Curriculum justification and provision Years 10-11

Curriculum Justification for KS4 (Years 10 and 11)

The option programme commences at the beginning of Year 10. All students follow a 2 year programme of core and option subjects, sitting exams in June of Year 11.

“A broad and balanced curriculum for all”

All examined subjects in Years 10 and 11 have more or less equal amount of curriculum time, so valuing all subjects as having equal importance.

Trilogy (combined) science is allocated nine periods to enable all learners to be taught by three subject specialists (biology, chemistry and physics).

Enrichment within the taught curriculum aims to ensure that learners have experiences and develop knowledge, skills and understanding beyond that required for the qualifications they are studying for.

Four periods a cycle is dedicated to PE. The school recognizes the importance physical health plays in maintaining a positive mental outlook for our students.

Students have a free choice of options from the option booklet. Option blocks are not predefined – they are driven and created from the student choice of subjects.

The careers advice and guidance offered to students during Year 9 ensure students make informed decision about the options they choose. Careers interviews are available to all students, which consider current academic progress and future plans and pathways.

There are no ceilings to achievement or destinations in our curriculum.

All students are able to study the full range of English Baccalaureate subjects, or follow a more flexible curriculum with an open choice of subjects from the option booklet.

A flexible approach to curriculum design ensures all students are able to follow a learning programme that meets their particular needs and provides students with the opportunities and support they need to flourish.

“Achievement of relevant qualifications”

All students have the opportunity to study for 10 Level 2 qualifications which are all recognized as being of high value – GCSEs, BTEC and Cambridge Nationals Certificates.

The careers advice and guidance offered to students during Year 9 ensure all students understand the differences and merits of each particular course so that Informed decisions can be made.

The qualifications we offer enable our students to take their next steps, successfully progressing into post 16 education at school or college and apprenticeships.

Curriculum Provision for KS4 (Years 10 and 11)

At Sandon we offer three programmes of study, open to all students.

A full programme of careers education advice and guidance supports students in selecting the most appropriate options, ensuring that doors are not closed for future progression to employment or higher education

The following Level 2 courses are available to study within the options programme

There are 50 x 1 hour lessons in a fortnight timetable cycle.

The numbers below refer to the time allocation for each subject per fortnight cycle

Religious Education

Religious education is taught throughout the School and forms part of the curriculum in all years. A multi-faith, non-denominational approach is taken to the subject which emphasizes the acquisition of knowledge and the development of skills such as understanding, care and tolerance of others. Parent/carers have the right to withdraw their children from religious education and should consult the Headteacher if they wish to exercise this right. Students who have been withdrawn for all or part of the programme of Religious Education may undertake private supervised study.

Citizenship, Personal, social, moral and health education (PSHE) and Careers

Citizenship and Personal, Social, Moral and Health Education is delivered through PDP, enrichment and assemblies.