Key Stage 4 (Y10 - 11) Curriculum
Key Stage 4
Students continue to follow a broad academic curriculum, taught by subject specialists. The options process at the end of Year 9 gives students an element of choice to build a programme that reflects their developing interests, passions and expertise. Students' experiences continue to be enriched and complemented by wider opportunities framed by the Knatch Bacc.
Please click here for detailed subject information for the Y10 cohort who will commence GCSE study in September 2026.
Over the two-year GCSE programme, students study and prepare for important public examinations.
Most students’ curriculum consists of:
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GCSEs in compulsory core subjects of English, Maths and Science
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Subjects chosen to add breadth
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Additional Optional GCSE subjects
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Core non-examined subjects (Core PE and Personal Development)
Core Subjects
In English, students study and prepare for GCSEs in English Language and English Literature.
In Science, students embark on a programme of study for GCSEs in Biology, Chemistry and Physics. Later in KS4 decisions will be made about the appropriate final GCSE entry – separate GCSEs in the three Sciences or Combined Science (equivalent to 2 GCSEs).
In Maths, students prepare for GCSE Mathematics, with an option later in KS4 for some students to complete a Further Mathematics qualification.
Breadth
The government response to the Francis curriculum and assessment review was published in November 2025.
The proposed model suggests that students have 4 'breadth' slots to accommodate their personal choices, and that these should include subjects from at least 2 of the following 3 categories:
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Humanities (Geography, History or Religious Studies). At NKS we would also include Classics in this category.
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Creative subjects (Art and Design, Music, Drama, and Design and Technology)
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Languages (MFL)
At NKS we believe that this model provides students with the best possible basis for KS4 study in that it provides both depth and breadth and equips students well for study at A' level and beyond. Our expectation is that the very significant majority of students will follow a ‘breadth’ based route – however, this is not compulsory.
Other GCSE Subjects
The wide range of other subjects available allows all students to personalise their learning and pursue their own strengths, interests and aspirations for the future.
Business Studies, Computer Science, Physical Education and Sociology.
Core Non-examined Subjects
All students will also study 2 non-examined subjects – Core PE and Personal Development.
GCSE Curriculum Maps
Below, you will find links to our subject Curriculum “Maps”. The documents show our curriculum intent and vision as students progress through the key stages.
SEND
We are proud of the inclusive environment and ethos at NKS and the fact that students with SEND make good progress at GCSE, supported by our SEND team. If you have any queries about this, please contact our SENCo, Mr Uttin - PUttin@nks.kent.sch.uk
Extra Curricular
We pride ourselves on providing opportunities for sporting, musical and theatrical achievements. Our students’ participation in our extra-curricular programme enriches and deepens their academic learning as well as developing responsible, active, aware and kind citizens, fully prepared for the world of further study and employment.
Extend and Excel
Students at NKS are encouraged to explore their interests in a variety of fields. As their aspirations develop, they are supported to reach their chosen destinations through a varied programme of support. A range of visitors and external speakers offer inspiration to students across a broad spectrum of topics, including working as a paramedic and the ergonomic design of tanks. With the aim to directly inspire and motivate students in their career ambitions. Students have also been able to participate in medicine experience days facilitated by Meducators, and online discussions through ‘I’m a Scientist Get me Out of Here’ with scientists from a range of fields such as psychology, genetics and space.
Support increases as students move up through the school with the super-curricular club at Key Stage 4, which builds on the foundations laid by the Knatchbull Baccalaureate, Academic, Extra-Curricular, Community and Excel and Extend. This encourages students to broaden and deepen their interests through personal study and develop their research and presentation skills. This culminates in a celebration of their work, shared with parents. Students may choose to develop their interest further in the Sixth Form by undertaking an Extended Project Qualification.
If you have any queries or further questions resulting from this information, please contact Dr Gowen at JGowen@nks.kent.sch.uk.