Speater College offers a two-year IGCSE programme (Years 10–11) and a two-year A-Level programme (Years 12–13) under the Oxford AQA international examination system. Our curriculum is structured around the principle of depth over breadth, complemented by the Extended Project Qualification (EPQ) and personalised support, so that students thrive within a demanding academic framework.
Oxford AQA is a prestigious examination board jointly established by Oxford University Press and AQA, the UK’s leading examination board, and is a globally recognised international curriculum and assessment system. Compared with other examination boards, Oxford AQA designs its assessments specifically to suit non-native English speakers, removing cultural and regional biases to ensure a fair evaluation of students’ subject knowledge and critical thinking skills. Its curriculum spans mathematics, the sciences, business, the humanities, and languages, balancing breadth of knowledge with depth of application, emphasising independent inquiry, critical thinking, and problem-solving, and providing seamless progression to advanced programmes such as the A-Levels and a solid pathway for overseas university entry.
IGCSE (Grade 10-11)
AS a preparatory curriculum bridging the A-Level and the International Baccalaureate (IB), the IGCSE examination system structures its subjects in alignment with the specialised streams of these advanced programmes. It offers a rich and professional array of examination subjects spanning natural sciences to humanities, and theoretical research to applied practice, aiming to build a seamless bridge for students transitioning to international pre-university studies.
Typically, IGCSE students are required to present results in six IGCSE subjects to gain entry into A-Level or IB programmes. However, academically capable students may opt to take up to ten examination subjects, which can provide a competitive advantage when applying for university admission.
Subject Choices
- English as a Second Language (ESL)
- Chinese
- Mathematics
- Economics
- Business Studies
- Psychology
- Physics
- Chemistry
- Biology
- Art
A-Level (Grade 12-13)
Unlike other international curricula such as the IB Diploma Programme, A-Levels offer Exceptional flexibility in subjects election, allowing students to freely combine any subjects they wish to study. Most students take 3-4 A-Level subjects in Grade12. By Grade 13, students would typically tailor their choices based on the degree they intended to study and narrow their A-Levels to three subjects as required by most universities. Our teachers are well attuned to the unique needs of both the local and expatriate students. During these final years of secondary education, we provide tailor made academic support, mentorship, and career advisory to help every student succeed.
Subject Choices
- English
- Chinese
- Mathematics
- Further Mathematics
- Economics
- Business Studies
- Psychology
- Physics
- Chemistry
- Biology
- Art
EPQ
What Is the EPQ?
The EPQ (Extended Project Qualification) is an independent research qualification within the A-Level programme. Students select a topic of genuine interest and, under the guidance of a supervisor, conduct in-depth research. The final output is either a 5,000-word academic dissertation or an artefact accompanied by a written report, followed by a formal presentation. Unlike conventional examination subjects, the EPQ has no set syllabus and no single correct answer. The only limit is your own curiosity.
Why Undertake an EPQ?
- A powerful supplement for University applications. The EPQ is highly regarded by leading universities, including Oxford, Cambridge, Imperial College London, and the LSE. A strong EPQ can earn up to 28 additional UCAS tariff points.
- Demonstrating independent research capability. The EPQ follows similar way of studying as university. Therefore, doing an EPQ signals to admission officers that you already possess the skills to define your own research question, conduct literature reviews, apply critical analysis, produce academic writing, and communicate your findings with confidence.
- Exploring general academic passion. The EPQ gives you the freedom to move beyond the examination syllabus and explore a subject that truly captivates you. Whether you choose to investigate the impact of artificial intelligence on the creative industries or examine community participation in Hong Kong’s urban renewal, your project is defined entirely by you.
How Speater College Supports You?
At Speater College, every student who undertakes the EPQ is assigned a dedicated supervisor who provides guidance throughout the entire journey — from topic selection to final presentation:
- Project selection — Your supervisor works with you through structured brainstorming to ensure your chosen topic is both personally meaningful and academically viable.
- Research phase — Guidance on literature searching, data collection, and research methodology design, with regular progress reviews.
- Writing phase — One-to-one support in refining your dissertation structure, argument logic, and academic reference.
- Presentation — Mock sessions to help you present your research with clarity and confidence before the assessment panel.