Lower school curriculum
Education in the Lower School is about laying strong foundations: academically, intellectually and personally. Our curriculum is broad, stimulating and deliberately designed to foster curiosity, creativity and a love of learning. In the first three years, students follow a rich and varied programme that introduces new ideas, encourages debate and develops strong study habits. Lessons are challenging and engaging, helping students build subject knowledge while also developing essential skills such as critical thinking, collaboration and effective communication.
We believe firmly in the value of breadth at this stage. All students experience a full range of subjects in their first two years, ensuring a balanced education and allowing them to discover new interests and strengths. In the Third Year, students begin to make more choices, selecting a combination of subjects that reflects both their abilities and passions, while still maintaining academic breadth.
Throughout the Lower School, learning is supported by high-quality teaching, purposeful use of technology and a strong pastoral framework. Students are encouraged to take increasing responsibility for their learning, developing confidence, independence and resilience.
This carefully structured Lower School curriculum provides an excellent springboard for GCSE study, equipping students with the knowledge, skills and habits needed to thrive as they move into the Upper School.
| Subject | First Year | Second Year | Third Year (choose three from optional subjects) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Art | Core subject | Core subject | Optional subject |
| Biology | Taught as Combined Science with Chemistry and Physics | Core subject | Core subject |
| Chemistry | Taught as Combined Science with Biology and Physics | Core subject | Core subject |
| Design Technology | Core subject | Core subject | Optional subject |
| Drama | Core subject | Core subject | Optional subject |
| English | Core subject | Core subject | Core subject |
| Geography | Core subject | Core subject | Core subject |
| History | Core subject | Core subject | Core subject |
| ICT/Computing | Core subject | Core subject | Optional subject |
| Latin | Core subject | Core subject | Optional subject. The top set can also choose to study Greek alongside Latin |
| Mathematics | Core subject | Core subject | Core subject |
| MFL: French, German, Italian, Spanish | Students study two MFL languages | Students continue with the two languages studied in the First Year | One language chosen from those studied in the First and Second Year. The other may be chosen as an optional subject |
| Music | Core subject | Core subject | Optional subject |
| Physical Education | Core subject | Core subject | Core subject |
| Physics | Taught as Combined Science with Biology and Chemistry | Core subject | Core subject |
| Religion and Philosophy | Core subject | Core subject | Optional subject |
In addition, each week students have one PSHE lesson and a double PE lesson, as well as a Games afternoon.
