The curriculum is broad and pupils are encouraged to study a wide range of subjects. This avoids early over-specialisation but allows pupils to develop and pursue interests. We place considerable emphasis on acquiring good work habits: pupils learn self-discipline and the skills of independent study, so that they are equipped not only for public examinations, but also for the world beyond. The curriculum is designed to promote the intellectual, spiritual, moral, cultural, mental and physical development of our pupils and to equip them for the opportunities, responsibilities and experiences of adult life.
In keeping with the grammar school tradition, our curriculum includes subjects which are strongly 'academic', such as separate sciences and modern and classical languages; however, we also offer newer subjects, such as business studies, sport studies, and food technology. We do not follow the National Curriculum, but schemes of work in many departments encompass many of its features. All pupils receive instruction in Religious Education, Personal, social and health education, and careers. There is no streaming, but pupils are setted by ability for mathematics.
| |
First Form
(Year 7) |
Second Form
(Year 8) |
Third Form
(Year 9) |
| Mathematics |
4 |
3 |
3 |
| English |
4 |
3 |
3 |
| Science |
3 |
3 |
- |
| Biology |
- |
- |
2 |
| Chemistry |
- |
- |
2 |
| Physics |
- |
- |
2 |
| Modern Language |
3† |
6‡ |
3# |
| Latin |
3 |
2 |
3# |
| Latin and Greek |
- |
- |
3# |
| History |
2 |
2 |
2 |
| Geography |
2 |
2 |
2 |
| Religious Studies |
2 |
2 |
2 |
| Art & Design |
2 |
2 |
2# |
| Design Technology * |
2 |
2 |
2# |
| Music |
2 |
2 |
2# |
| Drama |
2 |
1 |
2# |
| Information Technology |
1 |
1 |
1 |
| PSHE |
Through
the year |
1 |
1 |
| Physical Education |
1 |
1 |
1 |
| Games |
2 |
2 |
2 |
| Total |
35 |
35 |
35 |
* includes Food Technology.
† Pupils choose one language from French, Spanish or German.
‡ Pupils choose a second modern language from the above list.
# Pupils choose four subjects from those indicated.
The curriculum plan above applies to the current academic year, but may change in the future. Prospective parents are advised to contact the school to confirm the curriculum for the next academic year. There are currently 35 periods of 45 minutes each per week.