GCSE Resits at ELAM

Below is information regarding GCSE resits at ELAM. While our academic pathway teachers are highly experienced and deliver carefully tailored courses in supportive classroom environments, designed to give trainees the best possible chance of success, please note that GCSE resit places at ELAM are limited.

Applicants requiring a single GCSE resit will be considered carefully and assessed against their overall suitability for the programme.

Applicants requiring double GCSE resits (both English and Mathematics) will be assessed in line with ELAM’s capacity to deliver resit provision and will only be permitted in exceptional circumstances. A requirement for double resits does not guarantee admission and may result in a conditional offer being withdrawn if resit capacity cannot be met.

GCSE English Language

Exam Board: Pearson
Course Length: 1 or 2 years
Teaching Time: 4 lessons per week

Course Overview

GCSE English Language at ELAM helps students develop confidence, precision, and creativity in their reading and writing. The course is designed to build strong analytical and communication skills while providing practical exam strategies. With small classes and personalised support, students are encouraged to understand concepts deeply, not just memorise content, preparing them for future study, apprenticeships, and the workplace.

What Will I Study?

Students will learn to read, interpret, and analyse a wide range of texts with confidence. Key skills include:

  • Retrieving information and making inferences

  • Analysing language and structure

  • Writing across different styles: descriptive, narrative, persuasive, analytical, and informative

  • Applying practical exam techniques to approach assessments with clarity

The course combines critical reading and creative writing to help students communicate effectively in any context.

Assessment

  • 100% Examination

  • Two written papers, each lasting 105 minutes:

    • Paper 1: Fiction and creative writing

    • Paper 2: Non-fiction and transactional writing

Progression Opportunities

Achieving a Grade 4 demonstrates strong reading and writing skills essential for everyday life, higher education, and employment. The course opens doors to apprenticeships, jobs, and further study pathways, equipping students with skills that are widely valued across all careers.

Entry Requirements

  • GCSE English: Grade 3 or below

  • Students who have not yet achieved a Grade 4 in English Language or Literature will take this course as part of their programme, with tailored support throughout to help them reach the required standard.

GCSE Mathematics

Exam Board: Edexcel Pearson
Course Length: 1 or 2 years
Teaching Time: 5 lessons per week

Course Overview

GCSE Mathematics at ELAM is designed to help students build confidence, strengthen core skills, and achieve the grade they need. The course focuses on understanding concepts deeply rather than memorising procedures, with small classes, personalised support, and experienced teachers guiding every step. Practical applications, clear explanations, and proven exam strategies prepare students for success in assessments and provide a strong foundation for further study, apprenticeships, and employment.

What Will I Study?

Students develop skills across key areas of mathematics, including:

  • Number and Ratio: fractions, percentages, ratios, powers, and roots

  • Algebra: equations, formulae, sequences, and graphs

  • Geometry and Measures: shapes, angles, perimeter, area, volume, and trigonometry

  • Statistics and Probability: data interpretation, averages, and probability calculations

The course prioritises practical problem-solving and understanding how maths applies to real-life contexts.

Assessment

  • 100% Examination

  • Three written papers, each 1 hour 30 minutes:

    • One non-calculator paper

    • Two calculator papers

  • No coursework; all equipment provided

Progression Opportunities

Achieving a Grade 4 demonstrates a solid understanding of essential maths skills needed for daily life, further study, and the workplace. GCSE Maths opens doors to apprenticeships, jobs, and higher education pathways, equipping students with widely valued analytical and problem-solving skills.

Entry Requirements

  • GCSE Maths: Grade 3 or below

  • Students who have not yet achieved a Grade 4 will resit as part of their course, with tailored support provided to help them reach the required standard.