Curriculum Overview Statement

KS3

We are committed to ensuring that students experience a fully rounded, broad and ambitious curriculum.. As a result we put a high priority on literacy and numeracy and the development of core knowledge and skills across all subject areas. Subject staff have decided on the key knowledge, skills and understanding that students should acquire in each of the core and foundation subjects. These are combined with activities to develop creative, passionate learners who can think analytically and critically. We also promote equality of opportunity and ethical and responsible citizenship.We believe that this is the best preparation for success in key stages four and five and for a rich and fulfilling future.

Sport and physical education are essential within a balanced curriculum. Our students play a variety of team and individual sports and are taught in the excellent facilities in the sports block including the state of the art fitness suite. Art, design and technology is timetabled on a rotation and students cover aspects of food, product design, art and textiles. The projects are designed by our ADT teachers to explore and develop the necessary skills to progress well in these subjects. Computing is a discrete subject in KS3 and develops the foundation for digital literacy. Students become competent in their use of ICT skills and in writing computer programmes to solve problems. Students have regular lessons in music and drama, developing an understanding and appreciation of the Arts. Our Performing Arts faculty helps students to develop their confidence, communication skills and creativity.

KS4

We offer a wide range of choice at key stage four and we provide targeted support and guidance to assist students with their options choices. We believe that the EBacc route is appropriate for most of our students but there is choice built into our model to ensure that students have a programme that offers greater personalisation for those not suited to its principles.

We ensure that almost every student has the potential to achieve their best and to adhere to our ethos, be the best that they can be.

We want all our students to have a varied diet of subjects but also want them to play to their strengths. This promotes our holistic principles. The decision to take double or triple science is made on a student’s ability and aptitude for the subject. Where appropriate, we ensure that some students take an entry level qualification alongside their GCSE, although this is a very small number.

KS5

Our students progress very successfully to key stage five studies with a high proportion moving on to further education and training. A range of academic subjects are available to students. Students have the opportunity to blend a wide range of Advanced Level and Btec Level Three qualifications. Our Assistant Headteacher with responsibility for sixth form offers support and guidance throughout the school so that our students start their key stage five studies with confidence and assurance.