Having made their options choices at the end of KS3, students study KS4 subjects for two years before sitting external examinations at the end of Year 11. We currently run a wide variety of courses in KS4, all of which are high-value, rigorous qualifications.
We recognise that exams, whether mocks or final GCSEs can be an extremely stressful time for students and we place huge importance on ensuring access to expert mental health support. Students can access academic support through their subject teacher or the Head of Department, and pastoral support via their form tutor, PSM, Head of Year and wider Student Services team; we urge all students to ask for support as soon as they need it or have any concerns. At the end of Year 10, students complete their initial set of mock exams. In Year 11, following their November mock 2 exams, students will participate in a mock exam results day, with the aim to simulate the real event which takes place the following August. There is a final mock exam which takes place in March.

In KS4, parents receive an academic progress report twice per year which indicate the progress being made in GCSE and vocational subjects. Students receive a KS4 grade 1-9 which is derived from past assessment schemes and grade boundaries. These grades can be compared to a student’s MEG (Minimum Expected Grade) which is designed to be aspirational and has been calculated using FFT20.
The report also includes an overview of BFL (Behaviour for Learning) data which indicates students’ engagement with that subject and any concerns there might be. It is our expectation that every student should have at least grade 4s, enabling them to make good progress. Students receive a paper copy of their progress report which they review during tutor time and an electronic version is sent to parents.

Click here for an example of a KS4 progress report.

Please encourage your child to engage in individual conversations with their subject staff and to act on advice and recommendations in order to maximise progress. There is a plethora of revision sessions and interventions available so please encourage students to fully engage in all Weaverham has to offer.