Key Stage 3 Curriculum
During the COVID-19 pandemic, we have had to adapt the way that we deliver learning for our pupils. You can find out more about our approach to remote education here.
We believe that all children are individuals with different strengths, skills and aptitudes.
We therefore offer a curriculum which is not only broad and balanced but also gives opportunities for students to develop their understanding and knowledge in a stimulating and inspirational environment, creating lifelong learners.
In order to maximise learning, securing good progress in English and maths in particular, we run a two-week timetable allowing greater flexibility and opportunity for all students.
The PSHCE programme addresses all the requirements of PSHCE and Religious Education. All students are taught Computer Science across Key Stage 3.
As part of our curriculum, we comply with the duties in the Equality Act 2010 and the Special Educational Needs and Disability Regulations 2014 and are committed to making the curriculum accessible for those with disabilities or special educational needs.
Literacy Support
Across Key Stage 3, literacy is supported for all students using the Accelerated Reader program. We also support students with additional literacy needs with a bespoke literacy scheme.
Numeracy Support
Numeracy is supported for all students using Numeracy NINJAS booklets which are completed during form time.
We are in the process of converting back to a 2 year Key Stage 3 and a 3 year Key Stage 4.
From September 2020 the information below will change to add Y9 to Key Stage 3.
Key Stage 3
Years 7 and 8 – Number of Periods per Fortnight
English – 8 periods
Maths – 8 periods
Science – 7 periods
Physical Education – 4 periods
Modern Foreign Languages – 4 periods
Design Technology – 3 periods
Computer Science – 3 period
History – 3 periods
Geography – 3 periods
Religious Studied – 2 periods
Drama – 2 periods
Music – 1 period
Art – 2 periods
PSHCE is delivered through a rolling program throughout the year.
Year 9
English – 8 periods
Maths – 8 periods
Science – 8 periods
Physical Education – 4 periods
Modern Foreign Languages – 4 periods
Design Technology – 3 periods
Computer Science – 2 periods
History – 3 periods
Geography – 3 periods
Religious Studied – 2 periods
Drama – 2 periods
Music – 1 period
Art – 2 periods
PSHCE is delivered through a rolling program throughout the year.
Options Process
The students make their option choices during Y9. During this year students are provided with 1 to 1 careers advice as well as options assemblies where employers, as well as representatives from colleges and universities explain to the students about the various pathways available to them. A further set of assemblies take place in which Heads of Departments within the school to explain how their subjects can benefit the students in the future. This also provides an opportunity to explain each course and the assessment criteria. The students are then offered 1 to 1 sessions with their teachers to discuss the various choices that can be made. Finally there is an Options Evening where parents and students are welcomed to the school to discuss option choices with the different subject departments.
Key Stage 4 Curriculum
In Key Stage 4, students will be offered a wide variety of courses that both suit their abilities and their aspirations. English, Maths, Science and Physical Education are all compulsory. Students will be offered an appropriate selection of courses and options at either GCSE level or BTEC level one and two. An identified cohort of students will follow the appropriate courses that will meet the requirements of the English Baccalaureate. The English Baccalaureate subjects are English, Maths, Science, MFL and Humanities.
Students will follow the most appropriate pathway to suit their ability and aspirations:
Pathway 1: All GCSE courses with Physics, Chemistry and Biology GCSE and covers all elements of the English Baccalaureate.
Pathway 2: All GCSE courses with Trilogy Science GCSE with more flexible options choices. This includes either one MFL or one Humanities subject.
Pathway 3: Combination of GCSE and BTEC courses with Trilogy Science GCSE. This includes either one MFL or one Humanities subject.
Pathway 4: This is a bespoke pathway for students who require additional support.
All aspects of RE, Citizenship, Careers and sex education will be delivered through the PSHCE programme. This programme will also provide students with the opportunity to follow the Duke of Edinburgh Bronze award.
Number of Periods per Fortnight
Year 10
English – 9 Periods
Maths – 9 Periods
Science – 8 Periods
Option 1 – 6 Periods
Option 2 – 6 Periods
Option 3 – 6 Periods
PE Option – 6 Periods
Year 11
English – 9 periods
Maths – 9 periods
Science – 8 periods
Options 1 – 6 periods
Option 2 – 6 periods
Option 3 – 6 periods
PE Option – 6 periods
Learning journeys and curriculum plans by year and by subject can be downloaded by clicking the links below:
Art
Careers
Computer Science
Dance
Drama
DT
English
Humanities
Learn for Life Days
Maths
Learning journey
Media
Learning journey
Modern Foreign Languages
French
German
Spanish
Music
PE
Science
SMSC
The range of courses are reviewed annually and will respond to the interest and skills of the students in the school.
For more information on our curriculum or any of the courses that we offer, please contact Mr Kevan via our main telephone number 0151 477 8680.
