Transition to GCSE

Guiding Students with Confidence and Care

The transition from early secondary education into GCSE study is a significant step. At Collingham Kensington, we understand that this stage brings both exciting opportunities and new challenges. Our approach is designed to support students academically, emotionally and personally—ensuring they move into their GCSE years with the skills, confidence, and curiosity they need to succeed.

Whether students join us in Year 9 for a pre-GCSE foundation year, or in Year 10 to begin their full GCSE programme, we provide a welcoming, structured, and responsive environment where every student is supported to thrive.

A Carefully Structured Pathway

At Collingham Kensington, the journey into GCSE study begins with a broad and balanced curriculum. Year 9 students are introduced to a range of subjects—including Mathematics, English, Science, Humanities and a Modern Language—alongside exciting options such as Art, Drama, Latin, or Business Studies. This gives them the opportunity to discover what they enjoy, what they’re good at, and where they want to focus as they enter the formal GCSE years.

Lessons at this stage often draw on GCSE-style material, helping students become familiar with the format and expectations of their future courses—without the immediate pressure of assessments.

Individual Support, Every Step of the Way

What makes Collingham Kensington unique is the level of individual attention and flexibility we provide throughout the transition period. With an average class size of five, and no more than nine students in any group, tutors can adapt their teaching to each student’s pace and learning style.

Every student is assigned a personal tutor, who plays a central role in monitoring their academic progress, supporting their wellbeing, and offering guidance as they begin to make decisions about GCSE subject choices and longer-term ambitions.

We also provide:

> Regular assessments and feedback to track progress

> Study Skills sessions to build independent learning habits

> Supervised study periods for additional structure

> Targeted support for students with specific learning needs

Choosing GCSE Subjects

As students move into Year 10, they begin a more focused programme of GCSE or IGCSE study. All students take core subjects including English, Mathematics and Science. Beyond these, they can choose from a broad range of optional subjects, from History and French to Photography, Psychology or Classical Civilisation.

Collingham Kensington guides students carefully through the subject selection process, ensuring their choices reflect both their strengths and aspirations—whether that’s future A level study, university courses or creative pathways.

A Community That Encourages Growth

The transition to GCSEs isn’t only academic—it’s also a time when students grow in independence, responsibility and self-belief. At Collingham Kensington, our nurturing environment, approachable staff and open communication with families help students feel supported at every step.

We place great value on building relationships of mutual respect between tutors and students. Our small, discussion-based classes help students find their voice and become active participants in their learning.

Ready for the Next Chapter

By the time students complete Year 9 or settle into Year 10, they are fully prepared—mentally, emotionally and academically—for the challenges and rewards of GCSE study. Our goal at Collingham Kensington is to ensure that every student not only reaches their potential in exams, but also gains the skills, confidence and curiosity that will carry them forward into A levels and beyond.

Get in Touch

Want to learn more about how Collingham Kensington supports students through the transition to GCSE?

Apply Now or or contact our Admissions Team to arrange a visit and interview.

Year 9

Year 9 Curriculum

GCSE