Catford High School

In the final two years of secondary school, pupils study a range of courses leading to a GCSE examination at the end of Year 11.

All pupils study:

• English (most study English Literature as well)
• Maths
• Science
• Personal, Social, Health and Careers Education (PSHCE), including Citizenship
• Religious Education
• Physical Education

The majority of pupils also study a modern foreign language. In addition, pupils choose between 2-5 other subjects to complete their programme. Some subjects count as two GCSEs and are given double time in the curriculum.

Single subjects offered are:

• Art
• Drama
• Geography
• History
• ICT
• Media Studies
• Music
• Product Design and Development
• Sociology
• Textiles

Double subjects are:

• Applied Business
• ICT
• Leisure and Tourism
• Health and Social Care

A few pupils take a work-related course leading to a range of NVQ qualifications at a local college, in place of two GCSEs.

Careers Education and Work Experience Careers Education

Careers Education and Work Experience Careers Education is provided through Personal, Social, Health and Careers Education (PSHCE), supported by a careers library, a Careers Fair and individual support and guidance. All pupils have the opportunity to spend two weeks on work experience at Key Stage 4.

Enterprise Education

As a specialist Business and Enterprise college we enrich and extend learning by encouraging economic and business understanding, enterprise activities and opportunities for pupils to follow a wide range of work related learning pathways. Enterprise skills are developed across the curriculum, in PSHCE and through extra-curricular programmes.

Religious Education and Assemblies

All pupils learn about the world's main religions in line with Lewisham's agreed syllabus. Most pupils also take the short course in GCSE Religious Education at Key Stage 4.

Assemblies form an important part of the school day - contributing to our pupils' moral and spiritual education and developing a sense of a school community. Parents do, however, have the right to withdraw their children from Religious Education and/or assemblies.

Sex Education

Sex Education is taught through PSHCE and Science. The lesson content and materials are carefully chosen to take account of the needs and maturity of the pupils. A parent may withdraw his/her child from Sex Education lessons, except those taught as part of the National Curriculum in Science.