I/GCSE Options
Download the I/GCSE Options Booklet
It is advisable that pupils maintain as broad an education as they can for as long as they can. All academic subjects in universities, and virtually all employers, welcome candidates with a wide education. At the same time, the English educational system is notable in comparison with many educational systems in other parts of the world for its depth. I/GCSE examinations are searching examinations with a high level of content.
Most independent schools aim to provide their pupils with both breadth and depth in their education for as long as possible. Haileybury shares this aspiration. Every pupil will, therefore, take as his or her core I/GCSE course, examinations in the following subjects:
- English Language
- Mathematics
- A Modern Foreign Language (from Option Group 5)
- Religious Studies
- Science -(for many pupils this will be taught as separate subjects by specialist teachers and leading to a dual certificate qualification; however some will use one of their options, to allow themselves the chance to study the three sciences as separate subjects leading to three certificates).
PHSE is also part of the core curriculum. The core curriculum at Haileybury will provide a pupil with six I/GCSEs.
The main body of this booklet provides further information about the I/GCSE courses in each individual subject. For parents who have older sons or daughters who have studied I/GCSEs at Haileybury (or elsewhere) it is worth noting three changes.
1. IGCSE English Literature is now an optional subject. English Language is a mandatory qualification for all pupils but the same does not apply with English Literature. Parents and pupils should note that the study of Literature is of crucial importance in the IB and English Literature is the only 'English' option available at A Level. As a result we believe that if a pupil wishes to study this subject then there is a need to devote more time to it and so, rather than English Literature being taught as part of normal English lessons, it is now a subject in its own right in the Option Groups. Obtaining good results on a limited number of lessons focused on English Literature has also proved challenging to most independent schools. Not choosing to study English Literature at this stage would not preclude a pupil studying it at A Level or the IB.
2. IGCSE Triple Science is now available at Haileybury. Pupils can opt to study all three sciences and obtain separate IGCSE qualifications in each. They can do this by selecting to study 'Triple Science' as one of their option subjects. Not choosing to study a science as a separate subject at this stage would not preclude a pupil studying it at A Level or the IB.
3. GCSE Religious Studies is now a full course.
The Option groups provide a wide choice although it is important to note that options may have to be revised when staffing implications become clear. Some of these courses may not operate where numbers of pupils choosing a subject are too low. In alphabetical order, the option subjects are:
| Art | Greek |
| Classical Civilisation | History |
| Drama | ICT |
| DT Graphics | Latin |
| DT Systems | Music |
| English Literature | PE |
| French | Triple Science - which provides space for third science to be taught |
| Geography |
If you would like more advice, guidance can be sought from some or all of the following during this time of decision-making:
|
Director of Studies |
|
|
The Assistant Director of Studies |
Haileybury pupils should consult their HM and/or Tutor before making these important decisions.
