Upper School (Years 10 and 11) encompasses the GCSE years of study. All girls take courses in English Language and Literature, Mathematics, Science, a Modern Foreign Language and one of the Humanities.
Science continues to be taught by specialists in Biology, Chemistry and Physics. We offer two Science courses, both of which provide an excellent foundation for A Level. Our Double Award course covers all the key concepts and allows ample time for consolidation, whilst our Triple Award course, leading to separate awards in Biology, Chemistry and Physics, is more suited to those who can assimilate new ideas at a faster pace.
Girls are grouped by ability in Mathematics. This ensures that each girl is able to tackle this core course at a pace which best suits her aptitude.
We offer the international GCSE (iGCSE) in English, Mathematics and Science as we believe these courses offer the best possible preparation for the rigours of Sixth Form study.
In addition to the seven or eight GCSES or iGCSES taken as core subjects, girls are able to take two further subjects. Our current options include Art and Design, Classical Civilisation, Classical Greek, Design and Technology (Graphics or Resistant Materials), Drama, French, Geography, German, History, ICT, Italian (as a beginner’s language), Japanese (also as a beginner’s language), Latin, Mandarin, Music, Physical Education, Religious Studies and Spanish.
The core curriculum is completed with the continuation of our Personal, Social, Health and Citizenship Education (PSHCE) programme, together with general Religious Studies and Physical Education. Within PSHCE, we discuss social and current affairs and include modules on Citizenship, the J8 Initiative, Political Literacy, Economic and Industrial Awareness and Ethics and Health. There is also a strong focus on Careers Education to help the girls consider future career options and their Sixth Form choices.
In PE, girls in Upper School have the opportunity to participate in a much wider range of sports and activities. New PE options available from Year 10 include aerobics, badminton, golf, Pilates, squash, trampolining, volleyball and use of our fully-equipped fitness suite, in addition to sports and activities also on offer lower down the school, including athletics, dance, gymnastics, lacrosse, netball, rounders, swimming and tennis. These options are offered on a rotational basis so that girls have the chance to try a range of activities.
Further information about the Upper School curriculum can be found in our Into Upper School booklet.
