Curriculum

The Cambridge IGCSE English Language is a globally recognised qualification that provides an essential foundation for future academic and professional success.

English Language is about the power of words and the ability to communicate with clarity, confidence and creativity. It develops strong literacy and analytical skills, as well as a lifelong appreciation of how language shapes ideas, emotions and perspectives.

Through this qualification, pupils learn to read, interpret and evaluate a range of non-fiction and literary texts, while also crafting their own written and spoken responses. Lessons balance analytical rigour with creativity, encouraging pupils to think deeply about how meaning is constructed and conveyed.

Course Content and Methodology

The course focuses on developing skills in reading comprehension, directed writing and composition. Pupils engage with a wide range of text types, analysing tone, structure and style before applying these techniques in their own writing. Discussion and debate form an important part of lessons, helping pupils to refine their ability to express ideas with precision and flair.

The qualification includes both coursework and an examination. The coursework element allows pupils to demonstrate their ability to write creatively and for purpose, while the examination assesses their understanding of reading and writing techniques under timed conditions.

Careers

A strong performance in English Language is valued highly by universities and employers alike. The ability to communicate effectively, think critically and write with clarity provides an advantage in almost every field, including:

• Journalism and Media
• Law and Legal Services
• Business and Marketing
• Publishing and Communications
• Education and Teaching
• Public Relations
• Politics and Civil Service

Specification

Cambridge IGCSE English Language

The Cambridge IGCSE Literature in English is an internationally respected qualification that invites pupils to explore the richness and power of literary expression.

English Literature opens doors to empathy, imagination and cultural understanding. It challenges pupils to engage with the thoughts and emotions of others across time and place, and to articulate their own insights with depth and sensitivity.

Through the study of poetry, prose and drama, pupils develop an appreciation of how writers use language to create meaning and evoke response. They learn to interpret, compare and evaluate texts, exploring the social, historical and cultural contexts that shape them.

Course Content and Methodology

Pupils study a diverse selection of texts drawn from a wide range of genres, periods and global traditions. Lessons focus on close reading, textual analysis and critical interpretation, supported by lively discussion and independent thought. Pupils are encouraged to explore themes, characters and language in detail, deepening their understanding of literary craft.

The Literature in English qualification is entirely exam-based. Pupils demonstrate their knowledge and analytical skill through written responses to unseen and set texts, showcasing both understanding and originality in their interpretations.

Careers

Studying English Literature cultivates empathy, critical thinking and cultural awareness. It provides a strong foundation for higher education and a wide range of careers, including:

• Journalism and Broadcasting
• Creative Writing and Publishing
• Law and Public Policy
• Education and Academia
• Theatre and Performing Arts
• Media and Communications
• Arts and Cultural Management

Specification

Cambridge IGCSE Literature in English

Mathematics is a fundamental cornerstone of civilisation and one of the core pillars of our GCSE curriculum.

As Albert Einstein wrote, Mathematics “is, in its way, the poetry of logical ideas.”

Pupils will follow the Edexcel IGCSE course which will broaden and deepen pupils’ skills. Throughout the course, pupils will develop their problem-solving skills by translating problems in mathematical or non-mathematical contexts. They will also develop reasoning skills through exercises such as presenting arguments and proofs, making deductions and drawing conclusions from mathematical information.

The qualification also enables successful progression to A Level and beyond.

Course Content and Methodology

The course has ‘Tiered Papers’ (Higher and Foundation) that allow students to be entered for a level appropriate to them with questions in each tier that are accessible to students of all abilities within that tier. Pupils that are expected to achieve grades 9-4 would typically be entered for the Higher Paper whilst the Foundation Paper is for those expected to achieve grades 5-1.

Irrespective of the tier, students are entered for two 2 hour papers, each worth 50 % of the total marks and both of the exam papers are calculator papers.

Careers

Strong proficiency in Mathematics can unlock an enormous range of career opportunities.

Examples include:

• Actuarial Analyst
• Chartered Accountant
• Data analyst & Data Scientist
• Financial Manager & Financial Trader
• Investment Analyst
• Meteorologist
• Palaeontologist
• Research Scientist
• Software Engineer
• Sound Engineer
• Statistician
• Chartered Accountant

Specification

Mathematics Edexcel IGCSE

Dive into the living world and unravel the secrets of life with Edexcel IGCSE Biology.

This captivating course equips students with a deep understanding of living organisms, ecosystems, and the intricate web of life, laying the groundwork for a future in biology and beyond.

Edexcel IGCSE Biology serves as a gateway to advanced studies in the biological sciences. An excellent choice for those considering biology or related fields at the Sixth Form level and beyond. Graduates of this course have successfully pursued degrees in Biology, Medicine, Veterinary Science, Ecology, and other life sciences, contributing to advancements in healthcare and environmental sustainability.

Course Content and Methodology

• The IGCSE Biology course focuses on broad topics.
• The nature and variety of living organisms
• Structure and functions in living organisms
• Reproduction and inheritance
• Ecology and the environment
• Use of biological resources

Students will explore a rich array of topics, including cell biology, genetics, ecology, and human biology. Practical experiments and fieldwork are integrated into the curriculum to provide hands-on experience and reinforce theoretical concepts. Edexcel IGCSE Biology employs a variety of teaching methods, such as interactive discussions, multimedia presentations, and collaborative projects, to enhance comprehension and engagement.

Careers

Edexcel IGCSE Biology opens doors to diverse and impactful career opportunities in the biological sciences. Graduates may find themselves pursuing roles in:

• Medicine and healthcare
• Environmental science and conservation
• Genetics and Biotechnology
• Veterinary science
• Ecology and wildlife conservation
• Pharmaceutical research
• Teaching and education
• Biomedical engineering

The knowledge and skills acquired through Edexcel IGCSE Biology provide a strong foundation for further studies and careers that contribute to our understanding of life

and the natural world. Choose Edexcel IGCSE Biology for a rewarding journey into the heart of living organisms and ecosystems.

Specification

Biology Edexcel IGCSE

Explore the building blocks of modern science with Edexcel IGCSE Chemistry.

This dynamic course delves into the fascinating world of atoms, molecules, and reactions, preparing students for a future in science and beyond.

Edexcel IGCSE Chemistry serves as an ideal foundation for advanced studies in Chemistry at the Sixth Form level. The course opens doors to various university degree programs, offering students the opportunity to pursue fields such as Chemistry, Medicine, Chemical Engineering, Environmental Science, and more. Students of this course have gone on to excel in higher education and secure positions in prestigious scientific institutions.

Course Content and Methodology

The IGCSE Chemistry course focuses on 4 broad topics.

• Principles of Chemistry
• Inorganic Chemistry
• Physical Chemistry
• Organic Chemistry

Students will engage with a diverse range of topics, covering fundamental principles of chemistry, organic and inorganic compounds, chemical reactions, and the role of chemistry in our everyday lives. The course employs a hands-on approach, incorporating practical experiments and laboratory work to reinforce theoretical concepts. Edexcel IGCSE Chemistry utilises innovative teaching methods, including interactive demonstrations, group discussions, and multimedia resources to enhance the learning experience.

Careers

Edexcel IGCSE Chemistry opens exciting career paths in various scientific fields and industries. Graduates may find themselves pursuing roles in:

• Research and development
• Medicine and pharmaceuticals
• Environmental science
• Chemical engineering
• Analytical chemistry
• Forensic science
• Teaching and education
• Material science

The knowledge and skills gained from Edexcel IGCSE Chemistry provide a solid foundation for further education and career opportunities, making it an excellent choice for students with a passion for understanding the mysteries of the natural world.

Specification

Chemistry Edexcel IGCSE

Unveiling the wonders of the physical universe: A journey into the heart of physics.

Welcome to Edexcel iGCSE Physics, a comprehensive and engaging exploration of the fundamental principles that govern the physical world.

This course is designed to ignite curiosity, foster critical thinking, and empower students to unravel the mysteries of the universe. As we embark on this educational journey, students will not only gain a solid foundation in physics but also develop analytical skills that extend beyond the classroom.

Course Content and Methodology

The IGCSE Physics course focuses on 8 broad topics.

• Forces and motion
• Electricity
• Waves
• Energy resources and energy transfers
• Solids, liquids and gases
• Magnetism and electromagnetism
• Radioactivity and particles
• Astrophyiscs

Methodology

We employ clear explanations and modelling to introduce key concepts, supported by retrieval practice both in class and as part of independent study to reinforce learning. Practical work is integral to our curriculum, allowing students to develop essential experimental techniques and critical thinking skills through hands-on activities. Regular assessments are conducted to provide feedback on student progress, helping them identify areas for improvement.

Careers

GCSE Physics opens doors to a multitude of exciting career paths. From engineering and technology to medicine and research, a solid foundation in physics is a gateway to diverse opportunities. This course equips students with critical thinking skills, problem-solving abilities, and a deep understanding of the natural world—attributes highly valued in today’s job market. Whether pursuing further education or entering the workforce directly, Edexcel IGCSE Physics sets the stage for success in a wide range of fields. Join us on this captivating journey through the realms of physics, where every lesson is a step towards unravelling the secrets of the universe.

Specification

Physics Edexcel IGCSE

Unleash your creative courage, enter a world of visual wonder, and ignite the power of imagination.

Former pupils having taken the first steps upon their creative journey are now successful Architects, Jewellery Designers, Fine Artists, Fashion designers, Conservators, Illustrators and Animators with many working in Film, Theatre and Television.

Throughout GCSE Art and Design pupils are presented with opportunities for objective, analytical, imaginative and expressive practical responses to the work of artists and crafts persons. Areas of study include ceramics, sculpture, drawing, painting and printmaking.

Throughout the course pupils will acquire a visual language enabling each individual to gather resources and materials, using them to stimulate and develop personal ideas, exploring both the potential of two and three dimensions whilst working on a variety of scales. This process culminates in highly individual creative and sophisticated outcomes.

Lessons are delivered by expert practitioners equipping learners with a repertoire of highly skilled based knowledge and expertise.

Course Content and Methodology

The GCSE in Art and Design comprises of 2 units: The coursework portfolio 60% of the total GCSE and the externally set task 40 % of the total GCSE.

For the coursework portfolio candidates are required to submit a portfolio of practical work with annotation. This can include a mixture of the areas of study outlined above, or candidates can focus on one area e.g. drawing and painting. The mock exam replicates the preparation process and exam conditions that candidates will experience for the Externally set task and is integrated within the coursework portfolio.

Preparation for the externally set task a 10-hour practical examination commences in January of Year 11. The exam board sets a wide choice of stimulus questions well in advance to allow for meaningful preparation. This practical task is spread over a two-day period and candidates can reference practical preparation work during the exam, thereby ensuring continuity and effective execution of ideas resulting in highly proficient creative outcomes.

Pupils are encouraged to attend life drawing sessions during Year 11.

Careers

Art and design opens up a wide range of career opportunities:

• 3D Designer
• Architect
• Art Gallery Manager or Director
• Art Therapist
• Fashion Designer
• Fine Artist
• Furniture Maker
• Graphic Designer
• Illustrator
• Interior Designer
• Multimedia Artist
• Printmaker
• Set Designer
• Technician

Specification

GCSE Art and Design OCR Specification

Business is an exciting and modern course for the modern world, aimed at students who want to do something new and different.

Many of our students want to start their own businesses and aspire to be entrepreneurs.

This course will give you a broad introduction to businesses, their relationship with the economy, global issues and their impact on society.

This course is excellent progression for Business or Economics in the Sixth Form and there are many students who opt for a business or management related degree course at university, including combinations with languages, politics, art and design, and other social sciences. Over recent years we have had students go onto take up places on school leaver programmes with John Lewis, Grant Thornton, Mazars, and Marks and Spencers.

The department consistently gains excellent grades, with many pupils choosing to continue the subject for Sixth Form and beyond.

Course Content and Methodology

Students study a selection of units covering Operations, Finance, Human Resources and Marketing but also the wider influences on business and what is means to be in business.

There are two papers using case studies to

apply their knowledge to real life scenarios. The course is delivered in many ways, including debates, role plays and group presentations. The course focuses on many different types of businesses in both the public and private sectors.

Careers

Business can support you in a wide variety of roles and industries, including:

• Accountancy
• Law
• Auditing
• Banking
• Economics

Specification

GCSE Business Studies AQA Specification

We live in a digital society where advances in technology are growing at an ever-increasing rate.

Computing is of enormous importance to the economy and the role of Computer Science as a discipline itself is expanding rapidly.

Computers are all around us in almost every walk of life, from the games we play to the way we communicate, from the design of products to their manufacture. We live in a digital society where advances in technology are growing at an ever-increasing rate.

Computer Scientists are at the forefront of this rise where they invent, develop, design, adapt, maintain and produce the hardware and the software that we use every day. Professionally qualified, technology aware, individuals are in are in high demand by businesses in a diverse field ranging from engineering to gaming.

Course Content and Methodology

Component 1 - Computer Systems

Introduces pupils to the central processing unit (CPU), computer memory and storage, wired and wireless networks, network topologies, system security and system software.

It also looks at ethical, legal, cultural and environmental concerns associated with Computer Science

Component 2 - Computational Thinking, Algorithms and Programming

Pupils apply knowledge and understanding gained in Component 1. They develop skills and understanding in computational thinking: algorithms, programming techniques, producing robust programs, computational logic, translators and data representation, including the binary and hexadecimal number systems. The skills and knowledge developed within this component will support the learner when completing the Programming Project.

Component 3 - Programming Project

Pupils use the Programming Project task to develop their practical ability in the skills developed in the other two components. They will have the opportunity to define success criteria from a given problem, and then create suitable algorithms to achieve the success criteria. Pupils then code their solutions in a suitable programming language (our language of choice is Python), and check its functionality using a documented test plan.

Careers

• Computer Programmer
• Software Developer
• Systems Analyst
• Database administrator
• Web developer
• Network Engineer/Technician

Specification

GCSE Computer Science OCR Specification

Drama is a dynamic and creative subject that builds confidence, teamwork, and performance skills while exploring a range of theatrical styles and techniques.

Whatever the future holds, students of GCSE Drama emerge with a toolkit of transferable skills, applicable both in future studies and in the workplace.

We want students to have an inspiring experience of GCSE Drama. This qualification builds in as much opportunity as possible for students to do what they like best – participate in performance.

All students devise drama and will explore texts practically, working on two text-based performances.

Course Content and Methodology

The course provides opportunities for students to develop practical skills in performance, both as an individual and within a group. They will understand the artistic choices made by actors, directors and designers in presenting performances for an audience, as well as different theatrical styles and genres.

Careers

• Actor
• Drama therapist
• Entertainer
• Events manager
• Lighting/sound technician
• Teacher
• Social media manager
• TV or film producer
• Theatre director
• Vlogger
• Media researcher
• TV presenter

Specification

GCSE Drama AQA Specification

Studying a language can boost brain function. Skills it includes are planning, critical thinking, problem-solving, multi-tasking and concentration.

Languages open the window into different cultures and broaden the horizons. It will also increase job prospects in UK as well as global business relations. Learning a language is also valued by universities. These are the reasons we value languages in our school.

Studying French at GCSE is an optional component of a KS4 pupil’s curriculum. Pupils will have studied their chosen language (French or Spanish) since year 7.

Course Content and Methodology

Pupils study all of the following themes on which the assessments are based.

Theme 1: People and lifestyle

Theme 2: Popular culture

Theme 3: Communication and the world around us

Assessments

GCSE French has a Foundation Tier (Grades 5-1) and a Higher Tier (Grades 9-4). Pupils must take all four question papers at the same tier. All question papers must be taken in the same series.

Careers

Languages can open the doors to a huge variety of careers, including:

• Journalist
• Diplomatic Service Officer
• Interpreter
• Translator
• Teacher
• Intelligence Analyst
• Travel Agent
• Cabin Crew
• Marketing Executive
• Charity Worker
• Events Manager
• Hotel Manager

Specificiation

GCSE French AQA Specification

GCSE Geography offers a holistic understanding of the world, fostering critical thinking and analytical skills.

It equips students to address global challenges and provides practical skills for future careers.

GCSE Geography enables a variety of teaching and learning approaches. This exciting and relevant course studies geography in a balanced framework of physical and human themes and investigates the link between them.

Students will travel the world from their classroom, exploring case studies in the United Kingdom (UK), higher income countries (HICs), newly emerging economies (NEEs) and lower income countries (LICs). Topics of study include climate change, poverty, deprivation, global shifts in economic power and the challenge of sustainable resource use. Students are also encouraged to understand their role in society by considering different viewpoints, values and attitudes.

Throughout the course, students develop their understanding of key geographical concepts, engage in fieldwork activities, and enhance their skills in map reading, data interpretation, and analysis.

Upon completion of this two-year course, students will have the skills and experience to progress onto A-level and beyond.

Course Content and Methodology

The AQA GCSE Geography course typically covers a range of topics within both human and physical geography. Here’s a general outline of the course content:

Paper 1: Physical Geography

The challenge of natural hazards

The living world

Physical landscapes in the UK

Paper 2: Human Geography

Urban issues and challenges

The changing economic world

The challenge of resource management

Paper 3: Geographical Applications

Skills:

• Fieldwork skills
• Geographical skills
• Cartographic skills
• Graphical skills
• Statistical skills
• Numerical skills
• Literacy skills

Careers

Geography can take you in a multitude of directions in terms of your career and it is the skills that you will gain in the geography GCSE that are the key to opening so many doors. Some examples:

• Architectural design
• Sustainability
• Land Management
• Business analyst
• HR & PR
• Cartographer
• Consultancy
• Events management
• Social researcher
• Buyer for large companies
• Marketing analyst
• Transport and logistics co-ordination.
• Woodland creation development officer
• GIS – From oceans to farming and city planning

Specification

GCSE Geography AQA Specification

Learners studying Graphic Design will explore and develop a variety of tools, materials, techniques, processes and digital skills within graphic design.

The course is centred on commercial digital design, focusing on packaging, advertising and corporate identities; branding/logo development, typography, illustration and multi-media design.

The course prepares you for your steps towards an exciting career in the creative industries as a designer. If you have a keen interest in Graphic Design and an excitement and passion for learning and creative digital media, this course is ideal for you. During your course, you will learn a variety of skills to help you on your journey towards becoming a Graphic Design professional.

Creating outcomes for print, web and animation are amongst the many useful skills you will acquire and develop on the Graphics course.

During your studies, you will carry out your work in our specialist studio, developing a range of skills that will provide you with an excellent foundation within the industry, using industry-standard software such as Adobe Photoshop, InDesign, and Illustrator.

Course Content and Methodology

The GCSE in Graphic Design comprises 2 units: The coursework portfolio, 60% of the total GCSE and the externally set task, 40% of the total GCSE.

For the coursework portfolio, candidates are required to submit a portfolio of practical work with annotations. This can include a mixture of the areas of study outlined above, or candidates can focus on one area e.g. designing and manipulating imagery.

The mock exam replicates the preparation process and exam conditions that candidates will experience for the externally set task and is integrated within the coursework portfolio.

Preparation for the externally set task, a 10-hour practical examination, commences in January of Year 11. The exam board sets a wide choice of stimulus questions well in advance to allow for meaningful preparation. This practical task is spread over a two-day period and candidates can reference practical preparation work during the exam, thereby ensuring continuity and effective execution of ideas resulting in highly proficient creative outcomes.

Careers

Graphic Design opens a wide range of career opportunities:

• 3D Designer
• Architect
• Art Gallery Manager or Director
• Art Therapist
• Fashion Designer
• Fine Artist
• Furniture Maker
• Graphic Designer
• Illustrator
• Interior Designer
• Multimedia Artist
• Printmaker
• Set Designer
• Technician

Specificiation

GCSE Graphic Design OCR Specification

The IGCSE History course will fascinate students interested in 20th century international history.

This is an exciting course, aimed at pupils who are keen to develop their knowledge of the events which shaped the 20th century world.

Studying GCSE History is a way to sharpen the mind, enhance the valuable skills of analysis and evaluation and enrich the way our pupils understand and interpret an increasingly complex world. Our IGCSE History curriculum is a fascinating and enriching course for any who wish to broaden their intellectual outlook and gain the most from studying at LMS.

Other than the remarkable events we investigate, studying History gives an opportunity to develop skills that are important in other subjects at school, in Higher Education, at work and in life generally. Pupils will explore history from a diversity of perspectives, including social, economic, cultural and political.

Course Content and Methodology

The GCSE History course will focus on 20th Century international history. The core content moves chronologically, beginning with the inter-war period in 1919. Pupils will study a range of fascinating events, including the Treaty of Versailles, Hitler’s foreign policy and Appeasement, and the causes of the Second World War. In addition, pupils will complete a Depth Study of Weimar and Nazi Germany, 1919-1945. There is also a coursework component.

Careers

Beyond GCSE, History is considered a keystone subject by many universities and employers, due to its academic rigour and the array of skills it develops. History lends itself especially to careers in research, academia, writing, law, journalism and public service. It is a highly respected qualification, both at and beyond school, and can lead to a wide variety of career paths.

Specification

GCSE History Cambridge IGCSE Specification

Music is an exciting and creative course that allows students to grow in confidence as they focus and develop on what they are passionate about.

Through performing, composing, and listening, students will explore a wide range of musical styles and gain a deeper understanding of the power of music.

Music plays an important part in the world around us and we welcome pupils of all abilities, instruments and musical tastes to the GCSE Music course. The course will allow you to discover new styles of music, it will help you grow in your performance skills and give you the skills to create music of your own. Our students consistently receive high grades and are given a wide variety of experiences and opportunities in and outside of the classroom.

Course Content and Methodology

The Eduqas course encourages an integrated approach to the three distinct disciplines of performing, composing and listening.

The four areas of study are designed to develop knowledge and understanding of music through the study of a variety of genres and styles in a wider context.

• Western Classical Tradition
• Music for ensemble
• Music for film
• Popular music

Careers

Music can support you in a wide variety of roles and industries, including:

• Music Producer
• Music Therapist
• Musician
• Private Music Teacher
• Sound Designer
• Sound Technician
• Acoustic Consultant
• Choreographer
• Event Manager
• Marketing Executive
• Radio Producer
• Talent Agent
• Theatre Stage Manager

Specification

GCSE Music Eduqas Specification

Embark on a journey of insight and reflection: navigating the landscape of philosophical, religious and ethical views.

Uncover diverse beliefs, cultivate critical thinking, and forge a deeper connection with the big questions of values and priorities, as well as the meaning and proof of our existence.

This course allows pupils to develop a coherent view of life, a sense of value and purpose, and either secure a faith of their own or an empathetic awareness of the faith of others.

The GCSE course offered is designed to build upon and develop some of the key skills and issues looked at in the latter part of Key Stage 3 studies. It is intended to be relevant to life in the modern world, raising issues that are part of our everyday existence such as war and peace, relationships, medical ethics, the environment in which we live, and issues of justice and inequality, just to mention a few.

This specification is intended to be accessible to pupils of any religious persuasion or none, and provides a broad structure for the study of the beliefs and practices of a living religion or religions, with emphasis on the educational basis of the study.

Philosophy, Religion and Ethics is about world issues that affect us all. At some point, everyone has to face up to the big questions in life, so this course allows us to develop respect and tolerance for a wide variety of views on issues that affect us all.

Course Content and Methodology

The syllabus provides an opportunity for pupils to:

• Acquire knowledge and develop understanding of the beliefs, values and traditions of one or more religions;
• Consider the influence of the beliefs, values and traditions associated with one or more religions;
• Consider religious and other responses to moral issues;
• Identify, investigate and respond to fundamental questions of life raised by religious and human experience, including questions about the meaning and purpose of life;
• Develop skills relevant to the study of religion;
• Explore their own beliefs, creative abilities, insights, self-identity and self-worth.

The course is delivered in many ways, including debates and group presentations. It focuses on the two main religions of Christianity and Islam, as well as looking at humanist and atheist views. There are two written exams:

• Beliefs and values
• Religious community

Careers

Philosophy, Religion and Ethics can support you in a wide variety of roles and industries, including:

• Nursing
• Medical Profession
• Teacher
• Journalism
• Counselling
• Police Officer
• Youth Worker
• Social Worker
• Charity Work
• Civil Service
• Law
• Lecturer
• Politician

Specification

GCSE Philosophy,  Religion and Ethics Edexcel IGCSE Specification

Studying Physical Education at GCSE level offers students a comprehensive understanding of the human body in motion and the significance of fitness.

Physical Education highlights the profound impact that physical activity has on overall health while fostering teamwork.

The syllabus provides learners with an opportunity to study both the practical and theoretical aspects of physical education. It is designed to encourage enjoyment in physical activity by providing learners with an opportunity to take part in a range of physical activities and develop an understanding of effective and safe physical performance. This helps learners develop an appreciation of the principles, practices, and training that underpin improved performance, better health, and well-being.

The course provides an excellent opportunity to develop knowledge of physical activity and sport. The IGCSE PE not only provides you with a full range of academic content, it dovetails nicely into other subjects. Pupils who are conscientious, hardworking and focused often find that the sciences, maths, history and social issues marry exceptionally well with the IGCSE PE qualification.

Course Content and Methodology

• Anatomy and physiology
• Biomechanic
• Health, fitness and training
• Skill acquisition and psychology
• Social, cultural and ethical influences

Careers

Pupils who have studied an IGCSE PE might go on to study Sport Science degrees in coaching, exercise, physiology, psychology, biology and sport analysis.

Students can carve out successful careers through undertaking the IGCSE in the following fields:

• The armed forces
• Teaching
• Doctors
• Physiotherapy
• Occupational Therapist
• Diet and Nutrition
• Coach Developers

Specification

GCSE Physical Education AQA IGCSE Specification

Studying a language can boost brain function. Skills it includes are planning, critical thinking, problem-solving, multi-tasking and concentration. Languages open the window into different cultures and broaden the horizons.

It will also increase job prospects in UK as well as global business relations. Learning a language is also valued by universities.

Studying Spanish at GCSE is an optional component of a KS4 pupil’s curriculum. Pupils will have studied their chosen language (French or Spanish) since year 7.

Course Content and Methodology

Pupils study all of the following themes on which the assessments are based.

Theme 1: People and lifestyle

Theme 2: Popular culture

Theme 3: Communication and the world around us

Assessments

GCSE Spanish has a Foundation Tier (Grades 5-1) and a Higher Tier (Grades 9-4). Pupils must take all four question papers at the same tier. All question papers must be taken in the same series.

Careers

Languages can open the doors to a huge variety of careers, including:

• Journalist
• Diplomatic Service Officer
• Interpreter
• Translator
• Teacher
• Intelligence Analyst
• Travel Agent
• Cabin Crew
• Marketing Executive
• Charity Worker
• Events Manager
• Hotel Manager

Specification

GCSE Spanish AQA Specification

GCSE Textiles will enable students to explore a wide range of exciting and stimulating creative textile-based processes and techniques with a contemporary and modern approach, plus relevance to industrial practices.

Students will develop and expand a broad and sophisticated range of skills, such as machine sewing and embroidery, pattern cutting and dressmaking, print, paint and transfer techniques, batik, resist, dyeing, as well as fabric manipulation, appliqué and quilting, plus traditional stitch work.

Photography and ICT programmes will also be employed to expand pupils’ knowledge and development of ideas. Throughout the course, students will be encouraged to experiment and present their work in a variety of formats and to fully explore all the possibilities open to them.

Students will develop a range of techniques necessary to fulfil the coursework and exam criteria through their understanding of 2 and 3 dimensional textiles.

Students will be able to study and take inspiration from a wide variety of practising textile artists and designers, applying the knowledge learnt from these sources back into their own work.

Pupils are also advised to attend life drawing sessions to enhance their understanding of anatomy and the human form if they choose.

Course Content and Methodology

Coursework Portfolio (01) 120 marks (60%)

This unit is a non-exam assessment (internally assessed and externally moderated).

Candidates are required to submit a portfolio of practical work with written analysis and annotation. This can include a mixture of the areas of study outlined above, or candidates can focus on one area. e.g. 2d or 3d.  Candidates will produce a portfolio of practical work showing their personal response to starting briefs and stimuli.

Coursework is split into major projects from which your best work is presented for final assessment. The topics can vary from year to year.

Externally Set Task (02) 80 marks 10 hours (40%)

Preparation commences in January of Year 11.

OCR sets a wide choice of stimulus questions well in advance to allow meaningful preparation.  Early in the main examination period, candidates spend 10 hours, spread over two days, to put their ideas into final execution.

Careers

• Fashion designer
• Textile designer
• Fashion illustrator
• Merchandiser 
• Textile design engineer
• Personal stylist
• Garment technologist
• Textile consultant

Specification

GCSE Textiles OCR Specification

Discover more about the exciting sporting opportunities available through Games by visiting our Sport page.

See our Careers page for more information about the guidance, opportunities and experiences that help prepare pupils for their future pathways.

See our PSHE & RSE page for more information about how we support pupils’ personal development, wellbeing and understanding of the wider world.