Curriculum
Upper School pupils follow the prescribed National Curriculum to GCSE level but the work and expectations are always tailored to the needs of the individual. Exceptional support is provided for those with Special Educational Needs and the gifted and talented are challenged to achieve at the highest levels.
Pupils enjoy a supportive and productive learning environment where the highest standards of work and effort are expected. The small study groups and high staff - pupil ratios ensure our pupils reach far beyond their estimated potential.
Teaching combines the traditional with the progressive and embraces the latest technology. Recent developments have seen brand new Science and Design Technology facilities and a second Information Technology suite. Sporting excellence is a long standing tradition and the Physical Education department can now boast the best facilities in the area, having full use of the recently-opened Sports Hall and equipment of Oakhill Academy. The Art, Music and Drama departments have now expanded into larger facilities; this has enhanced the excellent work in these areas.
Years Seven, Eight and Nine
Pupils in their earlier years are taught in their form groups and follow an academic programme which includes the following subjects:
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English
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Mathematics
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Science
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Geography
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History
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Religious Education
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Physical Education
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French
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Spanish
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Art
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Drama
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Music
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Design Technology
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Information Technology
Years Ten and Eleven
Pupils begin working towards their GCSEs in Year Ten, usually working towards ten qualifications. Six of these are obtained from the following Core Subjects:
Pupils then opt for a further four GCSE subjects from the following options:
High-achieving pupils are often offered the opportunity to take on the challenge of extra qualifications by for example, taking GCSE Mathematics in Year Ten and going on to study GCSE Statistics in Year Eleven.
In addition, all pupils take part in a weekly games lesson and receive targeted careers advice which gives them every assistance in making important decisions on their continuing education beyond GCSE, leading to their ultimate career choice, albeit at an early stage. Our pupils invariably leave Oakhill as mature, well rounded, polite and confident individuals having had the best possible start to their adult life.
