Curriculum

All students follow essentially the same curriculum in Years 7, 8 and 9. The structure changes in Years 10 and 11 and again in Years 12 and 13 to allow choice of examination subjects.

All students study a broad and balanced curriculum which fulfils the requirements of the National Curriculum.

• Key Stage 3
• Key Stage 4
• Sixth Form

Students are organised in all ability tutor groups. In Year 7 students are initially taught within their tutor group and they are assessed in preparation for the setting arrangements implemented during Year 7.

The teaching and learning within the curriculum is designed to encourage the students to become independent learners and to take guided responsibility for their own social and intellectual development.

The fifty periods of the two weekly teaching cycle in Year 7 are apportioned to subjects as follows:

During Years 8 and 9 there is an opportunity for some students to study a second modern language. In the Spring Term of Year 9 a full guidance programme by the Connexions Personal Advisers is offered to students and their parents to assist them in making important decisions about examination courses to be followed in Years 10 and 11.

Teaching groups are organised in accordance with the courses of study chosen by each student.

Option groups are organised in such a way as to ensure that the requirements of the National Curriculum are met, whilst giving some choice o students. All subjects lead to DfES QCA approved qualifications. Students may study up to ten subjects at GCSE level.

The fifty periods of the two weekly teaching cycle are apportioned to subjects as follows: 

Students then have the opportunity to choose one subject from each of the 4 option blocks. 5 or 6 periods per cycle are allocated to the following GCSE subjects:

Art
Business Studies
Catering
Childcare
CLAiT
COPE
Drama
French
Geography
German
Graphics
History
iMedia
Materials
Media
Music
Textiles
Spanish
Study Skills

In the Summer Term of Year 10 all students take part in a programme of work experience for two weeks. In the Spring Term of Year 11 a full guidance programme by the Connexions Personal Advisers is offered to students and their parents/carers to help them make decisions on post 16 options including entry into the Sixth Form.

The school has a large and succesful Sixth Form with a tradition of success at A/S and A2 Level and university entrance.

In addition, one year courses are also offered to students who wish to study GNVQ Business Studies and ICT.

The Sixth Form Centre provides a focus for intellectual, social and extra-curricular activities. The School Library and Sixth Form Study Centre provide students with good facilities for research and private study. A dedicated ICT area is also available for Sixth Form use.

We welcome applications for admission to the Sixth Form from all students who have a serious intent to study.

Brochures outlining in more detail the courses on offer in Year 10 and in the Sixth Form are available from the school.