At Highclare Senior School, the academic curriculum is designed to prepare pupils for life as independent learners and to give them opportunities to achieve individual excellence.
All pupils follow a broad, balanced curriculum, which is delivered by well-qualified specialist teachers.
Key Stage 3 (Years 7–9)
During Years 7, 8 and 9 (Upper Third, Lower Fourth and Upper Fourth), pupils follow a wide-ranging curriculum which includes the following subjects:
| Subject | Subject |
|---|---|
| Art | Geography |
| Design Technology | Food and Nutrition |
| Drama | History |
| English | ICT and Computing |
| French | Life Skills and Values |
| German or Spanish (from Lower Fourth) | Mathematics |
| Music | Physical Education |
| Personal, Social, Citizenship and Health Education (PSCHE) | Science (Biology, Chemistry and Physics from Lower Fourth) |
| Religious Studies |
In addition, all pupils in Upper Third (U3) and Lower Fourth (L4) take part in a varied enrichment programme designed to broaden their experiences beyond the classroom.
Curriculum Plans
For more information about the Key Stage 3 curriculum, please refer to the documents below:
Key Stage 4 (Years 10 & 11) – The GCSE Years
At Key Stage 4, all pupils study the core subjects of:
| Subject | Subject |
|---|---|
| English Language | Science (either Separate Sciences: Biology, Chemistry and Physics, or Combined Science) |
| English Literature | PSCHE |
| Mathematics | Physical Education |
Most pupils also study at least one modern foreign language to GCSE level.
Pupils can then choose up to four additional subjects from a wide range of options, enabling them to pursue areas of personal interest and strength:
| Subject | Subject |
|---|---|
| Art | History |
| Business Studies | ICT |
| Computing | Music |
| Design Technology | Physical Education |
| Drama | Religious Studies |
| Food Preparation and Nutrition | A second Modern Foreign Language |
| Geography |
A typical pupil studies nine or ten GCSEs, depending on their chosen science pathway.
Selecting GCSE Subjects
Choosing GCSE options is an important stage in each pupil’s educational journey. We encourage pupils to make informed decisions based on their interests, strengths, and future aspirations.
When considering your options, reflect on the following:
About Yourself
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Which subjects do I enjoy most?
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What skills do I have?
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How well do I organise my studies and work?
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Do I prefer working independently or collaboratively?
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What type of assessment suits me best?
Gathering Information
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Review previous reports and discuss your progress with parents and teachers.
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Talk to subject teachers, tutors, and older pupils about their experiences.
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Explore course information booklets and examination board websites.
Future Considerations
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Research possible careers and university pathways.
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Visit careers websites and speak with the school’s careers staff.
Avoid Common Pitfalls
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Choosing a subject because of the teacher or your friends.
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Making decisions without researching each subject fully.
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Failing to consider how subject choices may influence future opportunities.
GCSE Options Booklet
For detailed information about each subject and the GCSE options process, please refer to the following document:
GCSE Options 2025–2027
For further guidance on GCSE curriculum choices, please contact:
Mr Coles, Deputy Head (Academic), Senior School
deputyhead@highclareschool.co.uk
