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At Wimbledon High School we love the shimmering of ideas, the glimpse of the possible.
As a highly academic school, we find myriad ways to challenge, excite and inspire our students’ intellect and imagination in the classroom and beyond, through our brilliant harnessing of technology as a TES award winner (Best Use of Technology) and Microsoft Showcase school, particularly important during times of Guided Home Learning, but also through our innovative STEAM+ curriculum.
Bringing together Science, Technology, Engineering the ARTS and Maths, STEAM encourages connections between perhaps hitherto unconnected ideas and enriches understanding of the world around us.
This journey of discovery includes finding out about oneself. Our outstanding pastoral care is embedded in everything we do. We know that for our students truly to grow, in every aspect of their life, they must feel known, supported and understood. Our bright, quirky and grounded girls make up a happy community, purposeful yet full of fun and a willingness to get stuck into all aspects of school life, and to give time to others. Our Partnerships programme is a vital aspect of co-curricular life.
We teach the girls, as young women, to own their space, raise their voices for the good, and believe in their own agency and power for action and change.
By engaging in a vast array of co-curricular clubs and activities, our students can find their thing, the interests and passions that bring solace during turbulent times. And most importantly have a lot of fun and make new friends along the way.
You will take TWO separate GCSEs to gain a qualification in both subjects. However, at WHS, the teaching of the English and English Literature courses is integrated.
This course allows you to become astute, perceptive readers and powerfully skilled writers. In a society in which we are increasingly bombarded with information, the ability to analyse texts shrewdly is a vital skill, as is the ability to confidently wield your pen to craft your own ideas and responses
English Literature at GCSE allows you to begin to tackle some of the big questions about love, identity, power, and society.
Through the rigorous study of literary texts you hone your analysis skills, exploring texts in increasingly independent and conceptual ways. You will sharpen your craft of analytical writing and become embroiled in hot debate in class. This is simply a wonderful course.
At Wimbledon High School we begin Maths GCSE at the start of Year 9 and follow the Edexcel specification.
All students are prepared to sit the higher tier qualification at the end of Year 11. Currently in Year 9, students are studying content and gaining skills appropriate to the new GCSE (9-1). The content of the qualification is designed to lead them towards the Edexcel content of A Level Maths which we offer at Key Stage 5 (A level).
As with Key Stage 3, the syllabus content contains work from the five sections we cover each year:
- Number
- Algebra
- Ratio and Proportion
- Geometry and Measures
- Statistics and Probability
The 9-1 specification has a larger content and there is a greater emphasis on problem-solving and mathematical reasoning. The recommendation is for greater curriculum time for Mathematics and at WHS we are providing extra lesson time in Year 10 and Year 11.
We develop a variety of skills; students are encouraged to be rigorous, methodical and to hypothesise. You learn to work collaboratively and develop your questioning. Your problem-solving skills are developed by posing open-ended questions, which require you to select appropriate techniques in a variety of contexts. Additional Maths is invitation only by the Maths department.
Students must choose two sciences The IGCSE courses in Biology, Chemistry and Physics have already started in Year 9, taught by subject specialists throughout Years 10 and 11. Girls must take at least two Sciences, which could include Computer Science and may take all four. Those considering studying Medicine, Dentistry or Veterinary Science at university will need to study the three traditional sciences and those wishing to study a science subject should be looking to take at least two of these. Each subject results in a separate IGCSE.
The study of Biology will give you a greater understanding of the amazing world we live in.
Why Choose Biology?
- Because you want to explore the way Biology affects our everyday life!
- Because you want to investigate the answers to: how does the heart pump blood around the body? How do organisms develop; grow and reproduce? And to other fascinating questions which focus on life itself!
- Because you want to be able to evaluate the scientific data that you see on the Internet, in newspapers and magazines, and on television to make up your mind.
Subject Overview
The study of Biology will give you a greater understanding of the amazing world we live in. As your biological knowledge grows, you will appreciate the richness of life on Earth, the delicate balancing of our environment and the challenges ahead for humankind. You will develop your skills in scientific method and research and understand how to apply your knowledge.
We include numerous opportunities for scholarship, stretch and challenge, and encourage participation in the National Biology Challenge as well as co-curricular clubs such as Scientific Society. This course is a stimulating, inspiring and thought-provoking programme of study and an excellent preparation for A Level Biology.
The principles of Chemistry underpin so many aspects of the world in which we live.
The principles of Chemistry underpin so many aspects of the world in which we live. It is also these principles that are the foundations to many of the solutions to the various crises our planet faces today. Chemistry is an essential choice for girls considering careers in the health and clinical professions, including medicine, veterinary science, nursing, dentistry and forensic science.
Studying Chemistry will also prepare our girls for industry careers, such as those within engineering, pharmaceuticals or petrochemical sectors. The skills acquired when studying Chemistry are also very useful in other less thought of careers, such as law.
Being a physical science, we lay huge emphasis on practical work in Chemistry. Investigative skills are assessed through the written examinations but we stress the importance of skills and application in a practical context when conducting practical activities throughout the course. The Chemistry IGCSE course provides an excellent and relevant foundation for progression to the study of A level. We include numerous opportunities for scholarship, stretch and challenge. For example, we advise participation in the RSC Chemistry Olympiad as well as the Cambridge Chemistry Challenge
We have designed the course around the principle of interleaving, each topic building on the last and every topic being regularly reviewed.
Why Should I choose Physics?
You already love Physics! You're curious… you always ask questions and love searching for answers. You're thinking of a career in Physics, Astronomy,
Chemistry, Medicine, Engineering, Finance, Environment, Aviation, Computer Science, Music and Acoustics, Research, and many more…
Subject Overview
In Year 10 we look at build on your understanding of the topics you learned in Year 9, starting with a more in depth look at electricity. We'll also pick on the Mechanics that you will learn at the end of Year 9 and show how to link this this topic of Energy Transfers and Efficiencies. In addition we'll start topics on Radioactivity and Astrophysics.
In Year 11 we start to bring a lot of the different ideas we've looked at together, finishing off the topics on Astrophysics and Radioactivity and explaining the Physics behind some of the Chemistry content in the Solids, Liquids and Gases topics.
The course ends with the study of Electromagnetism, exploring how the seemingly disparate ideas of Electricity and Magnetism are in fact two sides of the same coin.
We have designed the course around the principle of interleaving, each topic building on the last and every topic being regularly reviewed, especially in the run up to key internal examinations and of course the real thing in the Summer of Year 11
Students will study a variety of topics concentrating on both their own personal experiences and a wider global dimension.
Learn the language of the future!
Technology is a rapidly evolving people-centred subject, which has disrupted markets and created new subject areas to explore. It has changed the way people work in every area from medicine and fashion to engineering and economics. The ability to use new computing tools will be a useful skill; however, GCSE Computer Science will teach you the fundamental concepts of designing and building tools for others to use and this can open up a huge range of opportunities.
By studying Computer Science GCSE, you will be able to grow your knowledge of how technology operates, develop your critical thinking, analysis and problem solving skills and appreciate the impact that technology can have in every area of life. It is a subject which links to fields such as electrical engineering, physics, chemistry, and biology, and to any profession from medicine to business
What next?
Many people have the misconception that only programmers need to know about Computer Science. However, the skills that you develop in the two-year course can be applied to lots of different career paths, including: Financial Trading, Machine learning engineer, CAD designer, 3D printing materials manager, Games developer, Geographical information systems officer, Data analysis, Cybersecurity: MI5 MI6 and GCHQ, Science researcher.
We recommend students study a modern foreign language.
Learning languages contributes to mutual understanding, a sense of global citizenship and personal fulfilment. Students learn to appreciate different countries, cultures, communities and people.
By making comparisons, students gain insight into their own culture and society. The ability to understand and communicate in another language is a lifelong skill benefiting education, employment and leisure in this country and throughout the world.
Learning languages gives students opportunities to develop their listening, speaking, reading and writing skills and to express themselves with increasing confidence, independence and creativity. Furthermore, language learners explore the similarities and differences between other languages and English and learn how language can be manipulated and applied in different ways.
The development of communication skills and the understanding of the structure of language lay the foundations for the study of other languages in the future.
Students will study a variety of topics concentrating on both their own personal experiences and a wider global dimension.
Learning a language is not just about vocabulary tests and grammar exercises. Whilst these play an important part in honing skills, ultimately learning a language is about being able to communicate with other people, about understanding another culture, about expanding our horizons.
In Year 10 there is a fantastic opportunity to spend 5 days in France, living with a French family and experiencing daily life in Rouen (a large university town in northern France). Lessons tailored to the GCSE course provide extra opportunity to practise communication skills and excursions and workshops offer the chance to learn more about this part of France.
We highly recommend, Covid permitting, that our students visit France, as it is motivating and brings to life everything learnt in the classroom. Many students organise their own exchanges and cultural visits in addition to the above trip.
Students will have a weekly session with the French assistant, an invaluable opportunity to practise pronunciation. French Breakfasts, hosted by our Sixth Form Subject Leaders, offer another great opportunity to simply chat in French. The WHS languages magazine, Linguistica, has an online publication twice a year and a printed copy in the summer term. This is an exciting way to learn more about France, research an area you are interested in, write a film review, comment on French music, fashion or food.
Students will study a variety of topics concentrating on both their own personal experiences and a wider global dimension
Students opting to study German at GCSE will join a vibrant and dynamic community and benefit from numerous excellent opportunities to enhance their learning and broaden their horizons. Students continue their relationships with their pen friends from Munich and will be given the opportunity of a full exchange with them. Furthermore, Years 10-13 have weekly sessions with our assistant who comes to us from Tübingen University and helps students to practise the spoken language. Each assistant brings his/her own individual touch to the role, and it is always very enjoyable to speak to a young person on a regular basis.
As they progress, students become more and more able to benefit from the reading material we have available in the library – be it magazines, graphic novels or books. We always aim to pursue any culturally interesting opportunities to enhance students' insight into the German-speaking world and, Covid permitting, we undertake trips to events in
London. These include plays, screenings or lectures at such venues as the Goethe Institut or King's College London. Students have the opportunity to produce the modern languages magazine Linguistica. As part of our co-curricular programme, we frequently offer master classes ranging from literary topics to Christmas baking.
Students at WHS have in recent years benefitted massively from scholarships and bursaries from the German Government to do work experience visits, youth ambassador schemes; as well as a Peace and Reconciliation conference in Berlin. In recent years, we have had no fewer than four prizewinners in the nationwide Oxford German Olympiad and many of our students continued to be prizewinners in national writing competitions.
The opportunities we offer at GCSE are an excellent preparation for further study of German at A Level and should students continue beyond GCSE, a wonderful world of history, politics, film and literature awaits, together with a cultural trip to Vienna. A great many of our A Level Germanists continue to study the language at university. There is a high demand for advanced skills in German and qualifications in this language are highly sought after.
Students will study a variety of topics concentrating on both their own personal experiences and a wider global dimension.
Learning a language is not just about vocabulary tests and grammar exercises. Whilst these play an important part in honing skills, ultimately learning a language is about being able to communicate with other people, about understanding another culture, about expanding our horizons.
In Year 10 there is a fantastic opportunity to spend a week in Spain, Covid permitting, living with a Spanish family and experiencing daily life in Salamanca (the oldest university town in the country, open since 1218) Lessons tailored to the GCSE course provide an excellent opportunity to practise communication skills and excursions and workshops offer the chance to learn more about the Hispanic culture.
We highly recommend that our students visit Spain or any Spanish-speaking country, as it is motivating and brings to life everything learnt in the classroom. Many students organise their own exchanges with our help and cultural visits in addition to the above trip.
Students will also be given the opportunity to write to pen pals from our partner schools. Students will have a weekly session with the experienced Spanish assistant, an invaluable opportunity to practise pronunciation.
The WHS languages magazine, Linguistica, has an online publication twice a year and a printed copy in the summer term. This is an exciting way to learn more about Spain, research an area you are interested in, write a film review, comment on Hispanic music, fashion or food.
Learning Mandarin Chinese opens up a world of rich culture and fascinating history.
It is an excitingly different language to learn. Mandarin GCSE is only suitable for those students with prior knowledge of the language.
Why study Mandarin?
There are approximately 950 000 000 native speakers of Mandarin Chinese worldwide, making it the world's most spoken language. Being able to communicate in Mandarin opens many doors, in terms of travel, education and employment. China's growing economy brings with it huge business opportunities for Britain. Being able to speak Mandarin is a highly desirable skill in the global market.
Other opportunitiers
Spending time in the target language country is ideal for gaining proficiency in a language. Covid restrictions have inevitably meant we have thus far not been able to plan a trip to China for this cohort, but if it does become possible, we will try!
The WHS languages magazine, Linguistica, has an online publication twice a year and a printed copy in the summer term. This is an exciting way to learn more about China, research an area you are interested in, write a film review, comment on Chinese music, fashion and food.
In order to understand our increasingly visual world, we need to have a basic working knowledge of the art and design practices, processes and skills involved in creating and interpreting images.
Is this the right subject for me?
If you are considering studying Art and Design you should have a commitment to, and love of, the subject and feel motivated to develop your visual skills in order to express your ideas. Ask a member of Year 11 whose GCSE course is reaching completion and she will tell you it is challenging and fun.
This course is suitable for students who are:
- keen to develop their visual skills;
- creative, enthusiastic and imaginative;
- able to sustain an investigation;
- keen to visit galleries, museums, workshops and studios;
- willing to experiment and take risks;
- willing to review their progress and make improvements.
What will I learn?
GCSE Art and Design covers a range of activities and in-depth assignments. How many different ways are there of approaching and solving a problem? You have the exciting prospect of discovering your own personal solution and the satisfaction of seeing your own progress and development. You will be able to explore your own strengths and preferences and build a portfolio of work.
This specification explores drawing, painting, collage, mixed media, printmaking and three-dimensional work. The prime intention is to emphasise the importance of a wider understanding of the nature of art and design.
You design the course within the broad outline of the syllabus. Lots of encouragement, help and constructive criticism will be given to you throughout the two years, and the atmosphere in the studios is friendly and informal.
We will be offering Graphic Design, Product Design and Textiles
Why Design & Technology is the subject for you
A subject that brings learning to life, requiring students to apply their knowledge and skills from all subjects into real-life situations. It allows students who want to experience a different way of working, who enjoy problem solving, creativity and practical application.
A qualification that relates authentic real-world awareness of the iterative design process and strategies used by the creative, engineering and manufacturing industries. Where you will be required to use critical thinking leading towards invention and design innovation, to design and make prototypes that solve real and relevant problems, considering your own and other stakeholders' requirements.
A course for our future Designers, Architects, Engineers, Technologists, Problem solvers and Inventors.
Subject Overview
Design and Technology will prepare students to participate confidently and successfully in an increasingly technological world. Students will gain awareness and learn from wider influences on Design and Technology including historical, social, cultural, environmental and economic factors. Students will get the opportunity to work creatively when designing and making and apply technical and practical expertise.
The course allows students to study core technical, designing and making principles, including a broad range of design processes, materials techniques and equipment. They will also have the opportunity to study specialist technical principles in greater depth. GCSEs that complement this qualification include Art and Design, Computer Science, Maths, English, Geography, Science and many more.
This subject offers an exciting and different challenge.
In addition to learning about acting, directing and the design elements of theatre, you will reflect on the value and potential of the Arts in our society and develop a wide range of vital skills such as:
- Leadership and teamwork: negotiation and effective communication;
- Releasing creativity: being prepared to explore physically and intellectually;
- Improvisation: responding to challenges and learning to be flexible;
- Time management: planning carefully for a successful outcome.
As you will realise from the above, to be successful at this level in Drama it is crucial to enjoy working with others; the achievement of each individual depends more than anything on how well the members of a group work together. On this course, you will be encouraged to improve and develop your performance skills with particular focus on physical and vocal techniques, through improvised drama and also scripted work. Being able to share and explore your thoughts and feelings about important issues facing society today will be important when you are called upon to devise an original piece of theatre. Producing a play for performance is an exhilarating - often difficult - process and you should understand that this can be a mentally, physically and emotionally demanding subject.
GCSE Drama at WHS is a popular option, taught by fully qualified specialist Drama teachers assisted by a full-time Theatre Technician and an Assistant Theatre Technician. Students are actively encouraged to make the most of the excellent facilities in the Rutherford Performing Arts Centre.
The world in which we live is likely to change more in the next 50 years than it ever has before over the same period of time
Is this the right subject for me?
In order to answer this question, ask yourself what you enjoy about studying geography. Try these questions. Do I want to…
- earn and understand more about the world I live in?
- have an opportunity to engage in debate and research on a range of diverse topics
- complete practical work away from the classroom in the outside world?
- learn how to work in a team with other students?
- learn through investigating, not just listening and reading? If the answer is ‘yes' then Geography GCSE is definitely for you!
What else is on offer?
Every two years the department leads the everpopular trip to Iceland during October half-term, which, although not curriculum based, is an opportunity to experience a very different landscape and culture to our own corner of SW London. We hike on glaciers, explore lava tubes, float through iceberg lagoons and hopefully catch a glimpse of the awe-inspiring Northern Lights.
Year 11 Geographers are also invited to join our student-led society, Geog On, where students and staff present on a wide range of different topics and themes from across the geographical spectrum. We also enjoy the odd geographical game and an opportunity to share our passions beyond our cohort.
The past unlocks the present.
If you love to discover new things, make sense of ideas and events, debate and understand how to make change in the world, then History is for you! We teach you to think, evaluate information, make up your own mind and argue your views. As we navigate a period of unprecedented challenge and opportunity for our global community, these skills, and the understanding of a diverse range of human experience that History also offers, could not be more vital.
What else is on offer?
We normally take Year 11 to Berlin every year and are intending to have this up and running again as soon as we can. We also took a group to China jointly with the Geography department in October 2018 and are planning another long-haul trip in the next few years. These are optional, but designed to supplement your studies in an interesting and enjoyable way. The cost will depend on the destination, but Berlin is currently in the region of £550.
GCSE students also participate in our History Society known as the History Girls. Every week, a student leads a discussion on a topic which interests them – anything from Ancient Greece to witchcraft to the global youth revolt of 1968. Lively debate and broadening of horizons are guaranteed!
Latin's great breadth and diversity invariably captivate students' interest and imagination through its rich cultural heritage and fascinating history, its elegant language and stimulating literature.
The course aims to develop a greater understanding of the Roman world and its influence on modern society. An increased knowledge of the Latin language can provide an awareness of the many links with modern European languages, including French and Spanish.
The logical structure of Latin will help you develop an analytical approach to other languages and will heighten your understanding of English. It is possible to study Latin alongside another European language at GCSE.
One of the main aims of studying Latin GCSE is to gain access to the wealth of famous literature from the classical world and develop an appreciation for Latin literature in its cultural context. To that end, the Department runs a variety of trips, which may include visiting Oxford or the British Museum. As well as being exciting and inspiring, this course helps you develop an intellectual flexibility, which will be useful in further study and subsequently a wide range of careers.
Music is a central part of life; all of us hear music and are impacted by music on a daily basis.
Music is an academic subject of tremendous value in later life. It is a practical subject – a specific skill – which enables young adults to stand out from the crowd. As well as developing the confidence to perform in public, the ability to work independently on ideas is encouraged and developed. Such traits are central to success at university. An open mind, a desire to work independently and a willingness to engage with wholeschool musical activities are essential traits for success in this qualification.
Physical activity is a key part in leading a healthy, active lifestyle.
Physical Education at GCSE level is a brilliant introduction to the academic aspect of PE and the wider world of sport. It is an academically rigorous subject which focuses primarily on the science of sport that complements excellence in physical performance as well.
Theory: The study of applied physiology and anatomy allows the exploration of the body's adaptations through diet whilst looking at how training can optimise performance. In the topic of socio-cultural influences, the relationship the media and commercialism when linked to sport is studied, and when studying sport psychology, pupils will gain understanding of the impact of the mind on performance.
Practical: The practical section of the syllabus assesses candidates in three sporting activities. These must be sports that you take part in (regularly) whether inside or outside of school. In addition, students will write a piece of coursework (AEP) where candidates will need a good knowledge of the skills, rules, techniques and tactics used in a particular sporting area of their choice.
They will learn how to analyse and improve their own/ others' performance by identifying strengths and areas for development.
Practical Activities
This is the list of activities students can perform in for their individual and team activities.
Individual Activity
Amateur Boxing, Athletics, Badminton*, Boccia, Canoeing, Cross country running, Cycling, Dance*, Diving, Equestrian, Figure Skating, Golf, Gymnastics, Ice Hockey, Inline Roller Hockey, Kayaking, Polybat, Rock Climbing, Sailing, Sculling*, Skiing, Snowboarding, Squash*, Swimming, Table Tennis*, Tennis*, Trampolining, Windsurfing.
Team Activity
Acrobatic gymnastics, Association Football, Badminton*, Basketball, Blind Cricket, Camogie, Cricket, Dance*, Figure Skating, Futsal, Gaelic Football, Goalball, Handball, Hockey, Hurling, Ice hockey, Inline roller hockey, Lacrosse, Netball, Powerchair Football, Rowing, Rugby League, Rugby Union, Sailing, Sculling, Squash*, Table Cricket, Table Tennis*, Tennis*, Volleyball, Water polo, Wheelchair Basketball, Wheelchair Rugby, Some activities cannot both be taken together e.g. Snowboarding & Skiing/Rugby League & Union
*Some activities cannot be assessed as both individual and team e.g. Badminton singles & doubles.
Knowledge of the beliefs, values and traditions of those in your community is key to building a society where everyone is understood and respected.
What is the course about?
Knowledge of the beliefs, values and traditions of those in your community is key to building a society where everyone is understood and respected. With this in mind, the Religious Studies department offers an exciting course that covers the main issues of Philosophy and Religion as well as Religion and Ethics.
The two units you will study cover the following fascinating topics and consider religious teachings, beliefs and attitudes about:
- Sex, marriage and divorce
- Families and gender equality
- Philosophical arguments for and against the existence of God
- Religion, violence, terrorism and war
- Religion and belief in 21st century conflict
- Religion, crime and the causes of crime
- Religion and punishment
- Human rights
Classical Greek GCSE is completed from scratch in two years.
This subject provides suitable challenge for able linguists, who have an interest in the culture and history, myths and legends of classical Greece. The course is well suited for those who are taking Latin GCSE, but can be studied equally well as an independent option.
Because this GCSE is taught in only two years, the pace will be fast, and you should bear this in mind if you are considering the option of studying Greek GCSE.
At Wimbledon High School, we begin GCSE at the start of Year 9 and all students are prepared to sit the higher tier qualification at the end of Year 11.
At Wimbledon High School, we begin GCSE at the start of Year 9 and all students are prepared to sit the higher tier qualification at the end of Year 11. The Additional Mathematics qualification is designed to build on the GCSE Mathematics syllabus and starts in Year 10.
Students will be invited to cover the Additional Mathematics qualification in a weekly school academic slot, starting in Year 10. This will be invitational only by the Maths department.
The students are expected to attend every week (with some pre agreed exceptions such as a sports fixture) and complete homework.
This course is targeted at those students who the maths department have identified as needing additional stretch beyond the curriculum. It is more suitable for those students who are considering Further Maths as an A/AS Level, who attend the maths clubs or participate in the maths challenge follow on rounds.
It is not a pre-requisite course for either Maths or Further Maths A/AS Levels and we welcome applications to both A Level courses from all Year 11 students who meet the minimum course requirements.
PPE is taken by all Year 10 students apart from those who opt for Classical Greek or Additional Mathematics, due to timetabling.
Our pioneering PPE course at WHS comes from our vision for students to “stride out” to better shape the society in which they live and work. Year 10 is a critical time when we expect students to look outwards, understand the world around them and question the ideologies – political, economic, philosophical – that are so influential today.
From understanding UK governance and political systems, to exploring personal and global finance, to grappling with big philosophical concerns about aesthetics or ethics, our PPE course inspires our students to think big. In the first year of running the course, we've seen students develop their understanding of the nuances behind newspaper headlines and the ramifications of policies.
We aim for the girls' opinions and the voices they use to air those opinions to mature, with students becoming ever more thoughtful and increasingly bold. Additionally, students become astute and spirited writers about their individual areas of interest within the PPE course.
PPE is taken by all Year 10 students apart from those who opt for Classical Greek or take Additional Maths due to timetabling. This is a stimulating course and delivered at a high level by subject specialist teachers.
Politics and Economics are offered at A Level, so this is a great introduction for students who might want to study these subjects in Sixth Form.
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