gcse coursework

Cookies on GOV.UK

We use some essential cookies to make this website work.

We’d like to set additional cookies to understand how you use GOV.UK, remember your settings and improve government services.

We also use cookies set by other sites to help us deliver content from their services.

You have accepted additional cookies. You can change your cookie settings at any time.

You have rejected additional cookies. You can change your cookie settings at any time.

GCSE subject content

Documents for schools about GCSE content.

GCSE subject content publications setting out the knowledge, understanding and skills common to all GCSE specifications.

The subject content publications are organised according to the year of first teaching of these GCSEs.

Assessment objectives are available on Ofqual’s website .

Subject content for teaching from 2015 onwards

1 November 2013

Subject content for teaching from 2016 onwards

9 March 2018
26 January 2015
23 May 2022
3 July 2015
9 February 2017
20 February 2015
9 April 2014
2 December 2022
6 January 2021
6 July 2016

Subject content for teaching from 2017 onwards

4 February 2016
24 March 2016
17 December 2015
4 November 2015
1 March 2016

Subject content for teaching from 2025 onwards

21 December 2023

Updates to this page

Added subject content for British Sign Language and the 'Subject content for teaching from 2024 onwards' list.

Added content for sociology and physical education short course.

Added content for ancient history; classical civilisation; electronics; film studies; media studies; statistics.

Added content for astronomy, business, economics, engineering, geology and psychology.

Added GCSE design and technology subject content guidance.

Added content for religious studies.

Published content for drama, citizenship and food and nutrition.

Added subject content for art and design, computer science, dance, music and PE.

Link to assessment objectives on the Ofqual website added to page.

First published.

Help us improve GOV.UK

Don’t include personal or financial information like your National Insurance number or credit card details.

To help us improve GOV.UK, we’d like to know more about your visit today. Please fill in this survey (opens in a new tab) .

What is a GCSE? A Clear Explanation of the UK’s Secondary School Qualification

GCSEs are an essential qualification for students in England, Wales, and Northern Ireland. The results of GCSEs significantly affect a student’s future career. Universities and employers use the GCSEs to assess students’ academic ability and potential.

The grades achieved in GCSEs also determine the courses and qualifications a student can take at the next level of education.

The GCSEs are also crucial for students who wish to pursue vocational courses or apprenticeships. Many vocational courses and internships require students to have achieved a certain level of GCSE qualifications in specific subjects.

Table of Contents

GCSEs in Different Countries

GCSEs are not used in Scotland, where the Scottish Qualifications Certificate is used instead. Private schools in Scotland may choose to use GCSEs from England.

Similar qualifications are used in other countries, such as the IGCSE and the General Certificate of Education Ordinary Level (GCE O-Level).

Subjects Offered

GCSEs offer a wide range of subjects for students to choose from. These subjects can be divided into two categories: core subjects and optional subjects.

Core Subjects

Every student must take the following core subjects:

English language
English literature
Mathematics
Science (either combined science or separate sciences in biology, chemistry, and physics)

In addition, students in Wales must study Welsh until they are 14.

Optional Subjects

Besides the main courses, students have a range of elective subjects to pick from. There are two categories of GCSE subjects. The first includes the mandatory subjects required in secondary school. The second consists of elective subjects that students can opt to study.

Optional subjects include:

Humanities: history, geography, religious studies, economics, citizenship, psychology, sociology
Arts: art and design, music, drama, dance, media studies, film studies
Technical subjects: design and technology, food and nutrition, product design, textiles, electronics, engineering
Modern foreign languages: French, German, Spanish, and other languages
Business studies
Physical education
Computer science

Not all schools offer all the non-compulsory subjects, but students should be provided at least one subject from each of these broad groups: Arts, Design and Technology; Humanities; Modern Foreign Languages.

It is important to note that the subjects offered may vary depending on the school and the country. Students should consult their school’s and national curricula to determine available subjects.

Additionally, students may choose to study for international GCSE qualifications, which may have different subject offerings.

GCSE Grading System

Understanding gcse grades.

GCSE grades are used to assess students’ performance in their GCSE exams. The grading system for GCSEs has changed recently, and it now uses a numerical scale from 1 to 9.

The new grading system was introduced to make it easier for employers and universities to compare grades across subjects. The grading system indicates the level of knowledge and understanding a student has achieved in a particular subject.

🌟 Hey Students! 🚀 Ready for the ultimate experience? Join us on Studentsinside.com's Facebook , YouTube , WhatsApp , and LinkedIn . Click now for tips, fun, and success vibes! 🌈✨ #StudentLife #JoinUs

The new grading system has replaced the old alphabetical grading system, where grades ranged from A* to G. The new grading system is designed to provide a clearer indication of a student’s performance in their GCSE exams. The new grades are as follows:

In simpler terms, getting a grade of 4 is like a bare pass. If you get a grade of 5 or higher, it’s an even better pass. The new way of grading is more challenging, and the best grade you can get is a 9.

GCSE Grade Boundaries

GCSE grade boundaries determine the minimum number of marks required to achieve a particular grade. Exam boards set the grade boundaries and vary from subject to subject.

The grade boundaries are designed to ensure that the same standard is applied to all students, regardless of the difficulty of the exam.

The grade boundaries for each subject are published after the exam results have been released. The grade boundaries are determined by a panel of experts who review the exam papers and decide on the minimum number of marks required for each grade.

Remember that grade boundaries can change yearly based on the exam’s difficulty. So, it’s not possible to forecast future grade boundaries accurately.

Studying for GCSEs

GCSEs are an essential milestone in the UK’s education system, and students typically begin studying for them in Year 10 or 11. Here are some tips on how to approach GCSE coursework and revision.

GCSE Coursework

GCSE coursework is an essential step in getting qualified. It helps students enhance their understanding and skills in a specific topic and improves their overall grades. Coursework can range from writing essays and reports to hands-on projects and experiments.

It’s crucial to stay organized when tackling coursework. Ensure you understand each assignment’s requirements and deadlines and break down the work into manageable chunks. Use a planner or calendar to keep track of your progress, and feel free to ask your teacher for help if you’re struggling.

GCSE Revision Tips

Revision is a crucial part of preparing for GCSE exams. Here are some tips to help you make the most of your study time:

Start early: Wait to leave revision until the last minute. Begin reviewing your notes and coursework well in advance of the exams.
Use various study techniques: Everyone learns differently, so experiment with different revision techniques to find what works best for you. Some popular methods include flashcards, mind maps, and practice exams.
Focus on weaker areas: Identify the topics and skills you find most challenging and prioritize these in your revision.
Take breaks: Regular breaks are crucial to prevent feeling overwhelmed and maintain concentration. Try to pause every hour, stretch, breathe fresh air, or engage in a fun activity.
Get plenty of rest: Make sure you’re getting enough sleep in the lead-up to the exams. Being well-rested will help you to concentrate and retain information.

Post-GCSE Options

After completing their GCSEs, students have several options available to them. Here are some of the most common options:

A-levels are a popular choice for university students seeking further education. A-levels are academic qualifications that universities and employers highly value. Students typically study three or four A-Levels over two years in a sixth-form or college setting.

Vocational Courses

Vocational courses are an alternative to A-Levels that offer practical, hands-on training in a specific trade or profession. These courses are designed to prepare students for a particular career and are often provided at further education colleges. Vocational courses such as BTECs, NVQs, or City & Guilds certificates can lead to qualifications.

Apprenticeships

An apprenticeship is a training program that blends hands-on work with classroom study. It’s offered in many fields and can result in certifications like NVQs or BTECs. Apprenticeships are an excellent option for students who want to gain practical experience while earning a wage.

When considering post-GCSE options, it’s crucial to think about your future goals and aspirations. Whether you pursue A-Levels, vocational courses, or an apprenticeship, each option will provide valuable skills and experiences to help you succeed in your chosen career path.

Additional Information

GCSEs are a set of exams taken by students in the United Kingdom. They are usually taken by students aged 15-16 after two years of study. GCSEs were introduced in 1986 to replace the original O-Levels and CSEs.

They are an essential milestone in the UK’s education system and are required for many jobs and further education courses.

There are a few additional pieces of information that are worth noting about GCSEs:

Grading System : GCSEs are now evaluated using a scale that ranges from 9 to 1, where 9 is the top grade achievable. This grading method was established in 2017 as a replacement for the previous A* to G grading system. The updated system is structured to present more of a challenge and aims to distinguish more effectively between students with varying ability levels.

Subjects : At the GCSE level, students have the opportunity to study a variety of subjects such as English, science, maths, history, geography, modern foreign languages, and art and design, among others. Depending on the school and the students’ choices, they learn between 8 and 12 subjects.

Irish Students : In Ireland, students do not take GCSEs. Instead, they take the Junior Certificate and the Leaving Certificate exams. These exams are similar to GCSEs in some ways but have some critical differences.

Support : Students struggling with GCSEs can get help from their teachers, school, and other organizations. Many online resources include revision guides, practice papers, and study tips.

Further Education : GCSEs are essential for students wanting to further their education. Many colleges and universities require students to have a certain number of GCSEs at a specific grade to be accepted onto a course.

References : Employers and universities often ask for references from students who have completed their GCSEs. These references can be provided by teachers, tutors, or other adults who know the student well.

Mohammed Debon is an SEO Expert, Webmaster, and a proud parent of three. Mohammed created this website to help fellow parents find comprehensive information about various educational programs and make well-informed decisions for their children's future. With expertise in the digital landscape, Mohammed aims to streamline the process of selecting the right education system and provide valuable resources for parents worldwide.

Is French GCSE Hard? Expert Analysis and Insights

Mastering a new language can present difficulties, and French is no different. Many students wonder, “Is French GCSE hard?” The answer to this question depends on several factors, including the student’s learning style, motivation, and the resources available to them. French is considered a challenging language to learn for several reasons. Its grammar rules can…

Is Art GCSE Hard? A Clear and Neutral Answer

GCSE Art is a popular subject in the UK, but many students wonder if it is hard. The question of whether art GCSE is hard or not is a common one, and the answer is not straightforward. Some students find it challenging, while others enjoy it and find it easy. One of the reasons why…

Is Accounting GCSE Hard? An Expert’s Take

Accounting GCSE is a subject that many students find challenging. The question of whether or not accounting GCSE is hard is a common one among students who are considering taking the subject. While some students may find accounting GCSE difficult, others may find it relatively easy. The extensive amount of material to be covered is…

Is History GCSE Hard? A Clear Answer with Expert Insight

Studying GCSE History can be challenging as it demands students to build diverse skills like critical thinking, analysis, and evaluation. The difficulty arises for many students because of the extensive content and intricate topics they must grasp. However, whether or not history GCSE is hard depends on various factors, including the student’s prior knowledge, study…

Is Arabic GCSE Hard? A Comprehensive Overview of the Exam Difficulty

Arabic is a complex language, and for those who are not native speakers, it can be particularly challenging to learn. The General Certificate of Secondary Education (GCSE) in Arabic is a qualification many educational institutions and employers worldwide recognize. However, many students wonder if the Arabic GCSE is difficult to pass and whether it is…

Is Music GCSE Hard? A Clear Answer to Your Question

The General Certificate of Secondary Education (GCSE) is a qualification students in the United Kingdom take at 15-16. It is an important milestone for students as it determines their eligibility for higher education and career opportunities. One of the subjects that students can choose to take for their GCSE is music. However, many students wonder…