Qualifications & Examinations

With support from families and the staff team, we help learners decide on which qualifications they can achieve and what they require for their next phase/Post-16 options.

Our GCSE programme provides a fantastic educational pathway that all KS4 learners have the opportunity to access.

Mathematics

The Edexcel GCSE in Mathematics provides a broad and coherent course of study. It encourages learners to develop confidence in, and a positive attitude towards, mathematics and to recognise the importance of mathematics in their own lives and to society. This specification enables learners to:

• develop fluent knowledge, skills and understanding of mathematical methods and concepts;
• acquire, select and apply mathematical techniques to solve problems;
• reason mathematically, make deductions and inferences and draw conclusions; and
• comprehend, interpret and communicate mathematical information in a variety of forms appropriate to the information and context.

Assessment consists of two examinations, one non-calculator paper and one calculator paper.

English

The Edexcel English Language GCSE provides a specification designed to be highly accessible, broad and interesting.

Learners develop their ability to read critically, write effectively and coherently, use grammar correctly and expand their vocabulary.

Assessment for GCSE English Language consists of two written examinations, within which spelling, punctuation and grammar make up 20%. Speaking skills are also assessed, but do not contribute to the overall grade.

Art

Some of the highest forms of human creativity are embodied in art, craft, and design. Equipping learners with the knowledge and skills to explore, experiment, invent, and create their own works of art, craft, and design are enabled through a high-quality art and design education.

At Highgate Hill House School our art curriculum aims to develop creativity and ideas, increasing proficiency in execution. Through comparing differences and similarities between creative disciplines and practices, looking at major art movements and making informed and critical observations and then comments about own and others’ work, our learners develop critical thinking, communication skills, and reasoned judgement.

Our aim is to support our learners in becoming proficient in drawing, painting, sculpture and other art, craft and design techniques. Through the GCSE Art course, learners can fully explore personal responses to given topics through developing portfolios, studying artists, and researching both primary and secondary resources.

The skills learned from engaging in creative activities not only benefit overall wellbeing but are also transferable to many other aspects of life.

Those learners not participating in GCSE courses in KS4, are able to pursue Functional Skills qualifications in English, maths and ICT. These qualifications provide a foundation which helps learners progress into further education and develop skills for every day life.

Functional Skills English qualifications enable learners to develop confidence and fluency in, and a positive attitude towards English. Learners will be able to competently use English in the real world and gain a sound grasp of basic English knowledge and skills.

Functional Skills maths qualifications enable learners to gain confidence in using mathematics. Learners will show a sound grasp of the basic and underpinning math’s skills at the appropriate level, and apply mathematical thinking to solve simple problems in familiar situations.

At HHHS, we are proud to offer a diverse range of vocational qualifications and learning programmes. These programmes are carefully designed to align with specific employment sectors while also supporting the development of essential social and life skills.

Our vocational qualifications span from Entry Level 2 to Level 2 and provide practical, hands-on learning experiences. These opportunities enable learners to acquire vital skills that support progression into further education, future employment, or the enhancement of personal independence. Vocational subjects include areas such as cooking and food hygiene, plant propagation and horticulture, as well as health, beauty, and fitness.

New for 2025/26, HHHS is expanding its Key Stage 4 curriculum to include a variety of vocational and GCSE options. Learners will be able to choose from the following qualifications:

• BTEC Home Cooking Skills (Level 1 and Level 2)

• BTEC Sport (Level 1)

• BTEC Art (Introductory)

• BTEC Vocational

• OCR Independent Living Awards

These qualifications offer a balanced blend of practical learning and theoretical knowledge, serving as an excellent foundation for learners as they continue their educational journey and prepare for future career pathways.

All Year 10 learners are given the opportunity to participate in a structured work experience placement. This takes place at a local holiday park and provides valuable exposure to a variety of vocational roles,