GCSEs

What are GCSEs?

GCSEs are the main qualification taken by 14–16 year olds. They involve studying the theory of a subject, with some investigative work and, depending on the subject, some practical work. Usually they take up two to three hours of teaching time per week over two years.

What grades can I get?

GCSEs are graded A*–G and U (Unclassified). Some subjects have two tiers: Higher Tier GCSEs are level 2 qualifications leading to A*–D grades, Foundation Tier GCSEs are level 1 qualifications leading to grades C–G. Your school will decide which tier you enter depending on your progress.

What GCSEs are available?

All schools offer a wide range of GCSE subjects including core subjects (such as English, Maths and Science), modern languages, humanities (History, Geography and RE), arts (such as Art, Music and Drama) and technology (including options such as Textiles, Food, Graphics and Resistant Materials).

There are some applied subjects related to broad areas of work (such as Travel & Tourism), many of which are double subjects. Some GCSE short courses (equivalent to half a GCSE) are also offered.

Achieving English, Maths, double Science (or Chemistry, Biology and Physics separately), a foreign language and history/geography at grade A*–C is now recognised as the English Baccalaureate.

How are GCSEs assessed?

GCSEs are mainly assessed through externally marked exams. Some have elements assessed through controlled assessments (supervised coursework). This is because subjects have different requirements such as speaking (Modern Languages) and performing (Music, Drama).

Where can I find out more?

Your school will give you full details of their range of GCSEs, and this information is also on your school’s pages on the area-wide prospectus.