During the first three years (Key Stage 3) at The Corbet School all students follow a similar course, designed to give a sound general education, and to provide the base upon which the more specialised studies in Years 10 and 11 can build. Most lessons in the first two years will be taught in mixed-ability groups. However the three core subjects English, maths and science will be taught in ability groups. Maths and English will assign pupils to sets prior to commencement of secondary school, and science will assign pupils to sets within the first term.
All pupils in Year 7 will be allocated a language to study (French or Spanish). They will study one language for the rest of their time at school resulting in a GCSE qualification at the end of Year 11.
All pupils will study:
- English
- Maths
- Combined Science
- French or Spanish
- History
- Geography
- Personal, Social Health & Economic Education
- Physical Education
- Religious Education
- Design Technology
- Art
- Music
- Drama
- Information & Communication Technology.
In the final year of Key Stage 3 (Year 9) we support students and their parents in making choices from a range of courses available to study at Key Stage 4 (Years 10 and 11). The staff will give careful consideration to the wishes of pupils and parents, but should a problem arise the final decision must rest with the school. Our planned procedures mean this rarely happens.
In Key Stage 4 (Years 10 and 11) all pupils take the following subjects:
- English
- Mathematics
- Combined Science or Separate Sciences
- Careers
- French or Spanish
- Physical Education
- Personal, Social Health & Economic Education.
Pupils then choose three options from: Art & Design, Computer Science, Creative iMedia, Design Technology, Drama, Engineering, Geography, Health and Social Care, History, Hospitality & Catering, Music, Physical Education, Religious Studies and Separate Sciences.
All subjects (except Careers,PE & PSHEE) in the years 10 and 11 curriculum lead to GCSE examinations. Provision is also made for the very few pupils who would not necessarily benefit from a full range of GCSE courses.
In Key Stage 4 pupils are taught in groups according to ability in mathematics, English, French, Spanish and science. Most other subjects are taught in mixed ability groups.
Options: Wherever a choice of subjects is allowed, pupils will be given the opportunity to discuss their decision with relevant teachers and to consult with their parents. The staff will give careful consideration to the wishes of pupils and parents, but should problem arise the final decision must rest with the school. Our planned procedures mean this rarely happens.
Throughout both key stages the progress of all students is monitored very closely. The performance of every student, including those who have special educational needs or who are gifted, is tracked against individual expectations. Those expectations are high and are based on individuals working to their full potential.
The curriculum at The Corbet School is further enhanced by our Personal, Social, Health and Economic Education and Citizenship programme throughout Years 7 to 11. A host of extra-curricular clubs, trips and other activities enrich students’ experience beyond the classroom and help to develop their self-esteem and confidence.