GCSE (Y10 & Y11)

What Makes Our GCSE Curriculum Different?

Our approach is unique because it blends academic excellence with technical learning and real-world experience. Lessons take place in classrooms just like any other school, but what sets us apart is the project-based learning model and employer-led challenges embedded throughout the curriculum. We believe that qualifications open the door, but, by developing Skills and Professional Behaviours helps learners thrive as leaders within industry. Our experiences develop problem-solving, teamwork, and communication skills—qualities that employers value highly.

Learners work hard at the academy. With the working day and travel, learners experience a typical business day. Learners also benefit from a professional environment that mirrors the expectations of the business world. This helps build discipline, resilience, and the mindset needed for success in higher education, apprenticeships, and future careers.

Core GCSE Subjects

At The JCB Academy, the typical options process is much simpler. By choosing to join us, most of those difficult decisions are already made. Our learners follow a focused curriculum designed to provide a strong academic foundation while embedding practical and technical skills relevant to the world of work.

Every GCSE learner studies a core curriculum equivalent to a minimum of seven GCSE qualifications, including:

• English Language (GCSE)
• English Literature (GCSE)
• Mathematics (GCSE)
• Science (GCSE)
  Most learners complete Combined Science (worth two GCSEs), while some opt for Triple Science (three separate GCSEs)
• Business (Enterprise & Marketing) – (Cambridge National: A vocational qualification equivalent to one GCSE)
• Engineering Manufacture – (Cambridge National: A vocational qualification equivalent to one GCSE)
• Engineering Practical Skills (non-examined)
• Physical Education (non-examined)

Towards the end of Year 9, there is a small options process where learners choose between Combined or Triple Science and select one additional subject. Some options are examined, such as 3D Art & Design, Computer Science, Engineering Design, Engineering Programmable Systems, or Enterprise, while others are non-examined, such as Sports Studies.

For full details, please refer to the Options Booklet, published annually.

Academy Results – The JCB Academy Performance Table

Please note – Progress 8 is not a valid calculation for The JCB Academy as learners do not study the Ebacc and therefore do not have 8 entries for the calculation.

Ofsted Framework 2020 – section 308 and 309

The government’s ambition for all mainstream secondary schools is for 75% of pupils nationally to be entered for the EBacc by 2021. However, this ambition specifically does not apply to university technical colleges [such as The JCB Academy] because they provide a specialist technical and professional education.

The progress 8 accountability measure is not the most appropriate performance indicator for UTCs.

See how we compare on a national and regional basis