Key Stages 4 and 5
The final two key stages of the British Curriculum are those in which students take their major sets of public examinations. Key Stage 4 encompasses Years 10 and 11 and is the time when children take their GCSEs and/or IGCSEs. Key Stage 5, (or the Sixth Form as it is often known) involves AS and A levels, though some students may continue with a GCSE programme if their’s needs consolidation. A few subjects remain outside the examination system.
GCSEs are two year courses.
Some subjects are compulsory:
- English
- Mathematics
- Science
- ICT
- PE
- Citizenship
At the ICS, students take either First Language English with English Literature or English as a Second Language, depending on their needs. Mathematics can involve Additional maths for the most able. The normal Science programme involves a double exam award in Coordinated Science. Two GCSEs are obtained through studying a combination of Physics, Chemistry and Biology, each of them sufficient to allow progression to A Level, if a student performs well enough. PE is offered as either an examined GCSE course or a recreational programme incorporating a range of games and sports. Citizenship remains outside the exam programme, but important work involving careers, and higher education are covered as well as discussions on matters such as types of government, elections, etc.
Students then take 4 other options. At the ICS these are chosen from:
- Arabic
- Art and Design
- Business Studies
- DT: Food Technology
- Drama
- French
- Geography
- History
- Music.
Students are given guidance in Year 9 to help them choose the best courses for them but we broadly recommend that they take one language, one humanity, one practical or creative subject and a further one from either category. Awards are graded from A* to G.
In Year 12, successful students progress to AS Level. The normal pattern involves 4 subjects of the students own choice. Of course the depth and demands are much greater as these represent preparation for university and considerable help is provided to ensure that programmes are right for the future needs of each student. At the end of Year 12, it is normal to claim one subject at AS Level and carry forward the marks for the others to full A Level taken at the end of Year 13. Grades run from A* to E. at the ICS, we offer the following subjects:
- Arabic
- Art and Design
- Biology
- Business Studies
- Chemistry
- Drama and Theatre Arts
- Economics
- English Literature
- French
- Geography
- History
- Information and Communication Technology
- Mathematics
- Music
- Physics
- Physical Education.