GCSE & BTEC options

At Stamford Welland Academy, our Key Stage 4 curriculum is designed to give every student a strong foundation for future study, careers, and personal success. Beginning in Year 9, students embark on a rich and carefully structured programme that allows them to explore their interests while achieving the very best academic outcomes. Our blend of GCSEs, Technical Awards, and BTEC‑equivalent qualifications ensures that all learners can follow pathways matched to their strengths, ambitions, and career aspirations.

A Broad and Balanced Core Curriculum

All students follow a core programme that provides essential academic knowledge and skills. This includes:

English Language and English Literature (GCSE)
Mathematics (GCSE)
Science, taken as either Combined Science (Double Award) or Separate Sciences (Biology, Chemistry and Physics)
Learning for Life (Ethics, citizenship, and personal development)
Core Physical Education

These subjects build the academic foundation for all students and help prepare them for post‑16 pathways.

GCSE Option Subjects

Students personalise their curriculum by selecting from a wide range of GCSE option subjects. Stamford Welland Academy offers creative, practical, technical, and academic routes designed to suit individual talents and career goals.

Humanities and Languages

Geography (GCSE)
History (GCSE)
French or Spanish (GCSE), with additional languages such as German and Russian available depending on prior study

Technology and Practical Subjects

Design & Technology (GCSE), including Product Design and Textiles options
Food Technology / Food & Nutrition (GCSE)
Art & Design (GCSE)

BTEC and Technical Award Pathways

In addition to GCSEs, Stamford Welland Academy provides a wide selection of Technical Awards and BTEC‑equivalent qualifications, ideal for students who thrive through applied learning and coursework‑based assessment.

Available qualifications include:

Health & Social Care (Technical Award)
Creative iMedia (Technical Award)
Business / Small Business Management (Technical Award)
Food Nutrition (Technical Award)
Sport / Sports Studies (Technical Award)
Dance and Music Performance (Technical Awards)
Design Technology (Technical Awards)

These qualifications provide excellent preparation for further study at post‑16—including BTEC Level 3 courses, apprenticeships, and employment in related sectors.

A Guided Pathways Approach

Our Guided Pathways Programme ensures students make informed choices with structured support from teachers, tutors, and families. This approach helps students:

Identify strengths and interests
Match subjects to future study or career pathways
Build a balanced combination of academic and practical qualifications

The academy emphasises variety, breadth, and personalised guidance so each student can design a curriculum that motivates and challenges them.