Key Stage 4 student, using iTouch for learning
Towards the end of Year 9, students decide which subjects they want to take for GCSE, but there are also other options to take BTEC or ASDAN qualifications.
Our Key Stage 4 curriculum offers various pathways to support our students learning needs.
Some of the GCSEs are compulsory. All students study:
- English (most students study English Literature as well)
- Maths
- Science
- Personal Social, Health and Careers Education (PSHCE) including citizenship
- Religious Education
- Physical Education
The majority of students also study Modern Foreign Language (either French or Spanish) – In 2011 Conisborough College will be the host consortium for the Language and International Communication Diploma for 14-16 year olds. This will mean that students can apply for a work related learning course that is supported by Surrey University’s Department of Languages and Translation and international business.
Students then choose a miximum of five other subjects to complete their GCSE programme.
- Art
- Business Studies
- Drama
- Food Technology
- French
- Health and Social Care – now BTEC HSC, worth up to 4 GCSEs
- Geography
- History
- ICT
- Media Studies
- Music
- product Design and Development
- Socialogy
- Spanish
- Statistics
- Textiles
Some subjects count as two GCSEs and are given double time in the curriculum. The options for these are:
- Applied Business
- health and Social Care
- ICT
- Leisure and Tourism
A few students take a work related learning course, leading to a range of NVQ qualifications at a local college in place of two GCSE courses. Preparation for these exams take place over two years.
Careers Education and Work Experience
Careers Education and Work Experience is provided through Personal, Social, Health and Careers Education (PSHCE), supported by a careers library, a Careers Fair and individual support and guidance. All students have the opportunity to spend two weeks on work experience at Key Stage 4.
Enterprise Education
As a specialist Business and Enterprise college we enrich and extend learning by encouraging economic and business understanding, enterprise activities and opportunities for pupils to follow a wide range of work related learning pathways. Enterprise skills are developed across the curriculum, in PSHCE and through extra-curricular programmes.
Religious Education and Assemblies
All students learn about the world’s main religions in line with Lewisham’s agreed syllabus. Most students also take the short course in GCSE Religious Education at Key Stage 4.
Assemblies form an important part of the school day – contributing to our students’ moral and spiritual education and developing a sense of a school community. Parents do, however, have the right to withdraw their children from Religious Education and/or assemblies.
Sex Education
Sex Education is taught through PSHCE and Science. The lesson content and materials are carefully chosen to take account of the needs and maturity of the students. A parent may withdraw his/her child from Sex Education lessons, except those taught as part of the National Curriculum in Science.