Key Stage 4 (Years 9-11)

In Years 9, 10 and 11 a degree of choice is available within a broad and balanced curriculum framework. Our curriculum aims to provide our students with choice, to support their achievement and to prepare them for Post 16 studies. These KS4 subject choices are made in Year 8 by students and their parents, in consultation with their Learning Mentor and Subject Teachers.

From September 2019 Year 9 students will study a core of compulsory subjects:

*Students will have the choice of studying Combined Science or Triple Science (Biology, Chemistry & Physics).

Students are able to study up to 4 additional subjects from 20 different Facilitating and Open subject choices offered by the College. Students who choose Combined Science will be required to study at least one Facilitating subject from Geography, History, Computer Science, French or Spanish as one of their 4 additional choices.

** Facilitating GCSEs are valuable and respected subject options to have and will stand students in good stead for later life. These are GCSEs that are recognised by the top universities as important subjects for study. They are also subjects that support other learning and ‘facilitate’ entry onto higher level courses.

Details of the KS4 courses and curriculum overviews are available in the Guide to Courses booklet. 

KEY STAGE 4 ENRICHMENT OPPORTUNITIES

In addition to their GCSE studies students are encouraged to participate in the wide range of enrichment opportunities offered at Key Stage 4

TARGET LEVELS FOR KEY STAGE 4

At Key Stage 4 account is taken of all the information available to us about your child, including their Key Stage 2 and 3 results. We use Fischer Family Trust probability information to help decide on their Target Grade for Key Stage 4.  This should be the minimum grade your child is aiming to achieve in all of their subjects by the end of Year 11. Progress is judged against the Target Grade so that we can identify where students may need extra support.

Nationally, the GCSE expected average grade is in the 4-6 range. You will be sent information about your child’s progress and/or behaviours for learning three times a year in a Progress Review.

Should you have any queries about how your child’s Target Grades have been set, do not hesitate to contact your child's Pastoral Manager.

KEY STAGE 4 CONTROLLED ASSESSMENT, NEA & EXTENDED PROJECTS

Controlled Assessment and Non-Examined Assessment (NEA) is work which is carried out in lessons under the supervision of a member of staff. Your child may have some preparation to do at home to enable them to complete this.

Controlled Assessment and Non-Examined Assessment (NEA) is an important part of your child's studies and we encourage parents and students to discuss work deadlines relating to these regularly. If you have any questions about this element of a course please contact your child's teacher for the respective subject.