Key Stage 4

The GPUTC has a unique 5- year curriculum model covering Key Stages 3 & 4 which predominantly focuses on Science, Technology, Engineering, Maths (STEM).  

At KS4, years 9, 10 & 11 students continue to follow a STEM rich learning pathway with a heavy emphasis on Maths, Science and Engineering based subjects. In addition students study English, have access to PHSE and core PE time. GCSE choices are based heavily around STEM, including Computer Science; but more recently we have introduced History, Geography, Media Studies, Sports Science and Art & Design.

GPUTC does not offer performing arts subjects such as: Dance, Drama, Music or a Modern Foreign Language.  If students join us already speaking a home language, we will endeavour to ensure they gain qualifications in that language to add to their portfolio of knowledge skills and experiences.

There is clear rationale for their omission, and one that is made clear to any potential applicant at every admission point.  The rationale is twofold:

1. It stays true to the original concept of the University Technical Colleges being government-funded schools with a STEM focus.
2. It enables additional time for students to focus on STEAM/STEM subjects, enabling greater depth of learning. 

The intent of the Greater Peterborough UTC curriculum is to ‘Create the workforce of tomorrow’ by

1. Giving students the foundational knowledge, skills, values, and experiences important to be successful in the modern of world work.
2. Focusing the curriculum on STEAM at KS3 and STEM at KS4. 
3. Creating confident and articulate students who can thrive in the workplace  

Year 9 & Year 10

Most students will already be at GPUTC and will set out at the beginning of Year 9 on a key stage 4 pathway that includes at least 8 qualifications.

As there will always be an additional entry point for as many as 40 students, in Year 9, we do have to have additional induction criteria for these students.

It is recognised that students joining GPUTC at its 2nd entry point will have a considerably less depth of knowledge that those who have been at GPUTC since Year 7 in some subjects.  They therefore may take part in an induction programme at the start of Year 9 or 10 which includes completion of additional learning resources and additional curriculum time. Completing a range of ‘catch up’ materials prior to starting in Year 10 in September may also be a requirement.

Assessing the ability range of all students new to the UTC against national assessment criteria using a range of assessment tools such as PASS, GL assessments, CATS and NGR reading tests will also take place.  

Inducting students into the vertical model of pastoral care is important to develop confident and articulate students who can thrive in the workplace and seamlessly integrate into the very established year group.      

Study Programme for Key Stage 4

Students will study the following mandatory GCSE subjects:

• English Language
• English Literature
• Maths
• Combined Science or Science taught in the 3 separate disciplines (Biology, Chemistry and Physics). 

Our KS4 curriculum aims to prepare students for a STEM rich curriculum at Post 16 by delivering more hours per week in our specialist subjects than other Meridian Trust schools; this is achieved by reducing the number of GCSE ‘options’ chosen in year 9. This extra time is used to thread industry learning and experience through all curriculum areas to make learning relevant to the work place.

Each student will then be able to choose THREE employability GCSE subjects from Engineering based subjects, Computer Science, History, Geography, Media Studies, Sports Science and Art & Design.

The curriculum also includes the following compulsory elements:

• Personal Social Health Education (PSHE)
• Sex and Relationships Education (SRE)
• Philosophy and Ethics (PRE)
• Careers information, advice and guidance (Including careers and progression)
• Physical Education

The Greater Peterborough UTC is unique in that it is both part of Meridian Trust and has strong links with the Baker Dearing Trust.  The link below takes you to the Meridian Trust curriculum page and much of the information contained within the curriculum outlines fits with the Meridian Trust model.  There are however significant differences within some aspects of delivery, assessment and time devoted to each subject which will differ.

How we measure success at GPUTC

Destinations

1. At KS4 and 5 the destinations of students into STEM related employment, training/apprenticeships or university courses

Progress & Attainment

1. The progress of learners from their start points on arrival at GPUTC in individual subjects specifically STEM subjects – unlike most other schools UTCs are not measured on Progress 8.
2. The progress of students in years 7, 8 & 9 as measured by GL – Global Learning- assessments in English, Maths and Science.  This is against the National and Meridian Trust average. 
3. The progress of students in other subjects taught at Key Stage 3 against rigorous assessment criteria. 
4. The progress made by students who have interventions to support identified SEND need.
5. At Key Stage 4, attainment in English & maths (the Basics measure) and remaining subjects against national benchmarks.

Work Related Learning

1. The progressive exposure of students to employers, sponsors and work-related learning opportunities throughout KS3, 4 & 5 which leads to greater understanding of the skills needed to thrive in the workplace. 
2. Work experience, real-life work experience by getting involved in employer projects through our key Partners which will maximise chances of getting a rewarding and respected job.

PLEDGES and Broader Experiences

1. The progress of students towards achieving PLEDGES and The Baker Award. 
2. Engagement in extra curricular opportunities

Confidence & Articulacy

1. Positive learning behaviours, respectful attitudes and high attendance.
2. The progress of students in their ability to present confidently and articulately to a wide variety of audiences.