Curriculum
Our Curriculum Intent
Our rich curriculum inspires students to succeed through a learning journey that provides knowledge, skills and opportunities for them to be responsible global citizens with positive life chances.
Our students will believe in their ability to succeed, becoming confident and resilient learners. They will engage with their community, be literate, numerate and have a lifelong love of learning. They will know what challenge and success feels like for them as an individual.
Our teachers will, regardless of student ability, age or background, develop curiosity and critical thinking, foster aspiration and have a belief in success for all students.
Key Stage 3 Introduction
Key Stage 3 students at Sidmouth College study all of the statutory subjects of the National Curriculum. All students study a range of subjects that provide them with the key knowledge and skills to be successful in Key Stage 4, when they start their examination courses. With the removal of end of Key Stage 3 assessments the distinction between key stages has become marginal. Therefore we focus on developing our curriculum so that students learn a broad range of skills, knowledge and understanding that prepares them for GCSEs and beyond.
All students in Years 7-9 follow the same curriculum and study the following subjects:
Art
Computer Science
Drama
English
French
Geography
History
Maths
Music
Physical Education
Religious Education
Science
Technology
Citizenship and personal, social and health education (PSHE)
The general pattern is for students to be taught in mixed ability groups in most subjects. In English, Mathematics, Science, and Modern Languages, in some year groups students are taught in groups of similar ability (called sets).
Year 9 Guided Choices
In Year 9 students are supported in making their GCSE choices for Key Stage 4. We offer a broad range of GCSE subjects but also offer an alternative pathway for those students who are not suited to a full programme of GCSE studies.
Key Stage 4 Introduction
Key Stage 4 students at Sidmouth College study the core GCSE subjects, English, Maths and Science, and non-examined subjects, including Core PE, RE and PSHE. Students also study a variety of chosen subjects from the options listed below.
- Art & Design
- Business Studies
- Computer Studies
- Design & Technology
- Drama
- Food Preparation & Nutrition
- French
- Geography
- Health & Social Care
- History
- Media Studies
- Photography
- Religious Studies*
- Physical Education/Sport Studies
*Schools have to teach RE, but parents can withdraw their children for all or part of the lessons.
Key Stage 5 Introduction
Studying A levels at Sidmouth College
A Levels are academic courses that involve: theory; clear, well-thought out essays; identification and expression of different points of view; analysis of concepts; and the testing of generalisations. Independent study is very important and background reading and research is expected.
At Sidmouth College we offer a wide range of A Levels, details of which can be found by clicking on the subjects on the right hand side of this page. For more details you can read our Sixth Form prospectus.
KS5 Curriculum
Choosing the right courses and qualifications to fit in with your long term plans is hugely important and, at Sidmouth College, we cater for all interests and abilities.
- Art & Design
- Business Studies
- Computer Studies
- Drama
- English Language
- English Literature
- Geography
- History
- Mathematics
- Further Mathematics
- Media Studies
- Philosophy & Ethics
- Photography
- Physical Education
- Psychology
- Science
- Sociology