Key Stage 4 allows students the opportunity to focus their learning and select subjects they wish to choose for further study. These can be across a range of areas and may be academic or vocational in nature. All students will study English and Mathematics at Key Stage 4 at a level suitable for them and will be guided by staff and in consultation with parents towards subjects that will help them in their future career pathways. The curriculum offer changes each year at Blackwater to reflect the cohort of students and we try and tailor the offer to best suit the needs of all of our students.

In 2019/20 GCSE results 90% of Blackwater students achieved 5+ GCSE grades at A*- C and 60% including English and Mathematics. Both of these figures are above the NI average for similar schools and show the curriculum offer at Blackwater is clearly tailored to meet student needs.

As the College has developed the range of both academic and vocational subjects has expanded at Key Stage 4 there has been a rise in standards: the majority of those following our Vocational Programme for example now achieve five or more GCSEs or equivalent qualifications. ETI confirmed that “pupils attain good standards in a wide range of vocational subjects”

The pastoral system in the College supports all students in their learning, and guidance on how to study effectively is delivered in the Personal Development programme and supplemented by enjoyable practical workshops at appropriate times.

Progress is tracked closely at Key Stage 4 and targets are shared and students have access to further interventions as required.

The list below are some of the subjects offered in the last few years at Blackwater IC.