Our Curriculum

Our curriculum aims to raise students’ aspirations, develop knowledge, skills and understanding, and promote self-belief and self-confidence. We believe in the breadth of learning; the right of students to study a rich and broad curriculum. We believe in developing their literacy and numeracy, their physical, technical and artistic competence alongside empathy within a social and moral framework. We endeavour to stretch, challenge and support every student through the curriculum. Our six core school values - Creativity, Respect, Excellence, Determination, Independence and Teamwork are embedded with the curriculum.  

Years 7, 8 and 9

During Years 7, 8 and 9, students will study a broad and balanced curriculum which includes English, Maths and Science. Students will also study a wide range of subjects including Art, Dance, Drama, Design and Technology, Food Preparation and Nutrition, Textiles Technology, Geography, History, Computing, French, German, Physical Education and Theology and Philosophy. In the main, students with SEN follow the school curriculum. Support for students with SEN, and those for whom English is an additional language, is provided in class. In Years 7, 8 and 9, some SEN students study additional literacy and/or numeracy. These students may have a reduced timetable in Modern Languages or a Humanities subject for a short period of intervention. Students who need a lower level of support access intervention sessions, for one or two sessions per week, during tutor time. 

Years 10 and 11

We continue to offer the full range of subjects as Level 2 courses over Years 10 and 11. Additional subjects offered include Media Studies, Engineering, Business Studies, Health and Social Care and Physical Education. 

We fully support the entitlement that students have to study the group of qualifications which the government calls the English Baccalaureate (EBacc): English, Mathematics, two Sciences, one Humanities subject (Geography or History) and a Modern Language. Our Programmes of Study offer all students the opportunity to choose from a wide range of subjects. 

Years 12 and 13

The curriculum offered at Key Stage 4 and Key Stage 5 ensures that there are clear progression routes to enable students to continue their post-16 education at Richmond Sixth Form College, and to prepare them for higher education and/or the world of work. There is a strong careers programme that supports students to understand the options available and to make informed choices about their career aspirations. 

Enrichment and SMSC

Students are provided with opportunities to add depth to their learning and develop personal skills through a rich and varied enrichment programme. Students have the chance to enjoy new experiences and consolidate their timetabled learning through a wide range of extra-curricular opportunities and experiences. 

 

As part of our commitment to spiritual, moral, social and cultural development (SMSC), specific content is delivered through the LIFE programme. Students also experience SMSC across other curriculum areas. LIFE lessons also promote students’ personal, social, health and citizenship development and understanding.