Key Stage 4 (Y10 - 11) Curriculum
Year 9 GCSE options
Please click here for detailed subject information for the Y10 cohort who will commence GCSE study in September 2025.
Over the two year GCSE programme students study and prepare for important public examinations.
Most students’ curriculum consists of:
• GCSEs in compulsory core subjects of English, Maths and Science
• EBacc subjects (A Humanities and a Modern Foreign Language)
• Other GCSE subjects
• Core non-examined subjects (Core PE and Personal Development)
Core Subjects
In English students study and prepare for GCSEs in English Language and English Literature. In Science students embark on a programme of study for GCSEs in Biology, Chemistry and Physics. Later in KS4 discussions are held with students and parents about the appropriate final GCSE Entry - separate GCSEs in the three Sciences or Combined Science (equivalent to 2 GCSEs). In Maths students prepare for GCSE Mathematics, with an option later in KS4 for some students to complete a Further Mathematics qualification.
EBacc
In addition to English, Mathematics and Science; Modern Languages (the language students studied in Y7-9) and a Humanities subject (History or Geography) combine to form the English Baccalaureate (EBacc) suite of qualifications. The EBacc subjects keep options open for progression to a wide range of further study and future careers. Whilst our expectation remains that for the large majority of our students the EBacc is an appropriate route, the EBacc is not compulsory for students at NKS. Where students and parents believe that future plans would be better served by not following the EBacc and indicate this on the options form, we will be happy to arrange a meeting to discuss this.
Other Subjects
The wide range of other subjects available allows all students to personalise their learning and pursue their own strengths, interests and aspirations for the future.
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Art and Design: Fine Art |
History |
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Business Studies |
Music |
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Classical Civilisation |
Physical Education |
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Computer Science |
Product Design |
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Drama |
Religious Studies |
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Geography |
Sociology |
Core Non-examined Subjects
All students will also study 2 non-examined subjects - Core PE and Personal Development.
GCSE Curriculum Maps
Below, you will find links to our subject Curriculum “Maps”. The documents show our curriculum intent and vision as students progress through the key stages.
SEND
We are proud of the inclusive environment and ethos at NKS and the fact that students with SEND make good progress at GCSE, supported by our SEND team. If you have any queries about this please contact our SENCo, Mr Uttin - PUttin@nks.kent.sch.uk
Extra Curricular
We pride ourselves on providing opportunities for sporting, musical and theatrical achievements. Our students’ participation in our extra-curricular programme enriches and deepens their academic learning as well as developing responsible, active, aware and kind citizens, fully prepared for the world of further study and employment.
Extend and Excel
Students at NKS are encouraged to explore their interests in a variety of fields. As their aspirations develop, they are supported to reach their chosen destinations through a varied programme of support. A range of visitors and external speakers offer inspiration to students across a broad spectrum of topics, including working as a paramedic and the ergonomic design of tanks. With the aim to directly inspire and motivate students in their career ambitions. Students have also been able to participate in medicine experience days facilitated by Meducators, and online discussions through ‘I’m a Scientist Get me Out of Here’ with scientists from a range of fields such as psychology, genetics and space.
Support increases as students move up through the school with the super-curricular club at Key Stage 4, which builds on the foundations laid by the Knatchbull Baccalaureate, Academic, Extra-Curricular, Community and Excel and Extend. This encourages students to broaden and deepen their interests through personal study and develop their research and presentation skills. This culminates in a celebration of their work, shared with parents. Students may choose to develop their interest further in the Sixth Form by undertaking an Extended Project Qualification.