What subjects can my child study?
GCSE study at Cranleigh begins with discovery. Year 9 gives pupils the time to settle into Senior School, build lasting friendships and lay strong foundations as they explore new subjects and discover what excites them. As pupils move into Years 10 and 11, they begin their GSCEs. Focussing on nine or ten subjects, they blend core subjects with personalised options across languages, humanities, sciences, arts and creative disciplines. Subjects available at Cranleigh Senior include:
- Art
- Sciences (Biology, Chemistry, Physics)
- Classical Civilisation
- Design Engineering
- Drama and Theatre
- English Language and Literature
- French
- Geography
- Greek (Classical)
- History
- ICT
- Latin
- Mathematics
- Music
- Physical Education
- Religion and Philosophy
- Spanish
Diplomas at Cranleigh School
What is the Cranleigh Year 9 Diploma?
The Year 9 Diploma sets pupils up for Senior School life and beyond with the
skills they need to thrive in the ever-changing modern world. Problem-solving, curiosity, resilience, creativity, collaboration and communication are all brought to life by specialist teachers, helping pupils grow in confidence, independence and purpose before GCSEs begin. See the Year 9 Diploma page for details.
What is the Cranleigh Year 10 -11 Diploma?
The Year 10 & 11 Intermediate Diploma helps pupils build the skills, confidence and ambition they need for GCSEs and beyond. It combines twice weekly STRIDE lessons – teaching the school’s core values (Aspire boldly, Be yourself, Look out for others) through Stewardship, Technology, Readiness, Innovation, Diversity and Economic literacy – with independent projects and activities that put human skills such as problem solving into practice.
The Intermediate Diploma places particular emphasis on AI & critical thinking, sustainability, employability and work experience, and financial literacy, giving pupils the tools they need to thrive in a fast‑changing world.
What GCSE options does Cranleigh offer?
The core GCSE programme includes English, Mathematics, Science (either Double Award or the separate GCSEs in Biology, Chemistry and Physics), Religious Studies and one modern language (French or Spanish). Beyond this, Cranleigh’s GCSE options allow pupils to tailor their studies to their interests and strengths. The standard GCSE programme comprises nine GCSEs.
Depending on whether they choose Double Award Science or the separate sciences, pupils select either four optional subjects (with Double Award Science) or three optional subjects (with the separate sciences) from Art, Classical Civilisation, Computer Science, Drama, Geography, History, ICT, Latin, Music, PE and an additional modern language. Pupils wishing to take a tenth GCSE may do so by studying Greek and Latin, which is taught outside the normal timetable. Throughout the options process, pupils receive expert guidance to help them choose a balanced, future-focused programme that suits their ambitions and interests.
Frequently asked questions about Yr 9-11 (age 13-16)
How many GCSEs do pupils take?
Pupils usually take 9 or 10 GCSEs
When are options chosen?
Options are chosen with guidance in the Year 9 spring term.
Is a language compulsory?
No, languages are not mandatory, and pupils may choose to take either one, both, or none of them for GCSE.
Do you have to take all three sciences?
Yes. All pupils study Biology, Chemistry and Physics, but they can choose whether these count towards two or three GCSEs. Combined Science (Double Award) counts as two GCSEs, while Triple Science leads to three separate GCSEs in Biology, Chemistry and Physics. Triple Science covers each subject in greater depth and detail and is often chosen by pupils with a particular interest in science or those considering science-related A-levels and future careers.
What's the average GCSE class size?
The average class size is between 16 and 20 pupils.
Does Cranleigh have a Futures Programme in Years 9–11?
Yes, our Futures programme involves pupils having career conversations, doing work experience and attending life-skills sessions that help them think more broadly, try new ideas and understand the wider world. The Cranleigh Diploma adds to this by building creative thinking, problem-solving and adaptability – the skills that drive innovation in the workplace. Together, they give pupils the mindset and confidence they need for GCSEs, Sixth Form and the modern world beyond school.
What learning support is available at Cranleigh Senior?
Tailored, discreet learning support is one of Cranleigh Senior’s real strengths. Our team gets to know each pupil and the way they learn, offering thoughtful help for those with dyslexia, dyspraxia/DCD, dyscalculia, ASD, ADHD and speech and language needs. Support sits naturally alongside classroom teaching, so pupils feel understood, encouraged and able to thrive. Exam access arrangements and English as an Additional Language (EAL) support are also available, helping pupils build confidence, independence and strong study habits. Learn more below.