Key Stage 4

At Key Stage Four, teaching goes beyond exam specifications with a focus on depth of independent learning with extensive transition to Key Stage 5 a core part of the curriculum. Options at Key Stage 4 are responsive in that they are designed around student choice, rather than pre- determined blocks.  

Students study English Language and English Literature, Mathematics, Science, History and/or Geography and the majority take a modern foreign language alongside their two additional options. Students also continue to receive Physical Education and discrete Personal Development lessons along with supra curricular days which support the teaching of Religious Education. The Advanced Learner curriculum continues to develop the most able through dedicated Student Guidance Time sessions. 

Around 55% of students are entered for the English Baccalaureate each year. 

*The English Baccalaureate (EBacc) is a performance measure showing the proportion of students who achieve a Grade 4 or more in English, maths, a science, history or geography and a language. 

Students with additional needs have access to the full range of subjects at GCSE. We offer flexible pathways for a small number of students who may need to take a reduced number of GCSEs or alternative qualifications. These students might access the FlexiPod for part of the week; this is a hub where students are supported by a qualified teacher as they work on a flexible and bespoke curriculum. 

Year 10

Subject	Hours per fortnight	Comments
English and English Literature	9
Mathematics	8
Science	11/ 12*	Combined and Single Science GCSEs offered. *Single Science
Option subjects	4 per subject (16)	Each option subject receives 4 hours per fortnight. Students 'opt' for four subjects with bespoke guidance to ensure that a balanced curriculum maintained.
Personal Development	2
Physical Education	4/ 3*	*Single Science

Year 11

Subject	Hours per fortnight	Comments
English and English Literature	8
Mathematics	8
Science	10/ 12*	Combined and Single Science GCSEs offered. *Single Science hours. Two hours are taught as a twilight lesson.
Option subjects	5 per subject (20)	Each option subject receives 5 hours per fortnight.
Personal Development	1
Physical Education	3