Students start in Year 7, when they are aged 11. They go up a year each September, so their last year is Year 11, when they become 16.
The National Curriculum sets out the subjects that can or must be studied at school. It also sets out the topics and skills to be taught within each subject.
Years 7, 8 and 9 are grouped together into Key Stage 3 (KS3) of the National Curriculum. At the end of KS3, students take national tests (called Sats) in English, maths and science, and choose which other subjects (‘options’) they want to specialise in for the next two years.
At the end of Key Stage 3, most students will be working at or beyond level 5 of the National Curriculum.
Years 10 and 11 are grouped together into Key Stage 4 (KS4) of the National Curriculum. At the end of KS4, students take GCSEs in a wide range of subjects.
Many students take GCSEs in their
strongest subjects in Year 10, Year
9 – or even Year 8, if they are ready.
There are then some opportunities to
take AS level examinations while still
at Forest Gate. This is one example of
what Forest Gate can do for its more
able students.
Key Stage 4 students can also take courses that lead to the new Diploma qualification.
Through the Diploma, students can access the skills, knowledge and experiences they need to be successful in the world of work. Students use a wider range of learning styles than on a traditional GCSE course, including team work and practical, theoretical, work-related and independent learning. Courses take place in schools, colleges and work placements across Newham.
We offer courses at two Diploma levels.
Students can progress on to an Advanced (Level 3) course when they go on to college at 16.
We offer Diplomas in society, health & development and in business administration & finance. From 2010, we will be able to offer more Diploma options.
