From September 2027, Shiplake College will be offering a one-year GCSE programme. This programme would provide a smooth transition to the full breadth of our Sixth Form options (subject to the pupil meeting our sixth form entry requirements).
The One-Year GCSE Programme
The programme is aimed at pupils aged 15+ who wish to gain GCSE qualifications, potentially in preparation for entry into our Sixth Form. Most pupils would, therefore, normally be expected to study at Shiplake for a total of three years.
Participants will have the opportunity to study for up to six GCSE qualifications as well as IELTS (International English Language Testing System), an English language proficiency test used for university admissions and visas.
Pupils will receive tuition in the core subjects of English language (IELTS), maths and science, as well as business and geography. They will also have the option to sit a GCSE in their native language (if applicable) although pupils may be required to organise private tuition for this in preparation for their exam.
The programme will also include lessons in PE and PSHEE (Personal, Social, Health & Economic Education) although these will not end in a GCSE qualification. In addition, pupils on the one-year programme will have access to our full range of academic support clinics and benefit from Shiplake's comprehensive co-curricular offering to provide enrichment and character education.
In order to provide the appropriate level of support, some lessons will be exclusively for pupils on the one-year GCSE programme, while other lessons and activities will be delivered alongside other pupils in the year group, providing important opportunities for immersion in the Shiplake community.
If deemed necessary, some pupils will also receive additional EAL (English as an Additional Language) lessons to support their learning and for which there would be an additional cost. Details here.
| Subjects on Offer |
|---|
| English (IELTS) |
| Mathematics |
| Science ('double' science counts as two GCSE qualifications) |
| Geography |
| Business |
| Physical education (non-award) |
| PSHEE: Personal, Social, Health & Economic Education (non-award) |
| Timetabled academic support clinics in geography and business if required |
Assessment Process
If applicants are unable to sit assessments on site here at Shiplake we can arrange for assessments and interviews to take place remotely via video call. Testing usually includes a maths paper and an English paper (designed for non-native English speakers if applicable). Applicants are expected to have a good understanding of the English language to enable them to access the curriculum and in some cases cover the required two-year content within a one-year timeframe.
Next Steps
If you are interested in enrolling in the one-year GCSE programme in September 2027, please contact Mrs Esther Pasmore by email at [email protected]. Spaces are limited and the earlier the application the better in order for us to make the necessary arrangements for timetables. It may not be possible to accept applications after 30 January 2027.