GCSE Subjects

Art & Design

GCSE Art and Design is conducted as a one year course during which students will produce a portfolio project (unit 1a) and a mini-project (unit 1 b). After Christmas students will also complete a controlled assessment project, choosing a question from a number set by the exam board (unit 2).

Biology

Students are given the opportunity to acquire the skills, knowledge, and understanding necessary for progression to further learning. In addition to developing an understanding of scientific concepts, the course is designed to develop students’ ability to apply ideas and evaluate information.

Chemistry

Can we do anything about global warming? What is nanotechnology? What happens when substances change state? Why do some things react quickly and others slowly? Do you have questions about the world around you? Come and study Chemistry to get some answers!

Drama

GCSE Drama is a practical, artistic subject which aims to develop creative and imaginative powers. It is all about understanding what it is like to put yourself in someone else’s shoes. You will play many parts in different imaginary situations. This is a course of self-expression, play and creating a group dynamic from which anything is possible.

Economics

We will help you appreciate how economics contributes to an understanding of wider economic and social environments and develop your understanding of a range of concepts and the ability to use them in a variety of different contexts. We encourage you to think as an economist and use an enquiring, critical and thoughtful approach to your studies. You will develop the skills, qualities and attitudes which will equip you for the challenges, opportunities and responsibilities of adult and working life.

English Language/Literature

IGCSE English Language and English Literature is an intellectually rigorous course suitable for students who are genuinely interested in exploring literary texts and who have good or very good written skills in English. You should enjoy analysing novels, poems and plays in class and in essays, and already be getting good marks for doing so. The qualification is very highly rated by schools and universities and combines two GCSEs: it is essential for students who want the option of studying English Lit in the Sixth Form. It is very strongly recommended for students who want to study any essay based analytical A level subjects, such as English Lang/ Lit, History, Politics, Classical Civilisation or Media Studies.

Geography

Geography is about understanding the earth and our place within it. It examines how places and countries differ, how natural and human environments interact, and it explores the connections between places, resources, people and development. Geography examines why some places develop, while others remain in a state of instability, why some places are inflicted by catastrophic disasters while others not, and how the physical world can have such a dramatic influence on our daily lives.

History

History isn’t all about learning dates. As well as learning about interesting events, people and periods, you will develop a wide range of skills that can be transferred to future studies and careers. History requires you to develop your ability to analyse information, evaluate arguments and engage in debate. In addition, it will greatly enhance your literacy skills.

Mathematics

We cover the six main areas of Mathematics:

Number – including fractions, percentages, indices

Algebra – including solving equations and using formulae

Geometry – including angles in a variety of shapes

Measures – including perimeter, area and volume

Statistics – including calculating averages and spread and drawing statistical diagrams

Probability – including two way tables and expectation

Physics

The world we live in has been completely transformed by the scientific developments of the last 200 years. In GCSE Physics you will learn about some of the most important discoveries and gain an understanding of how some of the advances were made and verified.