The curriculum is the way in which the school organises teaching and learning so that each pupil reaches the highest level achievement.

Key Stage Three

This covers the first three years, when pupils will follow National Curriculum subjects. In Year 7, students are taught English, Maths, Science and French, in ability sets. Humanities, Re and Citizenship are taught in mixed ability groups through the Opening minds competency based curriculum. Other National Curriculum practical subjects are also delivered to Year 7 with their content linked to the Opening Minds themes. In Years 8 and 9, pupils will have lessons in English, Maths, Science, Technology, French, Geography, History, ICT, Art and Design, Music, Drama and Learning for Life (RE, Citizenship and Health Education). All students at Key Stage 3 receive 2 hours per week of PE with opportunities to extend this time through extra curricular activities.

In Key Stage 3, all lessons except PE and Opening Minds are taught in ability sets, although pupils will be grouped in mixed ability forms. In Year 7, setting will be based on National Curriculum ‘Teacher Assessments’ and test levels from Primary school. There are, of course, opportunities for ‘late developers’ to change sets as their ability develops. In Years 8 and 9, pupils will have the opportunity to study a second Modern Foreign Language.

Key Stage 4

In Years 10 and 11, all students will study English, Maths, Science, PE, ICT and Learning for Life (including Careers Education). In addition, students will be able to select from four option lines consisting of more than 20 additional subjects. Most subjects are GCSE courses, but we now offer an increasing range of vocational courses including Diplomas.

In addition to the knowledge, skills and understanding developed, pupils are encouraged to apply these skills and show their initiative in lessons and in a variety of cross curricular opportunities.

As an 11-18 school, we hope as many students as possible will stay on to study from a wide range of subjects in the Sixth Form. However, we are aware that for a number of individuals, their future will be in other directions. Our Careers Education and Guidance team will work with all students in Years 9 to 11 to ensure they are aware of all their progression opportunities and that they make the right decisions for their future.