Upper School Curriculum
In the Upper School our students study English Language, English Literature, Mathematics and Science (Core, Additional, Chemistry, Biology, Physics) to GCSE level and BTEC L2 Science. We recommend students to follow a broad and balanced curriculum until the end of Year 11 so that no career paths are closed off and every student has the opportunity to gain the best possible examination results.
Students are therefore advised to add to the subjects above one subject from each of the following curriculum areas: Humanities (History, Geography, Religious Education, Sociology), Design and Technology (Textiles, Graphics, Resistant Materials), Modern Foreign Languages (French, Spanish, Urdu) and Physical and Arts Education (Art, Dance, Drama, Music and Performing Arts), Information and Communication Technology and Media Studies.
Students' choices are considered in the light of their motivation, past performance, attendance and aptitude. Group numbers and resources may also affect choices. It is school policy to enter students for public examinations when they are ready for them. Consequently some students may take public examinations in some subjects before the end of Year 11.
In addition to examination subjects, all students have classes in Physical Education, Religious Education, Information and Communication Technology. All students follow a course which includes Personal, Social and Health Education, Citizenship and other National Curriculum themes.
There is an effective Study Support Programme using the Students' Organiser, planners, study skills, mentoring and individual target-setting and review interviews. Students complete their Progress File and are offered Careers education and guidance, including work experience, career interviews and information about our Sixth Form and about Further and Higher Education. In Year 11 all students are interviewed by a member of the Senior Management Team about their future plans.
Further details and course information can be found in the Key Stage 4 Curriculum Guide: