Key Stage 4

Key Stage 4 (Years 10 and 11)

At present the subjects studied in Years 10 and 11 are English, English Literature, Mathematics, Combined Science (2 subjects) or the three separate sciences - Biology, Chemistry, Physics for Science set 1, Design and Technology, (one of four options) French, OCR Religious Education, OCR National (ICT) and a choice from the following options scheme: Two subjects from History, Geography, Art & Design, Music or Physical Education (GCSE). A selected group of students will use the two option choices to study for the DIDA (Diploma in Digital Applications) equivalent to 1, 2, or 4 GCSEs. (Those studying the three separate sciences choose one option subject).

In addition, a programme of Learning for Life, including Citizenship, Sex Education, Careers Education and Work Related Learning and Enterprise Education and PE and Games are taken by all boys. St Margaret’s takes a crosscurricular approach, building on content in existing National Curriculum subject areas and extending Citizenship concepts in specific Learning for Life lessons. The school has encouraged community partners to be involved in our programme including Liverpool Trading Standards, Merseyside Police and the British Heart Foundation. Topics covered include rights and responsibilities, the European Union, “a democratic society”, sustainable development and the legal system.

Students’ personal development is outstanding. Students demonstrated excellent attitudes and a high level of maturity in their discussions with inspectors. Some specifically commented on the good use of assessment in some lessons which helped them improve their work.

[Ofsted 2007]