Our Curriculum

Aims and approach

Central to everything at school is the curriculum.  Our curriculum is underpinned by our core values of ‘courage, commitment and compassion’ and is designed to develop knowledge and skills in a wide breadth of subjects as well as allowing students to forge relationships.

We are conscious, at Bedale High School, that our curriculum extends further than the subjects taught in classrooms, than the exams taken and the grades achieved.  It encompasses our extra-curricular opportunities, our pastoral programme and our focus on personal development.  We provide a space where each child can learn and flourish, achieving their very best and developing the qualities and skills that will allow them to make a positive contribution to the world around them.

Despite our smaller size, all students follow a full and challenging curriculum which strives to unlock the potential of all students and maximise their progress.

Subject specific information can be found in the Faculty pages on this website.

In addition, the most recent GCSE options booklet (for year 9 students making their KS4 subject choices) is available below.

Key Stage 3

In Key Stage 3 (Years 7 to 9) all students follow separate courses in English, Mathematics, Science, Art, Geography, History, Computing, Modern Languages, Music, Physical Education, Drama, Design Technology and Food.

All students begin French in Year 7 and study this for two hours a week throughout key stage 3.

Key Stage 4

In Key Stage 4 (Years 10 and 11) students work towards a maximum of 10 subjects at GCSE or equivalent level. Most students take full GCSEs in English and English Literature; Mathematics; Biology, Chemistry and Physics (or Combined Science).  Students also follow academic pathways which are explained in the options booklet and choose a selection of other subjects depending on their pathway.

At Bedale High School, our curriculum will:

• Ensure that the sequence of learning builds on previous knowledge whilst supporting future progression;
• Lead to qualifications that are of worth for employers and for entry to further and higher education;
• Enable all students to develop commitment and fulfil their true potential;
• Teach our students to be courageous and make brave choices;
• Meet the needs of students of all abilities at our school;
• Allow students to develop compassion and respect for their own and other cultures;
• Prepare students to compete in the global economy;
• Prepare students to make informed choices at the end of KS3, KS4 and beyond.

Assessment and reporting

At Bedale High School we ensure that all assessment is ongoing, accurate and meaningful.

We have a clear assessment model at KS3 which reports student performance against key skills defined by the curriculum.  This compliments the transition into KS4.

The school places a strong emphasis on monitoring students’ progress. Subject teachers constantly assess and monitor each individual with the aim of improving achievement

Parents receive progress and attitude to learning assessments using our framework for learning. In addition, they are invited to an annual parents’ evening and can contact the school at any time if they have concerns about their child’s work.

Below is a timetable for issuing reports:

To find out more information about the different subject departments click on the links below.

Subject Overviews 

For any further curriculum enquires, please contact Mr Dunne, Deputy Headteacher.