Third, Fourth and Fifth Form

Cheltenham College has a broad curriculum, enabling pupils to explore their interests and intellectual passions. With 17 subjects available to study in Third Form and 22 subjects available Fourth and Fifth Form, pupils can engage with subjects they may not have been previously encountered.

Please scroll down to see more information about the wide range of subjects offered to Lower College Pupils (Years 9 to 11).

To read more detailed information about the curriculum in Fourth and Fifth Form (Years 10 and 11), you are able to download the 2023-25 curriculum booklet here. Information regarding the curriculum in Third Form is available by downloading the booklet here.

Art

Pupils at Cheltenham are encouraged to take risks within Art, becoming stronger, more confident, and expressive individuals as a result. This develops individuality and creative spirit through exploration and endeavour.

In Art, we focus on research, gathering resources, looking at artists and their work, analysis, and development of personal theories about the artists’ responses, and subsequently recording and refining personal ideas.

Art is suited to freethinkers, to those who are curious and who want to challenge perceptions. It suits pupils who have a need to create and produce work without constraints and reflects modern thinking within the Arts. The subject develops transferrable skills which include problem solving, personal research and information gathering, independent thought and time management.

The Department is richly equipped with specialist materials and facilities all taking place in the dedicated Art wing of Thirlestaine House, a Grade I listed building with high ceilings and large windows that combine to create the perfect space for artists. Annual visits to museums and galleries inspire and enrich the pupil experience and curriculum.

Pupils study AQA Fine Art or AQA Art and Design at GCSE.

Thinking about studying Art?

The Head of Department recommends Third Form to read:

BBC
Tate

Fourth and Fifth Form recommended reading:

The Oxford Dictionary of Art
The Pitt Rivers Museum
The Ashmolean, Oxford

Biology

Biological research and understanding is progressing at a rapid rate making it a fascinating subject to study. Since the turn of the millennium, the world has seen the complete sequencing of the human genome, advances in the therapeutic use of stem cells and further analysis to explain climate change.  We encourage pupils to investigate and explore many of these developments for themselves as they build an appreciation of the biological world around them.

Pupils are encouraged to enter national competitions, read extensively and the department arranges trips to conferences to expose them to cutting edge scientific developments and research.

In Fourth and Fifth Form pupils study Edexcel IGCSE Biology. The Edexcel IGCSE offers an academically rigorous course that is stretching for the most able and accessible to all.

Thinking about studying Biology?

The Head of Department recommends for you to read:

Adventures in Human Being by Gavin Francis
Do No Harm: Stories of Life, Death and Brain Surgery by Henry Marsh
Genome by Matt Ridley
Eating the Sun by Oliver Morton

Chemistry

At a basic level, Chemistry describes how one set of substances can be converted into another set of substances. Chemistry investigates the structure, properties and interactions of matter and has a bearing on everything that goes on around us.  Chemistry connects the biological and physical worlds; it is the playground where Mathematics, Physics and Biology meet. Chemistry tackles issues such as, global energy  demands, potable water scarcity, food for a growing population and the development of innovative medicines.

We encourage all pupils to be free thinkers about the subject and explore its principles independently, developing a deep understanding and literacy in all areas of the Chemical Sciences. We offer a range of opportunities to do this, including external competitions, enrichment visits and the chance to take part in our annual Chemistry lecture, ‘The Chemistry Spectacular’.

Pupils at Cheltenham study Edexcel IGCSE in Fourth and Fifth Form.

Thinking about studying Chemistry?

Classics

A major benefit of being a pupil at Cheltenham College is the opportunity to study a Classical subject. All pupils in the Third Form study a form of Classics, usually depending on what has been studied before. A rotating programme of annual lectures, competitions and trips is complemented by the lively Classics Society, featuring games, quizzes and talks by pupils and staff at twice-termly evening events.

All pupils at Cheltenham benefit from the range of provision by the Classics Department, which includes the opportunity to study Latin, Greek and Classical Civilisation at GCSE.

Pupils in Fourth and Fifth Form study OCR GCSE Latin, Greek and Classical Civilisation.

Thinking about studying Classics?

The Head of Department recommends for you to read:

Latin

SPQR by Mary Beard
The Cicero Trilogy by Robert Harris
Amo, Amas, Amat and All That by Harry Mount

Greek

The Ancient Greeks: Ten Ways They Shaped the Modern World by Edith Hall
A Very Short Introduction to Ancient Greece by Paul Cartledge
The Odyssey by Homer

Classical Civilisation

Mythos by Stephen Fry
A Very Short Introduction to Classics by Mary Beard
The Classical World by Robin Lane Fox

Computer Science

Computer Science helps pupils develop an interest in computational thinking and an understanding of the principles of problem-solving using computers. They apply this understanding to create computer-based solutions to problems using algorithms and a high-level programming language. Learners develop a range of technical skills, and the ability to effectively test and evaluate computing solutions. Computer Science has strong connections to Mathematics and Sciences.

The aim of the course is to become experienced in a wide range of technical and social tools, develop skills such as time management, communication and digital literacy and develop technical skills that can be applied to problem solving in every day.

In Fourth and Fifth Form pupils follow the GCSE Edexcel Course.

Thinking about studying Computer Science?

The Head of Department recommends for you to read:

Computational Fairy Tales by Jeremy Kubica
Once Upon an Algorithm: How Stories Explain Computing by Martin Erwig
Algorithms to Live By: The Computer Science of Human Decisions by Brian Christian and Tom Griffiths.
Hidden Figures: The American Dream and the Untold Story of the Black Women Who Helped Win the Space Race by Margot Lee Shetterly

Design And Technology

Pupils in the Third Form learn about Design Technology; Resistant Materials and Textiles Technology and for many, design subjects are a totally new experience. Cheltenham College workshops are fully equipped with a wide range of equipment for pupils to learn and develop their skills practically; introducing skills needed to develop and design projects.

Textiles: The Department focuses upon developing pupils’ intellectual curiosity about the design and manufacture of products, and their impact on daily life and the wider world.

Resistant Materials: This course aims to build innovative designers who understand the demands of a truly modern and evolving society.

In Fourth and Fifth Form pupils study Edexcel – Design Technology GCSE Textiles specialism and Edexcel – Design Technology GCSE Timbers specialism.

Thinking about studying Design and Technology?

Recommended reading, Textiles Technology

Vogue
Selvedge
Drapers
Harpers Bizarre

Recommended reading, Resistant Materials

How Super Cool Tech Works by DK
Great Designs by DK

Drama

Drama as an academic subject at Cheltenham College provides pupils with a comprehensive understanding and experience of all of the functions within a performance. As part of the course pupils gain an awareness of a variety of dramatic styles, genres and conventions and develop an appreciation of live theatre from a critical standpoint. To excel on this course pupils need a passion for all things dramatic, a willingness to take risks and an ability to use their imagination.

Pupils are taught in a suite of specialist rooms; a black box theatre, a dance studio and a dedicated classroom. Beyond the classroom pupils can take part in workshops from visiting practitioners and attend numerous live performances both local and in the West End.

Fourth and Fifth Form pupils study AQA GCSE Drama.

Thinking about studying Drama?

The Head of Department recommends for you to read:

Things I Know to Be True by Andrew Bovell
Blood Brothers by Willy Russell
Playwright’s Podcast – Royal Court Theatre
Theatre Podcast – Shakespeare Globe

English

The English Department thrives upon a collective passion for literature. A genuine sense of delight and excitement infuses and energizes lessons and activities in and outside the classroom.

In Lower College, all pupils study both English Literature and Language. Through the former, pupils explore a wide range of poetry, prose and drama. In English Language pupils are encouraged to develop a personal written style, and to communicate with an awareness of the audience being addressed. Pupils at College study CIE English Literature IGCSE and Eduqas English Language GCSE

We offer a number of English co-curricular activities including a Literary Society, the local Cheltenham Literature and Poetry Festivals, and regular theatre trips. Furthermore, authors, speakers and workshop groups are regularly invited into College to give pupils a fresh perspective on the texts they are studying.

Thinking of studying English?

Third Form recommended reading:

After the War by Tom Palmer
A Monster Calls by Patrick Ness
The Starlight Watchmaker by Lauren James

Fourth and Fifth Form recommended reading:

BBC ‘Great Lives’ Podcast – J.B. Priestley
BBC ‘In Our Time’ Podcast – Macbeth

Geography

We live at a time when, the environments, economies, and cultures of places across the world are interlinked. Geography provides full knowledge of the physical and human environments in which we all live, and an understanding of the connections between them.

Pupils can participate in a vibrant Bingen Geography Society, where the Society attends or hosts numerous seminars, lectures, debates, and reading groups. Many of our Geographers enter the annual extended essay competitions which combine to produce excellent results and global citizens. A biennial trip to Iceland combines experiential Geography with the opportunity for glacial trekking, climbing volcanoes, dodging geysers and swimming in geothermal pools.

Fourth and Fifth Form pupils at Cheltenham study Pearson Edexcel IGCSE.

Thinking of studying Geography?

The Head of Department recommends for Third Form to read:

Factfulness by Hans Rosling
10 Billion by Stephen Emmott
Fighting the Banana Wars and other Fair-Trade by Harriet Lamb
Prisoners of Geography by Tim Marshall

Fourth and Fifth Form recommended reading:

Origins by Professor Lewis Dartnell
Peak Inequality by Professor Danny Dorling

History

History is designed to further historical understanding and political awareness, as well as sheer enjoyment of exploring the past. The History Department relish the difference of the past, knitting together the jigsaw of its many stories, and we also want pupils to appreciate its resonance with events in the world today.

History suits those who care about the world and how different societies operate; about how to be a thinking individual, interacting meaningfully as a citizen both nationally and globally; those who see that we need perspective and context as critical modern navigational tools; and equally those who are curious and like to lose themselves in different places and eras, amongst different people.

Pupils study the Edexcel History IGCSE and AQA History at A Level.

Thinking of studying History?

The Head of Department recommends for Third Form pupils to read:

The Missing of The Somme by Geoff Dyer
Regeneration by Pat Barker V2 by Robert Harris

Fourth Form recommend reading:

Dissolution by C.J. Sansom
The Cold War by John Gaddis
Forty Autumns by Nina Willner

ICT

At Cheltenham College, ICT is a daily part of all of our lives and so there is also a focus on developing pupils’ skills in this area through their work in each subject they study, as well as through participation in co-curricular activities. Teachers support all pupils to become confident, independent and safe users of ICT.

Digital health is increasingly important in a modern world where we all spend more time online. Preparing young people for this reality is woven into the over-arching aims of the pastoral care that we provide, thus ensuring that all pupils develop healthy habits in their engagement with technology during their time at College and beyond.

Maths

The Maths Department at College supports pupils to become independent mathematicians who can apply their knowledge to many different situations, and to promote the enjoyment of problem solving and the relevance of Mathematics to other disciplines.

In Third Form, pupils learn logical thinking and problem-solving skills in general. Mathematics is taught in ability Sets throughout the Third, Fourth and Fifth Forms. The Maths Society meets regularly and provides pupils with a chance to research and present on mathematical topics largely outside of the syllabus, to ensure that everyone has the opportunity to explore deeply all areas of the Maths curriculum and beyond. The Maths Society is mainly pupil led but also with some talks from members of staff and outside speakers.

Fourth and Fifth Form pupils follow the Edexcel IGCSE in Mathematics.

Thinking of studying Maths?

The Head of Department recommends for Third Form pupils to read the following recommended resources:

NRICH by University of Cambridge, Faculty of Mathematics  
Mathematics puzzle books by Martin Gardener
Dr Frost Maths

Modern Foreign Languages

Languages are all around us; at work, on holiday and in day-to-day life. Our Modern Language courses (French, German and Spanish) develop linguistic ability and instil a passion for language by offering insights into the culture and civilisation of countries where the language is spoken.

Pupils joining College in the Third Form usually study two modern foreign languages. Those who have taken a language in their previous school continue with it and, in addition, they start a new language; German, Spanish or French. In the Fourth Form, all pupils study at least one language and many continue with two.

We offer trips abroad, and our Modern Languages Society meets regularly to experience events from film evenings, visiting guest speakers, to tapas and crepes evenings.

Pupils at Cheltenham College study AQA GCSE for French, German and Spanish.

Thinking of studying a Modern Foreign Language?

The Head of Department recommends for you to read:

Spanish-English Bilingual Visual Dictionary by DK
French-English Bilingual Visual Dictionary by DK
German-English Bilingual Visual Dictionary by DK
Reading children’s books such as Mr Men in the target language or watching a movie in the foreign language with subtitles are both good ways to improve language skills.

Music

Musicians should study Music and see it as an opportunity to deepen their understanding and appreciation of the subject, as well as developing their musical skills. All pupils in the Third Form study Music for one period a week and are encouraged to become involved in the co-curricular music activities. The ethos that permeates lessons is high-quality practical music making and engagement, inclusivity, and accessibility.

Following this foundation year, Music should be studied by pupils who have a keen musical interest, who are keen to learn how Music works through active listening and score analysis, who are keen to develop their performance and composition skills, and who are willing to put in the time needed outside of lessons to do this to the best of their abilities. College is proud to be an ‘All-Steinway School’.

Pupils at College study AQA Music at GCSE.

Thinking of studying Music?

The Head of Department recommends for you to read:

This Is Your Brain on Music: Understanding a Human Obsession by Daniel Levitin
The Cambridge Music Guide by Stanley Sadie and Alison Latham
Musicophilia: Tales of Music and the Brain by Oliver Sacks

Physics

It is the mission of the Science Department to ensure that pupils gain the depth of knowledge required to understand science in the real world. We do this by developing the range of skills essential for scientific thinking and the personal qualities needed to build resilient learners and excellent scientists.   Pupils are encouraged to enter national competitions, read extensively and the department arranges trips to conferences to expose them to cutting edge scientific developments and research.

In Third Form, pupils are introduced to the fundamental concepts. In Fourth Form, pupils build their understanding of forces and motion, electricity, energy stores and transfers, solids, liquids and gases, and Astrophysics. In Fifth Form, pupils study forces and motion, delving into momentum and impulse, before moving on to look at waves and radioactivity.  There are many opportunities to undertake practical work to investigate core concepts.  Fourth and Fifth Form pupils study Edexcel IGCSE.

Thinking about studying Physics?

Sports Science

Sports Science is the study of both the practical and theoretical aspects of physical education and results in a PE IGCSE qualification. In Sports Science pupils develop skills in a range of sports and activities and improve performance through a broader and deeper understanding of the human body and a healthy lifestyle. Pupils learn the key principles and theories that form the foundations for physical activity and gain an understanding about how these systems can be developed to optimise an athlete’s performance or improve one’s social, mental, and physical well-being.

Sports Science sparks interest in able athletes, budding physiologists and individuals who have an interest in the ever-growing world of sport science. Pupils must have a strong level of all-round practical ability and a keen interest in Human Biology. Pupils study IGCSE Physical Education Cambridge Board.

Thinking about studying Sports Science?

Theology, Philosophy and Ethics

Theology, Philosophy and Ethics (TPE) is a journey of inquiry into the world. It is an opportunity to explore the ‘big questions,’ of right and wrong, religion and science, life and death, religion and society and the nature of philosophy. In the TPE department we stimulate critical engagement with all aspects of human life. This exciting IGCSE course enables pupils to look at issues that really matter in today’s society.

The aim of IGCSE in the Theology, Philosophy and Ethics Department is to provide a rigorous introduction to philosophical, ethical and theological argument whilst exploring the questions that have preoccupied some of history’s most famous thinkers. Pupils who take this subject should enjoy thinking, reading, writing, being openminded, and be comfortable with a lack of certainty.

Thinking about studying TPE?

Academic

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Pastoral

Pastoral Care