In Year 9, pupils select their GCSE options This selection is managed through a process of events, starting with introductions offered in PDE and including Morrisby Profiling. This is followed up by a GCSE talk from the Head of Careers, Director of Studies and SENDCo. Pupils also attend a Taster Day in which they choose subjects to ‘taste’ before making final choices.
GCSE courses are offered in the following subjects:
The Art and Design department, housed in our beautiful and well-resourced Stable Block building encourages active learning by providing opportunities for creative growth and developing pupils’ ability to think, perceive, make decisions and problem solve. Our results at GCSE reach a high level and our exhibitions of work are diverse and inspirational.
Many pupils opt to pursue Art & Design at GCSE level. We offer courses which specialise in Photography and Textiles.
Trips include a Year 10 visit to Paris and in Year 11 visiting artists provide a range of varied workshops.
The inspiring annual GCSE Art and Design Exhibition allows GCSE students to showcase their work to parents and the rest of the school.
Pupils begin their GCSE Science courses in each of the three disciplines of Biology, Chemistry and Physics in Year 9.
The top set follows the three individual Science GCSEs at an accelerated pace, and other pupils study the Combined GCSE Science (trilogy) course, in which pupils are still taught content across all three sciences but receive two GCSE grades rather than three; there is less content compared to the three individual sciences. All of our pupils therefore gain either two or three GCSEs, with both routes feeding into AS Science courses in Sixth Forms.
Clubs include Science club and 3-D printing for Y7 & Y8, Young Engineers for Y9, Y10 and Y11. Classroom learning is further brought to life through educational trips such as the Big Bang UK Young Scientists & Engineers Fair that showcases the exciting and rewarding work opportunities available, as well as visits to the National Space Centre in Leicester and GCSE Science Live Conference in Oxford.
In addition to curriculum trips, pupils regularly represent the School in competitions and challenge events, such as the Salters’ Festival of Chemistry.
Pupils begin their GCSE Science courses in each of the three disciplines of Biology, Chemistry and Physics in Year 9.
The top set follows the three individual Science GCSEs at an accelerated pace, and other pupils study the Combined GCSE Science (trilogy) course, in which pupils are still taught content across all three sciences but receive two GCSE grades rather than three; there is less content compared to the three individual sciences. All of our pupils therefore gain either two or three GCSEs, with both routes feeding into AS Science courses in Sixth Forms.
Clubs include Science club and 3-D printing for Y7 & Y8, Young Engineers for Y9, Y10 and Y11. Classroom learning is further brought to life through educational trips such as the Big Bang UK Young Scientists & Engineers Fair that showcases the exciting and rewarding work opportunities available, as well as visits to the National Space Centre in Leicester and GCSE Science Live Conference in Oxford.
In addition to curriculum trips, pupils regularly represent the School in competitions and challenge events, such as the Salters’ Festival of Chemistry.
At Key Stage 4, ICT is offered as a core or optional subject. The core ICT programme currently follows the International Certification in Digital Literacy (ICDL), a vocational qualification that helps to advance computer skills. The optional ICT is the OCR Computer Science at GCSE course, further developing the understanding of computer systems and skills in problem solving and programming.
Dance is taught at Key Stage 3 and subsequently GCSE level in our Dame Kelly Holmes Sports Centre, with a specialist Dance Studio housing facilities such as barres, mirrors and a fully sprung Harlequin floor.
At GCSE level, pupils follow a theoretical and practical curriculum. The course covers:
Pupils are encouraged to see a wide range of live performances, with trips organised throughout the two-year GCSE course. Dance workshops involving different year groups occur as part of the enrichment programme.
Taught in our 200-seat Dame Judy Dench Theatre with dedicated studio, and with unique performance experiences in our outdoor amphitheatre, pupils enjoy practical and theory-based learning. A full-time Theatre Technician is on-hand to ensure the smooth running of top quality productions, and providing pupils with the opportunity to learn technical skills.
Drama is a popular choice at GCSE level, and the department is rightly proud of its consistently excellent examination results.
There are ample opportunities for those who wish to pursue drama in more depth outside of the curriculum through drama clubs, competitions and productions. The school also offers the opportunity to pursue LAMDA qualifications, which at the higher levels contribute to the UCAS University entry tariff.
The English department aims to inspire a love of language and literature, providing a broad, balanced and exciting curriculum for pupils throughout their Senior School years. We see English as central to all experiences, believing that it empowers the individual. Our mission is to help pupils to become independent thinkers and to find their individual voice. Skills in written and verbal communication are developed from Year 7 until the end of the GCSE course, such that pupils learn to express themselves in the most compelling ways possible, through the power of language and delights of literature. Our rich and varied curriculum caters for all, fostering the creativity, clarity of communication and independent thinking skills needed to succeed across all subject disciplines.
Pupils follow the Key Stage 4 curriculum in English Language and Literature.
The English department also offers a broad and exciting co-curricular programme. Regular theatre trips and workshops aim to enrich and expand pupils’ appreciation and passion for literature, together with a variety of clubs including a current affairs group, creative writing and poetry and weekly book discussion groups, and the School Magazine (The Chronicle) editorial team.
The subject develops an understanding of the theory of food science, nutrition and healthy eating, and pupils learn to prepare and cook a wide range of foods.
The Food Room is fully equipped with food preparation equipment, an electric oven and gas hob and a sink. Pupils are encouraged to build confidence in their practical skills so as to work as independently as possible. The School provides all ingredients for practical lessons.
The Food Preparation and Nutrition GCSE course further develops practical and scientific food preparation skills and knowledge, with pupils also earning a Level 2 Food Safety and Hygiene certificate. Year 10 pupils have the opportunity to take part in the local Rotary Chef competition. Year 9 and 10 pupils are able to take part in a Christmas cake club, entering their cakes into the school’s renowned Christmas cake competition.
Our vibrant Modern Languages department encourages a love of languages and appreciation of cultures from the start of Senior School, with French and Spanish studied as core subjects at Key Stage 3 (Years 7-9 inclusive). Our passionate department includes several native French and Spanish speakers, and language classrooms are equipped with the latest technology to enhance learning in more visual and kinaesthetic ways.
In Year 9 we start the syllabus for GCSE in both languages. During the last term pupils choose to continue with one or both languages to complete the course in Y10 and Y11.
Our popular GCSE courses achieve excellent results year on year, with many pupils going on to study languages at A level and beyond. Trips are offered to Sevilla in Year 9 and Paris and Madrid in Year 10. Trips are offered at an appropriate stage of learning in order to gain maximum benefit.
Geography is not just an academic subject; it aims to impact lives, supporting the School vision for pupils to become ‘active, compassionate citizens who make significant and lasting contributions to others throughout their lives.’ This enthusiasm for making a difference in the world continues to translate to real-life project outcomes; Abbot’s Hill pupils have previously supported sustainable aid projects in Sri Lanka and Madagascar, supplying clean water and sanitation to schools, building a cook house and canteen, and setting up a microfinance initiative, to name but a few.
GCSE Geography is a popular option; the Pearson/Edexcel syllabus specification builds on the topics and skills taught during Key Stage 3. With a balance of human and physical units, it offers a secure foundation for Advanced Level studies. Fieldwork focuses on rivers and urban settlement in Yorkshire.
Fieldwork takes place within the school grounds, in the surrounding area and as part of residential fieldwork courses. Supporting the topics taught in the classroom, fieldwork helps students to investigate and understand the world around them; it’s fun too!
The study of History at Abbot’s Hill leads pupils on an exciting journey of discovery and understanding of events and periods of time that have shaped our current world. Our passionate, specialist teachers provide thought-provoking and challenging lessons, promoting independent investigation and interpretation of the past.
The popular GCSE course in Years 10 and 11 is varied and interesting. The Medicine in Britain unit provides pupils with an excellent grounding in chronological and thematic understanding, as well as an opportunity to explore elements of change and continuity in history. Pupils will also undertake a depth study of World War One trenches, focusing on treatment of the wounded soldier. Other units of study include the Cold War / International Relations between 1945 and 1991, Early Elizabethan England and The USA throughout the Vietnam War. Pupils are able to develop their skills in source analysis and evaluation throughout the units of study.
Co-curricular visits provide support and stimulus for the syllabus material. Historical articles and podcasts are shared with students to extend their learning and interest in broader historical themes. Bring home the bravery and sacrifice of those young men who went to fight. Going to New York and Washington brought home the Civil Rights and Vietnam learning; the African American museum is an amazing institution.
Mathematics is a core subject, studied by all pupils to GCSE level and contributing to many other areas of the curriculum, such as Science and Technology. Pupils benefit from small class sizes and dynamic teaching, an environment that ensures each and every one achieves to their full ability.
At GCSE level, pupils continue to be taught in sets and follow the Edexcel Linear GCSE, specification 1MA1. They will build on the strong foundations of the Key Stage 3 curriculum and continue to expand their understanding of mathematical concepts. When appropriate, pupils are offered the opportunity to extend their mathematical ability through more advanced qualifications such as Edexcel Awards in Algebra at either Level 2 or 3 depending on their age.
Media Studies is an exciting and interesting option subject that is offered to pupils at GCSE. As different media become part of our everyday lives through television, radio, social networking sites, newspapers and advertising, it is important to appreciate the power and influences these have over us. With a focus on both analytical skills and creativity, Media Studies has consistently proved to be a popular and rewarding subject of choice.
At GCSE, pupils study three components: Exploring the media; Understanding media forms and products; Creating media products. Pupils assess media language, representation, audiences and industries in relation to media areas, such as magazines, marketing (film posters and advertisements), newspapers and radio. As part of the NEA (Non Examined Assessment) which is worth 30% of the final marks, an individual media production project is undertaken in response to a choice of briefs.
Over the past 2 years, as Year 11 pupils come to the end of their GCSEs and start preparing for A-Levels, they have the opportunity to take part in a bridging programme in Film/Media Studie
Making music is central to the culture of Abbot’s Hill. Our dynamic department aims to fulfil the musical potential of every pupil, whether as a performer or a composer, fostering a love and appreciation for a wide variety of music. Pupils gain the skills and ability to express themselves musically, with regular performances in assemblies, concerts, workshops and recitals a key feature of school life.
In all years, the courses cover the core elements of performing, composing and listening. A variety of topics is studied, including:
From Year 10, pupils follow the Edexcel GCSE course..
It is expected that those who opt for this course will be conversant with the demands of ABRSM Grade 5 theory and will be able to perform at approximately Grade 5 level on at least one instrument or singing by the time of the examination at the end of Year 11.
There are many opportunities to go on trips to local and West End theatres, workshops and attend other musical events.
We offer a broad range of extra-curricular opportunities including individual lessons on a variety of instruments. There are a number of music ensembles and choirs that regularly perform at school events such as our annual Carol Service at St Albans Abbey and Commemoration Day.
Photography GCSE is offered to all pupils from Year 10 demonstrating interest and enthusiasm for the subject. Introduced at Abbot’s Hill in 2021, this practical and theory-based course covers a range of technical study areas including:
The course provides pupils with a greater sense of visual awareness, equipping them with skills such as:
The Abbot’s Hill PE and Games programme is rich and varied, aspirational and inclusive, true to our School vision ‘to engage each individual in physical education to develop self-confidence, resilience and a lifelong love for physical activity’.
Our exceptional on-site sporting facilities, coupled with the dedication, experience and high calibre of our teachers and coaches enable each pupil to follow her sporting ambition and to flourish and excel in her chosen field. Many pupils are chosen to play at county, regional and national level.
Many pupils opt for the full GCSE Physical Education course, studying the theory and practice of the curriculum and furthering their knowledge to lead a healthy, active lifestyle.
Year 10 pupils also have the opportunity to take the level 2 sport leaders qualification within their PE lesson, giving them great opportunities to learn life skills.
Pupils begin their GCSE Science courses in each of the three disciplines of Biology, Chemistry and Physics in Year 9.
The top set follows the three individual Science GCSEs at an accelerated pace, and other pupils study the Combined GCSE Science (trilogy) course, in which pupils are still taught content across all three sciences but receive two GCSE grades rather than three; there is less content compared to the three individual sciences. All of our pupils therefore gain either two or three GCSEs, with both routes feeding into AS Science courses in Sixth Forms.
Clubs include Science club and 3-D printing for Y7 & Y8, Young Engineers for Y9, Y10 and Y11. Classroom learning is further brought to life through educational trips such as the Big Bang UK Young Scientists & Engineers Fair that showcases the exciting and rewarding work opportunities available, as well as visits to the National Space Centre in Leicester and GCSE Science Live Conference in Oxford.
In addition to curriculum trips, pupils regularly represent the School in competitions and challenge events, such as the Salters’ Festival of Chemistry.
Responsibility for spiritual, moral, social and cultural development runs across the whole School, but the Philosophy, Ethics and Religious Studies department makes a significant contribution to the personal development and intellectual growth of all pupils. A wide range of beliefs, values and concepts are explored to teach pupils to think critically and independently; they are encouraged to respectfully listen to and critique others to clarify their own position.
Co-curricular activities to complement the curriculum include:
Our vibrant Modern Languages department encourages a love of languages and appreciation of cultures from the start of Senior School, with French and Spanish studied as core subjects at Key Stage 3 (Years 7-9 inclusive). Our passionate department includes several native French and Spanish speakers, and language classrooms are equipped with the latest technology to enhance learning in more visual and kinaesthetic ways.
In Year 9 we start the syllabus for GCSE in both languages. During the last term pupils choose to continue with one or both languages to complete the course in Y10 and Y11.
Our popular GCSE courses achieve excellent results year on year, with many pupils going on to study languages at A level and beyond. Trips are offered to Sevilla in Year 9 and Paris and Madrid in Year 10. Trips are offered at an appropriate stage of learning in order to gain maximum benefit.
