We are very excited to offer Year 10 the following subjects for GCSE or Level 1/Level 2 Courses:

• Art & Design (GCSE)
• Graphic Communication (GCSE)
• History (GCSE)
• Horticulture (Level 1)
• Home Cooking Skills (Level 1/2)
• Information Technology (Level 1/2)
• Music (Level 1)
• Photography (GCSE)
• Sport and Coaching Principles (Level 1/2)
• Textile Design (GCSE)
• 3D Art (GCSE)

The following information will explain what to expect from the subjects and what the qualification entails:

 

Art

The Art and Design course gives students the chance to explore their creativity through a wide range of artistic techniques and materials. From drawing and painting to mixed media, sculpture, and digital work. Students are encouraged to develop their own ideas and express themselves visually. They will study the work of artists from different times and cultures to inspire their thinking and help shape their own personal style. This subject supports creative freedom whilst building important skills in observation, experimentation, and self-expression. A GCSE in Art and Design can be a stepping stone to various creative careers, including but not limited to: graphic design, illustration, animation, art therapy, and working as a fine artist. It can also be a good foundation for careers in areas like interior design, fashion design, and web design.

 

Graphic Communication

This subject involves creating visual materials to convey information, ideas, and emotions using graphic elements like colour, icons, images, typography, and photographs. Students explore various areas like advertising, design for print, illustration, interactive design, and packaging. The course emphasises developing creative skills, understanding visual language, and refining practical techniques. They will study 2-3 projects with a final, externally set exam topic. A GCSE in Graphic Communication can open doors to various careers in design, communication, and related fields. These include graphic design, web design, illustration, animation, and roles in marketing and advertising. It can also lead to positions like digital content creator, social media coordinator, or even roles within print publishing.

 

History

History will allow the students to explore the past, understanding how historical events, people, and societies have shaped the world we live in today. Students will study different periods of history, from ancient civilisations to modern times, and learn how to analyse sources, develop arguments, and think critically about the past. Students will also explore how history connects to the present and influences current events. It is perfect for students who are curious about the world’s history and enjoy research, discussion, and uncovering the stories of the past. A GCSE in History can lead to various careers, both directly related to history and in fields where the analytical and critical thinking skills gained are valuable. These include roles like archivist, historian, teacher, journalist, and lawyer As well as careers in fields like archaeology, heritage management, and museum studies.

 

Horticulture

The Horticulture course gives students the opportunity to explore the world of plants, gardening, and landscaping. They will learn how to grow, maintain, and care for a variety of plants, from flowers and vegetables to trees and shrubs. Students will also gain practical skills in designing outdoor spaces and managing gardens. By studying topics like soil health, plant biology, and environmental sustainability, they will develop a strong understanding of how to work with nature. This subject is perfect for students who love the outdoors and are interested in pursuing careers in gardening, landscaping, or environmental management. A qualification in Horticulture can lead to a variety of entry-level jobs and careers within the horticultural sector. These include roles like nursery assistant, gardener, farm worker, and even florist. With experience and further training, you can advance to positions like horticultural manager, garden designer, or horticultural therapist.

 

Home Cooking Skills

This subject gives students the chance to learn about the exciting world of food and hospitality. They will develop practical skills in preparing and presenting food, as well as managing events and working in a restaurant or catering environment. Students will explore everything from cooking techniques and food safety to customer service and menu planning. By studying the industry and learning from professionals, they will gain a real-world understanding of what it takes to succeed in this dynamic field. This course is perfect for students with a passion for food, creativity, and providing excellent service. A Hospitality and Catering career offers a diverse range of roles, from front-of-house customer service to culinary arts and management. Common job titles include hotel receptionists, waiters, restaurant hosts, event planners, chefs, catering managers, and hotel managers.

 

Information Technology

IT will give the students the skills to work with technology and develop their understanding of how computers and digital systems function. Students will explore topics such as programming, network management, web design, and cybersecurity, learning how to solve problems and create digital solutions. Students will also gain practical experience using software tools and applications that are essential in today’s tech-driven world. This course is ideal for students interested in pursuing careers in technology, software development, or digital media. A wide range of careers are available within Information Technology, spanning technical roles like software engineering and network engineering to more specialized areas like cybersecurity and data science. Entry-level IT positions also include such as like IT support specialists and systems administrators. Additionally, IT graduates can find opportunities in business analysis, technical sales, and project management.

 

Music

At Courtlands School, our Key Stage 4 music curriculum is built around the interests, strengths, and goals of each student. The focus is on developing practical music skills in an inclusive, supportive environment. Students may have the opportunity to work towards rockschool graded exams in an instrument of their choice — such as keyboard, ukulele, or voice. These are nationally recognised qualifications that emphasise performance and creativity, without requiring formal music theory or the ability to read notation at early levels. For those interested in broader music learning, we may also offer a vocational qualification such as the RSL Level 1/2 Technical Award in Music Practitioners. This supports students in exploring music through performance, composition, and music knowledge, with flexible assessment tailored to individual needs. Whether a student’s goal is to improve on an instrument, gain a qualification, or simply enjoy making music, we aim to provide a pathway that is meaningful, motivating, and personalised.

 

Photography

In Photography students are encouraged to explore the work of well-known photographers from both the past and present. This helps them understand how photography can be used in many different ways, whether to tell stories, capture real-life moments, or express personal ideas. As they develop their own projects, students will use a range of creative techniques and processes suited to their chosen style of photography, helping them build both technical skills and artistic confidence. They will study 2-3 projects with a final, externally set, exam topic. A Photography GCSE can lead to various careers, especially in creative and visual fields. Some direct photography-related jobs include freelance photography, photojournalism, and various specialised roles like fashion, food, or event photography. Additionally, the skills gained can be applied to fields like graphic design, advertising, and even film/ video editing.

 

Sport and Coaching Principles

In choosing this course students will understand the key ideas behind coaching and sports development. Students will learn about different coaching styles, how to motivate athletes, and the best practices for training and improving sports skills. Students will also explore the principles of fitness, performance, and injury prevention, all whilst gaining hands-on experience in planning and delivering coaching sessions. This subject is ideal for those interested in becoming sports coaches, fitness trainers, or pursuing careers in sports development. The Sports and Coaching Principles course can lead to a variety of careers in the sports industry, including coaching, teaching, sports development, and management. You could also find work in areas like sports science, fitness, or sports administration.

 

Textile Design

Textiles Design allows students to explore creative design through fabric, materials, and surface decoration. They will experiment with techniques like printing, dyeing, embroidery, and construction to bring their ideas to life, whether through fashion, interior design, or textile art. By studying the work of both traditional and contemporary textile designers, students gain inspiration and a deeper understanding of the role textiles play in our everyday lives. This pathway is ideal for those who enjoy hands-on making, pattern, texture, and expressing ideas through fabric-based media. They will study 2-3 projects with a final, externally set, exam topic. A GCSE in Textile Design can open doors to a wide range of careers, particularly in creative and design-focused industries. It provides a strong foundation for further education and can be a stepping stone to roles like fashion designer, textile artist, or even a more technical position in textile manufacturing. It also supports a variety of support roles within these industries.

 

3D Design

In this three-dimensional design course, students get hands-on with designing and making real-world objects, products, and environments. The students explore how things are created from idea to prototype, using a variety of tools, materials, and processes, including computer-aided design and model making. By looking at the work of designers from both the past and present, students learn how function and appearance work together in successful designs. This pathway is perfect for creative minds who enjoy problem-solving and bringing ideas to life. They will study 2-3 projects with a final externally set, exam topic. A GCSE in 3D Design can lead to a variety of creative and technical careers. It provides a foundation for further study and can open doors to roles in fields like architecture, product design, engineering, and design-related industries.

 

 

Students will still have the compulsory four lessons a week in Maths, English and Science, as well as two lessons of PE, one lesson of RE and PSHE. This is so they have the potential of gaining at least 7 qualifications by the time they have completed Year 11.