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Transition from Key Stage 3 to GCSE

Key stage 3 and key stage 4 national curriculum

April 15th 2024

Choosing options and the transition from the Key Stage 3 to Key Stage 4 national curriculum is a crucial period for students. As they move into the GCSE years, homework can increase quickly and work becomes more complex, and this can sometimes cause feelings of stress amongst young people. Our Curriculum Advisor Lucy shares five effective strategies to help ease the transition, as well as some reading recommendations, both popular fiction books for young adults and non-fiction, to promote students' wellbeing.

1. Independent choice

Encourage pupils to choose the subjects they're most passionate about, rather than following their friends' or parents' preferences.

2. Taster lessons

Consider offering taster lessons for any new subjects not offered at Key Stage 3, that students will be less familiar with. This allows them to explore and gain a better understanding of the options open to them.

3. Insights from current GCSE students

Encourage current Key Stage 4 students or Year 11 leavers to share their experiences and insights into their subject choices.

Helping students transition to the key stage 4 national curriculum

4. Be supportive

Acknowledge the importance of GCSEs, but emphasise support rather than the fear factor – avoid intimidating phrases like "this is GCSE now" or "the pressure's on". Ensure that students are aware of the support systems available to them within the school.

5. Introduce key texts early

Consider introducing pupils to simplified versions of key stage 3 English books such as Macbeth and A Christmas Carol. This will help familiarise them with the story, before they're required to delve into the main text. This approach will benefit all students, but works particularly well for those with SEN.

Books to boost student wellbeing

Lucy's book list includes non-fiction titles packed with advice on topics such as exam preparation and revision, managing stress and navigating social media, as well as some of our top fiction titles featuring teenage protagonists.


		see more books to boost wellbeing

More from our schools team

Our Children's Book Specialists love to support you with picking the best books for curriculum. Using their expertise as former teachers and school librarians, they lead our bespoke selection service for schools. Want to get more teacher advice straight to your inbox? Sign up to our newsletter today.