"Learning without thought is labour lost." Confucius
The academic curriculum in the College aims to combine breadth of academic study, while at the same time allowing pupils to develop a deep understanding of core subjects, and later, their optional courses taken at GCSE and A level. The academic curriculum is balanced with the wide ranging co-curricular programme to provide an educational experience of exceptional range and diversity. In addition to their two games afternoons a week (three for Third Formers), all pupils participate in the co-curricular programme which has six weekly dedicated activity times allocated to it.
Creative and expressive arts are given ample time in the Third and Fourth Forms (Years 7, 8 and 9) to allow pupils to develop their appreciation of these subjects which can in turn improve and develop creativity, thinking skills and independence when transferred into the traditional academic subjects. Humanities are taught in the innovative 'Story of Our Land' course in the Third Form, which uses the framework of British History to explore geographical, philosophical and religious themes over the two years
In the Fourth Form (Year 9) pupils are offered the traditional range of academic subjects, but with substantial enrichment. All pupils study English, Mathematics, the three Sciences, French, Spanish, Latin and Mandarin alongside ICT and the humanities (in discrete subject areas of Religious Studies, Geography and History) with Music, Art and DT completing the selection. Drama, Dance and Photography are available to all pupils in the Expressive Arts carousel that continues throughout the year. Greek is available to those who are experienced Latinists, or who have tried Greek before.
The Middle School (Years 10-11) curriculum helps prepare pupils for studying the A levels in the Sixth Form. Most pupils do 10 GCSEs and all pupils do the core subjects of English Literature and English Language, Maths and the three Sciences. In addition pupils choose four further optional subjects from a wide range of humanities, languages, creative, practical and expressive subjects. There are no column blocks to restrict pupil choice and we seek, as far as possible, to provide each child with a unique timetable that suits their particular strengths.
In the Sixth Form (Years 12-13) most pupils will take four AS levels and three or four A levels over the two years. The A level ensures pupils develop a mastery of several complementary, or contrasting, subject areas, whilst allowing them also to pursue options in areas of strong personal interest. Its combination of rigour and specialism makes it an ideal preparation both for university and working life.
