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Students enjoy this course as it allows them to explore a wide range of materials and processes in art and design. This includes drawing media, painting, three-dimensional design, traditional forms of printing and digital media. Students work to set art and design briefs where they develop and produce a range of designs and outcomes linked to professional art and design practice. This course equips students with the necessary skills to take the first step in a career in art and design.

The study of Art and Design leads to further study at KS5 in the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme in Visual Arts or A Level Art. In the longer term, students use the knowledge and skills gained from Art and Design to further study a Foundation diploma in Art and Design at a specialist Art and Design college or study an Art and Design related degree.  After degree level, Art and Design students can access careers in the disciplines of fine art, illustration, graphic design, animation, interior design and architecture. A number of students also enjoy studying Art and Design alongside their other subjects as an expressive and creative outlet which complements the analytical and project design skills that are required to be successful in many Key Stage 5 courses.

The course content and teaching inspire students to explore the business world, understanding the factors that contribute to a company’s success or failure. They will enhance their entrepreneurial abilities alongside transferable skills like research and data analysis. In addition to providing a hands-on introduction to enterprise, the award emphasizes skill development, helping students build confidence for further education and future careers.

This course provides an excellent foundation for further study, including KS5 qualifications such as the T Level in Finance, BTEC Level 3 in Business, A Level Business, and business-related apprenticeships in Administration, Retail, Finance, or Customer Service. Additionally, it equips students with the necessary skills to pursue T-Level qualifications in areas such as Finance and Business Administration.

At the university level, this course serves as strong preparation for a business-related degree. In terms of career progression, it supports pathways into various industries, including Entrepreneurship, Retail and Hospitality, Finance and Accounting, Marketing, and Customer Service.

Computer Science teaches the user a lot of skills. It implements hints of mathematics and data handling, but also problem solving, critical thinking and communication with links to real world examples. The lessons are fun and interactive, allowing for the student to programme in lessons. Students also find the theory quite interesting in finding out how a computer and our home internet really work.

Computer Science is a GCSE qualification that can prepare students for a variety of courses or opportunities at KS5. Aside from the obvious computer-based qualifications such as T Level Digital, A Level Computer Science or vocational qualifications in ICT or Media, it would also benefit A Level subjects like Maths, Physics and Design and Technology.

The course aims to provide knowledge in a number of key areas and develops skills that are essential for the modern-day workplace. Students enjoy the course because it encourages independence, creativity and awareness of the digital media sector. It will equip them with a range of creative media skills and provide opportunities to develop, in context, desirable, transferable skills such as research, planning, and review, working with others and communicating creative concepts effectively.

The course is excellent preparation for KS5 and Business education.  It will also prepare you for courses at university such as digital marketing, web design, games authoring, graphic design, advertising, project management, IT technical support, systems management, broadcasting and film production. 

Alternatively the course would also support applications for apprenticeships and employment.

This vocational course is for students who have a passion for studying acting. They will learn about a variety of practitioners and styles and study various plays. The qualification will also broaden the students’ experience and understanding of performance, acting and theatre.  The course is essentially about building confidence and communication skills, and helps prepare students for the working world. 

Studying the qualification as part of Key Stage 4 learning will help students to make more informed choices for further learning, either generally or in this sector.  Students might consider progression to: A Levels as preparation for entry to higher education in a range of subjects, the study of a vocational qualification at KS5, such as a BTEC National in Performing Arts, which prepares learners to enter employment or apprenticeships, or to move on to higher education by studying a degree in the Performing Arts, Drama or Theatre Studies or Production Arts areas.

Being able to design the world in which we live has got to be one of the most challenging, yet interesting, jobs there is. Without engineers seeing problems and finding creative solutions to them, making our lives easier and more enjoyable, we would live in a very different world. Studying Engineering is the first step to becoming one of those creative individuals! 

The course is structured so that students can develop their own interests as well as learning new skills and knowledge. Students will be given a variety of design-and-make projects that fulfil a real need. They will be expected to use a range of materials and processes that allow them to make realistic, usable products. Students will also learn about the theory of design, materials and processes to help them enhance their practical skills and to develop their knowledge of Engineering.

Engineering can set you up for a career in a wide variety of industries such as fashion, engineering, architecture, information technology, careers in hospitality, and even education.

The transferrable skills such as creativity, problem-solving, planning, and evaluation skills, that are reviewed during Engineering Vocational are greatly admired by employers across sectors and apprenticeship schemes providers.

Students may progress to KS5 to study at A Level or go to College to learn trade skills such as Carpentry, Motor Vehicle Maintenance, Construction, Plumbing etc.

Given the constantly evolving nature of technology, you have an unlimited potential for progression. From cloud computing to AI and machine learning, a career in tech provides the opportunity to work on diverse projects and learn new skills.

Students love this course as it’s both engaging and empowering. It goes beyond basic cooking. They learn how to create nutritious, well-balanced meals and understand the science of nutrition. Through practical lessons, they develop essential life skills that stay with them forever, such as meal planning, budgeting, food safety, and time management.

For those who enjoy experimenting, the NEA 2 task enables students to be inventive with ingredients, flavours, and presentation. For logical thinkers, the food science and investigation work offer exciting opportunities to explore the functional properties of foods.

Studying Food Preparation and Nutrition at GCSE opens the door to a wide range of exciting opportunities in education and employment. After Year 11, students can progress to:

• KS5 qualifications such as A Level Food Science and Nutrition, Hospitality and Catering, or Health and Social Care
  
• Vocational courses in Catering, Hospitality, Food Technology, or Nutrition
  
• Apprenticeships in Professional Cookery, Hospitality, Food Production, or Nutrition and Wellbeing

GCSE Modern Languages is a valuable and enriching subject that helps you understand how languages work while deepening your appreciation of French-speaking cultures. Throughout the course, you will develop the ability to use the language effectively, building a strong foundation in key skills such as communication, comprehension, and expression.

As you progress, the French course will become even more engaging and relevant to your interests. You will explore how French speakers communicate on a personal level, their thoughts, daily lives, and cultural traditions. In addition to enhancing the skills learned at GCSE, you will also develop a deeper understanding of the mechanics of the language, including grammar and vocabulary, allowing you to express yourself with greater confidence and fluency.

Our curriculum follows the AQA course books, as recommended by the examination board, complemented by a range of online tools such as the digital exercise book, Languagenut, Linguascope, and Exam Pro Online. These resources will be accessible from home, allowing you to practice reading, writing, listening, and interactive activities.

Our learning strategy is dynamic and engaging—you will watch videos and film clips, read online articles and news, research topics using the Internet and books, and prepare presentations. With so many exciting activities, there will never be a dull moment!

Completing GCSE French not only strengthens your academic profile—especially for top universities—but also opens exciting doors for your future. Many universities value language skills and even offer study abroad programs or international work placements, giving you the chance to experience life in a non-English-speaking country.

If you’re interested in continuing your language journey, you could join our A Level Modern Foreign Languages (MFL) cohort! This is an exciting opportunity to take your French skills even further, exploring the language in more depth while developing complementary skills for linguists. You’ll also gain insight into how languages are used in the commercial world, making your learning even more practical and relevant.

Languages also give you a competitive edge in the job market. Employers appreciate candidates with strong communication, problem-solving, and cultural awareness skills—all qualities that come naturally with learning a language. Whether in business, travel, diplomacy, or international relations, speaking another language sets you apart and opens up endless opportunities.

Geography is not a narrow academic subject for the few. It is fundamental for everyone. Geography fascinates and inspires from the beauty of the earth to the terrible power of earth-shaping forces. Geography also demonstrates an appreciation for the incredible diversity of cultures around the world and a chance to better understand other ways of life. Like with news, Geography puts culture in context. 

Geography deepens understanding about many contemporary challenges such as: climate change, food security and energy choices to name a few. These concepts cannot be understood without a geographical perspective and complements the scientific knowledge you will gain at GCSE. 

Thinking geographically allows students to better understand the world around them and interact with current affairs in a more informed way. With a focus on alternative futures, students will gain a much deeper understanding of the current state of the world’s resources and the confidence to carve out their own voice in the ongoing discussions about what our future looks like. 

Geography is directly relevant to people’s lives and the world of work. It is about change, recognising that the past helps explain the present. With Geography you will further develop the skills gained in year 7-9 such as critical thinking, data interpretation, research skills and communication.  

As suggested by Dr Rita Gardener: ‘Geography prepares young people with the knowledge, skills and understanding to make sense of their world and to face the challenges that will shape our societies and environments at the local, national and global scales.’

Students who study GCSE Geography must attend a compulsory educational visit as part of the course.

Geography is a broad academic subject which will help to provide many options for you in your future. Employers and universities see Geography as a robust academic subject rich in skills, knowledge and understanding. Often students continue to study Geography at International Baccalaureate (IB) and A Level and with this can open up a whole multitude of career opportunities such as: teaching, journalism, law, architecture, conservation, financial services and data analytics.  Geography is also becoming increasingly important in foreign relations and politics.

The study of History is extremely important in contemporary society, not only to remember the past but to understand the present and help us shape the future. History spans all cultures and is an immovable factor that can be called upon for knowledge and insight into the world we live in today. It is for this reason that students thoroughly enjoy studying GCSE History.

The units that students study provide them with a strong historical knowledge of both British and wider global histories. For example, the Cold War unit allows students to consider countries such as Czechoslovakia, Hungary and Russia. The course enables students to critically analyse and interpret the world around them and as such, they are able to formulate their own informed opinions and contribute fresh perspectives to modern issues. Additionally, the variety of the History curriculum means there is never a dull moment! 

The ability to construct an argument and communicate findings in a clear and persuasive manner, both orally and in writing, provides students with a sense of empowerment. Students thrive in this environment and develop key skills which employers look for later in life. 

Another reason why students enjoy studying History is because it helps them to develop their cultural awareness. By looking at the history of different cultures, students build a strong understanding of wider world relations and how this impacts a culture itself. This ensures students have a broad cultural awareness that will help them with both employment opportunities as well as unpacking and understanding the world around them.

A GCSE History qualification is highly sought after by both schools and universities. For students looking to progress onto KS5 courses at Leigh Academy Bexley, the GCSE qualification will prepare you with both the knowledge and skills required to access the A Level course, where Historical perspective can then be analysed in greater depth. Additionally, a students’ ability to work independently, construct an argument and communicate their ideas places them in a strong position to excel both within History, and across a range of other subjects. 

A GCSE History qualification is highly sought after by employers as it develops the ability to problem solve, think critically and work independently. Whether you wish to have a career in politics, education, law or business, the knowledge and skills you will develop during the GCSE History course make this qualification an essential consideration for your future.

Students who have a commitment and passion for Physical Education, who have good/excellent practical ability in at least 3 sports (which must be at least two teams or two individuals), and who have a good theoretical background in preparation for the exam, will enjoy this course.

GCSE PE prepares you for employment and provides a good grounding to go on to more advanced courses such as A Level. With further training students can go into careers in: Sports Centres, Sports Coaching, PE Teaching and Physiotherapy.

Students enjoy the course as they develop an understanding and awareness of the world around them.

Students are encouraged to explore and debate contemporary issues. In the first unit, the students will explore how we form our identity, and how our culture influences social behaviour with a focus on the family and education. In the second unit, there will be a focus on inequality, crime and deviance.

The GCSE develops a wide range of skills such as analysis, interpretation and evaluation. It will also develop transferable skills, such as thinking critically, evaluating and applying knowledge, and writing persuasively. These skills will complement other GCSE studies and develop the student as an independent learner. Furthermore, the development of substantiated judgements and reasoned arguments are highly sought after skills which will suit students who wish to move into a variety of different employment opportunities.

Sociology is an interesting and exciting subject which provides a well-respected GCSE for students who want to pursue work in law, politics, public relations, teaching, business, human resources and management, public services and many other careers. Sociology suits students who are curious about the world and the different societies within it.

Sociology is seen favourably by universities and colleges as students develop the ability to analyse and compare information to formulate an argument. It also allows access to other areas of study at KS5, for example in the fields of Psychology or Criminology.

GCSE Modern Languages is a valuable and enriching subject that helps you understand how languages work while deepening your appreciation of Spanish-speaking cultures. Throughout the course, you will develop the ability to use the language effectively, building a strong foundation in key skills such as communication, comprehension, and expression.

As you progress, the Spanish course will become even more engaging and relevant to your interests. You will explore how Spanish speakers communicate on a personal level, their thoughts, daily lives, and cultural traditions. In addition to enhancing the skills learned at GCSE, you will also develop a deeper understanding of the mechanics of the language, including grammar and vocabulary, allowing you to express yourself with greater confidence and fluency.

Our curriculum follows the AQA course books, as recommended by the examination board, complemented by a range of online tools such as the digital exercise book, Languagenut, Linguascope, and Exam Pro Online. These resources will be accessible from home, allowing you to practice reading, writing, listening, and interactive activities.

Our learning strategy is dynamic and engaging—you will watch videos and film clips, read online articles and news, research topics using the Internet and books, and prepare presentations. With so many exciting activities, there will never be a dull moment!

Completing GCSE Spanish not only strengthens your academic profile, especially for top universities, but also opens exciting doors for your future. Many universities value language skills and even offer study abroad programs or international work placements, giving you the chance to experience life in a non-English-speaking country.

If you’re interested in continuing your language journey, you could join our A Level Modern Foreign Languages (MFL) cohort! This is an exciting opportunity to take your Spanish skills even further, exploring the language in more depth while developing complementary skills for linguists. You’ll also gain insight into how languages are used in the commercial world, making your learning even more practical and relevant.

Languages also give you a competitive edge in the job market. Employers appreciate candidates with strong communication, problem-solving, and cultural awareness skills—all qualities that come naturally with learning a language. Whether in business, travel, diplomacy, or international relations, speaking another language sets you apart and opens up endless opportunities.

Students enjoy this course as it provides them with sport-specific knowledge and skills, such as sports analysis and leadership through vocational contexts. It will also support them to develop personal skills, such as communication, planning, time management and teamwork, through a practical and skills-based approach to learning and assessment. 

The course helps students explore different types and providers of sport and physical activity and the equipment and technology available for participation. Students will also investigate the different types of participants and their needs to gain an understanding of how to increase participation for others in sport and physical activity, and further develop their knowledge and understanding of anatomy and physiology. Finally, students will undertake practical sessions to develop skills in planning and delivering sports activity sessions to participants.

Students who generally achieve at Level 2 in the course might consider progression to:

• A Levels as preparation for entry to higher education in a range of subjects.
• Study of a vocational qualification, such as BTEC National in Sport, which prepares students to enter employment or apprenticeships, or to move on to higher education by studying a degree in the Sport Sciences or teaching sectors.
• Study at KS5 in a range of technical routes designed to lead to work, to progression to employment via apprenticeships or further study.