GCSE Years 10 and 11

In Years 10 and 11 a full GCSE course is followed and an individual timetable for each student is arranged.  It is expected that all pupils will take the six core subjects of: English Language, Literature, French, Mathematics and Science Double Award, plus up to four optional subjects.  Able pupils who gain Level 7 in Key Stage 3 National Curriculum tests may sit triple science. A second language is available at an additional cost on request; German, Panjabi, Arabic or Hindi. We only encourage more able pupils to take over 8 subjects, as the extra burden of coursework can have a detrimental effect on their grades.  Government legislation states that statistical results and value added will be given on the pupil’s best 8 GCSE subjects taken in Year 11.

GCSE Speaking and Listening Assignments take place on a weekly basis in the senior school in order to give pupils practice in speaking in front of large audiences.

Options

Options vary from year to year according to pupils interests.  In the past they have included:

  • PE

  • Geography

  • History

  • ICT

  • Textiles

  • Art

  • Dance

  • Music

  • Drama

GCSE Entry Level

GCSE Entry Level can be taken by pupils who are insecure in Mathematics and/or English.  This approach can enable less able pupils to achieve and improve their confidence and self esteem.  This gives a stepping-stone to either the more demanding GCSE level or the Basic Skills courses used by Colleges of Further Education.

GCSE Results 2007 for St Crispin's School

GCSE Results 2007 for Leicester City

 

GNVQ Level 1 and Leicester City Cluster

For pupils who are more practical than academic, 'Link' courses with Leicester College are available, leading to GNVQ Level 1.  This is taken alongside a reduced number of GCSE subjects.  This allows a less academic route to Further Education Colleges, giving them the confidence to move forwards at the end of their time at St. Crispin's.  In 2005 and 2006 one of our pupils gained the 'most improved student' award.

Practical taster sessions have also been set up with Leicester City Cluster giving pupils a chance to try taster sessions lasting for one term at Leicester College.  These have included:  light engineering, painting and decorating, bakery, photography and electrical engineering.  Pupils are awarded Bronze, Silver and Gold Certificates at the end of each session for attendance, punctuality and effort. The pupils enjoy these taster sessions and have made some very interesting items to either keep or eat!

National Diplomas

We are currently researching which National Diploma to run along side the current GCSE programme.

Career support

The careers service - Connexions - make regular visits to the school to discuss the options available for 16 year old leavers, whether academic or vocational.  They provide pupils with CV and interview technique workshops.