Most GCSE courses start in Year 10. Students have a core curriculum of Maths, English Language, English Literature, 2 or 3 sciences from a choice of Biology, Chemistry and Physics plus a free choice of 3 or 4 other subjects from Art, Classical Civilisation, Classical Greek, Computer Science, Drama, Food Preparation and Nutrition, French, Geography, German, History, Latin, Music, Physical Education, Religious Studies or Spanish. To ensure a broad and balanced curriculum, most students will choose a language, a humanities and a creative subject. In addition there may also be the opportunity for some students to do a 10th GCSE on a reduced timetable, or embark on a Higher Project Qualification (HPQ). PSHCE and Physical Education continue as non-exam courses.
All year groups follow a PSHCE programme appropriate to their age and needs. Ability setting is used where appropriate in Years 7 -11, but the majority of teaching is in mixed ability groups.
