCSE and beyond, in recognition of the value they add to your C V and the many benefits which come from their study Taking Spanish at GCSE therefore brings you into line with your peers in the rest of the world and ensures that you maintain a competitive advantage
DesignandTechnology
Geography
Optional Subjects
FoodPreparation andNutrition
PhysicalEducation
Statistics
Music
Board/specification for 2027: Eduqas GCSE (9-1) Art and Design
Course Content: The GCSE covers a range of activities via in-depth assignments You will have the opportunity to experiment with different media in order to explore your strengths and preferences In Form 4 you produce mixedmedia, drawing and painting, Photoshop, printmaking and sculpture projects. In Form 5 you have thematic projects, building on and improving your technical skills and ideas. Whatever media or themes you choose, the aim of the course is to develop your visual language skills and to build a comprehensive portfolio of work to progress to further courses or employment
How it will be assessed:
Eduqas GCSE Art and Design is made up of two components:
Component 1: Personal Portfolio in Art and Design - Internally set and marked; assessed through controlled assessment (60% of total)
Component 2: Externally Set Assignment in Art and Design - Externally set theme and internally marked with external moderation (40% of total)
Both units are assessed using four assessment objectives:
AO1 Critical understanding
AO2 Creative making
AO3 Reflective recording
AO4 Personal presentation
Why study Art?
The internet has created an explosion of opportunity for digital designers and multimedia artists The world is filled with computers, smartphones, tablets and other portable electronic devices Almost all businesses have an online presence and we are connected to the internet for long periods; seeking information, socialising, playing, shopping, watching videos and engaging in other forms of online entertainment. The demand for web, app, software and graphic designers, digital illustrators, multimedia artists, video producers, online publishers, animation artists and game designers is undergoing unprecedented growth
Studying Art enhances fine motor skills, hand-eye coordination, problem solving skills, lateral thinking, complex analysis and critical thinking skills. No matter what career you choose, those who can arrange, present and display material in a way that is aesthetically pleasing have an advantage.
Before undertaking GCSE Art and Design, you will, ideally, have produced a range of good art projects in Forms 1, 2 and 3 You will be expected to have experience of using art materials and processes, and knowledge of contemporary and historical Art and Design. More importantly, you should have a commitment to, and love of, the subject and feel motivated to develop your visual skills and express your ideas in working through projects. It is expected that students spend time either in art studios or at home outside of lesson times refining or practising technique and creative skills There are opportunities for trips and many studio days throughout the course
Board/specification for exam in 2027: Edexcel Business (1BS0)
Course content:
Some of the topics you will study are:
Enterprise and entrepreneurs
Business ownership
Marketing
Recruitment and selection
Cash flow
Revenues, costs and profit
Location and logistics
Production methods
External influences
Management
How it will be assessed:
Assessment is through two external examinations, Theme 1 and Theme 2; there is no coursework Each paper is 1 hour 45 minutes It starts with multiple choice and short answer questions followed by ramped questions, increasingly challenging, set in 2 business contexts per paper.
Why study Business?
Students will develop their independent learning skills and extend their abilities as critical and reflective thinkers with enquiring minds Studying Business gives scope for students to appreciate the interests of stakeholders in business and to understand the conflicts that may arise, especially in terms of ethical and social responsibilities.
The course is useful for students who would either like to study Business or Economics in the 6th Form or those who simply wish to have a greater understanding of the business world around them Business students are interested in what makes the world go round They like having discussions and solving problems They may think that they could run a business one day or want an understanding of the organisations that they will be working for in the future. They should be willing to keep up to date with business and economics news stories and want to be informed about their choices as customers, employees, tax payers and citizens.
Many of our Business students go on to Business and Management-related degree courses and a range of careers in areas such as finance, estate management, surveying, product design, marketing, retail and human resource management.
Computer Science
Board/specification for exam in 2027: AQA GCSE Computer Science 8525B (Python)
Course content:
The Computer Science GCSE consists of eight different topics
Algorithms – understand how we can plan and represent algorithms, and learn basic searching and sorting algorithms
Every algorithm is like a puzzle, and even the most complex problem can be solved in small, manageable pieces
Programming – develop your Python programming skills and discover how we can improve the efficiency of our code, and make robust programs that can be used over and over again.
Data Representation – learn about how computers represent different types of data
Computer Systems – understand the logical operations that run a computer, and read into the inner workings of the Operating System and CPU; the real backbone of every computer
Networks – find out about the different ways that our computers can communicate with each other, and the rules and set-up that make this happen.
Cyber Security – learn about the different threats our computers have to combat daily, and discover the different measures that we can put in place to stop hackers and protect our digital world
Databases & SQL – see how computers can use databases to store data and quickly access it
Ethical, Legal and Environmental Impacts of Computing – explore how technology affects society, from ethical issues to environmental impact.
How it will be assessed:
2 written exams, both worth 50% of the GCSE
Paper 1 (Computational thinking and programming skills) 90 marks, 2 hours
Paper 2 (Computing Concepts) 90 marks, 1 hour 45 minutes
Why study Computer Science?
Are you curious about how your favourite apps and games work? Do you love problem-solving and thinking creatively? Or are you interested in shaping the future with the power of technology? If so, Computer Science may be the subject for you…
From home assistant devices to video doorbells, through to smartphones and video games, technology is now an intrinsic part of our daily lives, and a key work tool By studying Computer Science, you have the opportunity to better understand just how all this technology works But Computer Science is not just about learning how computers work – it’s about creating, innovating, and seeing how technological solutions can be created to solve all manner of problems
Our curriculum balances hands-on practical experience with more theoretical concepts. Along the way, expect fun lessons with memorable demonstrations, unexpected challenges, and regular opportunities to write and refine programs. The department offers a regular support clinic, and provides access to a wide range of resources to support you through your studies Away from the GCSE syllabus, we enter all students into the Bebras challenge, encourage students to challenge themselves by entering other competitions and consider additional topics not on the GCSE specification such as encryption and software development. The department is also looking at new activities and opportunities that push the boundaries of knowledge and open students’ eyes up to the wide-ranging careers that Computer Science can lead to, so watch this space
The technology industry is one of the fastest growing industries around the globe and, by studying Computer Science, you will future proof your knowledge, develop a highly transferrable skills, and learn about careers and opportunities in areas such as software development, cyber security, data analysis, artificial intelligence, robotics, virtual reality and more. Computer Science graduates are some of the most sought-after workers worldwide and you might end up creating the next big app, or viral video game the possibilities are truly endless!
Design and Technology
Board/specification for exam in 2027: Design and Technology: Product Design - AQA 8552
Course content: Design Technology enables students to design and make products with creativity and originality, using a range of materials and techniques. This GCSE allows students to study core technical and designing and making principles, including a broad range of design processes, materials techniques and equipment. They will also have the opportunity to study specialist technical principles in greater depth.
How it will be assessed:
Why study Design Technology?
Design Technology is a practical subject area which requires the application of knowledge and understanding when developing ideas, planning, producing products and evaluating them The distinction between Designing and Making is a convenient one to make, but in practice the two often merge For example, research can involve not only investigating existing products and people's opinions, but also investigating proportions, adhesives, colour, structures and materials through practical work.
Students should know and understand that all design and technology activities take place within a wide range of contexts
They should also understand how the prototypes they develop must satisfy wants or needs and be fit for their intended use. For example, the home, school, work or leisure.
Designers have a huge influence on the form, function and style of many of the objects we use in our daily lives –everything from kettles to telephones to televisions – as well as creating much more specialist products, such as medical equipment E g Sir James Dyson is a British industrial designer and founder of the Dyson company He is best known as the inventor of the Dual Cyclone bagless vacuum cleaner. His net worth in 2024 was £20.8 billion.
Drama
Board/specification for exam in 2027: GCSE Drama – WJEC Eduqas (C690QS)
Course content: Students receive three Drama lessons per week; two will be dedicated to the practical elements of the course, and one to exploring the set play-text to practically develop an understanding of the play and refine their written exam technique gradually over the two-years This will be achieved through the following skill areas:
Theatre Practitioners: We delve deeper into the techniques and styles of theatre practitioners we have studied at KS3, and practically explore exciting new theatre companies to develop a working knowledge of their signature styles of theatre This knowledge is used to devise a performance
Language of theatre (Acting, Directing and Design): We learn how to use this language through our verbal and written analysis and evaluation of our own work and that of others.
Interpreting play texts: Through a highly practical approach, we learn what it takes to interpret, perform, direct, and design for a script
How it will be assessed:
Component 1 – Devising Theatre – 40% - 60 marks – Examined performance of a devised piece in the style of a chosen practitioner and a Portfolio of written evidence (coursework)
Component 2 – Performing from a Text – 20% - 60 marks – Examined performance of an extract of a chosen script
Component 3 – Interpreting Theatre – 40% - 60 marks – 1 hour 30 minutes written exam
Why study Drama?
GCSE Drama is a course which fosters creativity and encourages students to express themselves through acting, directing, designing, and writing. Our approach to learning here is highly practical, allowing students to immerse themselves in the roles which they will play and the texts that they will study The course always attracts a diverse range of students, from quiet creative minds to confident performers, keen designers, and strong directors, meaning there is a genuine opportunity for personal growth for all with an interest in theatre Not only does the course open doors to higher education and careers in the performing arts, including acting, directing, playwriting, stage management, theatre design and theatre education, it also equips students with a huge range of skills applicable to a wider range of professions. The skills students gain in the Drama Studio cannot be gained elsewhere; emotional intelligence, confidence, self-esteem, empathy and independence These are the things that will boost young people in later life, giving them the edge over others
Food Preparation and Nutrition
Board/specification for exam in 2027: OCR J309*
Course content: Some of the topics you will study are:
Food groups
The relationship between diet and health
Energy balance
Food provenance
Food security
British and international cuisine
Knife skills
Food preparation of a variety of recipes
Cooking methods
How it will be assessed:
Assessment is through three components:
1) Food Preparation and Nutrition - 1 hour 30 minutes written examination paper worth 100 marks. This comprises 50% of the GCSE.
2) Food Investigation Task - Non-examined assessment (NEA) worth 45 marks This comprises 15% of the GCSE Learners will carry out an investigation determined by the exam board into the scientific principles underlying the preparation and cooking of food. They will submit a report of between 1500 and 2000 words.
3) Food Preparation Task - Non-examined assessment (NEA) worth 105 marks. This comprises 35% of the GCSE. You will be required to prepare, cook and present three dishes within a single period of up to three hours and plan, in advance, how this will be achieved OCR will communicate details of the task on 1st November 2026
Why study Food Preparation and Nutrition?
At the heart of this qualification is the development of strong practical cookery skills and techniques as well as a good understanding of nutrition. Students who learn to cook well are more likely to make better food choices and understand healthy eating, thus contributing towards a healthy society
Students will discover the essentials of food science, nutrition and how to cook They will also understand the huge challenges that we face globally to supply the world with nutritious and safe food. This course can help some learners commence the path to careers in the food and hospitality industries.
*This is subject to change depending on teacher preference
Geography
Board/specification for exam in 2027: Cambridge IGCSE 0976
Course content: The Geography Cambridge IGCSE 0976 specification includes ten main themes: Changing river environments; Changing coastal environments; Changing ecosystems; Tectonic hazards; Climate change; Changing populations; Changing towns and cities; Development; Changing economies; and Resource provision. These topics allow students to study case studies that are current and relevant to the world today.
How it will be assessed:
Students are assessed through three exams at the end of Form 5
Why study Geography?
Geography isn’t just a subject - it’s an adventure. Whether you are exploring volcanic eruptions, uncovering the secrets of ecosystems, or mapping how technology connects the globe, Geography brings the world to life. That’s why it is one of the most popular GCSE options in the country!
By studying Geography, you will gain essential skills that prepare you for life and a future career. From using technology to support your learning through GIS (Geographical Information Systems) to mastering practical mapreading and data analysis, Geography equips you with a unique blend of skills used across subjects. These skills open doors to exciting careers in fields like environmental science, urban planning, marketing, media, and even game design
But Geography is not just about learning in a classroom - it’s about getting out there. Imagine standing at the edge of a glacier in Iceland or exploring volcanic landscapes in the Azores. These real-world experiences deepen your understanding of key topics while fuelling your sense of wonder Exciting, enriching field trips are offered to KS4 students both locally and internationally
In Geography, you will tackle big questions: How do we respond to natural disasters? How can we protect our planet? You will become a responsible global citizen, ready to shape the future.
So, if you are curious about the world, enjoy solving problems, and want a subject that is as diverse and dynamic as the planet itself: choose Geography Every day is a chance to think, act, and live geographically
History
Board/specification for exam in 2027: Edexcel IGCSE History (4HI1A)
Course Content: Paper 1 - Germany 1918-1945 - Looking at the Weimar Republic, the rise of the Nazis, life in Nazi Germany and Germany in the Second World War.
The Cold War 1943-1972 - Focusing on the origins of the Cold War, the Berlin Blockade, The Korean War, The Berlin Wall, The Cuban Missile Crisis, and Détente in the early 70’s.
Paper 2 - The USA 1918-1941 - The era of prohibition, movies and economic boom, the Wall Street Crash, and the New Deal
The Changing Nature of Warfare between 1919-2011- Concentrating on how far tactics and technology have changed in all major conflicts during the period.
How it will be assessed:
The IGCSE History course is assessed by two 1 hour 30-minute exams. Each paper is worth 50% of the overall exam.
Why study History?
People who have studied History are highly regarded and sought after by employers in a great many sectors. The skills you learn from studying GCSE History include investigating, researching documents, examining evidence, and presenting arguments. These are valuable in a considerable number of careers, including law, journalism, politics, and management. It provides a good background for all arts and social science careers, and it is directly useful for careers in archaeology, heritage, archive, and museum work. Most importantly, studying History deepens your understanding of the world we live in today.
Board/specification for exam in 2027: OCR (J282C)
Course Content and how it will be assessed:
Latin Grammar & Translation (90 minute written paper)
Latin Prose Literature (60 minute written paper)
Latin Verse Literature (60 minute written paper)
Why study Latin?
The Might of Empire and the Power of the Gods – the Roman Empire was an astonishing historical phenomenon From a small Italian town to controlling the Western World in the space of 200 years. They universally spread their language, culture, literature, engineering and religion as their incredible military machine rolled its legions over barbarian hills. This GCSE is a unique opportunity for students to study the most fascinating set of events in human history, and to engage with that history in Latin – the original, ancient, beautiful language of the Romans On the way we study brave battles, wonderful myths and Indiana Jones-style archaeology, unearthing treasure and ancient world secrets everywhere. Recently we took the GCSE Latin students to Pompeii, and taught them a lesson about Pliny’s eyewitness account of the eruption of Vesuvius from the top of that volcano. Latin is not so much an academic subject as it is a passion and a way of life dedicated to keeping our knowledge of the ancient past of the human race alive.
Music
Board/specification for exam in 2027: OCR (J536)
Course Content and how it will be assessed:
The OCR Music GCSE is made of three elements
30% Performance (Area of Study 1)
30% Composition (Area of Study 1)
40% Listening and appraising exam (Area of Study 2/3/4/5 – 1 hour 30mins)
Area of study 1: My Music
30% Performance on the learner’s chosen instrument. Includes solo and ensemble.
30% Two compositions. One free composition and one in response to a brief set by OCR in the second year of study
Area of study 2: The Concerto Through Time
The Baroque Solo Concerto
The Baroque Concerto Grosso
The Classical Concerto
The Romantic Concerto
Area of study 3: Rhythms of the World
India and Punjab - Indian Classical Music and Bhangra
Eastern Mediterranean and Middle East - Greek, Israeli and Palestinian Music
Africa - Drumming from Sub-Saharan Africa
Central and South America - Calypso and Samba Music
Area of study 4: Film and Gaming Music
Area of study 5: Conventions of Pop
Rock ‘n’ Roll of the 1950s and 1960s
Rock Anthems of the 1970s and 1980s
Pop Ballads of the 1970s, 1980s and 1990s
Solo Artists from 1990 to the present day.
Why study Music?
We have chosen OCR because they place a strong emphasis on covering a comprehensive range of musical styles, genres, and historical periods. This ensures students receive a well-rounded and balanced musical education that prepares them for further studies or careers in music
Physical Education
Board/specification for exam in 2027: OCR (J587)
Course Content and how it will be assessed:
and evaluation of performance (AEP) (05)
Why study PE?
The GCSE Physical Education course will appeal to you if you:
Have a keen interest in sport and recreation and always look forward to your PE lessons
Take part in sport/recreation outside of class time
Want to follow a course that develops knowledge and understanding through practical involvement
Want to know more about the benefits of sport and exercise
Want to improve your own performance in a range of sports roles
Want to study a course that is active and that you will enjoy
Are considering a sports-related career or an A Level/higher education course
As well as being the ideal preparation for the A Level Physical Education or Level 3 CTEC courses, the GCSE PE course develops the transferable skills and key skills that employers are looking for and can lead to a wide variety of employment opportunities This can include further training in such areas as recreational management, sports science, physiotherapy, coaching, officiating, the fitness industry, the armed forces and the Civil Service.
Statistics
Board/specification for exam in 2027: Edexcel GCSE Statistics (1ST0)
Course Content:
The course includes:
1. The collection of data- Planning a line of enquiry or investigation, types of data, census and sample data, sampling techniques and collecting or obtaining data
2 Processing, representing and analysing data - Methods of tabulation, diagrams and similar forms of representation, measures of central tendency, measure of dispersion, summary statistics, scatter diagrams, correlation and regression, time series, quality assurance and estimation
3 Reasoning, interpreting and discussing results - Inference and other reasoning, predictions and interpretation and conclusion
4. Probability - Definitions and calculations and discrete probability distributions
How it will be assessed:
There are two written calculator papers Each paper contributes 50% of the qualification and is assessed through a 1 hour 30 minute examination The total number of marks for each paper is 80 Grades 9 – 4 are available
Why study Statistics?
GCSE Statistics gives students the opportunity to broaden their knowledge in a key component of Maths that is relevant to everyday life Students are introduced to the skills of statistical enquiry and practise the underpinning statistical calculations and interpretation using real world data, and authentic contexts This supports their skills development for progression to a range of subjects and develops an awareness of statistics beyond the classroom It will also benefit those progressing to other A Level subjects such as the Sciences, Geography and Economics. Statistics overlaps with the IGCSE in Mathematics; it improves their understanding of a key area in that course, which is an advantage The department run Maths Club every day at lunchtime and after-school support sessions
