GCSE

GCSEs (General Certificates of Secondary Education) are subject-specific qualifications taken in a variety of subjects by secondary school students aged 14-16 across the UK. They provide a strong foundation to progress to post-16 qualifications.

What GCSE reforms have been implemented?

In England, GCSEs have undergone significant changes in recent years moving from a prior modular structure to linear exams taken at the end. Course content has been updated across subjects like sciences, languages, and humanities to ensure rigor and better preparation for jobs, college, apprenticeships.

Grading also moved from the A*-G system to 9-1, aiming to better differentiate top performers. This does not imply a simple equivalence to the old A*-G tiers however. Ofqual provides guidance on interpreting the new scale aligned to the same national standards.

Wales and Northern Ireland still use A*-G grading, though follow similar curriculum reforms. Independent schools may adopt alternate assessments too.

Why are GCSE grades important for students’ futures?

GCSEs are a chance for 14-16 year olds to gain broad knowledge while developing critical thinking and exam technique. Good passes open access to sixth forms, colleges, apprenticeships or employment. Minimum C/4 grades in core subjects like math, English and science are often expected.

As foundational qualifications, GCSEs instill key learnings for specialised study like A-Levels and beyond. Doing well across a versatile range of subjects also keeps options open.

What subjects are compulsory at GCSE?

In England, students must study English language, English literature, maths, combined science, citizenship and PE. Three EBacc subjects – sciences, computer science, history, geography and languages – are also encouraged to age 16. Wales, NI and Scotland have similar core requirements.

Most schools mandate studying the compulsory GCSEs plus choices like arts, tech, humanities, languages allowing students to follow interests.