2025 -2026
GCSE Options
You and your parents have choices to make about the range of subjects that you will study for GCSE across Years 10 and 11.
All pupils study the core subjects:
• English Language GCSE
• English Literature GCSE
• Mathematics GCSE
• Religious Studies short course GCSE (Worth half of one GCSE) *
• Games & PE
• Excel study skills
• Wellbeing
Pupils then make six choices:
The first choice is regarding Science. Pupils may select to either:
1. Study Biology, Chemistry, and Physics as three separate subject GCSEs, plus three other subject option choices.
2. Study Double Award Science GCSE (this is worth two GCSE qualifications), plus four other subject options
The other GCSE subjects available are:
• Art
• Classical Civilisation
• Computer Science
• Dance
• Design & Technology**
• Drama
• Economics
• French ***
• Geography
• German***
• History
• Italian ***
• Latin ***
• Music
• Physical Education
• Religious Education (full course)*
• Spanish ***
All subjects are available to pupils, even if not previously studied, apart from the languages marked *** These languages must have been studied in Year 9 for continuation to GCSE.
*Pupils who opt for the full course RS will also study for the Higher Project Qualification in Year 10 and Year 11. Pupils who do not opt for the full course RS will study for and sit the short course RS at the end of Year 10.
**Within Design Technology, three separate courses are available – Resistant Materials, Graphic Design, Textiles. It is only possible to opt for one of these courses.
When, in two years’ time, you are making A level choices, the only subjects that you must have also taken at GCSE to continue to A level are the languages – modern and classical.
For students who are considering science subjects at A level we recommend taking three separate sciences at GCSE.
Every effort will be made to give all pupils their first choice of subjects. However, various timetabling pressures may mean that some people are unable to do their preferred combination. Pupils are asked to select reserve subjects and should choose these on the basis that they would be happy to study them at GCSE.
Dr BM Waymark – Deputy Head (Academic) Bmw@kes.hants.sch.uk
GCSE Options 2025-2026
ArtArt is both a form of communication and a means of expression of ideas and feelings. It forms a language which complements those of the literary, mathematical, scientific and factually based subjects and a language as humans that is as old as mankind itself.
The course encourages pupils to perceive, understand and express concepts and feelings in visual and tactile form; to develop manipulative skills and technical competence and to record from direct observation and personal experiences.
We follow the AQA Fine Art course which allows a broad range of skills to be explored from printmaking to painting, sculpture and digital media; essentially the spectrum of work you might see in any major art gallery.
We start the course with a field trip to a place of interest such as Lulworth Cove or Kew Gardens, to draw and collect images for the first topic of ‘Structures and Natural Forms’. Each year involves a trip to a major exhibition. Recent visits have been to the Royal Academy, Saatchi Gallery, NPG, and Tate’s Modern and Britain.
During Year 10 and Year 11, pupils are given two main projects (portfolios) to carry out. These tasks are assessed throughout the course, NEA Coursework Portfolios 60% and NEA Examination 40%. The Examination element is set in early January of the second year and the exam is over two days in the art studios at the end of April.
The course is designed to be highly personal and encourages students to articulate their ideas and understand the cultural and contextual reasons artists continue to reflect on the world around them. It is hoped that many of the skills practised and concepts understood during the two years will encourage the pupils to study the subject into the Sixth Form and beyond, especially for courses such as architecture as well as Art School.
The department is well equipped with spacious creative open studios. It has excellent printmaking facilities, a large kiln, ceramic wheels, small darkroom and specialist Apple iMac suite running Adobe Creative Cloud and giclée printer. We have one of the best art libraries of any school with titles covering Fine Art to Sculpture, Graphic design and Art History. The studios are regularly open after school and lunchtimes for students to work in this lovely creative environment. We have a dedicated gallery space so students can get used to seeing their work presented in a professional context.
Head of Department: Mr G L Piggott glp@kes.hants.sch.uk
Classical Civilisation
This course is ideal for students who:
• Enjoy the Classical world but do not wish to pursue the Latin language
• Wish to supplement their Latin GCSE with a wider understanding of the Classical world.
Why study Classical Civilisation?
Why wouldn’t you?! Classical influences are all around us in almost every sphere of our lives, and whatever your interest there will very likely be an ancient background to it. Qualifications in Classical Civilisation are widely regarded by universities and employers for the analytical skills, breadth of knowledge and the ability to consider another culture without judgement that study of the subject brings. You will learn how to analyse information and source material to gain the perspective of Greek and Roman society and values: in short, what it was like to be normal people in a different time and place. These are valuable skills.
Course overview
We follow the OCR GCSE course, which offers a varied and interesting dive into the Classical world. There are two topics, both of which are examined at the end of Year 11. Each examination lasts 1½ hours.
The Classics Department runs a trip to Rome or Greece every two years in order to see at first-hand the material you study.
Thematic Study: Myth and Religion (Greece and Rome)
You will study gods, heroes, state religion, foundation stories, festivals, symbols of power, death and burial, and beliefs about the afterlife. Sources will be taken from art, archaeology, buildings and literature in translation.
Literature and Culture: Roman City Life
You will learn about the values and lifestyles of ancient Roman society including social hierarchies and norms, entertainment, home and family. This will be done using ancient art, literature and archeology. You will also see what the Roman’s said about themselves.
Head of Department:
Miss I M Painter imp@kes.hants.sch.uk
GCSE Options 2025-2026
Computer Science
What is Computer Science
Fundamentally, Computer Science is about problem solving. It is about using new and existing technologies to make a difference, to develop, create and innovate new solutions. The problems tackled by Computer Scientists range from ones that have been around for a while, to problems we are only just discovering.
One of the core ideas of Computer Science is computational thinking. Computational thinking involves looking at and breaking down a problem, in order to determine how a computer might be used to help solve it. Usually this involves writing some code but to do this well, you need to understand how computers process information. This is the difference between a self-taught coder and a Computer Scientist.
Why Study Computer Science
Studying Computer Science develops immensely useful skills that are transferrable to just about every subject and discipline. You will develop problem-solving skills that will improve how you think logically and creatively. You will gain a unique perspective that you can use to break problems down, and you will gain a better understanding of how computers work.
Potential Careers
Aside from transferrable skills, every major industry is being transformed by advances in digital technology. In biology, folding simulations are used to predict
protein structure from amino-acid sequences. Cryptocurrencies and related technologies have massive potential impacts on economics and finances. AI and the algorithms that power them have enormous potential to affect the world we live in, both for good or ill. The infrastructure around the development and roll out of vaccines is all dependant on computer systems.
Whether you want to be a doctor, journalist, entrepreneur, lawyer, teacher, architect, engineer or prime minister. Whether you want to work in fashion, finance, film, fiction, research and development, real estate or manufacturing. Whatever you want to do in life, with an understanding of Computer Science, you’ll be better prepared.
Subject Context
For the iGCSE Computer Science you will build upon your subject knowledge to gain an understanding of how computers represent, store and transmit data. We will cover a range of physical components including logic gates, peripherals and networking. You will also study algorithms, their design and implementation into code. Finally, we investigate emerging technologies as well as ethical implications of using digital technology.
Students use the programming language Python for the course.
Head of Department: Mr D G Cutler dgc@kes.hants.sch.uk
Dance
Following the AQA GCSE curriculum, students studying dance will engage in choreography, performance, and the appreciation of dance as a significant art form. This comprehensive involvement with dance fosters the growth of students as creative and artistic individuals while expanding their aesthetic, social, and cultural perspectives. The curriculum emphasises the artistic and creative dimensions of dance, highlighting the symbolic nature of movement to convey ideas and concepts through the interconnected processes of performance, choreography, and appreciation. Dance serves as an empowering method of nonverbal communication, showcasing both physicality and expressiveness. This duality distinguishes dance from other artistic and physical pursuits. Through dance, students will cultivate their creative, imaginative, physical, emotional, and intellectual abilities.
Performance & Choreography
The practical component of the course enables pupils to study by ‘doing’ and they will learn set phrases through a solo performance and with a duet/trio performance. Assessment of these focus on physical, technical, expressive and mental skills attributed during performance. Pupils also choreograph a solo or group piece with particular focus on action, dynamic, spatial and relationship content whilst exploring structural and choreographic devices. Worth 60% of the GCSE, (30% performance, 30% choreography) this element is assessed internally and moderated by the exam board.
Dance Appreciation
In this element, pupils gain knowledge and understanding of choreographic processes and performing skills. Through written work and appropriate terminology, candidates critically analyse, interpret and evaluate their own work in performance and choreography and demonstrate their knowledge and understanding of professional practice by studying six set professional pieces. The study of this anthology of professional pieces will facilitate the development of pupils’ skills in performance and choreography as well as broadening their knowledge and understanding of dance and ability to critically appraise dances of different styles and cultural influences. This component is through a written exam of 1 hour 30 minutes worth 40% of the GCSE.
Teacher in charge:
Miss S T J Barnett stjb@kes.hants.sch.uk
GCSE Options 2025-2026
Design & Technology
The OCR GCSE courses offered in Design and Technology give students at King Edward’s the chance to shape the future and are focused on authentic design in the real world. All three GCSE options ‘encompass engineering principles as well as design, manufacture, and evaluation. The course utilises a wide range of ICT tools including design packages and CAD/CAM, from 3-D printing to laser cutting. The GCSE courses allow pupils to turn their thoughts and ideas into reality. The subject is offered through one of three in-depth materials areas at GCSE:
In-depth area 1 - Graphics Products:
With all aspects of two and three-dimensional modelling, students will learn how to work both digitally as well as practically with papers, boards and polymers. The graphics course teaches computer aided design, students will focus on the use of industry standard software such as Adobe Photoshop and Solidworks as well as realising their virtual models using CNC equipment such as the 3-D printer and laser cutter.
In-depth area 2 - Resistant Materials:
Within this course students will develop their application, knowledge and understanding of timbers, metals and polymers. Applying a range of practical skills to design and making a product. Students will have the opportunity to develop skills using three-dimensional applications such as SolidWorks and look to realise their product based on this.
In-depth area 3 - Textiles:
As part of this course students will develop a wide range of decorative techniques based around the design and manufacture of fabric textile products. Students will undertake practical processes such as hand dying, embroidery, block printing and pattern cutting. Students will also learn how to create high quailty fashion illustrations both by hand and using ICT.
All of the courses are split 50% examination and 50% non-examined assessment (a project carried out under the supervision of the School). As part of the GCSE specification, as well as learning about materials and processes theory linked to the students’ individual material area choice (resistant materials, graphic products or textiles) students will study and be examined on the theory of a number of core Design and Technology skills which will be taught to all students taking a GCSE in Design and Technology, irrespective of their area choice.
We would also encourage further study up to A Level Design and Technology leading on to university courses in subjects as varied as interior design, engineering, product design, robotics, architecture or computer aided design.
Head of Department:
Mrs A Blow amlb@kes.hants.sch.uk
Drama
The Eduqas GCSE course in Drama is an exciting, inspiring and practical course. The specification promotes involvement in, and enjoyment of, drama, as performers and/or designers. Additionally it provides opportunities to attend live theatre performances and to develop skills as informed and thoughtful audience members.
Through following this specification, pupils will be given opportunities to participate in and interpret their own and others’ drama. Pupils have the option to work practically as performers and/ or designers in Components 1 and 2. Pupils will investigate a practitioner or genre of drama, work collaboratively to develop ideas to communicate meaning and experiment with dramatic conventions, forms and techniques to produce and realise a piece of original theatre. They will also have the opportunity to participate in the performance of an extract from a play text.
Pupils will demonstrate their knowledge and understanding of drama, including their ability to interpret texts for performance, in a written examination. However, in preparation for this assessment, pupils are encouraged to study their chosen text practically as a performer, designer and director.
Pupils will be given the opportunity to attend a workshop with a leading contemporary theatre company. They will also analyse live theatre, either through visits to local productions or by viewing recorded theatre productions.
In Year 10, Drama pupils have the exciting opportunity to attend a dedicated weekend away focused on their devising projects. Guided by a professional theatre company, this immersive experience allows pupils to refine their performance skills, explore innovative techniques, and develop their creative ideas in a supportive and inspiring environment. Many pupils find this weekend invaluable, as it provides the chance to work collaboratively and intensively with their peers, fostering teamwork and boosting confidence. The weekend is not only a significant milestone in their Drama journey but also a memorable highlight of the course.
Head of Department: Mrs L A Gilmour lag@kes.hants.sch.uk
GCSE Options 2025-2026
Economics
The IGCSE syllabus seeks to explain the workings of the economies of developed and developing nations. It provides pupils with a grounding in the basic analytical skills and vocabulary of the economist, and encourages them to apply the subject’s core models and theories to contemporary economic problems.
Candidates must be able to think logically, handle data in various forms and express themselves with clarity and understanding. The topics for study include the determination of prices and wages in markets, unemployment, inflation, exchange rates, the balance of payments, money and financial institutions.
The course is both topical and relevant to the pupils’ lives, providing a valuable insight into a key area of current affairs. It is a useful stepping stone for those wishing to study the subject in the Sixth Form, although it is not a pre-requisite for A level Economics. There is no externally assessed coursework in this subject and assessment is by two examination papers.
Head of Department:
Mr P Sheppard ps@kes.hants.sch.uk
French
French students sit the Edexcel IGCSE (9-1). The four skills of listening, speaking, reading and writing are all worth 25% and all examinations take place in Year 11. The course is topic based, with the grammar forming an integral part of how the students acquire the language.
The four topics across the two-year course are:
• Everyday life at home and school
• Self, family and friends – at home & abroad
• The world around us
• Life from infancy to adulthood
There are opportunities to watch and review films, get to know French music and learn about French culture. There is a strong emphasis on spoken French and students are able to work with the French assistants on a fortnightly basis to help improve their spoken French and develop their confidence.
All students use the websites ‘Sentence builders’, ‘Quizlet’ and ‘This is Language’ to help them develop their listening and reading skills. Every year, the French Department takes students to France to explore the language and culture. Students attend lessons on two mornings and spend the afternoons visiting the sites.
French is the first or second language of many countries; France is our nearest continental neighbour and an important business partner and provides many leisure opportunities. Fluency in such a major language is an asset in many careers and the aim of the next two years is to provide pupils with the confidence to communicate effectively and with a platform on which they can build at a later stage. French teachers aim to encourage all linguists and hope that many will continue to take French at A Level.
Head of Department: Ms K M Clement kmc@kes.hants.sch.uk
GCSE Options 2025-2026
Geography
The key ideas within the IGCSE Geography course are arranged as a series of units which are studied at a variety of scales ranging from the local to the international. A variety of topical case studies are integrated within the units to provide a sensible balance between both Physical and Human Geography.
The topics studied on the Physical side include Plate Tectonics, Weather and Climate, Coastal and River Processes, as well as Ecosystems. On the Human side of the subject the students study topics which include Settlement, Population, Tourism, Food and Farming, as well as Energy and Water Resources. The interaction of these processes is realised by studying the interrelationships between natural and human activities, which considers Sustainability, Resource Conservation and Management.
As a whole, the teaching units constitute a balanced view of Geography that is relevant in today’s world, which is concerned with patterns in the landscape and the recurrent processes contributing to them; in particular the link between humans and the land.
The IGCSE course can be seen as a series of practical skills and key ideas which build logically on the work undertaken in the Lower School. These skills include the interpretation of maps at both 1:50000 and 1:25000 scales, atlas work and the geographical
representation and interpretation of geographical data. The inclusion of oblique aerial photographs, satellite and weather maps provides a diverse range of teaching and learning activities which will encourage the development of a range of enquiry skills, including those relating to practical fieldwork investigations and the use of the internet and ICT. There is, however, no formal written coursework or controlled assessment.
If Geography is to be studied in the Sixth Form then it would be beneficial, though not essential, to follow the IGCSE course. An integral part of the course is fieldwork, as this gives students the opportunity to prepare for their Alternative to Coursework examination paper and a series of trips will be run in order to equip students with the necessary fieldwork skills.
The study of Geography complements other humanities and students can study multiple humanities at IGCSE.
Head of Department: Ms T L King tlk@kes.hants.sch.uk
German
The Edexcel IGCSE German course in Year 10 and Year 11 at King Edward’s is a natural progression from the Year 9 German experience, with a firm emphasis on providing pupils with the skills for effective communication, whether in School or beyond. As German is the EU language, with the largest number of native speakers, and Germany is the world’s largest exporter, German should be considered an important language both within Europe and on a global stage. Knowledge of German makes you an unusual and therefore highly marketable commodity!
During the German course in the Upper School, you will study topics that are chosen to be relevant to young people and will give you the ability to survive in everyday situations in a German-speaking country. You will also acquire all the basic grammatical constructions needed to communicate accurately and to access a top grade at this level.
We use a new, fully resourced coursebook which is further supplemented by articles from a wide variety of other sources, by language software and DVDs. In addition, we will regularly use online resources which may be accessed in School using individual devices or computers and at home on King Edward’s intranet and Google Classroom. There is also regular speaking practice with a German language assistant, which really helps to build oral confidence.
The Edexcel IGCSE course is assessed at the end of Year 11 in three units: Paper 1: Listening; Paper 2: Reading and Writing; and Paper 3: Speaking. There is no coursework or controlled assessment at any stage.
The German course also provides a window on the civilisation and culture of German-speaking countries and seeks to stimulate interest in travel abroad to the country of study. With this in mind, we run an Upper School trip to Germany, where students can experience the culture first hand.
Whether you are considering the Edexcel IGCSE course with a view to continuing the language at A Level or to complement and balance a study of other disciplines, e.g. Science and Mathematics, it is a stimulating option that offers variety and challenge and will suit all those who are enjoying their Year 9 course.
Head of Department: Mr
R Soames rds@kes.hants.sch.uk
GCSE Options 2025-2026
History
IGCSE History provides a fascinating and varied introduction to many of the major historical, political and economic issues and events that have helped to shape the world in which we live today and, in terms of the skills required and the chronological starting point, is designed to flow on naturally from the Year 9 work on the First World War. Indeed, in the Summer term of Year 9, students will actually have studied the opening sections of the IGCSE course itself, Germany 1918-23, so will have a hugely valuable head start in terms of covering the necessary material.
History at IGCSE goes far beyond simply learning facts and dates. Rather, it requires judgement and analysis of why important events took place, and why they should be seen as significant, together with a willingness to discuss and dispute different explanations and interpretations. History is for those who like debate and argument; it is very much for those who enjoy the analysis of intriguing and important people and events, and the challenge of cut and thrust conversation. It provides not only interest but also huge enjoyment to those who study it.
We take the Edexcel IGCSE course which covers a variety of topics from the twentieth century and before. IGCSE History has several main topic areas and these have been chosen for their intrinsic interest and their relevance to our lives today. The first centres on Germany from 19181945. This includes an analysis of the impact of the First World War on Germany and an in-depth study of Nazi Germany, covering both the rise to power of Adolf Hitler and the reality of Nazi rule in Germany from 1933-1945; the Nazi Police State, the social policies of the Nazis, Germany and the Second World War and, chillingly, finishing with the Holocaust.
The course continues with the study of Russia from 1905-24, introducing students to the fascinating story of the Russian Revolution and tales of figures such as Rasputin, Lenin and
Stalin. The final two components of the course are concerned with the story of America from 1783-1876, allowing for the study of American independence, slavery and the Civil War, and South Africa from 1948-94. This last topic is particularly thrilling, given that it allows a real insight into the remarkable story of the fight against apartheid and the role of Nelson Mandela within this.
It is important to stress that IGCSE History is by no means more difficult than other subjects, and that it does not require more work from students. The question format ranges from short answers of just a few lines to more developed pieces of writing of about a side or so, and the days when History involved writing essays several pages long are now long gone. Anybody who has coped effectively with the writing requirements of Year 9 History lessons at King Edward’s will find no difficulty in moving on to IGCSE. Taking History at IGCSE level is a useful, but not essential, preparation for the Sixth Form course. With a more general eye to the future, History is a well-respected IGCSE, developing as it does skills of analysis, organisation and written and oral communication and one with a reputation for genuine academic rigour.
The History department is well known for its IGCSE co-curricular programme. Each year, we run a Year 10 and 11 trip to either Poland, allowing students to visit Auschwitz, or Berlin. This means that during the two year course each student may, if they wish, go on both trips. We have also recently run a trip to Washington and this is intended to run again in November 2026. In 2025 we will be visiting New York. Closer to home, we run a Year 11 History Day in the Autumn term to sharpen up examination technique and to introduce our students to some interesting new historical ideas and material.
Head of Department:
Mr N J Diver njd@kes.hants.sch.uk
Italian
In the Upper School a GCSE in Italian is offered for those who have studied the language successfully in Year 9. We use a variety of Italian text books and related resources, which provide a solid grammar base along with an insight into Italian life. These are accompanied by use of topical, authentic Italian resources from the Internet, access to DVDs and Ragazzi, a Italian half termly language magazine, which includes interesting articles and games based around relevant Italian customs, events and personalities. There is emphasis on regular listening and speaking practice, and students will develop language skills for effective communication on a wide variety of topics. Students will have the opportunity to work with our native language assistant on a weekly basis in order to develop these communicative skills, and this enables them to practise using the language for a variety of purposes, as well as help increase their fluency and exposure to the authentic sounds of the language.
A study visit to Italy is offered every year in the half term of the Spring Term, and students would be encouraged to make the most of this opportunity. The culture of Italy is rich and varied and students will develop a good knowledge of its importance in Europe.
This is a stimulating course, and a great opportunity to develop skills in one of the most beautiful, and less widely spoken, European languages, knowledge of which may also give an edge in a future employment market.
Italian Co-ordinator: Mrs S Rugge-Price srp@kes.hants.sch.uk
GCSE Options 2025-2026
Latin
By the end of Year 9 students have covered most basic elements of Latin grammar and syntax and are ready, in Year 10, to put them into practice by reading some Roman authors in the original. To stop Latin at this point is almost like learning to drive and never taking the test! All that has already been covered in the first three years of Latin represents a major part of the GCSE course and it is a shame not to put this knowledge to good effect: students are already well on the way to a qualification.
Why study Latin?
If you have enjoyed your Latin studies thus far, you will continue to do so: the rules of the language do not change. The subject is highly regarded by universities and employers for the linguistic skills and analytical eye that it teaches. It is an incredibly accessible GCSE and certainly no more difficult than any other. Latin complements many other subjects, containing as it does elements of language, culture, history and literature…even the sciences – many medical students get to university and are grateful for their Latin background!
Course overview
We follow the WJEC Eduqas GCSE course. There are three topics, all of which are examined at the end of Year 11. The department runs a trip to Rome or Greece every two years.
Component 1: Language (1½ hr examination)
The language element is covered in Year 10 and consolidated in Year 11. You will practise translation skills, comprehension skills and forming short sentences into Latin (this is an optional question).
Component 2: Literature and Sources (1¼ hr examination)
You will study pictures, artefacts and literary sources (in the original) on a chosen theme, either Heroes and Villains or Come Dine with Me.
Component 3: Narratives (1hr examination)
You will study a longer passage of literature in the original: this will be Virgil’s description of how the hero Hercules put an end to Cacus the monster terrorising the local Italians.
Head of Department: Miss I M Painter imp@kes.hants.sch.uk
Music
The Music GCSE is a creative and stimulating outlet for musically minded students. The course is open to everyone, provided they have either an instrumental or singing teacher. It is strongly advised an instrument or voice is at grade 4 standard or above when beginning the course.
The Music GCSE course combines the best elements of music with performance and composition coursework making up 60% of the overall GCSE. It is based on the OCR specifications so best suits students who want to develop as both academic and creative individuals, learning how pieces are built and performances shaped and delivered. As GCSE musicians, students also have the opportunity to attend concert trips and workshops specifically tailored to them.
Performing
Over the two year course you will develop your performance skills and record a solo and ensemble piece as part of your coursework. This should be around a Grade 5 standard by Year 11. It will make up 30% of your GCSE.
Composing
With dedicated step by step teaching, you will learn to compose in musical styles that inspire you. Whether that is popular music, classical or jazz influence, you will complete two compositions using Musescore or Logic Pro software. These are submitted as controlled assessment tasks and make up 30% of your GCSE.
Listening
This is the only part of the GCSE that takes the form of an examination, worth 40% of your overall GCSE. You listen to recorded extracts of music from four areas of study: classical concerto, rhythms of the world, popular song, film and video games. Fundamental music theory knowledge is required. Questions are designed to test your understanding of musical elements and demonstrate understanding of genre and context.
Head of Department: Ms T Hayden tjh@kes.hants.sch.uk
GCSE Options 2025-2026
Physical Education
• 60% of the qualification is sat via two examinations. Each examination is 75 minutes long and is worth 78 marks.
• 40% assessed via their practical performance in three different sports plus a written piece of coursework.
Theoretical written papers include:
Paper 1: The human body and movement in physical activity and sport
• Applied anatomy and physiology
• Movement analysis
• Physical training
• Use of data
Paper 2: Socio-cultural influences and wellbeing in physical activity and sport
• Sports psychology
• Socio-cultural influences
• Health, fitness and well-being
• Use of data
Physical Education is a popular course with our students and would be an excellent choice for anyone who has a keen interest in sport.
The large coursework element means that students who take this course must be actively participating in a number of sports. The course is an exciting and challenging introduction to some important aspects of Physical Education such as how the respiratory and muscular systems are affected by exercise, the relationship between arousal levels and performance and how technology is changing the way we play and view sport. Sport is becoming ever more important in Britain and the course helps the students understand its role in British and World societies.
Head of Department: Mr A Leathem ajl@kes.hants.sch.uk
Religious Studies with HPQ
When students opt for the full Religious Studies GCSE course, they will study, consider and debate numerous questions that focus on philosophical, ethical and religious issues. Many of these issues relate to topical stories in the news, as well as some of the most profound questions that human beings have been wrestling with for thousands of years, such as:
• Is it really possible to prove the existence of God?
• What are the ‘non-negotiables’ of medical ethics and why?
• Why do some countries persist in advocating capital punishment?
• Why do some people continue to commit crimes when they know they are wrong?
• Does it matter that the Big Bang theory is currently just humankind’s best guess to explain the beginning of the universe?
• Could it ever be justified to take a life or break the law?
The full course exam is sat in the summer of Year 11 and these students do not sit the short course exam in Year 10. As the name suggests, students are awarded a full GCSE on completion of the course. The exam consists of the five question types that students will have been practising for three years, so their exam technique will be extremely secure. There is no coursework in the RS full course.
The addition of the Higher Project Qualification (HPQ) to the full course option provides a fantastic opportunity for students to explore the exciting world of independent learning and develop new life and study skills. Students explore their own interests by choosing something that they are passionate about before they plan, research, and carry out a project on that topic. The project can come from a wide range of areas of interest and does not need to be related to the RS full course in any way. As the culmination of their project, students can
choose to write a report, create an artefact, design a game or plan a charity event. They will also learn how to deliver a presentation, which will help to develop their communication skills and boost their confidence in presenting to their peers – both excellent transferable skills for the world of work. Choosing the HPQ also helps to prepare students for the possibility of taking the Extended Project Qualification (EPQ) in the Sixth Form.
The HPQ projects are externally moderated and students are awarded a half GCSE that is graded A* to C. Results for the HPQ are historically excellent at King Edward’s.
Building on their study of the RS short course by opting for the RS full course and the HPQ is an intellectually stimulating and personally rewarding choice. Through the further exploration of philosophy, ethics and religion, students will not only excel academically but also gain an understanding of the world around them. Completing the HPQ will furnish the students with invaluable transferable skills. Although important, this journey is not just about exam results, it is about preparing for a future where their insights, empathy and philosophical reasoning will have a meaningful impact.
Head of Department:
Mr A E Cross aec@kes.hants.sch.uk
GCSE Options 2025-2026
Spanish
An IGCSE level qualification in any language is extremely valuable nowadays, but one in Spanish will guarantee you have an excellent basis for communication with the over 400 million native Spanish speakers around the globe.
During Year 10 and Year 11, skills are built up gradually with exposure to many different forms of Spanish, from spoken and written journalistic material, interviews and extracts from films to short stories. Spanish students will sit the Edexcel International GCSE examination at the end of Year 11 and, to prepare for this, they will cover a number of topics which are relevant to today’s young people and master a variety of skills. Regular use is made of the ICT suite, enabling students to listen to genuine Spanish material. Students are allocated a fortnightly slot when they can practise their oral skills with the language assistant and prepare thoroughly for the oral examination.
The content of the course not only teaches about the Spanish language, but also gives a considerable amount of information about Spanish and South American life, history and culture. Much of the language used is genuinely communicative, not merely classroom routine, and we aim to produce fluency in spoken and written language, as well as a knowledge of, and enthusiasm for, things Spanish and Hispanic. Students will be well prepared not just for IGCSE, but also for the real world. Pupils who wish to study Spanish in the Sixth Form must take the IGCSE course in Year 10 and Year 11.
Year 10 students are invited to travel to Spain for five days at the beginning of the Easter holidays and take part in a homestay programme in the South of Spain. There, students stay in families and attend daily Spanish lessons in a specialist language school. Something to look forward to if they follow on to A Level is the very popular trip to the university town of Salamanca.
Head of Department:
Mrs E M Ladislao eml@kes.hants.sch.uk
Science
Pupils may select to either:
1. Study Biology, Chemistry, and Physics as three separate IGCSEs, leading to an individual grade in each subject. Students would have 6 periods a cycle of each science.
2. Study Double Award Science IGCSE, leading to two grades in Science. Students would have 4 periods a cycle of each science.
Pupils have already begun the IGCSE course in Year 9, so should have a good idea of the subject and how they are beginning to make progress. If they are enjoying the sciences and are considering them as possible A level subjects, or as future career pathways, then three separate IGCSEs is recommended. We believe this gives the best foundation for further study. If they opt for Double Award, then they will also get a good grounding in science but without as much detail. Below there is brief outline of content that is unique to the separate sciences.
Biology
Building on the Year 10 work on homeostasis we look in detail at how the kidney works. Adding to work on inheritance we look at how our genes are used to make proteins in the cell and how mutations drive evolution. We learn about stem cells and cloning and a whole lot more beyond the Double Award curriculum.
Head of Department: Dr N Wortham ncw@kes.hants.sch.uk
Chemistry
As well as alkanes and alkenes studied in Year 10, we look in detail at alcohols, carboxylic acids and esters, providing a solid foundation for the detail covered in A level Organic Chemistry. We also learn about how ionic compounds are split into their separate elements and how this is used in industry. More experimental work is covered on the separate science course.
Head of Department:
Mrs L Millington lam@kes.hants.sch.uk
Physics
The fundamentals of Newtonian classical Physics are studied in Year 10 providing, along with electricity, a solid foundation of an understanding of motion and forces for further study at A-level. This is complemented with a more in-depth study of electromagnetism which underpins all aspects of modern civilisation. Cosmology and the origin and evolution of the universe is also covered in the separate science course.
Head of Department: Mr R Simm rss@kes.hants.sch.uk
Head of Faculty:
Mr S Aellen sta@kes.hants.sch.uk
