Key Stage 3: Years 7-9
All students in Key Stage 3 (Years 7 to 9) follow courses in English, Mathematics, Science, Art, Computer Science, Design & Technology, Drama, Geography, History, Modern Foreign Languages, Music, Philosophy & Ethics (Religious Studies), Physical Education (PE), and Personal, Social, Health and Economics (PSHE) education. All students study French and Mandarin in Year 7. In Year 8, all students study French and Spanish, with the option of joining the after school Mandarin course.
These courses meet the requirements of the National Curriculum and build upon students’ prior knowledge, understanding and skills.
Each subject curriculum is built upon aspiration, opportunity and integrity, as is reflected in the individual Curriculum Maps.
A special feature of Fitzharrys Year 7 curriculum is a series of wider learning days where students develop confidence, leadership, independence and team work through a series of exciting challenges in and out of school. Recent wider learning days have included organising and running a silent disco, a visit from professional footballers as part of Show Racism the Red Card, and a series of workshops to celebrate Chinese New Year.
Year 7 culminates in our annual camp held at Youlbury. Students’ confidence and team work blossom as they conquer challenges including 3G swing, archery, aerial trek, abseiling, Jacob’s Ladder, rifle shooting, go-karting and much more. It is an impressive showcase of all the great qualities Fitzharrys students develop during their first year.
Years 8 and 9 continue the progression and challenges of Year 7. Beyond the classroom, trips and visits support students’ learning, with arts, music, theatre, sport and science events.
Students in Years 8 and 9 also begin to think about the future, not just towards GCSE options but to sixth form and beyond. During Year 9, students make GCSE option choices where, alongside two GCSE in English and at least two GCSEs in Science, they can choose other subjects from the wide range on offer. To support them with making their choices, Year 9 participate in an Options Week: here, they sample the Key Stage 4 options and learn more about the courses available, as well as experiencing careers workshops and beginning to explore post-16 options.
With a variety of trips, school productions and other wider learning opportunities adding depth to the core curriculum, Key Stage 3 is an exciting and crucial time for each student to develop as an individual, grow in confidence and learn new skills.
