Academic Life

The School aims to provide a broad, balanced education giving pupils the opportunity to make appropriate choices from a wide range of subjects. We aim to enable all pupils to develop their individual talents fully. High standards of academic work are expected and homework is compulsory.

The First Three Years

In Year 7 - 9 all pupils take:

English                Art and Design
Mathematics     Design and Technology
Science                Drama
French                 Information and Communication Technology
German              Music
Geography         Physical Education
History               P.H.S.E.
Religious Education

The National Curriculum Programmes of Study are broadly followed, but the School does not commit itself to the assessment arrangements.

Biology, Chemistry and Physics are taught separately in Year 9.

There is setting in Mathematics and there may be setting at the discretion of the Heads of Departments in English, French, German and Science during Years 8 and 9.

The majority of subjects are taught in mixed ability groups.

G.C.S.E

Normally nine or ten subjects are studied.  Most pupils take English Language, English Literature, Mathematics, French or German, a Humanities subject and either Double or Triple Award Science.  Pupils select two further options from ten available including a second language, humanity or practical and creative subjects. The Science course leads to iGCSE qualifications and contains significantly more academic rigour than the modular Science GCSE course that most schools follow.

In addition to their examination subjects all pupils follow courses in Physical Education, and in Life Skills, including Health and Careers Education.

A separate GCSE Choices brochure is available on request.

Sixth Form

In the Sixth Form most Lower Sixth Form students will study four ‘AS’ subjects although some may be advised or choose to study three subjects.  They also have games and a form tutor period.  A choice of approximately twenty subjects is offered.

In the Upper Sixth Form most students will continue with three specialist subjects at A2 level although some may continue with four A2 subjects or select an additional AS subject.

A separate A-level Choices brochure is available on request.