What is the EBacc?
The English Baccalaureate (EBacc) is an additional measure that recognises a pupil has studied a specific range of courses and has attained a minimum of a grade 4 in each of these. This may well become a measure that Colleges, universities & employees use to judge students’ academic achievements. With this in mind most students are encouraged to choose two EBacc subjects as well as the core.
The combination of subjects pupils must study at GCSE to attain the EBacc at Arts & Media School are:
- English Language and English Literature
- Mathematics
- Triple Science or Combined Science
- French or Spanish
- Geography or History
The English Baccalaureate
Academic subjects are the foundation of the curriculum here at Arts & Media School Islington and the English Baccalaureate is a qualification offered as a precursor to studying A-levels.
At Arts & Media School Islington all pupils follow an academic core GCSE pathway and then have an enrichment of a choice of subjects from the Arts and Media field.
Arts & Media School Islington has always ensured that its curriculum has breadth, depth and balance, so its pupils are able to select from a wide range of GCSEs as well as having several core subjects that they must study – naturally meeting the criteria for the EBacc.
To obtain the EBacc it is essential that you have selected either Geography or History (you may, of course, choose BOTH Geography and History if you wish) and either Spanish or French. But, remember, you must attain a minimum of a grade 4 in ALL of these subjects to attain the EBacc.
The following subjects are studied by most students in Years 10 and 11 if they wish to complete the EBacc:
- 1 of either Geography or History (students can choose both)
- 1 of either Spanish or French
Next step:
In the Spring term there will be an information evening where you will have the opportunity to discuss how choices made will affect your future. With this information, you will be then asked to select your options. Your teachers will guide you through the process to help you make the best choices. If you have chosen the EBacc, we will provide you with all the support you need to ensure success at the end of year.
What if the EBacc is not for me?
If you are not a student for whom the EBacc is appropriate, there are still plenty of other options open to you at Arts & Media School, that will lead you into a further education pathway that suits you.
All students at Arts & Media School are entitled to a place at City and Islington college. You can contact them directly to learn about courses or contact the Arts & Media School careers advisor, Ms Bailey.