GCSEs

The GCSE programme allows students to study four GCSE subjects in one academic year. We have an excellent track record of achieving outstanding results and many of our GCSE students continue onto our BTEC courses or go on to A Level. A number of selected students may be offered five GCSEs – subject to prior attainment and successful interview.

Students are able to make their own choice of subjects they wish to study from our rich range of subjects available (13 in total!). Many students choose to take a subject they have previously studied at school but failed to achieve at grade C/4; however, it is also possible to choose a subject that is completely new. If a student has not achieved a minimum of grade C/4 in GCSE English Language and/or GCSE Mathematics, these subjects are compulsory.

All students studying GCSE will have a dedicated personal tutor, weekly group tutorial meetings with their personal tutor, and termly one-to-one individual tutorials. Please see the Kingston College Study Programme for further details.

The GCSE programme of study also provides students with opportunities to take part in enrichment activities including sports, business enterprises, field trips, outdoor pursuits and social activities. It also offers a parents' induction evening at the start of the course and parents' consultation evenings with written reports at the end of the Autumn and Spring terms.

English and Mathematics

To prepare students for further/higher education and working life, it is now a national requirement that students achieve Grade C/4 or above in English and Mathematic GCSE. 

Here at Kingston College students will study English and Mathematics as part of their Study Programme to give them the opportunity to achieve grade C/4 or better.  All 16-18 year old students on any programme who have:

• Grade D/3 in English and/or Mathematics will do GCSEs
• Grade E/2 or below will be enrolled on Functional Skills Level 1
• Grade F/1 or no previous grade in GCSE Maths/English, will be enrolled on Entry Level 3 Functional Skills
• If Functional Skills Level 1 is achieved at Kingston College, students might have an opportunity to progress onto GCSE
• All others will be assessed at entry using any international qualifications students may have or our own testing.

Employability Skills

Developing your employability skills with us is key to helping students achieve their university and their career dreams. At Kingston College we have a range of employability skills events and activities. We call this programme ‘Inspiring Futures’. All of our learners must undertake a one-week work experience placement, as part of their study programme. 

Enrichment

As part of our Study Programme, we give students the opportunity to get involved in a whole range of events. For example, students will have access to our Arena Gym and participate in talent shows, just to mention two! Important parts of this programme are our thriving Student Council, Student Voice and our own Students’ Union (KCSU).