Ages 14–16: Key Stage 4
Between the ages of 14 and 16 your child will be in years 10 and 11 studying Key Stage 4 at secondary school.
When your child is aged 11–14, most of what they study is set by their school, following the National Curriculum. Between the ages of 14 and 16 two things change:
- pupils study subjects in more depth. This means they must choose some and stop studying others.
- most pupils work towards qualifications at 16 – although traditionally these qualifications have usually been GCSEs, there is now an increasing range of qualifications on offer – see below.
For an overview of what is taught at Key Stage 4, and how you can help your child to learn, visit the Department for Children, Schools and Families (DCSF), formerly DfES Parent Centre.
What does my child learn at Key Stage 4?
All secondary schools in East Sussex teach the National Curriculum. This sets out the minimum educational entitlement for childen in state funded schools (also known as maintained schools). It does not apply in private schools (also known as independent schools), although most choose to follow it.
To find out in detail how each subject will be covered through the school year visit the National Curriculum website.
For a comprehensive introduction to the different options, see the Directgov website.
GCSEs
Most pupils will take GCSE qualifications in National Curriculum and vocational subjects at the end of the Key Stage 4 (year 11), at age 16. A few pupils may be entered for GCSE subjects a year early.
Most pupils will take their GCSEs through one or more of the three main awarding bodies (exam boards):
Other qualifications
Some Key Stage 4 pupils may find that GCSEs are not the best qualifications to meet their needs. This could be because GCSEs do not suit their style of learning, or because they would prefer to follow a course of study more directly relevant to the world of work.
Schools in East Sussex are therefore offering an increasing range of qualifications alongside GCSEs. These include:
In some instances, pupils will find GCSEs too challenging and may require a less demanding qualification. The choice of alternative qualifications will be discussed between parents, students, their tutor and if needed, a Connexions PA, at options time. Alternative courses include:
- Increased Flexibility courses, which offer pupils a chance to study vocational subjects in college, along with some time in the workplace
- Entry Level qualifications, for those who may struggle with GCSEs.
You can find more in-depth advice about qualifications on the Qualifications and Curriculum Authority's 14-19 learning website.
After the exams
Depending on your child’s results, there are a wide range of options available to them post-16. For advice about choices after GCSEs visit our page on post-16 and higher education.
