CURRICULUM

 

All students follow a broad and balanced, personalised curriculum, giving them the very best learning opportunities.

 

Ability Grouping

 

In Year 7, the core subjects of English, Maths and Science are taught in sets according to ability.   Setting based on ability also takes place in Modern Foreign Languages after a short induction period.  The teaching groups for Foundation subjects are of mixed ability, with provision being made for students with special educational needs.  This approach ensures that all students are challenged to perform to their own academic level, supported by the use of specific learning targets.

 

Key Stage 3 (Years 7 to 9)

 

All students follow a course which consists of English, Mathematics, Science, Modern Foreign Language, History, Geography, Design and Technology, Art, Religious Studies, Physical Education, Drama, Information Communication Technology and Personal, Social, Health and Citizenship Education (PSHCE).  Progress is measured at the end of Key Stage 3 when all students take National Curriculum Tests.

 

There are six ICT suites with 30 workstations in each, a Learning Resource Centre with 30 workstations, a Language Lab with 30 workstations, 20 PCs in Technology and 9 PCS in Student Support.  Most recently 37 new workstations have been installed in the 6th Form Study Area.  Refurbishment of the IT facilities for Music is currently in progress.

 

Key Stage 4 (Years 10 and 11)

 

Students continue with a common core of English, Mathematics, Science, Information Communication Technology, Religious Studies, PE & PSHCE.  In addition, students choose 2-4 other subjects from a broad range, offering everyone the opportunity to take vocational and creative courses, as well as Modern Foreign Languages, Technology based courses and more traditional options.   Where appropriate, some students can study level 1 course in Animal Care, Motor Vehicles and Construction at College. These arrangements ensure that the school complies with government directives and offer every student a broad curriculum.  The options process is, of course, under constant review.

 

All subjects lead to examinations for the General Certificate of Secondary Education (GCSE), and some provide the opportunity for students to gain an NVQ or BTEC.  Details and descriptions of the courses available are given in a booklet, which is distributed to the parents of all students in Year 9 and guidance is provided to help parents and students make the most suitable choice of subjects.

 

The range of options available, both at key stages 4 & 5, ensures that all students are able to create a package of learning opportunities that allows a personalised learning programme to be developed.  Students can build on their individual talents, abilities, interests and aspirations and create a timetable that supports their career path.

 

Key Stage 5 (Years 12 and 13)

 

Entry to our “Sixth Form” is dependent on students having achieved specific academic qualifications.  Some students may be accepted into the Sixth Form on a probationary basis.  The Welwyn Hatfield Consortium allows a wide range of subjects to be studied at Advanced Level in the Sixth Form, as well as A.V.C.E. courses.  Sixth Form life offers students a variety of educational and social experiences, which are frequently linked in a comprehensive complementary studies programme, culminating in a General Studies ‘A’ Level qualification. Details of all Sixth Form courses are published in a booklet, which is issued to all Year 11 students.