Fourth & Fifth Year (GCSE)

The Foundations of GCSE

Year 10 is a pivotal stage in a pupil’s academic journey, providing the essential foundation for GCSEs. At this stage, pupils engage in a broad and enriching curriculum designed to strengthen subject knowledge, develop key skills, and foster intellectual curiosity. It's not just about academic learning—it is also a time for pupils to develop independent thinking, discover new interests, and refine their aspirations for GCSE and beyond. Through engaging lessons, co-curricular opportunities, and subject-specialist teaching, pupils gain the confidence to make well-informed decisions about their GCSE subjects.

Core Subjects – The foundation of academic success

English Language & Literature – Developing strong communication skills through literature, creative writing and analysis

Mathematics – Building problem-solving abilities and analytical thinking

Science – Biology, Chemistry, and Physics taught as separate disciplines, fostering a deeper understanding of the natural world

Humanities & Social Sciences – Understanding the world and society

Geography – Exploring physical landscapes, human environments, and sustainability

History – Investigating key historical events and their impact on today’s world

Religious Studies – Examining philosophical and ethical questions, different faiths, and belief systems

PSHE (Personal, Social, Health & Economic Education) – Covering essential life skills, well-being, and Citizenship education

Creative & Performing Arts – Encouraging self-expression and artistic exploration

Art – Exploring various artistic techniques and developing creative thinking

Drama – Enhancing confidence, collaboration and performance skills

Music – Engaging in composition, performance and music theory

Modern & Classical Languages – Expanding global perspectives

Pupils choose from French, German, or Spanish, gaining proficiency in communication and cultural understanding

They may also opt to study an additional language, including Latin or Greek as well as Classical Civilisation, which provide insight into ancient cultures, literature and historical contexts

Physical Education – Promoting health, teamwork, and resilience

A varied programme of individual and team sports designed to enhance physical fitness, coordination, and leadership skills

Technology & Computing – Preparing for a digital world

Product Design – Encouraging innovation through product design, engineering, and practical problem-solving

Computer Science – Developing computational thinking, coding skills, and an understanding of digital systems

Food Preparation & Nutrition - TBC

Future Skills

In a forward-thinking approach to preparing pupils for life beyond the classroom, Godolphin has launched the "Future Skills Programme," an all-encompassing initiative designed to equip pupils with essential skills, values and a commitment to continuous learning.

Further Maths & Statistics

Further Maths -

Statistics -

Preparing for GCSE Success

Unlike many schools, we build our timetable around pupil choices rather than imposing fixed subject blocks. At GCSE level, pupils typically take eight or nine subjects, allowing for academic breadth while keeping workloads manageable. This approach ensures that pupils can dedicate sufficient time to each subject, leading to deeper understanding, reduced stress, and stronger academic outcomes. We do not offer ‘soft’ options, every subject is designed to challenge and stretch pupils appropriately. Selecting GCSE subjects is an important decision, and we encourage pupils to think carefully about their choices. Subjects should be chosen based on genuine enjoyment, enthusiasm, and ability, as well as their relevance to future study and career aspirations. A well-balanced selection ensures both variety and depth, helping pupils to develop a broad academic foundation while keeping their workload manageable. To support pupils in making informed decisions, we host a GCSE Information Evening in early March of Third Year, where both pupils and parents can learn more about the available options. Discussions with subject teachers and tutors follow throughout the term before the options form opens. Once choices have been submitted, the timetable is finalised in the summer term, ensuring that each pupil has a structured and balanced programme of study.