GCSE (Years 10–11)
Where focus sharpens and aspirations rise.
Having developed strong foundations in the Junior School, boys begin their two-year GCSE journey at the start of Year 10, with mock exams in January of Year 11 and public examinations in May and June.
Complementing a core of Maths, English Language, Biology, Chemistry, Physics, and Wellbeing, boys choose four GCSE options from a portfolio of 18 subjects. All subjects are academically rigorous and designed to provide intellectual stretch. The programme reflects the wide range of aptitudes and interests among our pupils, with newer subjects such as Music Technology, Computer Science, and the Higher Project Qualification complementing more traditional options including Latin, History, and Design & Technology.
Most boys take four options. However, the programme is flexible. Some pupils opt for Learning Support instead of one subject, while others take on more – via the triple language pathway, accelerated English, Additional Maths GCSE, or off-timetable options such as Ancient Greek or the HPQ, offered by arrangement to Scholars and High Academic Performers (HAPs).
Our GCSE programme is both robust and adaptable, designed to match each boy’s individual needs and interests. Choice is a core principle of the curriculum: boys are free to select whichever subjects inspire them, allowing them to begin shaping their own educational journey.
These Years Also Bring Greater Expectation
Boys begin to take more responsibility for their learning and personal organisation, developing the habits of focus, self-motivation, and time management that will serve them well in the Sixth Form and beyond. Teachers guide them through the demands of public exams with expertise, empathy, and clarity.
Outside the classroom, boys continue to play a full part in Sherborne life. Through co- curricular opportunities, House leadership, and community outreach, they build confidence, contribute meaningfully, and begin to model the values of kindness, integrity, and quiet leadership that Sherborne prizes.
Click here to discover more about our Academic Enrichment and Support – and hear from current GCSE pupils about how they’re rising to the challenge.
GCSE Wellbeing Programme
In the Fourth Form and Fifth Form all pupils receive a weekly Wellbeing lesson covering the core components of statutory Relationships and Sex Education and Health Education. The programme deepens pupils’ awareness of challenging issues (such as abortion or the risks associated with drug and alcohol use) and equips them with strategies to maintain good mental health.
Throughout the course pupils are encouraged to consider ethical issues with maturity, empathy, and thoughtful reflection. As they mature, pupils also explore healthy relationships, they develop the virtues of honesty, respect, and responsible decision-making. Topics such as consent, personal safety, marriage, and healthy boundaries are approached through guided discussion and critical reflection. Financial education - including protection against fraud - supports the development of practical wisdom, while units on global issues such as modern slavery encourage compassion and active citizenship.
Character Education remains central, helping pupils cultivate good judgement, resilience, and a thoughtful understanding of their role in society. A range of expert-led talks further enriches the programme, covering digital balance, the effects of nicotine and encouraging all boys to develop a moral awareness and the social confidence needed to contribute positively to their communities.
