Lower Year 7-9
An Exciting Start
Year 7
In Year 7, our pupils study a broad and balanced curriculum which includes English, Mathematics, Science, History, Geography, Latin, Religious Studies, Art, Music, Food, ICT, Drama and Physical Education. Pupils will experience French, German and Spanish before expressing a preference for the language they would like to take forwards.
We want girls to join us full of potential and to leave us successful and fulfilled, with a sense of belonging to a supportive, nurturing community. Each form tutor gets to know every girl well and these close relationships are nurtured twice daily at Form time. The progress of each pupil is carefully monitored and our support systems are geared towards ensuring academic and personal wellbeing.
Every Year 7 pupil is also allocated a pupil ‘buddy’ who acts as a ‘big sister’ while they settle into school life. If any issues do materialise, the girls can feel that they have someone to talk to who can offer help and guidance whenever it is needed.
Growing Responsibility
Year 8
In Year 8, pupils study a broad range of subjects through a curriculum designed to help them gain a deeper understanding of their strengths and interests, enabling them to make informed option choices as they progress to Year 9. A key aim in Year 8 is to foster confidence and independence, giving pupils key skills required as they progress in their educational journey.
All girls are encouraged to take part in co-curricular activities to support their personal and social development. Pupils have many opportunities to get involved with school life, including drama productions, concerts, and academic and sporting competitions.
Girls receive excellent pastoral support, providing a nurturing environment for them to develop and express themselves as individuals. There are several pastoral events and trips, promoting pupils’ wellbeing and helping them develop important skills such as team building and communication.
Academic Focus
Year 9
In Year 9, girls take further control of their curriculum and learn to build firm foundations for the GCSE and A Level years to come.
Pupils start to hone their subject choices, based on their academic strengths and preferences. They are encouraged to pick the subjects they love, whilst maintaining a broad mix to develop their learning skills and knowledge. Options include two subjects from Art, Drama, Computer Science, Food and Nutrition and Music, along with a second Modern Foreign Language, a Classical Language or Classical Civilisation.
There are plenty of co-curricular opportunities, including the Bronze Duke of Edinburgh’s award. Group outings and charity events enable the girls to try something new and take on more responsibility within the School. This all helps build teamwork and resilience, as well as being fun!
“Year 9 is amazing! I love the fact we have the independence to choose our own subjects and enrich ourselves with talks that really broaden our horizons whilst still being able to have fun with friends on trips to Jump Giants and Alton Towers. It’s a great mix of fun and academia, with teachers who are always ready to help you and have fun!”
Year 9 pupil
