Our KS4 Curriculum

We aim to develop future entrepreneurs and leaders by providing the conditions necessary to enable our students to thrive in a 21st Century environment. They should be knowledgeable, resilient, creative, and resourceful.

Students will develop a greater understanding and awareness of the world they live in, particularly how individuals and businesses work within an economy. They will be able to analyse and critically evaluate to make informed recommendations.

Our course is: Edexcel GCSE Business https://qualifications.pearson.com/en/qualifications/edexcel-gcses/business-2017.html

We aim to develop all students into effective practitioners in the workplace who:

• Are inspired and inquisitive; asking and answering questions about how technology has evolved and how it is used in the world (past and present).
• Can confidently use a wide range of software and are fully prepared for the demands of being a 21st digital citizen.
• Are successful in life and the working environment.
• Can begin to develop the knowledge and skills necessary to progress to GCSE and A-level Computer Science.

Our course is OCR GCSE Computer Science

Link to exam board information: https://www.ocr.org.uk/qualifications/gcse/computer-science-j277-from-2020/

Link to GCSE specification: https://www.ocr.org.uk/Images/558027-specification-gcse-computer-science-j277.pdf

At Key Stage 4, our 3D Design curriculum aims to equip students with the creative, technical, and practical expertise to participate confidently in an increasingly technological and design-oriented world. We nurture innovative problem solvers, critical thinkers, and ethical designers who understand how to develop solutions that are functional, creative and inspirational. We aim to inspire a passion for designing and making through engaging, real-world contexts. Encourage independent thinking, user-focused design, and iterative development. Prepare students for further study, apprenticeships, and careers in design, engineering, and creative industries.

Our curriculum is inclusive and ambitious for all learners, fostering resilience, precision, and curiosity through practical exploration and thoughtful reflection.

Our course is: AQA Art and Design - 3D Design 8205

Link to exam board information AQA | Art and Design | GCSE | GCSE Art and Design (Three-dimensional design)

GCSE English Literature and English Language at Bramcote College is full of creativity, passion and diversity. While fostering a love of reading, writing and speaking; we develop students as articulate readers, writers and critics, engaging students in vocabulary and creative writing. We motivate students to be imaginative, while inspiring their readers through fiction and non-fiction writing, building on knowledge and skills studied at KS3.

Our choice of engaging texts is linked to our virtues of building character and empathy. Our world can be explored from different perspectives, as students engage with a diverse range of voices, appreciating viewpoints from a variety of cultures and traditions. Students are encouraged to see themselves in the writers studied.

We teach conventions that arise from a broad and rich understanding of language, grammar, linguistics and rhetoric.  Students also use their knowledge of writers’ social, historical and cultural contexts to expand their insights, analysing how they depict their perspectives on themes and issues important to the way we lead our lives. Diversity respect and kindness are encouraged in our subject. We are not only focusing on texts and skills, but drawing lessons from the content of these texts, to ensure that work has an allegorical element, preparing students for their lives ahead.

Our courses are:

AQA GCSE English Literature: AQA | English | GCSE | GCSE English Literature  

AQA GCSE English Language: AQA | English | GCSE | GCSE English Language

We aim to develop students into thoughtful and informed geographers who understand both human and physical processes, appreciate diverse global perspectives, and recognise their role in promoting sustainability. Through a spiral curriculum and the study of varied global biomes, students build on prior knowledge to explore the complex relationships between people and environments across social, political, and cultural contexts.

Our course is AQA GCSE Geography: AQA | Geography | GCSE | GCSE Geography

Students will learn about human development, the factors that have an impact on meeting mile stones and how to maintain a healthy lifestyle. We are preparing students to be practitioners within the health and social care sectors, be that private or within the NHS.

Our course is Health and Social Care Cambridge National

Link to exam board information Cambridge Nationals - Health and Social Care Level 1/Level 2 – J835

Students can choose to further their studies at GCSE where we study some key stage three topics in more depth such as Germany 1919-1939 and Elizabeth I.  There are also opportunities to study new topics: Spain and the New World  and Medicine through Time.  Through these topics, students develop critical thinking skills, the ability to evaluate both primary sources and different interpretations of history.  Enrichment is provided through opportunities to visit external sites of historical interest which include a trip to the battlefields in Belgium and France as well as continuing to take part in online workshops with the National Archives.

Our course is: Edexcel History GCSE

Link to exam board information: https://qualifications.pearson.com/en/qualifications/edexcel-gcses/history-2016.html

Our KS4 Hospitality and Catering curriculum is designed to equip students with the knowledge, practical skills, and professional behaviours needed to thrive in one of the UK’s largest and most dynamic employment sectors. We aim to inspire a new generation of confident, capable, and creative individuals who are prepared to meet the demands of modern hospitality, catering, and food service environments. Through engaging and applied learning, we aim to develop core culinary skills and a strong understanding of food preparation, hygiene, nutrition, and presentation. We build knowledge of the hospitality and catering industry, including roles, business operations, customer needs, and legal responsibilities. We promote essential employability attributes such as time management, teamwork, communication, and professionalism. We foster a deep appreciation for healthy eating, sustainability, and food provenance in both domestic and commercial contexts.

Our course is: WJEC Level 1-2 Hospitality and Catering Level 1/2 Vocational Award in Hospitality and Catering

At Bramcote College we believe every student can be successful in maths and make progress with the subject. Our curriculum is based on developing a balance between developing pupils’ procedural fluency and conceptual understanding in the subject, and ensuring links are made with prior learning in a coherent sequence.

Our course is: GCSE Maths, AQA 8300 information on the course can be found here https://www.aqa.org.uk/subjects/mathematics/gcse/mathematics-8300/specification

There will be three exam papers at the end of the course and topics from across the course can be assessed on any of the three papers. Paper 1 is a non-calculator paper and papers 2 and 3 are calculator. Students should have their own calculator and we recommend Casio FX85 or FX83 calculators, these can be purchased from the school at a reduced price through MCAS.

In addition to the above, those in year 10 and 11 set 1 will study the content for level 2 further maths and sit this exam at the end of year 11 as well as their maths GCSE. More information on this course can be found here https://www.aqa.org.uk/subjects/mathematics/aqa-certificate/mathematics-8365/specification .

The Media Studies curriculum fosters students' creative, analytical, and communication skills by teaching them to critically engage with and interpret a wide range of media products using key theoretical frameworks. Through a carefully structured program combining analytical study and practical application, students become confident, independent thinkers capable of evaluating and producing media with insight and creativity.

Our course is GCSE WJEC/Eduqas Media Studies and exam board information can be found here: GCSE Media Studies | Eduqas

The KS4 Music Curriculum follows the specification published by Eduqas for their L1/2 Vocational Award in Performing Arts (music). The course teaches students how to plan and prepare for a significant performance, and how to conduct themselves onstage appropriately given the circumstances of the performance. Students learn to compose music to an industry brief using either their instrument, technology, or a blended of both. Throughout the course, students learn to document their progress and become more conscientious and reflective practitioners. Through the Planning an Arts Event unit, students learn to conduct themselves as a professional artist which supports them in developing their own style and sense of individuality. This course creates learners who can perform, respond to a brief and evaluate their work and the work of others, consistently striving for development and self-improvement. This course focuses on improving students’ practical skills as well as teaching how to articulate their thoughts in a coherent, logical and professional manner.

Our course is the Eduqas L1/2 Vocational Award in Performing Arts (Music) and exam board information can be found here: Level 1/2 Vocational award in Performing Arts

The KS4 Curriculum follows the specification given by Pearson for their BTEC Tech Award Level 1/2 in Performing Arts. The BTEC teaches learners how to conduct themselves as a professional artist and supports them in developing their own techniques and sense of individuality. This course creates learners that can perform, respond to a brief and evaluate their work and the work of others, consistently striving for development and self-improvement. This course focuses on improving students performance skills as well as teaching how to articulate their ideas and the concepts of others to ensure a balance of theory and practice.

Our course is: Pearson BTEC Tech Award Level 1/2 in Performing Arts: https://qualifications.pearson.com/content/dam/pdf/btec-tec-awards/performing-arts/2022/specification-and-sample-assessments/btec-tech-award-performing-arts-spec.pdf

The Photography curriculum aims to inspire students with a passion for the subject by equipping them with a wide range of creative and technical skills, encouraging independent thinking through research, experimentation, and analysis. It is structured around engaging mini topics that build foundational knowledge and artistic confidence, culminating in two portfolios of work that showcase each student’s unique style and development.

Our course is GCSE WJEC/Eduqas Art and Design (Photography) and exam board information can be found here: GCSE Art and Design | Eduqas

Our psychology curriculum helps students to explore human behaviour through the discussion of the nature nurture debate. We prepare young people for a life where they can understand differences and make positive decisions about how they can contribute to society.

Our course is GCSE Edexcel Psychology and exam board information can be found here: Edexcel Psychology (9-1) from 2017 | Pearson qualifications

Within the Science Faculty, we endeavour to deliver an inspiring and relevant curriculum, preparing students for a global society where science and innovation is at the forefront of technological developments. Our curriculum is delivered within a nurturing environment, founded on strong relationships between our staff and students. The curriculum across all key stages and disciplines is designed to engage, enthuse and challenge through development of skills in research, investigation, analysis and evaluation. We encourage our students to be curious, independent, confident thinkers who will persevere until they are successful at solving the most challenging problems. The science curriculum allows our students many opportunities to consider their responsibilities within the wider world, enabling them to reflect on the ethical and moral issues associated with scientific progression. This enables them to consider multiple viewpoints and express their own opinions with confidence and integrity.

Our KS4 Curriculum Plan:

(Topics are taught on rotation across the year)

Our course is:  AQA GCSE Combined Science (Trilogy): AQA | Science | GCSE | GCSE Combined Science: Trilogy

We also offer alternative courses for students who may benefit from them.  We plan these each year based on the needs of the students in each cohort.

Alternative Pathway KS4 Curriculum Plan (1):

Courses covered are AQA Entry Level Certificate Science (Single Award) and AQA GCSE Physics (Foundation Tier)

AQA | Science | ELC | ELC Science

AQA | Physics | GCSE | GCSE Physics

Alternative Pathway KS4 Curriculum Plan (2):

Our course is AIM Level 1 Certificate in Science

AIM Qualifications Level 1 Certificate in Science

Students will engage with a range of Sociological Theories in order to address current debates and issues in society. Students are encouraged to develop well-constructed arguments, supported by research and concepts, drawing logical conclusions.

Our course is Eduqas GCSE Sociology and a link to exam board information can be found here:  GCSE Sociology | Eduqas

At Key Stage 4, the Spanish curriculum is designed to build on the solid foundations developed at KS3 and to prepare students for successful outcomes in the Pearson Edexcel GCSE Spanish qualification. Our intent is to foster confident, independent language learners who are equipped with the skills, knowledge, and cultural awareness to communicate effectively and meaningfully in Spanish.

Our curriculum aims to:

• Consolidate and extend students' understanding of Spanish grammar, vocabulary, and phonology, enabling them to manipulate language for a range of purposes and audiences.
• Develop competence across the four key skills: Listening, Speaking, Reading, and Writing, with integrated practice of Translation and Spontaneous Conversation.
• prepare students to succeed in the Pearson Edexcel GCSE Spanish exam by familiarising them with the format, question types, and assessment objectives across all components.
• Encourage students to express personal opinions, describe experiences, and discuss real-world issues using increasingly complex language.
• Promote intercultural understanding by exploring the diversity and richness of the Spanish-speaking world.
• Inspire learners to see the value of Spanish as a skill for travel, study, work, and global citizenship in an interconnected world.

Our KS4 Spanish curriculum is inclusive and ambitious for all learners. We provide appropriate support and challenge to enable all students, regardless of prior attainment or background, to achieve their full potential and, where appropriate, progress to A-Level or further language study.

Our course is Edexcel GCSE Spanish and exam board information can be found here: Pearson Edexcel GCSE Spanish (2024) | Pearson qualifications

PE at Bramcote College aims to provide a broad, engaging and challenging curriculum that allows all students to achieve beyond their expectations. As well as improving performance in a range of sports and activities, we also aim to develop the social and emotional well-being of our students.

Priorities

• Offer a wide variety of sporting opportunities
• Build strong characters
• Gain an understanding of the benefits of physical activity
• Achieving excellence (not just in performance)
• Encouraging a lifelong enjoyment of physical activity.

The PE curriculum is flexible and can be tailored to suit the specific needs of the students. We offer excellent opportunities to develop a healthy life-long love of physical activity through first class teaching and learning, building successful, employable and physically active young people with a skill set that can be used throughout life.

Students will develop physical, personal, technical and cognitive skills; enhanced by an embedded focus on values such as resilience, respect and confidence.  They will experience a variety of opportunities and experiences that support this vision, challenging them inside and outside the classroom. Students will focus on improving their health, fitness and well-being through knowledge and application. Leadership skills also take a strong emphasis throughout, with students being able to take on additional roles other than just a performer. 

In years 10 and 11 students will continue to develop their character and physical competence as well as increasing their knowledge and understanding of the value of life long participation in Sport. This is done by ensuring lessons are both engaging and purposeful as well as additional opportunities for students to ‘try something new’ in the form of alternative sports. Students can also opt to study a BTEC Level 2 in Sport from Y10, equivalent to one GCSE.

Religious Studies & Personal Development aims to develop empowered individuals who are able to thrive in our modern world, taking an active role in society and maintain healthy relationships. Our curriculum underpins core British Values, enabling students to become confident, inclusive, accepting & understanding individuals. They will become skilled in thinking critically, reasoning and justifying their own ideas about spiritual, cultural and moral concepts as well as being able to challenge the ideas of others in a respectful manner.

We follow a spiral curriculum with 4 main areas that are revisited each year:

• Relationships and Sex Education,
• Health and Wellbeing,
• Living in the Wider Word,
• Religious Studies

Topics and themes are introduced to match the developmental stage of students and revisited to deepen knowledge & refine skills. Our Personal Development curriculum at Key Stage 4 encompasses the wider learning which pupils need as they move towards life in the wider world.  Students have 2 lessons each week of Personal Development.  In one (PDb) they cover Citizenship education, Careers education and preparation for the world of work. In the other (PDa) they complete their PSHE and Religious Studies topics.

Parents have the right to withdraw their children from religious education and/or collective worship.

From age 16, pupils can choose for themselves to opt out of collective worship if they wish. However, they cannot opt out of receiving religious education without parental consent until they are 18.

Please contact the school if you would like to discuss the withdrawal of your child from any aspect of Religious Education.