CGA Introduces a Two-Year IGCSE Programme

From September 2026, Crimson Global Academy’s Greenwich Campus will begin offering a two-year IGCSE programme. This change has been developed to give students the time, depth and support they need to master their subjects with confidence.

For families and students, this is an important step in how learning is shaped at CGA. It reflects our commitment to thoughtful planning and to ensuring every student has the opportunity to learn well and progress confidently to the next stage of their education.

Why CGA is moving to a two-year model

Across the United Kingdom and internationally, the IGCSE is studied over two academic years. Aligning our Greenwich Campus with this global standard strengthens both academic rigour and continuity for students.

The decision reflects our belief that meaningful learning requires time and space. Extending the programme allows students to study topics in greater depth, refine their skills and consolidate their understanding before entering A Level study.

This is an adjustment in pace, not expectation. It provides a structure that supports stronger academic outcomes and a more balanced learning experience.

Benefits for students

Under the new structure, students will begin their IGCSE studies in Year 10 and complete them at the end of Year 11. Most students will study between eight and ten subjects across this period.

The advantages of this approach include:

• Stronger subject understanding through extended learning and consistent reinforcement
• Improved analytical and examination skills built through steady progression and reflective practice
• A balanced workload that supports wellbeing and sustainable study habits
• Better preparation for A Levels through a firmer grasp of key concepts and subject confidence
• An enhanced academic record that strengthens university and college applications

Supporting the transition

The new programme will be introduced in September 2026, which will serve as a crossover year. Some students will begin the two-year pathway while others, depending on their age and academic readiness, will complete the final one-year IGCSE course before it is phased out.

Families with students in Pre-IG Stage 1 and Stage 2 will receive detailed guidance outlining the available options. The Principal and academic team will meet with each year group after half term to explain the process in detail and respond to any questions. Individual appointments will also be available for families wishing to discuss their child’s placement.

Alignment with CGA’s academic standards

Crimson Global Academy is a registered Cambridge International School and Pearson Edexcel centre. Both awarding bodies are recognised worldwide for their academic quality and consistency.

Introducing a two-year IGCSE structure ensures that our Greenwich Campus continues to align with these international benchmarks while maintaining the flexibility and personalised support that define the CGA approach.

This change also reflects our long-term commitment to academic excellence. It allows teachers to deliver the curriculum in a way that encourages reflection, mastery and intellectual growth.

From September 2027, the two-year IGCSE programme will become the standard structure for all CGA students. This development ensures that our academic pathways continue to meet both global expectations and the individual needs of our learners.

CGA remains focused on providing students with the strongest possible foundation for future success.

If you would like to learn more about the transition to the two-year IGCSE programme, you can speak directly to our Academic Advisor.