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Fifth Form

Entering the Lower Fifth at Bede’s is the launchpad for an incredibly thrilling two-year adventure of personal growth and discovery. 

We do not wait for opportunities. We create them.

Exceptional Outcomes

Pupils have the wonderful opportunity to tailor their education by choosing between 8 to 10 courses that match their unique passions and future dreams. Whether diving into classic academic subjects or modern practical ones, the journey ahead is packed with joy, support and endless possibilities!

Computing

Choose Your Pathway: GCSEs and BTECs

Bede’s celebrates every kind of learner by offering two equally valuable, university-recognised pathways that can be combined for the perfect personalised timetable.

Traditional GCSEs: 

Ideal for those who love a linear academic route, with final exams at the end of the Upper Fifth and roughly 60–90 minutes of homework per week for each subject.

Innovative BTECs: 

A fantastic, hands-on option for pupils who shine through continuous coursework and project-based assessments rather than big final exams. These excellent courses are proudly offered in Sports Science, Science, Business, Performing Arts, and ICT.

Core Qualifications:

  • GCSE Mathematics
  • GCSE English Language (with the majority also taking GCSE English Literature)


A Tailored Science Route: Every pupil starts on an exciting scientific exploration, finalising their specific path at the end of the Lower Fifth:
 

  • Double Science: The popular and rewarding route covering Biology, Chemistry, and Physics to achieve two GCSEs.
  • Triple Science: A brilliant option for exceptional scientists to earn three distinct GCSEs.
  • BTEC Applied Science: An engaging, practical course leading to one GCSE equivalent, perfectly paired with BTEC Business or extra Learning Enhancement
Science pupils in a lab
Bede's Pupils in an English Classroom

Endless Options to Personalise Your Day

Bede’s prioritises maximum flexibility so pupils can strike a balance between the humanities, creative arts, and practical subjects. Pupils can also count dedicated sports academy commitments or Learning Enhancement lessons as part of their choices.

Furthermore, native speakers have the incredible opportunity to take an additional, out-of-timetable GCSE in languages such as Japanese, Mandarin, Cantonese, Russian, or Italian!.

Pastoral & Academic Support


While choosing these steps is a big milestone, there is absolutely no need to worry! The incredible Bede’s Faculty and Fifth Form leadership team are entirely dedicated to supporting every single pupil along the way.

With comprehensive Sixth Form preparation, a robust careers advice framework and a spectacular co-curricular programme to boost CVs and build life skills, pupils will emerge from these two years feeling confident, inspired and completely ready to conquer the world!

Fifth Form Prospectus

Register for an upcoming open morning

Take a closer look at life at Bede's Senior School and join us at upcoming open morning 

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What's happening at Bede's

Bede's Announces Major New Commercial Partnership with Brighton & Hove Albion Football Club
David Byrne, Director of Commercial Partnerships

Bede’s School is delighted to announce a prestigious new commercial partnership with Premier League club Brighton & Hove Albion FC. This collaboration unites two of the South East’s leading institutions, establishing a strong partnership alignment rooted in shared values, community engagement and focus on developing excellence.

pupils on lawn