Inspiring confident, capable and curious young people
Our Upper School curriculum is ambitious, broad and carefully designed to prepare children for the opportunities and challenges that lie ahead. Alongside a strong academic foundation, we place equal value on developing confidence, independence, resilience, creativity and a genuine love of learning.
As children move through the Upper School, they are increasingly prepared for the 11+ examination process and the transition to their next school. Our approach is designed to ensure that pupils are academically well prepared while continuing to enjoy a rich and varied education.
Academic Excellence
English, Mathematics and Science form the foundation of our academic curriculum. Children are encouraged to develop secure knowledge, strong reasoning skills and the confidence to think independently, ask questions and challenge themselves.
Alongside the core curriculum, pupils undertake dedicated Verbal Reasoning (VR) and Non-Verbal Reasoning (NVR) lessons. These develop important skills including logical thinking, problem-solving, vocabulary, comprehension, pattern recognition and the ability to approach unfamiliar problems with confidence. This focused preparation supports children as they progress through the 11+ process, while complementing the skills they develop across the wider curriculum.
Our Humanities curriculum provides children with a rich understanding of the world around them. Through History, Geography, Religious Education and Philosophy, pupils explore significant events, people, places, cultures and ideas. They are encouraged to consider different perspectives, engage in thoughtful discussion and develop the ability to form and articulate their own ideas.
Specialist Teaching
We believe that children benefit enormously from learning with teachers who bring specialist knowledge, enthusiasm and expertise to their subjects.
Throughout the week, pupils study both French and Spanish with a specialist languages teacher, developing their linguistic skills alongside an appreciation of different cultures and perspectives.
Music is taught by a specialist music teacher, giving children the opportunity to develop their musical knowledge, creativity and performance skills. Physical Education is delivered by a specialist sports coach, helping pupils to develop physical confidence, teamwork, determination and a lifelong enjoyment of being active.
Art and Design Technology provide further opportunities for children to be creative, practical and imaginative. Pupils are encouraged to experiment, design, make and refine their ideas, developing both technical skills and creative confidence.
Personal Development
Education at Upper School extends well beyond academic achievement. Through Personal, Health and Social Education (PHSE), children develop their understanding of themselves and others, exploring themes including relationships, wellbeing, resilience, responsibility and making positive choices.
We want our pupils to leave the Upper School not only with strong academic foundations, but also with the confidence to embrace new experiences, the resilience to overcome challenges and the ability to work positively with others.
Enrichment: Learning Beyond the Classroom
Our enrichment programme is a defining part of the Upper School experience. We believe that some of the most valuable learning happens when children are given the opportunity to try something unfamiliar, challenge themselves and experience the world beyond the traditional classroom.
Throughout their time in Upper School, pupils have the opportunity to participate in a diverse range of enrichment experiences, including climbing, performing arts, water sports, dance, horse riding and Forest School.
These experiences allow children to discover talents and interests that may not emerge within the traditional classroom. They encourage pupils to take appropriate risks, develop resilience, build independence and learn the value of perseverance. Whether climbing to new heights, performing on stage, learning to ride, exploring the natural world or taking part in water-based activities, children are encouraged to embrace every opportunity and discover what they are capable of achieving.
A Broad and Ambitious Education
Our Upper School curriculum brings together academic excellence, specialist teaching, creativity, physical development, personal growth and enrichment. Every element has a role to play in helping children become confident and well-rounded young people.
While the 11+ process is an important part of the Upper School journey, we believe that preparation for the future should extend far beyond examinations. Our aim is to nurture children who are curious about the world, confident in their abilities, resilient when faced with challenges and excited by new opportunities.
By the time they leave Upper School, we hope our pupils are equipped not only with the academic skills they need for the next stage of their education, but also with the independence, character and breadth of experience to thrive wherever their journey takes them.
Upper School Curriculum
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English
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Mathematics
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Spelling
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Science
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Verbal Reasoning (VR)
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Non-Verbal Reasoning (NVR)
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French
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Spanish
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Music
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Physical Education
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Personal, Health and Social Education (PHSE)
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History
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Geography
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Religious Education
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Philosophy
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Art
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Design Technology
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Enrichment: Climbing, Performing Arts, Water Sports, Dance, Horse Riding and Forest School
