GCSEs: Course structure

GCSE course structure and content

We offer different study plans:

Accelerated one-year programme

Two-year GCSE programme

Extended GCSE programme

GCSE subjects

Students follow a mixed curriculum including science, mathematics and humanities subjects.

Students on both the two year and one-year accelerated GCSE courses can expect to prepare for GCSE exams in a range of subjects that will ensure they are fully prepared for their next academic level.

Those on the two-year GCSE will study up to 9 subjects while students on the one-year accelerated GCSE (or those who start on the extended GCSE course) will study a maximum of five subjects.

Main academic subjects

Main academic subjects include: English, Science, Geography/History, Information Technology and Mathematics.

Mathematics

In studying iGCSE, learners develop skills, knowledge and understanding of a range of mathematical concepts, useful to future study. They will develop confidence in Number, Algebra, Ratio and Proportion, Geometry and Measures, Probability, Statistics by:

• using and applying techniques
• interpreting, reasoning and communicating mathematically
• solving mathematical problems in wider contexts.

English

Those studying English as a second language gain lifelong skills while developing a wider international perspective. They will:

• advance communicative ability in English through development of speaking and writing skills
• improve ability to understand English in a range of everyday situations and in a variety of social registers and styles
• have greater awareness of the nature of language and language-learning skills while studying a number of contemporary topics.

Science

GCSE Science encourages learners to develop a better understanding of the world by teaching them about the influence of scientific study on society. They will gain skills that are essential for further study and everyday life by:

• learning how science methods apply to other academic disciplines and everyday life
• working on skills like: achieving accuracy and precision, objectivity, integrity, enquiry, initiative and inventiveness
• learning how to care for the environment.

Information Communication Technology

iGCSE ICT explores how digital technology impacts the lives of individuals, organisations and society. Students will:

• broaden and enhance ICT skills and capability
• work with a range of digital tools and techniques to produce effective ICT solutions in a range of contexts
• learn about current and emerging digital technologies and their use in a range of contexts
• learn how to reflect critically on their own and others’ use of ICT and how to adopt safe, secure and responsible practice.

Geography

iGCSE Geography teaches an understanding of the processes which affect physical and human environments. Learners will

• develop an understanding of location on a local, regional and global scale
• use and understand geographical data and information
• learn how communities around the world are affected and constrained by different environments.

History

Studying IGCSE History is an opportunity to study our world from the nineteenth century to the beginning of the twenty-first century. Students develop historical skills and knowledge while becoming enthusiastic about understanding the past. They will:

• explore history from a diversity of perspectives, including social, economical, cultural and political.
• gain a greater understanding of international issues and inter-relationships
• learn how to present clear, logical arguments.

Art and Design

GCSE Art and Design is a creative qualification that engages students in the process of crafting and designing. Students become imaginative and intuitive when exploring and making images, artefacts and products. They will:

• acquire and develop technical skills through working with a broad range of media, materials, techniques, processes and technologies with purpose and intent
• take risks and learn from experience when exploring and experimenting with ideas, processes, media, materials and techniques
• develop as effective and independent learners, and as critical and reflective thinkers with enquiring minds.

Sports

Students will enjoy a range of sports activities offered in and around the college. Students can take part in rock climbing, ice skating, beach volleyball, football, tennis and basketball.

Physical Education

We also offer PE as a GCSE subject. The course focuses on the theory of physical education and covers Applied anatomy and physiology, Movement analysis, Physical training, Use of data, Sports psychology, socio-cultural influences, Health, fitness and well-being. It also covers physical training and an analysis of a performance in one or more individual or team activities.

Personal, Social Health and Economic Education (PSHE)

Personal, Social, Health and Economic (PSHE) education is a school subject through which pupils develop the knowledge, skills and attributes they need to manage their lives, now and in the future. It helps children and young people to stay healthy and safe, while preparing them to make the most of life and work.

PSHE involves the study of three broad topic areas: Health and Wellbeing; Relationships; Living in the Wider World.

Total: 40 – 42 lessons per week

Please note that content may vary from college to college.

Sample timetable (one-year GCSE)

Sample timetable (two-year GCSE)