Senior School Curriculum NEW

The GCSE course builds upon the concepts studied in the 3rd Form.  However, Chemistry splits into three distinct disciplines – organic, inorganic and physical.  As the course progresses, links between the three disciplines will develop and allow a more thorough understanding of the subject as a whole.

The theory is supported by essential practical work that reinforces the concepts covered during lessons and develops vital skills that include the competent use of equipment, collecting and analysing data, and the drawing of conclusions.

The course can be challenging at times, but extremely rewarding. If approached with the correct work ethic, the subject becomes easier as the course progresses when key concepts are revisited and links are made across the disciplines.

What is Combined Science?

The Combined Science course consists of equally weighted units in Biology, Chemistry and Physics in a single iGCSE. The course encourages students to be inspired, motivated and challenged by following a broad, coherent, practical course of study.

Pupils learn how science is studied and practised, and become aware that the results of scientific research can have both good and bad effects on individuals, communities and the environment. As well as focusing on the individual sciences, the course allows pupils to understand the technological world in which they live, and take an informed interest in science and scientific developments.

Aims/Expertise (What we offer?)

The course places great emphasis on practical skills. Pupils will learn to plan and carry out experiments in order to produce accurate results. Analysing results, as well as the method itself, will allow pupils to make judgments as to the quality of their data and practical work, much as research scientists do before presenting findings.

Exam information

We follow the iGCSE CIE (0653) specification. There are three exams at the end of the 5th form; a written paper (1h15 mins) worth 50% of the final mark, a multiple choice paper (45mins), worth 30% and a practical exam (1h15mins) worth 20%.

Where can it lead to?

Many careers require a GCSE in a Science subject and pupils will find that the Combined Science course puts them in a great position to pursue these careers successfully. Studying the Combined Science course provides pupils with a variety of skills that can be applied to many areas of work, such as analysing and problem solving. It will provide a sound basis on which to build the next stage towards any career whatsoever.

Extra support and extension around the subject

Pupils can design and complete Twice a week we offer Science Hospital; this is an opportunity for pupils to seek help on work/topics they are struggling with. Multiple science teachers are on hand to provide support.

What is Design & Technology?

Design Technology enables pupils to become more resourceful, innovative, enterprising and design capable. Students develop a critical understanding of the impact of design and technology on daily life and the wider world. Additionally, it provides excellent opportunities for students to develop and apply value judgements of an aesthetic, economic, moral, social, and technical nature both in their own designing and when evaluating the work of others.

The Design Technology Department at WGS well-resourced with a design studio, 2 dedicated workshops, a 3D printer and CAM Lasercutter, two enthusiastic technologist who work with the pupils in design led and practical workshop based activities.

Practical application of principles learn in Science and Maths lie at the heart of our what the department teachers pupils to allow them to be active members of a rapidly changing technological world. Years 1 and 2 work on a carousel system along with the rest of the creative subjects and then pupils opt to continue with their technology education from the 3rd year onwards.

We follow the AQA GCSE specification in the 4th and 5th year and the EDEXCEL A LEVEL specification in the Sixth form. Both levels involve pupils investigating real life topical problems and solving them through the realisation of a practical product.

Pupils who have studied GCSE and A Level DT progress onto careers in many disciplines. The subject is a common combination with Maths and Physics for mechanical engineering students at University, with Art and another subject for Architecture, and with any other A Level combination for studying Product Design or entering a range of higher level apprenticeships.

The department offers a wealth of extracurricular activities which include Young Engineers club and open workshop during the period 5 co-curricular period during the school day. Also, after schools on a Tuesday there is another Young Engineers club where pupils build, race and maintain two buggies and radio controlled cars. For examination classes there is a revision session on a Thursday after school throughout the year every other week to help pupils to tackle exam questions, understand their set homework and revise taught exam content.

Why study Drama?  Because, as Alfred Hitchcock said:

Drama is life with the dull bits left out!

Drama is not just about acting and theatre; it is a chance for pupils to explore what makes them and others tick in a supportive and creative environment. Drama is also a subject that gives pupils the chance to work collaboratively with their peers, thus aiding their communication skills.

It goes without saying that a career in the performing arts is an option but there is not a career that does not involve or require communication in some form and so Drama will help whatever career path is chosen. That said, that the most popular professions pursued by students of Drama  include Law, Journalism, Media and Psychology.

What is English Language?

The study of English is compulsory but it is also a subject that can be hugely enjoyable and varied. Pupils will learn so much about the world around them and they will be able to link texts that were written hundreds of years ago to their lives now

The course aims to equip pupils with the core writing, reading and communication skills required from them in the world beyond school.

What we offer:

In English Language pupils will come across writing that inspires them, that angers them; writing which upsets them, that makes them laugh and writing that makes the hairs on the back of their neck tingle.

English Language is vital to every aspect of education and allows pupils to communicate with, and engage with, the ever-changing society surrounding them

Exam Information:

We follow the AQA English Language GCSE which consists of two written examinations (Explorations in Creative Reading and Writing and Writers’ Viewpoints and Perspectives). Pupils must also complete a Speaking and Listening presentation.

Where can it lead to?

The Study of English Language opens up a full range of career pathways. In English Language pupils will come across elements of drama, history, geography, religious studies, art, philosophy and much more. Crucially, in learning to develop their levels of analysis and their ability to communicate, pupils will gain the skills required to study aspects of all A Level courses.

Curriculum Enrichment: 

English Language pupils have the opportunity to develop aspects of their creative and non-fiction skills through a range of local and national competitions and writing and reading skills can be further developed in Creative Writing, Poetry, and Extension clubs.

What is English Literature?

English Literature ensures pupils are able to read texts for meaning and draw upon their contents in relevance to their own lives.

Pupils will explore poetry from the English Literary Heritage, a play by William Shakespeare, a modern piece of drama and a Nineteenth Century novel. Pupils will also explore the contextual influences upon these texts and learn to empathise with character and writer, and draw out thematic influences on a plot line.

What we offer:

English Literature influences, as well comments on, society, culture and history. As with English Language, the study of Literature opens up the world we live in and provides a range of different perspectives on our lives.

Pupils will develop analytical skills and will also learn to recognise how a writer has manipulated language and structure for meaning. The English Literature course therefore acts as a further reinforcement to English Language skills.

Exam Information:

We follow the AQA English Literature GCSE which consists of two written examinations (Shakespeare and the Nineteenth Century Novel and Modern Texts and Poetry).

Where can it lead to?

As with English Language, pupils will gain the skills in English Literature required to study aspects of all A Level courses. In conjunction to this, the art of reading for meaning will also equip pupils with life skills for every aspect of their future.

Curriculum Enrichment 

In English Literature pupils are able to develop their specific analytical skills in a dedicated Period Five session. An external visit to either the Royal Shakespeare Company Theatre or GCSE Poetry Live is taken annually and pupils are encouraged to broaden their experience of Literature by accessing the Department’s wide range of further reading texts and critical articles.

The programme includes a series of lectures designed to challenge, inspire and broaden horizons. Approximately 15 talks are presented by visiting speakers each year on subjects which fall outside the boundaries of the curriculum and cross disciplinary boundaries. Speakers have included a local MP and Government Minister, Steve Barclay, Old Grammarian and CEO of ‘One Water’ Duncan Goose, Head of Research and Development at Jeyes Dr Claire Jackson and Mike McKay, Master Chief Intelligence Specialist in the USA Navy and Nato.

The benefits to our pupils are enormous and encourage the development of informed and well-rounded individuals with the tools required for their onward journey.

The country has a shortage of food skilled people. The food industry is one of the biggest and includes areas such as agriculture, manufacturing, retail, sports science, product development, journalism, dietetics, to name just a few. 

It not only teaches lifelong skills, but it is also relevant to today’s society where dietary disease and food poverty prevent key challenges. The IGCSE is science based and overlaps with many other subjects including chemistry and biology.

We follow the CIE specification with topics such as nutritive value of foods, digestion and absorption, dietary guidelines, composition of foods, cooking methods, raising agents, food hygiene and kitchen planning. We study for a theory paper, and also carry out a practical every week in preparation for a practical examination during which five skilled dishes are cooked and served in two and a half hours. Through the practical lessons we learn to make sauces, pastries, breads, cakes and biscuits; we also cover meat and fish handling and vegetable preparation. In addition we undertake the CIEH Level Two Food Hygiene Examination.

IGCSE Food and Nutrition offers an excellent step into A-levels and into the many food linked courses at University. There will always be jobs in the food industry!

The Edexcel Certificate International GCSE specification gives pupils an opportunity to study traditional topics which are updated to provide a contemporary and relevant understanding of the world in which we live. 

It has a strong focus on developing practical enquiry skills to underpin geographical knowledge and understanding.  Pupils will investigate our dynamic planet, its processes, people and interactions between them.

Choosing Geography enables pupils to construct useful A-Level combinations in preparation for University and beyond. In addition to a breadth of knowledge, critical skills are developed through the evaluation of written, numerical, graphical and cartographical information.

In the 4th Form, we study Rivers, Natural Hazards and Fragile Environments, linking the physical processes to challenges we face in the world today, for example water scarcity and hazard management. The 5th Form curriculum focuses on Economic Geography and Urban Environments, covering topics such as the rapid urbanization of mega cities and impacts of deindustrialisation.

Fieldwork is a compulsory element of each topic and accounts for 25% of the final grade. Pupils choosing Geography are expected to attend a residential field trip to a Field Study Centre.

Pupils are assessed through two final examinations covering the physical and human topics as well as fieldwork.

What is History?

History used to be about learning dates and little else.  Now it is much more about trying to understand the past so that we can better understand the present.  The course we follow at GCSE is relevant to everyone, no matter which subjects you may intend to study in the future or which career you may eventually follow. History develops skills which are useful in life.  It is the ideal discipline to become expert in detecting bias, distinguishing fact from opinion and recognising the value and limitations of different pieces of evidence.

Aims/Expertise

The History Department at Wisbech Grammar School is vibrant and well-resourced with three specialist teachers. It is based in the new Humanities Hub with purpose built classrooms and smaller Harkness rooms for A Level seminars.

Exam information

Pupils study CIE IGCSE History (0977) which stresses the importance of learning from modern world History. Pupils will study;

1. Germany 1918-45 Depth Study.
2. The twentieth century: international relations since 1919.

The content focusses on the following key questions.

1. Were the peace treaties of 1919-23 fair?
2. To what extent was the League of Nations a success?
3. Why had international peace collapsed by 1939?
4. Who was to blame for the Cold War?
5. How effectively did the United States contain the spread of Communism?
6. How secure was the USSR’s control over Eastern Europe, 1948-1989?
7. Why did events in the Gulf matter, c.1970-2000.

Where can it lead to?

History is a subject that is highly valued by universities and employers alike. Alongside the heritage industry, History can lead to careers in law, education, economics, politics and the media.

Extra support and extension around the subject

The GCSE History course is enhanced with a Cold War study day at the Imperial War Museum Duxford. All pupils also have the opportunity to visit the WWI battlefields in France and Belgium. Within school there are frequent opportunities to attend History enrichment lectures or to become a member of either the History or Military History clubs. Revision support sessions are available to all GCSE pupils.

Mathematics is ubiquitous, transcending global language barriers. It is the science concerned with the logic of shape, quantity and space. With the latest round of educational reforms, mathematics now, more than ever, is concerned with using intuition and reasoning to solve problems presented in both familiar and unfamiliar contexts.

Aims/Expertise

At WGS, we aim to nurture every learner, ensuring all pupils make good progress irrespective of their baseline level. With tailored schemes of work and ability setting of pupils through the Senior School, we are able to challenge the most able and assist those who require additional support both inside and outside of lessons.

Exam information

GCSE Mathematics is offered with the OCR examination board with exam code J560. Higher tier is graded 9-3 and Foundation tier is graded 5-U.

A Level Mathematics is offered with the Edexcel examination board with exam code 9MA0. This is graded A*-U.

Additional Mathematics is offered to some students. This is a Free Standing Mathematics Qualification (FSMQ) offered with the OCR examination board with the exam code 6993. This is graded A-U.

Where can it lead to?

Mathematics is so fundamental to our everyday lives that it doesn’t register that we are using it. From the circuits in mobile devices to the forces of a river’s flow, the skills you build from studying mathematics will open all kinds of doors.

Banking, insurance and pensions; tech companies and security agencies; retailers and business analysts; clinical research scientists and pharmacological giants are all potential destinations. The opportunities are limitless.

Extra support and Extension around the subject

Maths Help is offered as a period 5 option to pupils who wish to gain continuous support over each term or as a one-off to allow pupils to gain help in a particular area.

Maths Challenge club is offered to students who wish to complete difficult problem solving questions in preparation for the UKMT Mathematics Challenge, Junior, Intermediate or Senior rounds. There is also a Team Challenge option that requires a trip to a local university to attend the competition.

Additional Mathematics is offered to gifted mathematicians in the 5th form who have the opportunity to gain an extra independent Mathematics qualification known as a FSMQ (Free standing mathematics qualification).

What are Modern Languages?

The Modern Languages Faculty consists of three languages at Wisbech Grammar School: French, German and Spanish.

The acquisition of other languages is vital in allowing students to become responsible local and global citizens, equipped for living and working together in an interconnected world. It gives students the chance to find links between languages and allows them to view things with a different perspective.

As Michael Hofmann, German poet and translator states “to speak a single language is to be enclosed in one cultural possibility – to be preordained to live in the linguistic and cultural cage into which you are born.”

At Wisbech Grammar School, we aim to inspire the next generation of linguists, developing excellent communication skills and strong intercultural understanding.

Aims/Expertise

The Modern Languages Department at WGS is energetic and diverse, with a number of native speakers within the department. We offer an array of trips to pupils of all ages, from Christmas markets to Chateau trips and study visits to Spain as well as cross-curricular trips to ensure that the learning of Modern Languages is relevant and enjoyable, bringing 21st century employability to pupils.

Exam information – Edexcel IGCSE and Edexcel A level

In the Senior School, all pupils study French, German and Spanish in rotation for the first two years. In that time, they get a flavour for each language and the culture associated with it, before choosing at least one language in the 3rd Form, although it is notable that many opt for two. All students must continue with at least one language in 4th and 5th Form. At Key Stage 4, we follow the Edexcel IGCSE course in which students are tested in all four skill areas: listening, reading, writing and speaking. In addition, there is a strong emphasis on grammar, which enables students to become independent in their use of the language, manipulating structures to produce language for their own needs.

Where can it lead to?

Most years there are students who leave the school to follow degrees in Modern Languages, whether it is a Single Honours Course or combined with another subject such as History or Business

Extra support and extension around the subject

Beyond timetabled lessons, we offer a number of language related extra-curricular clubs such as Russian Club, Italian Club, German Cultural Club, International Film Club as well as our in-house Language Leaders Scheme, in which students discuss, plan and deliver mini lessons to students in our prep school. In addition, we offer a weekly language discussion group to students to practise speaking skills and further their knowledge of literary texts and current affairs.

Music can change the world because it can change people.

Bono

Making music is at the heart of our approach. Lessons are available on orchestra instruments, guitars, drums and singing. Concerts throughout the year, both in school and the wider community, showcase pupils’ talents. An exciting recital series, which invites professional musicians into school, enriches the musical experience of all of our pupils.

Pupils in 1st and 2nd Form receive one lesson per week. In the 3rd Form music is offered as an option within the Creative Curriculum. The Steinway Model D piano is the centre piece to many recitals.  In addition to computer score writing and sequencing software, pupils experience African drumming, steel pans, ukuleles, guitars and the colourful sounds of tuned and untuned percussion.  Pupils become well grounded in music theory and develop their composing and performing skills.

Pupils opting to take GCSE Music follow the Edexcel specification. This programme of study offers pupils an excellent and broad musical experience through critical listening, composing and performing. Through study of a varied repertoire of pieces, from Purcell to Queen, there are abundant opportunities for pupils to develop their musicianship.

For those with a keen interest in sport who want to know how to improve performance, and develop knowledge and understanding.

The GCSE course consists of 60% theory, 30% practical performance and 10% coursework where pupils design and implement their own training programme.

In theory lessons pupils learn how exercise affects the body and how training can help improve performance. Other topics include: applied anatomy and physiology, injury and rehabilitation, the use of performance enhancing drugs, movement analysis, fitness components, fitness testing, training methods, diet and how performance can be improved using sports psychology.  Theory is assessed through two externally set examinations which last 1hr 45 mins and 1hr 15 mins respectively.

In the practical unit, pupils must show three separate performances in any sport of their choice and demonstrate understanding of their best sport through a critical analysis. In the past, pupils have chosen not only the obvious team games played in School but also Sailing, Golf, Skiing, Ice Dancing, Contemporary Dance  and even Horse Riding. Pupils can also choose whether to physically perform these sports as players or take on the role of official/referee.

What is Physics?

How can things be in two places at once? Is time travel possible? What are the most fundamental building blocks of the Universe? How do every day machines work?

The world is a bewilderingly complex place but, amazingly, it can be understood by using a small number of fundamental principles, particles and forces that govern their interactions.  Physics is the study of these principles.

Aims/Expertise (What we offer?)

Pupils study a broad range of topics from the detailed intricacies of the atom to the spectacular nature of our universe. They learn about the way we interact with the world around us and how, in return it interacts back with us.

As well as being a theoretical subject, Physics is also very practical. A large part of the work involves carrying out experiments, and so all the lessons take place in a Physics laboratory.

Exam information

We follow the iGCSE CIE (0972) specification. There are three exams at the end of the 5th form; a written paper (1h15 mins) worth 50% of the final mark, a multiple choice paper (45mins) worth 30% and a practical exam (1h15mins) worth 20%.

Where can it lead to?

iGCSE Physics is a highly regarded qualification which is designed to develop analytical and investigative skills. It is an essential foundation for any pupil wishing to study the subject to A Level and is vital for those considering a career in the physical sciences or engineering. The subject offers a crucial insight into how the universe works and even how it came into being.

Extra support and extension around the subject

Each year we run a series of trips to attend enrichment lectures at the Cavendish Laboratory, University of Cambridge; the lectures are predominantly aimed at 6th form pupils, but interested pupils from the 4th and 5th forms are warmly invited to attend. We attend the Physics at Work event, also at the Cavendish, where the role of Physics in a variety of industries is showcased.

All pupils have the opportunity to participate in the British Physics Olympaid Challenge and to complete their own practical investigation of a topic of their choice in Science Club.

Twice a week we offer Science Hospital; this is an opportunity for pupils to seek help on work/topics they are struggling with. Multiple science teachers are on hand to provide support.

At GCSE pupils study a range of highly relevant ethical topics, from the perspectives of two religions, Christianity and Islam.  They are challenged with questions about belief, values, meaning, purpose and truth, and are encouraged to develop their own, well-informed, attitudes to religious and moral issues.

Pupils gain an appreciation of how religion, philosophy and ethics form the basis of our culture and develop analytical and critical thinking skills, the ability to work with abstract ideas, leadership and research skills.  All of these attributes are highly valued by further education establishments as well as prospective employers.

We study AQA GCSE Religious Studies. The topics we cover are:

• Beliefs, teachings and practices of Christianity and Islam.
• Religious beliefs concerning sex, marriage and divorce, families, and gender equality.
• Religious beliefs concerning the Value and Origins of Life, abortion, animal experimentation and euthanasia.
• Religion and Peace and Conflict, including violence, terrorism and pacifism.
• Religious views on Crime and Punishment.

GCSE Religious Studies is one of the fastest growing subjects in the UK in terms of pupil uptake.  We teach subject material that is highly relevant to life in today’s society, and help equip pupils with the rigorous, high order academic skills that are so much in demand in the current employment market.

A range of techniques is explored in the lower years including screen printing, batik, tie-dye and collage alongside cultural research, fashion and interior design. Pupils have the opportunity to experiment with Photoshop and Speedstep

Many pupils study Art and Design Textiles at GCSE with the department achieving outstanding results these past years. The practical development of initial ideas and use of media is ambitious. Techniques such as stitch, print, weave, dyeing, felt-making and fabric painting are explored in conjunction with less conventional materials such as paper, metals and plastics. This is supported by making connections with the work of artists and designers in order to create impressive outcomes.

Further creative opportunities can be explored during co-curricular activities and afterschool.  There are also regular trips to museums and Art galleries both in this country and New York.

Pupils have won local and national awards; regular exhibitions take place in School.

Beyond School, pupils pursue Textile Design, Fashion and Marketing, Surface Pattern, Interior Design and Buying courses at University. Many former pupils work in the Fashion and Textile Industry and in other creative fields.