Curriculum

In Years 7 to 9 all pupils study a broad range of subjects. Streaming takes place in Mathematics, but all other subjects are taught in mixed-ability groups.

The Middle School curriculum (Years 10 to 11) is designed to prevent early specialisation in arts or sciences, to keep options open for AS/A level, and to provide some choice to cater for individual strengths and interests whilst, at the same time, ensuring a broadly-based education for each pupil.

All pupils study GCSE English Language and Literature, Mathematics, Science (as two or three Single Sciences), at least one Humanities subject, Modern Language and Technological or creative subject. They may take more than one of these if they wish.

The Six-Day Cycle

The School operates a six-day cycle of 42 periods (7 periods per day). We start the year on Day 1, and when we get to Day 6 we begin the cycle again. There is no weekend school, apart from Saturday sports fixtures.

Resource Centres

Resource Centres provide areas for quiet study within departments. They are stocked with books, magazines and other resources relating to the subject. These areas are used by the Sixth Form in their private study periods and during free time and by other pupils at lunchtime and after school.

Learning Support

The School does not have specialist teachers for special educational needs. However, we endeavour to ensure that pupils who are identified as being in need of special support receive help through outside agencies, if necessary, and through any non-specialist help that subject teachers are able to give. We wish to be sympathetic and supportive to pupils with difficulties to ensure that they fulfil their potential and are happy in their studies.

Pupils entering the School in Years 4, 5 and 7 are given a screening test soon after their arrival. Pupils who are identified as possibly having learning difficulties will be observed and evidence from their teachers will be analysed by the Learning Support Co-ordinator. The Learning Support Co-ordinator produces an Individual Education Plan for each pupil who is diagnosed as dyslexic or who has any other recognised learning difficulty. Teachers give consideration to pupils with learning difficulties and provide help based on the recommendations that have been made.