Fifth Form
Typically, most students in Years 10 and 11 study 9 GCSE subjects from a wide choice of subjects. All pupils study English Language and Literature and Mathematics. Most will start studying three separate Sciences, by the summer term of the L5th year the Science Department will assess which pupils should continue with Separate Sciences and which should switch to Dual Award. Single Science is also an option for those whose main interests lie away from Science, but is only is recommended for those who are struggle equally in both Maths and Science. This option should be discussed with departments before any firm choices are made.
Pupils may then chose four optional subjects from: Art, Design Technology, Drama, Music, Information Technology, Geography, History, Religious Studies, Physical Education, French, Spanish, Latin, Greek and Mandarin.
Dyslexic students usually forego their foreign language option in order to receive help from our specialist Dyslexic Unit, run by Mrs Bernadine Walsh. All students receive a great deal of support from classroom teachers, with extra clinics provided after hours for those who need it.
It is during the 2 year GCSE courses that most students begin to gravitate towards those subjects which they will ultimately take at A level.
In the summer of 2009, our students achieved a pass rate of 76% of A* and A grades.
GCSE Target Grades
All Lower 5th and Upper 5th pupils' interims have a GCSE target grade included for each subject which I hope communicates our expectations and belief in their abilities. The targets are set by the Head of Department working alongside the subject teacher and are based on base line tests of general academic potential (MIDYIS) as well as on going departmental assessments. The targets indicate the grade I hope your child is capable of achieving at the end of a two year course of study assuming that they work reasonably hard. The targets are subject to regular review which may result in changes, and they are set above national norms to refect typical value added by a Brighton College education.