Join an independent senior school that puts you at the centre of your education. At Queen Ethelburga’s College, you’ll have the opportunity to choose from over 30 GCSE and BTEC courses at Key Stage Four (ages 14 to 16), allowing you to follow a pathway that plays to your strengths and interests.
Whether you prefer academic GCSEs or more practical, career-focused BTECs, we’ll support you in choosing a route that fits your learning style and future ambitions.
|
|
What To Expect at Key Stage Four:
|
Whether you’re a day student or a boarder, we’ve got you covered. Many of our day students use our extensive bus routes or arrive by train. As a boarding student, you’ll live in dedicated Year 10 and 11 accommodation on campus, offering ease and access to the school's facilities.
You’ll also wear our smart school uniform, which includes a blue jumper and your choice of grey trousers with a shirt and tie, or a blue skirt with a white blouse.
A Day in the Life at Key Stage Four
Your day starts at 8:30 am and ends at 4:10 pm, with six lessons, a morning break, and lunchtime. You can arrive early for sports training, like swimming or gym, and stay after school for a wide variety of clubs and activities.
Even if you’re a day student, you can stay later, joining the boarding students for an evening meal and to take part in Power Hour, a dedicated, supervised hour for homework and revision.
Choose the Academic Pathway That Suits You
You’ll choose from two flexible academic pathways:
Pathway 1: One-Year GCSE Programme
- In Year 10, complete English Language, Mathematics, and half of your optional subjects.
- In Year 11, complete English Literature, Further Mathematics, and the rest of your subjects.
- Study Separate Sciences over both years.
Pathway 2: Two-Year GCSE and BTEC Programme
- Study a combination of GCSEs and BTECs across two years.
- Ideal if you want to join our Performance Sports Programme.
Discover College's Academic Curriculum
Be Ready for Exams and Coursework
Years 10 and 11 are a vital part of your journey towards a future career. That’s why we’ve created a strong academic support system to help you stay focused and confident.
- Use our Study Toolkit to master revision techniques.
- Join Power Hour each evening for focused study time.
- Get help from Academic Ambassadors and specialist teachers when you need it.
We care about your wellbeing, too. Visit our Pastoral Centre for a quiet space, a chat, or a hot drink when you need time to reset. There’s always something fun to do at break, lunch, or after school - a great way to relax and make friends.
Preparing for Sixth Form from Day One
From the moment you start Year 10, we’ll help you look ahead to what comes next.
- Take part in an Employability Skills Day during the Autumn Term of Year 10.
- Have one-to-one meetings in Year 11 to explore Sixth Form subject options and future goals.
- Attend our Options Convention and Assemblies to learn more about your next steps.
- Choose your Sixth Form subjects before your exams, and we’ll review them with you after results day to make sure they’re the right fit.
You can also meet with our Careers Department for tailored advice on higher education, apprenticeships, or employment. Our Careers Fair gives you the chance to talk directly with employers and university reps about where your path could take you.
If you're ready to experience an education that’s built around you, come and explore Queen Ethelburga’s College, a leading independent senior school offering exceptional Key Stage Four opportunities.
Book a private tour today and see how you can thrive in our supportive and ambitious community.
