Lower Seniors
Students move into the Upper School usually at the age of 11, and will be in Lower Seniors for Years 7 through 9. Here students study the core curriculum subjects – Science, Maths, English and ICT – together with History, Geography, Sports, Art, French or German, Drama and Music. Lower Seniors become more proficient at studying with more advanced training in Study Technology and an internship in its application.
The emphasis in Lower Seniors is to gain a thorough grasp of the basics of key subjects. This is the part of the curriculum that is the broad and firm foundation for life and a general introduction to a wide range of interests. Accordingly, requirements to graduate from Lower Seniors are high. Students must have demonstrated their understanding of the information and ability to apply the knowledge of each subject studied. This requires real achievement and consequently builds confidence. The overall programme ensures that students continue to study for understanding and have a far greater chance to realise their potential in life
Having successfully met the graduation targets, Lower Seniors chose the subjects they wish to continue studying for examinations. All students have Career interviews to assist them in their choice of subjects. With the student's intentions, interests and proficiencies in mind, an individual educational programme is worked out in consultation between the student, the parents and the school.
Upper Seniors
The Upper Seniors, Years 10 and 11, are the GCSE (General Certificate of Secondary Education.) examination years. The syllabus for each subject is clearly arranged over the two-year study programme, with mock examinations in the first term of Year 11, the completion of Course Work in the spring term of Year 11 and a strong revision programme from the beginning of the summer term until the examinations themselves.
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When a student is particularly able in a subject, the GCSE exams can be taken whenever the student is ready. Most take them at age 16. Those who have joined us later in their school lives, or foreign students coming out of EFL (English as a Foreign Language), can take them later. Our interest is in REAL understanding. We are flexible because every student is not the same, hence we do not expect every child to sit multiple GCSE examinations at 16. The important thing is to work out a programme that is correct for the student and will ensure excellent results at GCSE in preparation for further education.
Current GCSEs offered include: Mathematics, English Language & Literature, ICT, Physics, Biology, Chemistry, French, German, History, Geography, Art, Drama, Music, Physical Education, Business Studies and Latin.
Continuing on to Sixth Form and Advanced Levels
A two-year place in the Sixth Form after GCSE examinations is by invitation of the Head of Sixth Form and depends on the GCSE grades attained, the student’s individual ability, competence and personal aspirations. Current Advanced Levels offered include: Mathematics, English Literature, ICT, Physics, Biology, Chemistry, French, German, History, Art, Drama.
Vocational Courses
Available courses include two-year courses in Motor Mechanics and Domestic Cookery, and one-year courses in Photography and Beauty Treatment Skills.
