Welcome to the School of Core Studies

The School of Core Studies will be a place of learning for students from Years 7 to 11.

Core Studies houses the key subjects of English, Maths and Science, which all students will study through Key Stage 3 and 4.

Our English department is staffed by a team who use exciting teaching methods.

In Key Stage 4 these methods are used to engage students and help them develop a wide range of skills in speaking, listening, reading and writing. Students will also use our in house library to develop their research skills.

In Key Stage 4 this is developed further as students work towards their English and English Literature exams. At Key Stage 5 the department focuses on English Literature and Media Studies. We also incorporate theatre visits and revision conferences into the curriculum to ensure a multi-faceted learning experience. The Maths department is developing ways of making Maths practical and investigative, with a focus on problem solving.

Within their learning students will make regular use of the departments IT facilities. Across the key stages the department offers a wide choice of courses and qualifications and we provide a range of exam styles to suit all students. As part of their studies students will also go on educational visits. Our Science department introduces students to many areas within the Sciences, which develop and widen as they move through the key stages.

When students reach Key Stage 4 they are offered a wide range of Science options to study including Astronomy and Child Development and we have three sciences on offer at Key Stage 5 ( A Level).

The department also hosts a series of events for all students with an annual Science Week in which Science based activities are explored across all years.

In Year 9 students also take part in a Science Works Day and in Year 10 our Gifted and Talented students will become involved in a Physics and Enterprise Day. The department is also home to an after school Science Club.

Members of staff with responsibility for this department:

English: Diane Sherman (Vice Principal)
Maths: Diane Sherman
Science: Martin Shepherd (Assistant Vice Principal)