Academic - Ratcliffe College

Academic

The aims of our curriculum is to inspire our International Students and equip them with the skills and abilities to grow into passionate and driven young adults. The wide range of International academic subjects ensures that students grow into confident, independent thinkers.

Our broad and balanced senior curriculum is offered at Key Stage 3, with individual pathways at Key Stage 4 and Key Stage 5 to allow all students to flourish, making choices based on their own interests and talents.

Some of our specialist subjects such as Sport, Sciences, Languages, Art and Humanities allow our students to develop their subject knowledge and deepen understanding, with a solid foundation of Mathematics and English, therefore supporting a cross-curricular approach to learning.

GCSE (2-year programme)

This course is designed to develop critical thinking, independent learning and strong foundational knowledge across a range of highly recognised, English GCSE subjects. This challenging, yet rewarding programme welcomes international students to join the two-year course (Year 10 and Year 11).

The Year 10 two-year GCSE Programme will also include Games sessions and our extensive co-curricular programme for students to experience the many varied opportunities available at Ratcliffe College.  Details of the co-curricular programme will be provided at the start of each term for students to select from.

Students on this programme will be learning alongside Ratcliffe students in their Option subjects, Games sessions, PSHCE, co-curricular activities and daily Tutor periods, fostering an immersive experience.

With a wide selection of GCSE subjects, international students can tailor their learning to their strengths and interests, gaining globally valued skills and qualifications.

Our two-year GCSE course is ideal for students aiming to advance to A Levels, IB, or other higher education studies, opening many pathways to universities and careers worldwide.

International students on this course will study the following GCSE core subjects and a minimum of three GCSE Options:

Core Subjects Option subjects (applicable to 2025-2026)
Mathematics / Further Mathematics Design and Technology
Chemistry (iGCSE) Food Prep and Nutrition
Physics (iGCSE) EAL
English Language Geography
Religious Studies Computer Science
ICT
Drama
Music
Biology
Academic Physical Education

Students who speak one of the languages below will sit an additional GCSE in that language.

  • Cantonese
  • French
  • German
  • Mandarin
  • Russian
  • Spanish

English as an Additional Language – Level of Entry

To join the two-year GCSE programme we recommend international students are at Level B1 to cope with the British curriculum and examination requirements. At Ratcliffe, we aim for students to achieve at least B2 by the end of the course (Year 11), as entry into Year 12 (Sixth Form) requires students to be at B2 level, or above.

Sixth Form – (A Levels)

Ratcliffe College Sixth Form offers an exceptional academic experience for International students. Ranked top 1% in the UK for value added results, we ensure every student achieves their full potential, preparing them for top universities and exciting career opportunities around the world.

Cambridge English Examinations

Cambridge Assessment English examinations are available at Ratcliffe College. Ratcliffe College is an approved centre for Cambridge Assessment English. We are offering students the opportunity to take their exams here at our centre. Click below to find out more.