Curriculum 11 -16
In the Third Form (year 7) our pupils cover a wide range of seventeen subjects and our Removes (year 8), with the addition of Latin, eighteen. They are taught in mixed groups for the majority of their subjects, with setting occurring only in Maths. Science is taught as a combined subject; modules of Physics, Chemistry and Biology are covered, but the links between the three and the overarching philosophy of how science works are emphasised.
In the Third Form our pupils have the choice of studying two languages from French, German and Spanish. Lessons are suitable for complete beginners but also those who have had some experience of the language. When they move into the Removes, they continue their study of their two chosen languages. In addition, all pupils study Latin in the Removes.
All pupils study a full range of creative and technical subjects in their first two years – the subjects are Music, Drama, Art, Design Technology and ICT. In the Removes, the ICT course changes from covering core functional skills to an introduction to computer programming course using the language of Python.
In addition to their core curriculum, pupils in the Thirds and Removes follow the ‘BeingBancrofts’ programme. This is a curriculum of enrichment and activities that bring real breadth and intellectual curiosity to their programme, alongside opportunities for service and volunteering, trips and visits, and sporting activities.
In the Lower Fourth (year 9), pupils continue with at least one modern foreign language and one classical subject (one of Latin, Gratin, or Classics). They then have a choice of either a second modern language, or another classical subject. In addition to this language choice, pupils choose two creative and technological subjects from Music, Drama, Art, Design Technology and Computer Programming.
At GCSE, the six core subjects are: Maths, English Language, English Literature, Biology, Chemistry and Physics. It is also compulsory to study one modern foreign language. Pupils then choose three further subjects from a list of seventeen options. They have complete freedom of choice in this, with option blocks being designed after pupils’ choice, not before. Students in the top sets for Maths follow an accelerated course and sit their GCSE at the end of year 10. In year 11 they continue with maths following an enriched course, sitting the additional Maths qualification (FSMQ) at the end of the year. In addition to GCSE courses, all pupils continue to follow the Games and PE programme, and the Learning For Life curriculum.
“The teachers here are so considerate and caring here and I know that if I have any concerns, they are dealt with immediately.
I’m amazed by how fast the first year has gone. I’ll miss being a Third, but I’m excited to join Removes and start the next year of my Bancroft’s adventure.”
Lucas, Third Form (year 7)