In Middle School (Years 7-9), all girls follow the same curriculum, which incorporates the best elements of the National Curriculum, whilst extending and enriching the Key Stage 3 programmes of study. Subject specialists teach in specialist subject areas, enabling the efficient provision of suitable teaching materials.
All girls study the core subjects of English, Mathematics and Science, with the three sciences – Biology, Chemistry and Physics - taught separately. Girls are grouped by ability for Mathematics from Year 7, ensuring that appropriate support and challenge can be given.
Throughout Middle School, all girls study Art, Design and Technology, Drama, Geography, History, ICT, Music, PE and Religious Education.
From Year 7, pupils also study two modern foreign languages, chosen from French, German, Mandarin or Spanish, which they will continue with for at least three years. In Year 8, Latin is introduced and is studied by every girl for at least two years.
The study and practice of Information Communication Technology (ICT) is an integral element of the whole curriculum. All girls follow a foundation course in Middle School that gives them confidence for future development. The girls also have many opportunities during other lessons to use our extensive ICT facilities. Classrooms are equipped with interactive whiteboards and we have numerous computer suites, including two digital language laboratories. Girls are able to borrow laptops from the school for individual work in the library or for use in lessons.
In Years 7 and 8, girls have three PE lessons per week and have the opportunity to take part in a variety of sports including athletics, dance, gymnastics, lacrosse, netball, rounders, swimming and tennis.
The timetabled curriculum in Middle School is completed with our programme of Personal, Social, Health and Citizenship Education (PSHCE), which covers Current Affairs, Healthy Living, Sex and Relationship Education, Social Issues and Study Skills, as well as elements of our Careers Education Programme. The sessions are led by experienced staff, with advice and input from outside experts and our own specialist staff, including Careers Staff and the School Nurse.
The progress of each girl is monitored carefully by her Form Tutor, under the overall guidance of the Head of Middle School. Where extra help is required for a specific long or short term need, this will be supplied by our Support Tuition department.
