KS4 Curriculum

At Eltham Hill, our Key Stage 4 (Years 9-11) curriculum is designed to provide a balanced, engaging, and supportive learning experience that enables every student to succeed and prepares them for their future aspirations.

Students begin their Key Stage 4 programme in Year 9, giving them three years to develop the knowledge, skills and confidence required for their qualifications. 

Core Curriculum 

All students follow a core curriculum that ensures a strong academic foundation: 

• English Language & English Literature 
• Mathematics 
• Science  
• Core PE  
• PSHE (Personal, Social, Health & Economic Education) 

Personalised Learning Pathways 

To cater to different learning needs, students follow one of three pathways that help them maximise their potential: 

Pathways

The EBacc Pathway – Academic Excellence 

For students performing at or above age-related expectations, this pathway includes subjects that support access to Russell Group Universities. Student’s study: 

• A language (French, Spanish, or another offered language) 
• History or Geography 
• At least one creative subject This pathway ensures a broad and balanced curriculum, highly valued by universities and employers. 

The Flexible Pathway – Broad and Balanced 

This pathway offers flexibility, allowing students to tailor their learning while keeping future options open. Students can choose whether to pursue the full EBacc and select a wider range of subjects, including creative and vocational options. 

The Success Pathway – Support and Achievement 

Designed for students needing extra support, this pathway offers: 

• Fewer GCSE subjects to allow for focused learning 
• Additional vocational and BTEC qualifications to develop real-world skills 
• Greater support for students who find exams challenging, ensuring they achieve the best possible outcomes for future education and employment. 

Option Choices 

In addition to the core subjects, students will personalise their learning by selecting from the following: 

• One option from our Creativity and Action Block – including subjects such as Art, Dance, Drama, Food, Media, Music, PE, Product Design and Textiles. 
• Two or three additional option choices (depending on their pathway) from a variety of subjects that support their interests and  aspirations  

Triple Science Explained 

Students initially follow the Combined Science course in Year 9. Based on their progress and teacher assessments, some students may transition to Triple Science in Year 10, where they will study Biology, Chemistry, and Physics as separate subjects. 

• Triple Science covers a broader and more in-depth curriculum compared to Combined Science. 
• Students in Combined Science will receive two GCSE grades, while those taking Triple Science will earn three distinct GCSEs. 
• Triple Science requires a greater commitment, as the course includes additional content and longer exams. 
• Both pathways provide strong foundations for A-Level Science and science-related careers, with Triple Science offering a more specialised route for students considering further scientific study. 

Supporting Success 

We guide students through progress reviews, teacher recommendations, and career advice to help them make the best choices. Our curriculum not only challenges students academically but also nurtures their creativity, wellbeing, and ambitions. 

What are GCSEs, BTECs, and EBACC?

GCSEs

GCSEs (General Certificate of Secondary Education) are the standard qualifications usually taken by 16-year-olds. GCSEs are suitable for students of all abilities and are assessed through examinations and, where applicable, coursework or other non-examination assessment.

GCSEs are graded from 9, the highest grade, to 1, the lowest grade. Grade 4 is generally considered a standard pass.

Parent guide to GCSE grading and  performance measures

BTECs

BTECs (Business and Technology Education Council) are applied learning and work-related qualifications available in a range of subjects. BTECs can be offered at different levels. At this key stage, Level 2 qualifications are offered at Eltham Hill School.

BTEC assessment may include coursework-based assignments and externally assessed components, depending on the specific qualification. The size and contribution of a BTEC depend on the qualification being studied, so students should check the relevant course information carefully.

Students considering post-16 study should also check the entry requirements for their chosen course.

EBacc: (English Baccalaureate)

The EBacc (English Baccalaureate) is a combination of GCSE subjects. It is not a separate qualification awarded to students.

The EBacc subjects are: English Language and English Literature, Mathematics, Two sciences, History or Geography, a modern foreign language

There is no additional study or work required outside these GCSE subjects. Choosing subjects that contribute to the EBacc can help students follow a broad and balanced curriculum and may keep a wide range of options open for Post-16 study.