Key Stage 4 Curriculum

At Key Stage 4, the majority of students follow a programme of traditional GCSE subjects. Pupils are encouraged to follow a curriculum which contains the subjects of the English Baccalaureate: English, Maths, Science, History or Geography, and a Modern or Ancient Language. However, the best interests of the students are prioritised over school outcomes and the appropriate balance of academic and vocational qualifications will always be based upon individual needs and aspirations.

All pupils study the core subjects listed below:

• English Language
• English Literature
• Mathematics
• Triple Science or Combined Science
• Religious Studies
• History or Geography
• Core PE

They may then select a further 2 subjects from the following list. Pupils who are capable of studying a language are guided to do so in order to meet the requirements for the English Baccalaureate. ‘Option’ subjects will be chosen early in the Spring Term.

• Fine Art
• Child Development
• Computer Science (Maths sets 1-4 only)
• Drama
• Design & Technology
• Engineering
• French
• German
• Hospitality and Catering
• Music
• Information Technology
• Physical Education
• Spanish

Details of the qualifications to be gained, awarding bodies and time allocations are outlined in the following table:

Broad curriculum plans for each subject are provided here. Further details can be found in departmental schemes and curriculum plans.

In English and Maths, pupils are taught in sets. In other subjects, pupils are taught in mixed ability subject groups. Sets are reviewed and amended on a regular basis to ensure that all pupils benefit from being taught in the most appropriate setting.

We may withdraw some of our pupils from option subjects to offer them appropriate intervention, and some pupils may be offered an alternative curriculum covering:

A very small number of pupils may access bespoke alternative provision in accordance with the terms outlined in our Alternative Provision Agreement.

Homework is a vital and compulsory activity for all pupils. Homework is set for each subject in accordance with the school’s Homework Policy. Teachers may also set homework through the online learning platform, Satchel One. In Years 10 and 11, pupils are expected to spend 2 – 2 ½ hours on homework each evening and at weekends.