GCSE Subjects

Selecting GCSEs marks a key point in your son or daughter’s education, as they begin to make choices which reflect their interests and future ambitions. At King’s, alongside the “core”, we encourage pupils to follow a broad range of subjects to ensure that they keep their options open for the Sixth Form.

King’s has an excellent record at GCSE and IGCSE, due not only to the small class sizes, but also to the dedication and specialist knowledge of its teachers.

One of the advantages of being an independent school is that King’s does not have to comply with every detail of the National Curriculum, while the current balance of core and optional subjects studied at GCSE and at IGCSE provides pupils with the best preparation for A Levels and life beyond school, at university and in future careers.

Subject Choices

At King’s the following are classed as ‘core’ subjects; as they are compulsory at GCSE:

• English Language
• English Literature
• Mathematics
• Science (Dual or Triple Award)

The subjects from which choices will be made are:

• Art and Design
• Computer Science
• Design and Technology
• Drama and Theatre
• French
• Geography
• History
• Music
• Physical Education
• Religious Studies
• Spanish

Although it is well in the future, we encourage pupils to think about the occupation that they would like to follow as an adult. Pupils will be supported and guided in their choices, although it is much easier for teachers to advise on courses when there is some goal in mind.

If they have no thoughts on a likely career, it is useful to consider what subjects they would like to study at A Level, and ask their subject teachers if they think that they have the potential to continue with their subject in the Sixth Form. For example, unless they are working to Level 7 or above in Mathematics, it is unlikely that they will have the natural mathematical ability to study Mathematics or Physics at A Level.

In the Fifth Form, pupils have the option to continue with the Combined Cadet Force (CCF) or the Theatre Productions Company to support the School’s renowned drama programme or they may undertake the Higher Project Qualification (HPQ) designed to stretch and challenge pupils and promote independent research in an area outside of the curriculum.

The provision reflects our belief that education should go far beyond the accumulation of knowledge: it should equip pupils with the character, competencies and curiosity they need to thrive in life and in work.

Mr P. Medhurst – Whole School Director of Teaching and Learning