N A T I O N A L   C U R R I C U L U M

The Curriculum

The curriculum includes not only the formal programme as described by schemes of work and the timetable, but also the style and management of the school, the many features which combine to produce :

		the school's ethos
		the attention to cross-curricular issues
		the teaching and learning styles which are adopted

Student Entitlement

At Queensmead there is a strong commitment to the belief that access to all of the key areas of educational experience should be the entitlement of every student. Thus, throughout the five years of statutory education from 11 - 16, all students will include in their educational programme English, Mathematics, Science, Design & Technology, Information & Communication Technology and Physical Education. For the first three years, all students take Geography, History, a Modern Foreign Language (French, German and Spanish are currently taught), Art and Music.

All students follow a programme of Religious Education and Citizenship throughout all five years.

In common with all schools Queensmead implements the National Curriculum. The following guide will be helpful.

		Key Stage 3	Years 7, 8 and 9	this refers to the first, second and
				third years of secondary education
		Key Stage 4	Years 10 and 11	this refers to the fourth and fifth
				years of secondary education
		Post 16	Years 12 & 13	this refers to the final two years of
				secondary education

The National Curriculum consists of the following subjects :

		three core subjects	English, Maths and Science
		nine foundation subjects	History, Geography, Design & Technology, Information
			and Communication Technology, a Modern Foreign
			Language, Art, Music and Physical Education, Citizenship

Religious Education is not defined as part of the National Curriculum but is a required part of the school's curriculum.

The three Core Subjects, the four Foundation Subjects (Design & Technology, Information & Communication Technology, Physical Education and Citizenship) and Religious Education will be taught to all students at Key Stages 3 and 4. Geography, History, MFL, Art and Music will be taught to all students at Key Stage 3 but are optional subjects at Key Stage 4.

The Queensmead Curriculum (Additional)

In addition to the National Curriculum and Religious Education, Queensmead provides opportunities for students at different stages to follow appropriate courses of study in a range of other subjects such as Sociology, Engineering, Performing Arts, Leisure and Tourism, Business Studies, Drama, Child Development. Personal, Social Health and Citizenship Education is taught to all students at Key Stages 3 and 4.