Option Subjects

Students enjoy this course as it provides opportunities for students to express themselves creatively. Furthermore, students enjoy learning about artists and applying this knowledge to inspire their own creative work. Finally students enjoy creative making and realising a personal, creative outcome.

The study of Art & Design leads to further study at Level 3 in the IB Diploma Programme in Visual Arts or A Level Art. In the longer term, students use the knowledge and skills gained from GCSE Art & Design to further study a Foundation diploma in Art & Design at a specialist Art & Design college, or study an Art & Design related degree.  After degree level, Art & Design students can access careers in the disciplines of  fine art, illustration, graphic design, animation, interior design and architecture. A number of students also enjoy studying Art & Design alongside their other subjects as an expressive and creative outlet which complements the analytical and project design skills that are required to be successful in many Key Stage 5 courses.

This course along with GCSE Physics and Chemistry (sometimes called Triple Science) provides students with 3 GCSE Science grades. Students can study a range of science courses at Key Stage 5 and beyond whether they have taken Combined Sciences or Triple Science.

The Biology course covers the same units as the Combined Science course but in greater breadth and depth. Additional content includes monoclonal antibodies, the brain, the eye, plant hormones, plant disease, cloning and food production. This is a course for the scientifically minded students who are keen to find out about the living world.

Completing this course with Chemistry and Physics allows students to access IB Biology and  A – level Sciences courses leading to university studies and a number of careers in Science. Students taking Biology are often interested in careers in medicine and scientific research, whether a doctor, biomedical scientist, vet, marine biologist, pharmacist or dentist. The transferable mathematical and analytical skills developed in Biology also open opportunities in law, banking and financial services.

This course aims to develop students’ understanding of business and encourages creative thinking and decision-making. Students enjoy learning about the world of business through research, investigation and practical activities. We work with a range of employers to investigate real business issues, so that students will have the knowledge and experiences to run their own businesses successfully in the future.

The course is excellent preparation for post-16 Business, IT and Economics education, all of which can be studied in our Sixth Form, and then eventually, at university and higher-apprenticeship level.  Alternatively the course would also support applications for apprenticeships and employment after Year 13.

This course along with GCSE Physics and Chemistry (sometimes called Triple Science) provides students with 3 GCSE Science grades. Students can study a range of science courses at Key Stage 5 and beyond whether they have taken Combined Sciences or Triple Science.

The Chemistry course covers the same units as the Combined Science course but in greater breadth and depth. Additional content includes yield, atom economy, titrations, fuel cells, reaction of alcohols, flame tests, corrosion and the Haber process.

Completing this course along with Biology and Physics allows students to access IB Physics, IB Biology, IB Chemistry, and A level Science courses leading to university studies and lots of careers in Science.

Students taking Chemistry are often interested in careers in medicine, engineering, pharmaceuticals, cosmetics and financial services.

The course aims to provide knowledge in a number of key areas and develops skills that are essential for the modern-day workplace. Students enjoy the course because it encourages independence, creativity and awareness of the digital media sector. It will equip them with a range of creative media skills and provide opportunities to develop, in context, desirable, transferable skills such as research, planning, and review, working with others and communicating creative concepts effectively.

The course is excellent preparation for post-16 IT and Business education.  It will also prepare you for courses at university such as digital marketing, web design, games authoring, graphic design, advertising, project management, IT technical support, systems management, broadcasting and film production. 

Alternatively the course would also support applications for apprenticeships and employment.

This is a creative course that encourages students to investigate a design situation and then work through the design process to create a final solution. It involves many skills such as: investigation; development of ideas through sketch ideas and model making; practical making skills when creating a working prototype; and exploring a range of testing and quality assurance processes. 

Students will work largely independently to discover their own pathway through the design process. Here there is no preset right or wrong. Students are encouraged to support their own design decisions through practical investigations and experimentation.

The GCSE in Design and Technology is the starting point for a career in any of the design disciplines such as product, industrial, automotive and furniture design. It will also support careers in architecture, engineering and interior design.

The next step on completing the GCSE programme will be to move onto an IB level or BTEC course in Product Design and Engineering that will be completed at Sixth Form.

The  Performing Arts course allows students to develop an insight into an understanding of a wide range of Drama based activities including improvisation, devising and performance from scripts. Students will also have the opportunity to experience live theatre and develop an understanding of the roles of theatre makers. Students can study as a performer, a designer, or both. For design, students can specialise in lighting, sound, set, costume and make-up and hair design. As there are a variety of disciples or pathways, if performing is not your strength but you would like to do Drama, you can choose a design pathway instead, which is very exciting for those who are technically inclined. 

This specification ensures continuity for students progressing from Performing Arts to IB and  BTEC Level 3 Performing Arts. Students who go on to Key Stage 5 are already familiar with studying a Performing Arts vocational content. They have built solid foundations in reviewing a live theatre production and in interpreting key extracts. The course can also lead to employment in the performing arts and entertainment industries. The career paths for Performing Arts are vast as the industry offers you a wide range of exciting opportunities which includes but not limited to: Actor, Arts administrator, Community arts worker, Choreographer, Composer, Dancer, Designer, Director, Drama/Music therapist, Front of house manager, Lighting/Sound technician, Musical Theatre Performer, Musician, Stage manager, Teacher.

Students have the opportunity to explore a range of engineering activities. This includes gaining an understanding of the role of engineering and how engineered products are used by consumers. The coursework elements combine a range of design skills from developing initial sketch ideas to completing computer aided design (CAD) presentation drawings. This also includes the making of an engineering product for unit 1. 

The main aim of the course is to present students with fundamental skills that are required in all engineering sectors. It will give students an understanding of the type of projects associated with engineering and enable them to make an informed decision of which sector they wish to pursue as a future career.

The course will support the application onto the BTEC Level 3 in Engineering which is offered at our Sixth Form. Students who have previously studied the BTEC Level 3 qualification have progressed onto university to study mechanical, structural, electrical/electronic or aeronautical engineering courses. The course will also support applications onto apprenticeships in most engineering sectors.

Students have the opportunity to cook every week in the Academy to develop high technical food preparation skills. Students undertake scientific investigations through practical cooking activities and enjoy eating and trying new food products. They then use this knowledge to develop their own ideas about diet and good health. The course encourages learners to cook and make informed decisions about feeding themselves and others, now and later in life.

GCSE Food Preparation and Nutrition provides students with the knowledge and skills to pursue further and higher education qualifications through both vocational or academic routes. Students can study science-related IB and A Level subjects at Sixth Form, which could then lead to students studying sport and exercise science, medicine, nutrition and dietetics, food styling and journalism at university or higher-apprenticeship level. 

Food Preparation and Nutrition GCSE also provides an excellent foundation in developing practical food skills for the diverse hospitality and food industry and careers in food manufacture, product development and marketing. The qualification can also lead to gaining apprenticeships and professional qualifications in the restaurant, hotel and hospitality sector.

Students have opportunities to develop an in-depth understanding of Francophone culture, society and history, as well as having the opportunity to learn the language at a more advanced level than at Key Stage 3. The challenge of learning French at a higher level is something that students thrive on and students develop a lot of confidence in their communication in French.

Students enjoy practising and improving on the four key skills we use in everyday life in French lessons. Additionally, students develop a more technical appreciation of their native language, as translation from English into French and French into English is a central skill which is developed.

Top universities expect students to have studied a language at GCSE level. By completing a language at GCSE, this opens the opportunity to do a year abroad study placement at university or a work placement in a non-English speaking country. Students have the opportunity to continue their study of languages into Sixth Form through the International Baccalaureate or A Level. Opportunities with languages are endless, employers appreciate language skills from employees and those who speak languages set themselves apart from those who cannot. Linguists have a diverse skillset which is something employers appreciate- communication, organisational, problem-solving skills and cultural awareness are just some skills employers like in their employees.

Geography is not a narrow academic subject for the few. It is fundamental for everyone. Geography fascinates and inspires: the beauty of the earth, the terrible power of earth-shaping forces, as well as demonstrates an appreciation for the incredible diversity of cultures around the world. Like with news, geography puts culture in context. 

Geography deepens understanding about many contemporary challenges such as: climate change, food security and energy choices to name a few. These concepts cannot be understood without a geographical perspective and complements the scientific knowledge you will gain at GCSE. 

Thinking geographically allows students to explore key contemporary case studies in the news, allowing students to focus on alternative futures, whilst also seeking explanations for how the world really works. 

Geography is directly relevant to people’s lives and the world of work. It is about change, recognising that the past helps explain the present. With geography you will continue to develop a range of skills, building on a range of skills you have gained in the MYP. Some of these skills include critical thinking, data interpretation, research skills and communication. 

As suggested by Dr Rita Gardener: ‘Geography prepares young people with the knowledge, skills and understanding to make sense of their world and to face the challenges that will shape our societies and environments at the local, national and global scales.’

Geography is a broad based academic subject which will open up options for you in your future. Employers and universities see geography as a robust academic subject rich in skills, knowledge and understanding. Often students continue to study geography at IB and A-Level and with this can open up a whole multitude of career opportunities such as: teaching, journalism, law, architecture, conservation, financial services and data analytics. 

The study of history is extremely important in contemporary society, not only to remember the past but also to shape the future by learning from it. Everything that has been done is “history”, meaning that history directly affects us every day, with today’s society shaped by historic periods of industrialisation, colonialism, war and disease epidemics. History spans all cultures, eras, seasons and environments and is an immovable factor that can be called upon for knowledge and insight into how the world got to the point it’s at now and how it will continue to develop in future.

It is for this reason that students thoroughly enjoy studying GCSE History as it enables them to interpret the world around them. The units students study provide them with a strong historical knowledge of British History. Additionally, students are about to develop an understanding of global History whilst learning about the Cold War. Both enable students to critically analyse and interpret the world around them through a historical lens. The variety of the History curriculum means there is never a dull moment! 

The ability to construct an argument and communicate findings in a clear and persuasive manner, both orally and in writing provides students with a sense of empowerment. History offers students the opportunity to voice their ideas through discussion and debate. Students thrive in this environment, and develop key skills which employers look for later in life. 

Another reason why students enjoy studying History is because it helps them to develop their cultural awareness. By looking at the history of different cultures, students build a strong understanding of why certain people act the way they do. For instance, by looking at the History of Britain, students are able to gain a strong understanding of how our religion and laws have changed as a result of migration and interaction with other peoples and cultures. This provides students with a broad cultural awareness, one that will help them with future work.

GCSE History qualification is highly sought after by both schools and universities. For students looking to progress onto KS5 courses, the GCSE qualification will prepare you with both the knowledge and skills to access the International Baccalaureate course in our sixth form.  For example, students who wish to take the History IB course will find both the knowledge and skills they develop during their GCSE relevant to IB content. Their knowledge of Stalin and the USSR will, for example, enable them to access Paper 1. Additionally, students’ ability to work independently, construct an argument and communicate their ideas places them in a strong position to excel both within History, and across a range of other subjects. 

A GCSE History qualification is highly sought after by employers. Whether you wish to have a career in politics, education, law or business, the knowledge and skills you will develop during the GCSE History course make this qualification one of the most highly sought after qualifications by employers. For example, the ability to problem-solve, work independently and think critically, are all skills sought after by employers, regardless of the role you are pursuing.

Students enjoy composing their own music using stimuli derived from the genres studied in the course. The course gives the exciting opportunity to discover new music through the diverse genres studied in the course and take advantage of the opportunity to compose, perform and produce within a new genre. Furthermore there is opportunity to visit music venues in London and experience live music as part of the course in order to give students a realistic experience of an area of the music industry.

After year 11, students can study BTEC Level 3 courses in Music or Music technology which allow students to further explore their strengths within the subject. Beyond this, students can choose to study music at a range of universities with many different types of courses available such as popular music and music business. There are also many performing routes in which further study can be sought at industry linked colleges allowing for performance and production opportunities whilst studying. After a degree in music it is possible to enter into the music industry through many different internships including artists and repertoire (A&R), production, music supervisor roles, royalties collections, performance, and composition. Music therapy is another job that many musicians take up during their career. There are also a number of teaching roles from private tuition to classroom teaching at primary and secondary phases.

This course along with GCSE Biology and Chemistry (sometimes called Triple Science) provides students with 3 GCSE Science grades. Students can study a range of science courses at Key Stage 5 and beyond whether they have taken Combined Sciences or Triple Science.

The Space Physics unit is an additional unit from the Combined Science course and allows students to explore the laws of Physics beyond our planet. Students who find space fascinating will enjoy this course. Physics is a subject that allows students to use their creativity and imagination to solve real life issues. Physics also allows students to apply their mathematical skills for scientific applications.

Completing this course along with Biology and Chemistry allows students to access IB Physics, IB Biology, IB Chemistry, and A level Science courses leading to university studies and many careers in Science, whether astronomy, engineering, architecture and/or construction.

Students enjoy being challenged about their beliefs and moral concepts. They are able to play an active role in discussions and debates about the world around them and different belief systems. 

Students are able to gain an appreciation of how religion, philosophy and ethics form the basis of our culture. They will develop analytical and critical thinking skills which will allow them to question stereotypes, explore different cultures and world views,  study beliefs in real life context and practices and encourage community cohesion.

Students taking Religious Studies at GCSE are usually interested in studying social sciences or humanities at sixth form, which allows them to explore the topical and historical issues facing individuals and societies around the world, both in the past and present. Subjects such as Global politics and History, which draw upon many key areas of the humanities, are excellent subjects to choose after Year 11; they further develop students into critical thinkers who can explain how the global dimensions of politics affects their own lives. 

Many students continue to study this subject at university, whether through the study of philosophy and ethics, theology and other social sciences courses. Employers recognise this subject as challenging and rewarding.

This can then lead to a variety of different careers, whether law, international politics, journalism or teaching. Students taking this subject often do well in social care positions such as: counsellors, advice workers, newspaper journalists, human resources, police officers and youth workers. Additionally, the analytical and critical thinking skills are advantageous for a wide range of careers.

Sociology is the study of society and how individuals are shaped by the world around them. 

Students enjoy debating the big questions in life such as: ‘Are you really free?’ There are many answers to this question and a sociologist would argue that you are the product of your surroundings – your friends, school, family and the media determine who you are and what you do. 

As previously mentioned, sociology examines the big questions in life and over the two years, students will be encouraged to apply their understanding to explore and debate topical issues such as class inequality and crime and deviance. For example, in Year 11, students will investigate factors affecting criminal and deviant behaviour, crime data and official crime data collection. 

All four units are linked and as students navigate their way through the course they will be introduced to different sociological theories and perspectives such as functionalists, interactionists, feminists and marxists. 

Like any other social science subject, students develop analytical and critical thinking skills and they will also be taught research methods, as this is the key component of understanding the methodology and techniques that equip sociologists with the tools they need when studying society.  

Sociology is exciting and very different to other subjects students have studied before but is most similar to Religious Studies as there are times that they will be challenged by concepts and theories that they will need to evaluate. This subject encourages students to ask questions and debate about the world around them.

Students taking Sociology at GCSE are usually interested in studying social sciences at sixth form, which allows them to explore the topical and historical issues facing individuals and societies around the world. 

Many of our students go on to study IB Psychology and Criminology which are very popular choices for students that are interested in psychotherapy, counselling or law. Both Psychology and Criminology contain elements of Sociology, so this will be advantageous.  Subjects such as Psychology and Criminology which give students an insight into human behaviour and the motivations behind their actions, are excellent subjects to choose after Year 11; they further develop students into critical thinkers.

Students continue to study this subject at university as it goes very well with other social sciences. This can then lead to a variety of different careers such as law, medicine, consultancy, journalism or teaching. 

Social science subjects are highly recognised by employers as they prepare students for an increasingly globalised world. Students taking this subject often do well in social care positions such as: counsellors, advice workers, newspaper journalists, police officers and youth workers. Additionally, analytical and critical thinking skills are advantageous for a wide range of careers.

Students have opportunities to develop an in-depth understanding of Hispanic culture, society and history, as well as having the opportunity to learn the language at a more advanced level than at Key Stage 3. The challenge of learning Spanish at a higher level is something that students thrive on and students develop a lot of confidence in their communication in Spanish.

Students enjoy practising and improving on the four key language skills we use in everyday life in Spanish lessons – listening, reading, writing and speaking. Additionally, students develop a more technical appreciation of their native language, as translation from English into Spanish and Spanish into English is a central skill which is developed.

Top universities expect students to have studied a language at GCSE level. By completing a language at GCSE, this opens the opportunity to do a year abroad study placement at university or a work placement in a non-English speaking country. Through GCSE languages and the option to continue language development at Key Stage 5, students have the opportunity to continue their study of languages into International Baccalaureate or A Level. Opportunities with languages are endless, employers appreciate language skills from employees and those who speak languages set themselves apart from those who cannot. Linguists have a diverse skillset which is something employers appreciate- communication, organisational, problem-solving skills and cultural awareness are just some skills employers like in their employees.

Students will have the opportunity to apply theoretical knowledge about different types of sport and physical activity, skills development and sports leadership to their own practical performance. They will learn about contemporary issues in sport such as funding, participation, ethics and role models and develop a further understanding of outdoor activities and take part in them. By choosing this course, students will develop an appreciation of the importance of sport locally and nationally and the different leadership roles in sport. 

The exam unit will allow students to explore a range of contemporary issues in sport as well as the promotion of values and ethical behaviour through sport. Students will also learn about the role of high-profile sporting events and national governing bodies in advancing sports to attempt to positively impact upon society and showcase its worth beyond providing entertainment.

As well as the continuous development of sporting skills, students will also develop transferable skills such as communication, performing under pressure, using initiative to solve problems and making decisions, by considering rapidly changing conditions around them.  Students will learn about different leadership roles and styles. In addition to this, students have the opportunity to plan and lead effective and safe sports sessions and evaluate their own performance. 

Students will develop their knowledge about different outdoor activities and how to plan an outdoor activity. They will have the opportunity to participate in two different outdoor activities. They will develop their communication, decision-making and leadership skills in challenging scenarios and environments.

The completion of Cambridge National in Sports Studies can lead to sport-based employment opportunities such as leisure centre assistant or sports coach. 

Students can also access a range of sport leadership awards such as UK CC awards and the FA officiating awards and they can also access a range of sport-related apprenticeships such as physiotherapy. 

Completing the Cambridge National Sports Studies course also allows students to access further education such as BTEC and A-level courses ( for example, BTEC Sport or Cambridge Technicals).

Students enjoy this course as it provides opportunities for students to express themselves creatively and learn about photographic techniques. Furthermore, students enjoy learning about artists and photographers, applying this knowledge to inspire their own creative work. The course itself covers a range of photography skills both digitally and traditionally and allows for experimentation with different techniques and media.

The study of Photography leads to further study at Level 3 in the IB Diploma Programme in Visual Arts or A Level Art or Photography. In the longer term, students use the knowledge and skills gained from GCSE Photography to further study a Foundation diploma in a specialist Art & Design college, or study a Photography or media related degree such as; digital media, graphic design, fashion photography, photojournalism, clinical photography, forensic photography, illustration and advertising. The creative industry also accounts for one in eight of all UK businesses.