Key Stage 3 (Years 7, 8 & 9)

When pupils enter school in Year 7, they are placed initially in teaching groups which are based on ability and progress is reviewed regularly. Rigorous monitoring ensures that pupils are always placed in appropriate groups. The curriculum for Year 7 and Year 8 is based on a 25 period week and incorporates all National Curriculum subjects.

Tutor groups are mixed in ability.

The curriculum comprises 25 one hour periods each week and is complemented by a substantial extra-curricular programme.  The formal school day begins at 8.45am and ends at 3.15pm, but many pupils stay for extended study and activities.

Specialist help is available for pupils who have learning difficulties by providing in-class support within the mainstream curriculum and by withdrawing small numbers of pupils from certain lessons for intensive work.

In addition to the National Curriculum subjects, all pupils are given extra time to develop their skills and knowledge in language, communication, Information and Communication Technology, Drama, Citizenship and PSCHE.

Towards the end of Year 9, pupils are given the opportunity to choose the examination courses they wish to follow in Years 10 and 11.

It is important that each pupil follows courses appropriate to his/her strengths and abilities. To ensure that the correct choices are made, considerable consultation takes place over several weeks. An important part of the process involves inviting parents into school to discuss these choices with subject and group tutors and the school’s Achievement Manager.

We offer pupils the possibility of taking up to 11 GCSE examinations.