GCSE Options
Year 11 & 12 Curriculum
There are three compulsory areas of study: English, Mathematics and Science. Some choice is possible within these areas. These choices can be summarised as follows.
English Language
Mathematics
Science
- Three sciences (pupils study Biology, Chemistry and Physics as separate sciences, also known as Triple Award Science),
- Two sciences (pupils study two of Biology, Chemistry and Physics as separate sciences),
- Double Award science (pupils study reduced content in Biology, Chemistry and Physics with the examinations resulting in two GCSEs graded as A*A*, A*A, AA, AB, BB, etc.)
Pupils who do not study English Literature will take GCSE RE Short Course which is worth half a GCSE. Initially pupils have a free choice and the option blocks will be determined in order to satisfy as many pupils as possible.
The Options Booklet expands greatly on the information on this page and gives details of subjects which may not be very familiar to parents or pupils, including the provision for Double Award Science.
Art & Design
HoD: Mrs M.E. CLINGAN
A good Art and Design education develops the intellect, heightens aesthetic sensibility, stimulates creative ability and enriches our lives.
Chemistry
HoD: Mrs R. L. HAMPTON
Chemistry is the study of matter and energy and the interaction between them.
Further Mathematics
HoD: Mr G.R. BLACK
Further Mathematics is a GCSE qualification which both broadens and deepens the knowledge of mathematical principals.
Physics
HoD: Mrs W. CHAMBERS
Physics is more than a subject – it trains your brain to think beyond boundaries. A physics qualification opens the doors to all sorts of jobs and courses.
Religious Studies
HoD: Ms A.M. PRESCOTT
Developing pupils’ knowledge and understanding of religion, religious beliefs, practices, language and traditions and their influence on individuals, communities, societies and cultures.
Digital Technology (Multimedia)
HoD: Mr K.D. McGUINNESS
GCSE Digital Technology aims to prepare pupils to cope with the increased dependence on computer systems in our society.
Biology
HoD: Mr R.E. CHAMBERS
It encourages learners to appreciate the value of Science in their lives and in the wider world around them
Computer Science
HoD: Mr K.D. McGUINNESS
Computer technology continues to advance rapidly and impacts every area of our daily lives.
English Literature
HoD: Mrs S.J. JACKSON
English Literature provides an excellent basis for studying at Advanced Level as it promotes careful reading and teaches essay writing skills.
Geography
HoD: Miss H. MONTGOMERY
By studying Geography you will gain an awareness of your own responsibilities and how you can contribute to a future that is sustainable and inclusive.
Music
HoD: Mr S.J. CUDDY
Music is an important part of the education of a well-rounded pupil, disciplines learnt here help in all other subjects.
Science (Double Award Unitised)
HoD: Miss D. McCOMBE
Double Award Science allows pupils to study all the Sciences but to a lesser extent than completing the separate Sciences.
Business Studies
HoD: Mrs A.R. STRAGHAN
Great things in business are never done by one person. They’re done by a team of people.
Technology & Design
HoD: Mr N.J. CANNING
Design and Technology allows you to learn about Systems and Control.
Food and Nutrition
HoD: Mrs P. McMULLAN
Opportunity to further develop your nutritional and health knowledge, consumer skills and food safety expertise.
History
HoD: Mr P.S. KERR
Someone once said that we should study History so that we can watch the television news with understanding.
Physical Education
HoD: Mr G McClintock & Mrs D Robb/Miss S Colga
Physical Education is all about developing a healthy, active approach to life, it’s designed to foster enjoyable participation in exercise and training.
Modern Foreign Languages
HoD: Mr P.G. MOORE
“If you talk to a man in a language he understands, that goes to his head. If you talk to him in his own language, that goes to his heart”
