Senior Curriculum
You might also like…
The Senior School curriculum stimulates enthusiasm for learning by cultivating curiosity and creativity. It is balanced and broadly based, and it is designed to promote the spiritual, moral, social, cultural, mental and physical development of all pupils. All subjects are taught by highly qualified and enthusiastic subject specialists from whom pupils catch a passion for their subjects.
The curriculum is complemented by a plethora of academic enrichment activities, ranging from Mathematics Challenges and Science Olympiads to creative writing workshops and cross-curricular collaboration. There is a full enrichment programme for pupils in Years 10 – 13, including a Sixth Form speaker programme, whilst pupils in Years 7 – 8 enjoy TIPS Week (Thinking Innovatively and Problem Solving) and Year 9 participate in an interdisciplinary and collaborative problem-solving project. Our Sixth Form offers a full range of academic stretch and challenge opportunities.
Pupils are set by ability from Year 8 in Mathematics and French, with setting in the Sciences at GCSE. Pupils’ progress is monitored closely and there is always movement between groups.
Alongside their other subjects, all pupils receive Wellbeing lessons which complement the academic curriculum. Wellbeing occupies a single period every week, with occasional extended lectures. Topics include health education, relationships and sex education, study skills, citizenship, environmental education and careers. Full details of this curriculum are available from the school office via email. Our Learning to Learn programme runs from Years 7 – 13 and ensures that pupils, parents and staff are all aware of and able to apply the latest research in metacognition so that pupils’ learning is as effective as possible.
In the first year of Senior School (Year 7), pupils study Theology and Philosophy, English, French, Mathematics, Physics, Chemistry, Biology, History, Geography, Art, 3D study, Drama, Music, Physical Education, Computing, Touch-typing, Latin, and Life Skills. In Year 8, Debating is introduced and pupils choose a second modern foreign language, which may be either German or Spanish.
The compulsory core of GCSE subjects is English Language, English Literature, a modern foreign language (from a choice of French, German or Spanish), Mathematics and the Sciences (from a choice of three separate sciences or Double Award Science). Pupils choose further GCSE subjects from a list of options comprising Art, Classical Civilisation, Classical Greek, Computing, Drama, Geography, German, History, Latin, Music, Physical Education, Theology and Philosophy and Spanish. All pupils have lessons in Physical Education.
Every pupil at FHS has their own one-to-one device. We recognise the value that technology can bring to the classroom and prioritise its thoughtful and intentional use, ensuring it enhances rather than replaces meaningful learning. From Year 7, pupils are gradually introduced to digital tools with their use increasing each year as they develop the skills to integrate technology effectively into their learning. We do not assume pupils are naturally proficient with technology; instead, we actively guide them in making informed decisions about when and where it is appropriate, helping them use digital tools with purpose, confidence, and discernment. We are aware of the threat that technology currently poses to critical thinking, creativity and independence of thought. Our staggered approach to technology counters this threat and ensures that our pupils leave Francis Holland as adaptable modern learners who are digitally literate while possessing all the qualities technology cannot replicate such as creativity, independent thought, and the ability to engage critically with the world around them.
On a practical note, we have partnered with an external provider through which you can purchase your daughter’s device.
