Curriculum

Whole School Statement

Key Stage 3

Heathcote School offers a broad and balanced three-year key stage 3 curriculum which adheres to the National Curriculum. The fundamental skills of literacy and numeracy are taught extensively from Year 7 through English, Maths and Science; and pupils are set in these subjects to support their learning and progress. There are planned assessments through the academic year that provide the pupils with the opportunity to change their set.

From Year 7 all pupils can learn both French and Spanish before choosing a language to continue with from Year 8. All pupils, across the Key Stage, experience a range of arts subjects, including dance, drama and music that ensure their personal development whilst providing the opportunity to the learn about the creative arts in preparation for future option choices. Design & Technology includes Food Technology, Woodwork and Textiles which are taught on rotation to ensure all pupils experience each discipline. Pupils enjoy learning in the specialist teaching spaces which greatly enthuse their learning.

As a school that support pupils to be able to acquire the English Baccalaureate, all pupils are taught Geography, History, Computer Science and a language.

Pupils’ health and wellbeing is greatly supported by our Philosophy, Identity and Ethics ( PIE) lessons whereby pupils can discuss mental and physical health, how to stay safe online and healthy relationships, for example. Regular P.E lessons ensure pupils access regular exercise and learn about a variety of sports.

Please find below the list of subjects studied in each year group of key stage 3 and how many lessons are allocated over a two week timetable:

For further information, please contact Sarah Columb Assistant Head Teacher: scolumb@heathcote.waltham.sch.uk

Key Stage 4

This stage of the curriculum builds upon the knowledge and skills learnt at Key Stage 3. To support pupils attaining the English Baccalaureate, they can study a combination of History or Geography, a language, sciences as well as maths and English language & literature.

There are wide range of subjects that pupils can study at Key Stage 4. The broad range of Design & Technology subjects include Food & Nutrition, Product Design and Textiles. Sociology is also taught from Year 10 to provide a pathway to studying this subject at Key Stage 5. To support pupils access to subjects, there are BTECs offered in Digital Information Technology , Health and Social Care and Enterprise for Business.

All pupils study the GCSE short course in RE; as outlined by the SACRE ( Standing Advisory Council on Religious Education) guidelines. The pupils’ wellbeing is still supported by tailored Philosophy, Identity and Ethics lessons, as well as PE for all pupils.