School Curriculum Overview

The school operates a ten-day timetable, with each day comprising five one-hour lessons, in accordance with National Assembly requirements. The medium of instruction is English, with Welsh taught as a second language throughout Key Stages 3 and 4. This bilingual approach demonstrates our commitment to promoting both languages within a culturally rich and diverse environment.

During Key Stage 3 (Years 7, 8 and 9), a comprehensive and varied curriculum is delivered through the Curriculum for Wales. The Areas of learning and experience include: -

• Expressive Arts
• Health and Well-being
• Humanities
• Languages, Literacy and Communications
• Mathematics and Numeracy
• Science and Technology

These areas of learning experience are designed to engage students and provide a well-rounded educational experience.

In Year 7, teaching groups are organised into mixed ability groupings. This methodology ensures that learners of all abilities are suitably challenged by the educational opportunities presented to them, necessitating diligent differentiation of both learning materials and teaching methods. Exceptional pupils, identified through robust procedures, are supported in developing their specific aptitudes. Subject departments are responsible for implementing tailored strategies that foster academic excellence in these individuals.

At Key Stage 4 (Years 10 and 11), all students follow a common core curriculum consisting of:

Skills Challenge

Successful completion of the Skills Challenge GCSE qualification along with other supporting qualifications can lead to achievement of the overarching Welsh Baccalaureate qualification.

The primary aim of the Skills Challenge GCSE Qualification is to enable learners to develop and demonstrate an understanding of and proficiency in essential and employability skills:

Communication

Numeracy

Digital Literacy

Planning and Organisation

Creativity and Innovation

Critical Thinking and Problem Solving

Personal Effectiveness

 

In addition, pupils are afforded the opportunity to select 3 optional subjects from a diverse list, which includes:

These subjects are taught to GCSE level, with some also available at Entry Level.

Furthermore, a range of vocational courses is offered at Key Stage 4, including:

For a small number of pupils for whom the full curriculum is not suitable, an alternative curriculum is available. This provision includes the core subjects alongside a variety of additional subjects tailored to their specific needs, which may incorporate off-site work placements.

Further details regarding curriculum matters can be obtained upon application to the school.