INSIDE THE CLASSROOM

Years 7 - 9 (Key Stage 3)

The school complies fully with the requirements of the National Curriculum.  All pupils follows courses in English, Mathematics, Science, Technology, Information and Communications Technology, French, Welsh, Music, Art, Geography, History, Religious Education, Physical Education and Games. 

The only change in the pattern of subjects is that in Year 8, more able pupils are introduced to Spanish, while in Year 9 all pupils have the opportunity to achieve a Key Skills qualification in communicatin, application of number and ICT.

In addition to the subjects mentioned above, there is a weekly timetabled tutorial programme which deals with many aspects of Personal, Social, Health and Careers Education.

In Year 7, all pupils are placed in teaching groups on the basis of their academic ability.  This process is carried out using information provided by primary schools.  The progress of pupils is reviewed regularly and they are able to move between groups, if necessary.  This structure remains in Years 8 and 9, with setting in some subjects.

Years 10 - 11 (Key Stage 4)

All pupils take courses in English, Mathematics, Science, Welsh, Religious Education, Physical Education, Careers Education and Personal, Social and Health Education.  (The first four subjects lead to external examinations at the end of Year 11).  The timetabled tutorial programme also continues. 

On the basis of individual consultations between pupils, parents and staff, which take place in the Spring Term of Year 9, pupils must make choices of other subjects.  These lead to external examinations at the end of Years 10 and 11.  There is also the opportunity to achieve the Welsh Baccalaueate qualification.  Further information on this is available from the Head of Key Stage 4. 

Throughout Years 10 and 11, teaching groups are organised on the basis of ability sets, with the exception of those subjects where the small number of pupils opting to study the subject justifies only one class.

Years 12 - 13 (Key Stage 5 - Sixth Form)

Pupils wishing to pursue 'AS', 'A2' and BTEC National courses can choose from a range of subjects, some of which are offered through a partnership arrangement with Coleg Gwent and other local schools. 

Many pupils return to the Sixth Form for one year before progressing to employment or college based courses.  For them, the school offers a range of vocational (BTEC) and 'AS' level courses.  All members of the Sixth Form also are prepared for a range of Key Skills qualifications.