Subjects

A RICH AND VARIED CURRICULUM

We aim to provide an effective and supportive learning environment and are flexible in our grouping arrangements. In some subjects, students are set according to ability while in others they are taught in mixed ability groups. Some setting may also be introduced as students progress up the School.

We have combined the traditional features of an established, high-achieving school with the need to respond to the needs of a rapidly changing society.

Some of the principles that underpin our curriculum planning are:

• Balance
• Breadth
• Personalisation
• Relevance

We set as goals for our students:

• Challenge
• Opportunity
• Achievement

Key Stage 3

In Years 7, 8 and 9 our aim is to provide a good, rounded general education in accordance with the National Curriculum and attention is given in all subjects to the development of literacy, numeracy and information technology. All students study:

• English
• Mathematics
• Science
• Art
• Design Technology
• Information Technology
• Geography
• History
• Religious Education
• Music
• Dance
• Drama
• A Modern Foreign Language (French, German or Spanish)
• Physical Education
• SPACE (Social, Personal and Citizenship Education)

(The only exception to this is where there is disapplication for students with special educational needs.)

Key Stage 4
In Years 10 and 11, all students continue with a broad based educational programme including the core of English, Mathematics Science. Physical Education and Religious Education are also core subjects and students continue to follow our SPACE programme. In addition to this, they may choose at least one subject from the following curriculum areas:

• Arts (Art, Dance, Drama, Music)
• Business Studies
• Humanities (Geography, History, Religious Studies)
• Modern Foreign Languages (French, German, Spanish)
• Technology (Electronics, Food, Graphics, ICT, Resistant Materials and Textiles)

Study Support is offered to students for whom the full range of GCSE subjects is thought to be inappropriate.

Post-16
Sixth Form education at Heston is a strong feature of the School. Students thinking of entering the Sixth Form receive individual guidance during Year 11 in order to help them choose an appropriate course of study.

Extra Curriculum Activities
Students are offered a wide range of extra curriculum activities, including Sports, Drama, Music, Art and after School Clubs in most Curriculum Areas. The school also has a highly popular Duke of Edinburgh Award Scheme offered to Students from Year 10 upwards.