Here is some information on the courses and qualifications you can take in Years 10 and 11.
GCSEs - General Certificate of Secondary Education
GCSEs are the main qualification students take in Years 10 and 11. Depending on what's available in your school you can take GCSEs in a whole range of subjects from Maths, English, French and Art to Applied Business, Engineering and Health and Social Care for example.
GCSEs are two year courses. They are graded A* - G. You are assessed either by exam or a combination of exam, controlled assessment or coursework. In some subjects everyone takes the same course but in others there are different levels or 'tiers'. These are called foundation or higher tier.
Diplomas
Diplomas combine theoretical study with practical activities and are designed to help students develop the skills that employers and universities look for.
They are available in different subject areas for example Creative and Media, IT, Engineering, Society, Health and Development, and more.
Diplomas are available at different levels. At 14 you can either study a Foundation or Higher Diploma alongside your GCSEs.
Work related courses
These courses are designed for students who want to learn more about a particular area of work. Usually offered by BTEC or OCR they are available in subjects such as Applied Science, Engineering, Business and Performing Arts and more.
You can take these courses alongside your GCSEs.
Foundation Learning
Foundation Learning combines learning more practical skills for the world of work, working on some school subjects, improving skills in English, maths and ICT and developing skills and confidence for every day life.
Foundation Learning is for students who are not yet ready for GCSE study.
