Curriculum Principles + Overview

Our curriculum principles are that we aim to provide a curriculum that:

• provides challenge and aspirational goals for all pupils;
• supports progress throughout the different key stages;
• prioritises the development and mastery of key numeracy and literacy skills;
• is knowledge rich;
• recognises the importance of context and is relevant to the local and global educational and employment situation.

Our cluster school relationship ensures that we are able to offer an effective transition from Key Stage 2 to Key Stage 3, developing pupils in both literacy and numeracy.

Students follow a three year Key Stage 3 curriculum in classes set by ability in the core subjects of English, Mathematics and Science and offering a wide range of curriculum subjects across many disciplines.

The school uses termly asessments (formative/summative) to gather relevant information about student progress. These are used to inform judgement about their learning in lessons and across subjects, enabling curriculum adjustments to improve teaching.

Personal, Social, Health & Careers Education (PSHCE) and Spiritual, Moral, Social and Cultural (SMSC) is embedded in our tutor programme and curriculum. It is taught through the three Key Stages.

As a cluster of schools we offer an effective transition from Key Stage 2 (Year 6) to Key Stage 3 (Year 7), with a strong emphasis on literacy and numeracy.

Our curriculum meets the needs of those with all of the protected characteristics covered by the Equality Act 2010 and extend understanding of equality, diversity and inclusion to all learners; in and outside of lessons. We provide effective training for all staff as well as supporting them to develop ownership and their commitment to equality, diversity and inclusion. This enables them to develop systematic approaches to tackling inappropriate language, attitudes, harassment, victimisation, discrimination and bullying.

Additionally, the curriculum also caters to the individual needs of pupils. This is supported by ensuring that teachers and support staff have the necessary skills to provide quality first teaching that meets these needs, enables progress and raises levels of achievement for all pupils including those with SEN.

CURRICULUM AND ASSESSMENT MAP - YEARS 7 - 11

KEY STAGE 3 – YEARS 7-9

The curriculum choices offered through the options programme are adapted to the developing needs of each cohort.

Students are consulted on their preferred subject choices and the curriculum is designed accordingly.

We offer a broad spectrum of curriculum pathways from traditional GCSE courses through to BTEC and vocational courses.

What we offer

Our Key Stage 3 curriculum aims to be rich, varied, challenging and inspiring.

We aspire for all students to achieve their potential and succeed beyond what may be seen as their best, whatever their starting point. Our three year Key Stage 3 curriculum consolidates key learning skills, fosters creativity, and enhances knowledge across a wide range of subjects.

We set the bar high for achievement, making every teacher accountable for the progress of the students they teach. Both formative and summative assessments are used to help pupi8ls by providing feedback on their performance which helps them develop and learn. Heads of Year and Heads of Department work closely together, focusing on the academic achievement of students in their year groups and subject areas.  This ensures that underachievement is quickly identified, and high impact interventions are implemented to ensure all students achieve their targets.

Teachers are encouraged to plan imaginative and enjoyable lessons, which provide memorable learning experiences. A range of learning styles is used to engage all students, and encourage them to become independent learners. Careful questioning and structured student talk in lessons also help to deepen and develop students’ understanding of the curriculum at Key Stage 3.

Enrichment

Students are offered a wide programme of enrichment activities at Key Stage 3, including opportunities in sports, science and technology, languages, and creative subjects such as music, dance, art and drama.

All students are encouraged to participate in educational trips in order to help bring learning to life and expand their horizons.

KEY STAGE 4 – YEARS 10-11

The curriculum choices offered through the options programme are adapted to the developing needs of each cohort.

Students are consulted on their preferred subject choices and the curriculum is designed accordingly.

What we offer

We offer a broad spectrum of curriculum pathways from traditional GCSE through to BTEC and vocational.

Over the two years of KS4, all students study English, Maths, Xcience, PE, a language and/or a humanities subject in addition to their chosen subjects.

Outside the classroom

At all Key Stages the curriculum is supported by an extensive extracurricular programme provided as part of the extended day, to broaden and enhance the learning experience.

Careers education, enterprise education and financial capability are integral to all areas of the curriculum, and are used to support work experience placements for all students in year 10.

Self- regulated Learning Curriculum Video

For more information on our curriculum please contact our Senior Vice Principal,
Mr M Charles