Autumn

Pupils embark on an academic and adventurous journey in English, building essential literacy skills through engaging activities. The curriculum focusses on spelling and developing phonics knowledge, including prefixes, suffixes, and tricky words. Handwriting lessons help perfect letter joins, promoting neat and fluent writing. Pupils aim to receive their green pen licences.

Writing tasks centre around Big Writing projects, where pupils retell familiar stories, learning to structure narratives with clear beginnings, middles, and ends. They develop descriptive skills using 'WOW' words and paragraphs, ensuring their stories captivate readers. Grammar and vocabulary lessons refine sentence structure, punctuation, and the use of conjunctions like and, but, and so, encouraging varied language tailored to different audiences.

Reading comprehension is strengthened through individual reading and class texts such as The Pheasant Colonel, Kaspar, and The Boy with the Bronze Axe. Speaking and listening skills are nurtured through performances in the Harvest Festival, class assemblies, the Junior Christmas Production, and a Recital Competition, ensuring pupils become confident and expressive communicators.

Spring

Pupils continue their feisty and fantastic English journey, focusing on poetry, creative writing, and comprehension. Spelling and phonics sessions develop accuracy through dictation, tricky word practice, and exploration of prefixes and suffixes. Handwriting lessons refine letter joins, supporting neat and confident presentation.

Pupils explore poetry, using sensory language to write haikus, spring-themed poems, and entries for the whole-school poetry competition. They also write book reviews and instructional texts, broadening their understanding of different writing styles. Grammar and vocabulary are developed weekly using Collins Book 3, focusing on sentence structure, punctuation, and varied language to engage different audiences.

Reading is enriched with individual books and class texts, such as Blessu!, Gobbolino the Witch’s Cat, and Celtic Myths Book. Comprehension skills are strengthened through discussions and analysis of these stories. Pupils also develop speaking skills through class assemblies, enhancing their confidence in performance and audience awareness.

Summer

The Summer Term in Form 1 offers a feisty and fantastic exploration of creative writing and literacy skills. Pupils focus on spelling and phonics, enhancing their understanding of tricky words, prefixes, and suffixes through dictation and weekly practice. Handwriting sessions refine letter joins, ensuring clear and fluent presentation.

A highlight of the term is the Big Writing project, where pupils craft adventure stories, choosing their own topics and developing engaging plots and characters. Lessons focus on building structured narratives using paragraphs, varied sentence structures, and descriptive language. Weekly grammar and vocabulary sessions from Collins Book 3 further support writing skills, emphasising punctuation, conjunctions, and audience-appropriate language.

Reading sessions feature individual readers and class texts such as Mr Majeeka and The Secret Island, with comprehension activities enhancing understanding and critical thinking. Speaking and listening skills are developed through class assemblies, encouraging pupils to present their work with confidence and expression.

Autumn

In the autumn term, Form 2 pupils embark on an academic and adventurous journey through literature, writing, and language skills. The term begins with an exploration of Aesop’s Fables, where pupils analyse the structure, characters, and morals of these timeless stories. Through creative writing tasks, they write their own fables, focusing on simple language, animal characters, and moral lessons, all written in the past tense.

Weekly spelling lessons use Collins Spelling Skills Book 4, while grammar sessions, guided by Nelson Grammar Book 4, cover key topics such as verbs, clauses, nouns, direct speech, and suffixes. Pupils also refine their handwriting skills through regular practice, supporting their spelling and writing development.

The second half of the term introduces non-fiction writing, where pupils learn how to write clear, step-by-step instructions, such as “How to Make a Cup of Tea.” These tasks focus on the use of imperative verbs, time adverbs, and technical language. Additionally, pupils engage in creative writing projects, including war poetry, character descriptions, and short stories inspired by the term’s second set text, Homer’s Iliad and Odyssey by Gillian Cross.

Comprehension skills are developed through selected texts that complement the term’s topics, enhancing pupils’ ability to interpret and analyse written material. By the end of the term, pupils demonstrate a solid understanding of both creative and instructional writing, preparing them for more complex literary analysis in the coming terms.

Spring

In the spring term, Form 2 pupils continue their academic and adventurous exploration of English through engaging writing projects, grammar lessons, and reading activities. The term begins with a focus on creative writing, where pupils compose list poems and kennings inspired by the theme of the school’s poetry competition. These activities help pupils explore descriptive language, syllable patterns, and poetic structure.

Spelling lessons follow the Collins Spelling Skills Book 4, ensuring consistency and progression in pupils’ spelling abilities. Grammar sessions, guided by Nelson Grammar Book 4, cover essential topics such as simple sentences, verbs, adjectives, and direct speech. Pupils also develop their comprehension skills through texts linked to the term’s main set text, the "1000 Year Old Boy." Writing skills are further enhanced through newspaper article projects, allowing pupils to explore journalistic techniques and factual reporting.

The second half of the term introduces persuasive writing tasks linked to science topics, particularly focusing on animals and their habitats. Pupils learn how to structure arguments using facts, opinions, and rhetorical questions. Additionally, they delve into mythology by writing their own Viking legends, drawing inspiration from "Viking Legends" and the "1000 Year Old Boy." Grammar lessons continue with topics such as adverbs, nouns, paragraphs, and contractions, while handwriting sessions support neat and fluent presentation.

Throughout the term, comprehension tasks challenge pupils to analyse texts critically, while weekly handwriting practice ensures accuracy and presentation in written work. By the end of the term, pupils confidently demonstrate a broad range of writing styles, preparing them for more advanced narrative and persuasive writing in the following term.

Summer

In the summer term, Form 2 pupils continue their academic and adventurous exploration of English, focusing on non-chronological reports, creative writing, and text analysis. The term begins with the creation of an Ivor Ramsay project, where pupils write detailed reports on a country of their choice. This project helps develop research skills, note-taking, and the ability to organise information using subheadings and factual language.

Spelling lessons continue with the Collins Spelling Skills Book 4, reinforcing accurate spelling patterns. Grammar sessions, guided by Nelson Grammar Book 4, cover essential topics such as pronouns, verbs, adverbs, and nouns. Comprehension tasks are linked to the set text, The Butterfly Lion, encouraging pupils to discuss themes, character development, and plot structure. Weekly handwriting practice supports legibility and presentation across all written tasks.

In the second half of the term, pupils explore creative writing through diary entries from the perspective of someone on the Home Front, linking English with their history studies. They also write a new chapter for The Butterfly Lion, adopting the perspective of a different character, which enhances their ability to empathise and explore alternative viewpoints in literature.

Grammar lessons continue with a focus on direct speech, paragraph structuring, and advanced use of adverbs and nouns. Comprehension activities deepen pupils' understanding of narrative techniques and character development. By the end of the term, pupils have refined their writing skills across various genres, developed confidence in creative expression, and are well-prepared for the next stage of their English learning journey.

Autumn

Form 3 pupils embark on an academic and adventurous exploration of English, with a focus on classic literature, creative writing, and grammar. The class reader for the term is The Lion, The Witch and the Wardrobe by C.S. Lewis, where pupils delve into themes of fantasy, character development, and setting. Comprehension activities are linked to science topics such as the solar system and living things, as well as historical topics like Roman life and Roman Britain.

Spelling ensure pupils develop accuracy and confidence in their spelling. Grammar sessions cover essential areas such as singular and plural nouns, verbs and tenses, and adverb clauses. Handwriting lessons, support fluency and presentation which support pupils to gain their Blue handwriting licence. Pupils engage in creative writing through two key tasks: composing a word class autumn poem and refining descriptive writing by improving poorly written paragraphs. These activities help pupils gain a strong understanding of word classes, including nouns, adjectives, verbs, and adverbs.

The second half of the term continues with The Lion, The Witch and the Wardrobe, where pupils explore deeper aspects of the text. Grammar topics include possessive pronouns and adjectives, possessive nouns, and direct speech. Comprehension tasks focus on understanding playscripts and historical figures such as Boudica. Creative writing tasks include writing instructions for a spell, where pupils learn about imperative verbs, ordering information, and using diagrams, followed by narrative writing based on Harris Burdick’s illustrations, focusing on story structure with clear beginnings, middles, and ends.

Throughout the term, pupils develop essential skills in indirect and direct speech, learning how to punctuate dialogue accurately. They also participate in a poetry recital competition, enhancing their speaking and performance abilities. By the end of the term, pupils have strengthened their grammar, writing, and comprehension skills, preparing them for more advanced literary analysis and creative expression in future terms.

Spring

In the spring term, Form 3 pupils engage in an academic and adventurous study of literature, persuasive writing, and poetry. The class reader for the term is Kensuke’s Kingdom by Michael Morpurgo, which serves as a central text for exploring themes of adventure, resilience, and friendship. Comprehension tasks are linked to the mediaeval period, with additional focus on persuasive writing and advertisement analysis, guided by selected units from Nelson Grammar Year 5.

Spelling lessons continue with the Collins Guide 5, ensuring consistency in spelling patterns and accuracy. Grammar lessons cover essential topics, including direct and indirect speech, adjectives with a focus on synonyms and antonyms, relative pronouns, and the correct use of apostrophes. Pupils enhance their persuasive writing skills by crafting advertisements for a tropical island, using persuasive devices such as emotive language, rhetorical questions, repetition, and supporting facts and statistics. These activities develop critical thinking and audience awareness.

The second half of the term continues with Kensuke’s Kingdom, delving deeper into narrative techniques and character development. Comprehension tasks shift focus to stories from around the world, providing pupils with a broader literary perspective. Grammar lessons explore pronouns, relative clauses, and advanced punctuation, further developing pupils’ writing skills. The creative writing project for this term involves composing an animal poem written in the second person, inspired by visual prompts for the school’s poetry competition. Pupils apply literary devices such as metaphor, simile, alliteration, and repetition to craft engaging and imaginative poems.

Throughout the term, pupils build confidence in writing for different purposes and audiences, applying sophisticated language techniques. They demonstrate growing proficiency in grammatical accuracy, creative expression, and persuasive communication, preparing them for more complex writing tasks in future terms.

Summer

In the summer term, Form 3 pupils continue their academic and adventurous journey through English, with a focus on informative writing, creative expression, and literary analysis. The class reader for the term is The Miraculous Journey of Edward Tulane by Kate DiCamillo, which provides rich opportunities for comprehension activities linked to the term’s topics. Pupils explore themes of resilience, loss, and friendship while developing critical reading skills through discussions and analysis.

Spelling lessons include a recap of words from the Collins Guide 5 along with National Curriculum words to reinforce spelling accuracy. Grammar sessions, guided by Nelson Grammar Year 5, cover auxiliary verbs, commas for clarity, sequence adverbs, and punctuation rules. Pupils strengthen their research skills during the Ivor Ramsey informative writing project, where they explore the topic of endangered species. They learn to extract key information, make bullet points, and structure reports logically. This project also allows for a crossover with persuasive writing, using rhetorical questions and emotive language to engage the reader.

In the second half of the term, pupils continue with The Miraculous Journey of Edward Tulane, further examining the roles of heroes and heroines in literature. Grammar lessons introduce modal verbs, complex sentence structures involving main, adverb, and relative clauses, and techniques for using commas to avoid ambiguity. Informative writing tasks from the Ivor Ramsey project continue, requiring pupils to demonstrate clear organisation and factual accuracy.

The term concludes with creative writing projects that allow pupils to experiment with literary devices such as simile, metaphor, onomatopoeia, personification, sensory imagery, rhetorical questions, ellipsis, lists, triplets, and alliteration. Using picture prompts, pupils write descriptive or narrative pieces, applying these techniques to create vivid and engaging stories. By the end of the term, pupils exhibit proficiency in both informative and creative writing, with strong grammar knowledge and an ability to analyse complex texts, preparing them for more advanced English studies.

Autumn

In the autumn term, Form 4 pupils embark on an academic and adventurous journey through literature, creative writing, and comprehension. The set text for the term is Holes, where pupils explore characterisation, setting, and overarching themes. This novel serves as a central point for discussions on resilience, friendship, and justice, encouraging pupils to analyse how characters develop and how settings influence the narrative.

Creative writing tasks this term focus on developing pupils’ use of literary devices. In The Furniture Game, pupils write a poem about a person they know well, using similes and metaphors to create vivid imagery. They also practise applying literary techniques such as personification, rhetorical questions, onomatopoeia, adjectives, triplets, lists, and pathetic fallacy in single-sentence exercises. Personal writing tasks challenge pupils to describe a place they know well, using an article about St Andrews as a model to develop descriptive language and structure.

Comprehension activities include analysing a biography of Emmeline Pankhurst and an extract from Frankenstein, both designed to strengthen inference skills and critical thinking. Spelling lessons follow Collins Book 6, reinforcing key spelling patterns. Grammar sessions, based on Nelson Grammar Book 6, cover essential topics such as homophones, homonyms, pronouns, and verbs, providing pupils with the tools to write with accuracy and sophistication.

In the second half of the term, pupils continue their study of Holes, focusing more deeply on the protagonist, Stanley. They write a diary entry from Stanley's perspective, allowing them to explore narrative voice and character empathy. Comprehension tasks include analysing persuasive texts such as ‘Text Messaging - Good or Bad?’ and narrative texts like ‘The New Boy’, enhancing pupils’ ability to interpret a variety of writing styles.

The term also includes a poetry recital competition, where pupils memorise and perform selected poems, building confidence in public speaking and performance. Spelling continues with Collins Book 6, while grammar lessons focus on verbs, confusing words, improving writing techniques, and advanced use of nouns. Throughout the term, pupils refine their understanding and application of key literary devices, developing a mature and creative writing style. By the end of the term, pupils confidently analyse complex texts, write with greater sophistication, and express themselves clearly in both written and spoken English.

Spring

In the spring term, Form 4 pupils engage in an academic and adventurous exploration of literature, creative writing, and persuasive techniques. The set text for the term is Private Peaceful, where pupils focus on characterisation, setting, and key themes such as family, loyalty, and the impact of war. This novel encourages deep discussions on emotional resilience and historical context, enhancing pupils' comprehension and analytical skills.

Comprehension activities include reading and analysing texts such as ‘The Tower of London’ and ‘Lost at Sea’, helping pupils to develop their inference and interpretation skills. Pupils also undertake a creative writing task where they describe a lake scene photo, using a full range of literary devices. These include similes, metaphors, personification, rhetorical questions, onomatopoeia, adjectives, triplets, lists, and pathetic fallacy. This task encourages descriptive precision and vivid imagery in their writing.

Spelling lessons follow Collins Book 6, reinforcing key spelling rules and patterns. Grammar sessions, based on Nelson Grammar Book 6, cover nouns, improving writing techniques, confusing words, and punctuation. These grammar lessons ensure that pupils can write accurately and expressively across various writing tasks.

In the second half of the term, pupils continue their study of Private Peaceful, further exploring its themes and character development. A significant creative challenge involves writing a poem for the school’s poetry competition, using three model poems—‘Christmas Tree’, ‘To a Flamingo’, and ‘Fourth King’—to inspire their own compositions. Pupils apply advanced literary devices, refining their poetic voice and creative expression.

Comprehension work focuses on texts such as ‘The Beast of Bodmin Moor’ and Shakespeare’s ‘Hamlet’, providing opportunities to analyse both modern and classical literature. In persuasive writing, pupils craft an article encouraging people to visit Ardvreck or Scotland, using Ben Fogle's article about London as a model. This task introduces pupils to AFOREST persuasive techniques—Alliteration, Facts, Opinions, Rhetorical Questions, Repetition, Emotive Language, Statistics, and Triplets—helping them write engaging and convincing arguments.

Spelling continues with Collins Book 6, and grammar lessons cover verbs, standard and non-standard English, and punctuation. By the end of the term, pupils confidently use advanced literary techniques, write persuasively with audience awareness, and demonstrate a solid understanding of complex texts, preparing them for more sophisticated writing and analysis in future terms.

Summer

In the summer term, Form 4 pupils continue their academic and adventurous journey through English with a focus on literature, informative writing, and creative expression. The set text for the term is Boy, where pupils explore characterisation, setting, and key themes. Through analysis of Roald Dahl's autobiographical stories, pupils develop an understanding of how writers create memorable characters and settings, enhancing their comprehension and analytical skills.

Comprehension tasks include studying ‘The Brook’ and ‘Endurance’s Last Voyage’, which provide opportunities for pupils to develop their inference and interpretation skills. Informative writing is a key focus this term, with pupils undertaking the Ivor Ramsay Project, where they apply research and organisational skills to produce structured, factual reports. In this project, pupils also apply AFOREST persuasive techniques—Alliteration, Facts, Opinions, Rhetorical Questions, Repetition, Emotive Language, Statistics, and Triplets—allowing them to write persuasively and informatively.

Spelling lessons follow Collins Book 6, ensuring accuracy in spelling patterns. Grammar sessions, guided by Nelson Grammar Book 6, cover essential topics such as paragraph structuring, verbs, the use of Standard English, and punctuation. These lessons support pupils in writing clear, well-organised texts that demonstrate grammatical accuracy.

In the second half of the term, pupils continue studying Boy, further exploring how Roald Dahl uses literary techniques such as metaphors, similes, personification, rhetorical questions, pathetic fallacy, onomatopoeia, and climax to engage readers. Comprehension activities include analysing ‘Touching the Void’ and ‘The River’s Story’, which challenge pupils to explore themes of survival and nature.

Creative writing becomes the central focus as pupils learn how to structure stories effectively. They plan and write responses to past Common Entrance creative writing tasks, applying advanced literary techniques to craft engaging narratives. These activities allow pupils to refine their storytelling abilities, focusing on creating compelling characters, vivid settings, and well-paced plots.

Grammar lessons continue with topics on sentence structure, verb usage, and Standard English, ensuring that pupils can write with clarity and sophistication. By the end of the term, pupils have developed strong creative and informative writing skills, confidently applying advanced literary techniques and demonstrating a deep understanding of complex texts, preparing them for future academic challenges.

Autumn

Form 5 pupils engage in an academic and adventurous exploration of literature, creative writing, and persuasive techniques. The set text for the term is Roll of Thunder, Hear My Cry, where pupils analyse characterisation, setting, themes, and historical context. The novel provides a rich basis for discussions on family, friendship, and social justice, allowing pupils to explore how writers create vivid characters and compelling narratives.

Creative writing tasks focus on Common Entrance-style story writing, where pupils draft stories on themes such as friendship, secrets, or making a sacrifice. These tasks encourage pupils to revise the structure of a short story while incorporating a range of literary devices, including metaphors, similes, personification, rhetorical questions, pathetic fallacy, onomatopoeia, and climax. Pupils refine their ability to write engaging narratives that demonstrate emotional depth and narrative cohesion.

Spelling lessons follow the Jolly Phonics Spelling Book 4, reinforcing key spelling patterns. Grammar lessons focus on the correct use of brackets and dashes, supporting pupils in adding clarity and detail to their writing. These grammar skills enhance the sophistication of pupils' creative work, ensuring grammatical accuracy and effective punctuation.

In the second half of the term, pupils continue their study of Roll of Thunder, Hear My Cry, deepening their understanding of its themes and context. Persuasive writing becomes the central focus, with pupils crafting a letter to the Headmistress, arguing for or against school uniform. Using a model article that argues against mobile phone use, pupils apply AFOREST persuasive techniques—Alliteration, Facts, Opinions, Rhetorical Questions, Repetition, Emotive Language, Statistics, and Triplets—to present compelling and well-structured arguments.

The term also includes preparation for a recital competition, where pupils select, memorise, and perform poems, developing confidence in public speaking and performance. Spelling continues, while grammar lessons introduce the use of colons and semicolons, enabling pupils to write with greater precision and sophistication.

By the end of the term, pupils confidently apply advanced literary techniques in their creative writing, craft persuasive arguments using structured techniques, and demonstrate a deep understanding of complex texts. These skills ensure they are well-prepared for the academic demands of their final years at school.

Spring

In the summer term, Form 6 pupils engage in an academic and adventurous study of literature, creative writing, poetry, and persuasive speech writing. The set text for the term is Lord of the Flies, where pupils explore characterisation, setting, themes, and historical context. Pupils analyse how William Golding’s experiences during World War II influenced the novel, examining themes of civilisation, human nature, and leadership. Through detailed discussions, pupils gain a deeper understanding of how writers create compelling characters and develop narrative tension.

Creative writing tasks encourage pupils to write about a time they were embarrassed, afraid, or overcame adversity. These responses may be based on real experiences or imagined scenarios. Pupils use a model hillwalking story to investigate effective descriptive techniques, incorporating literary devices such as metaphors, similes, personification, rhetorical questions, pathetic fallacy, onomatopoeia, and climax. Spelling lessons follow the Jolly Phonics Spelling Book 4, ensuring spelling accuracy, while grammar sessions focus on the correct use of apostrophes, enhancing clarity and precision in writing.

In the second half of the term, poetry becomes a key focus. Pupils write a poem for the school’s poetry competition, studying poems such as ‘Wind’ by Ted Hughes, ‘Squash’, and ‘Stealing’ by Carol Ann Duffy to investigate poetic techniques. Pupils revise poetic devices including rhyme schemes, rhythm, alliteration, and sibilance, while also learning how to analyse and interpret poetry effectively.

Persuasive writing is developed through the creation of a speech in which pupils argue for or against compulsory sport in school. They evaluate model speeches, such as Martin Luther King Jr.'s ‘I Have a Dream’, to explore the components of an effective speech. Pupils apply AFOREST persuasive techniques—Alliteration, Facts, Opinions, Rhetorical Questions, Repetition, Emotive Language, Statistics, and Triplets—while also practising the use of lists and triplets to add emphasis and impact.

By the end of the term, pupils demonstrate a sophisticated understanding of literary analysis, creative expression, and persuasive communication. They confidently apply advanced writing techniques, analyse complex texts, and deliver compelling arguments in speech form, ensuring they are well-prepared for future academic challenges.

Summer

Form 6 pupils engage in an academic and adventurous study of Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet, focusing on characterisation, setting, themes, and historical context. Pupils explore the themes of love, conflict, fate, and family, while analysing how Shakespeare’s language and dramatic structure engage audiences. They also examine the play’s cultural and historical significance, gaining insight into how context influences a writer’s work.

The term begins with an informative writing project for the Ivor Ramsay series, where pupils are encouraged to entertain as well as inform. Using the AFOREST persuasive techniques—Alliteration, Facts, Opinions, Rhetorical Questions, Repetition, Emotive Language, Statistics, and Triplets—pupils craft engaging essays that captivate their audience. An example of an excellent essay is used as a model to help pupils understand effective structure and style. Spelling lessons follow the Jolly Phonics Spelling Book 4, while grammar sessions focus on the correct use of exclamation marks and speech marks. Pupils are also introduced to the PAL approach—Purpose, Audience, and Language—guiding them to write appropriately for different contexts.

In the second half of the term, pupils continue their study of Romeo and Juliet, delving deeper into the relationships between characters and the tragic unfolding of events. Creative and personal writing tasks challenge pupils to choose between a past Common Entrance examination question or write an autobiographical episode in the style of Roald Dahl’s Boy. These tasks encourage pupils to apply narrative techniques that engage readers, such as using vivid descriptions, dialogue, and reflective commentary.

Grammar sessions cover the use of rhetorical questions and short sentences to create tension and impact. Revision sessions ensure that pupils consolidate their understanding of all grammar topics covered throughout the year. Spelling continues with the Jolly Phonics Spelling Book 4, reinforcing consistency and accuracy.

Throughout the term, pupils explore how writers engage readers through narrative techniques, applying similar methods in their own writing. By the end of the term, they confidently craft creative and informative pieces that demonstrate a deep understanding of audience, purpose, and language, preparing them for future academic challenges and examinations.

Autumn

In the autumn term, Form 6 pupils embark on an academic and adventurous study of John Boyne’s The Boy in the Striped Pyjamas, focusing on themes, characterisation, setting, and historical context. Pupils explore how the novel presents themes of innocence, friendship, and the horrors of the Holocaust, while developing an understanding of how historical context influences a writer’s work. Analytical discussions encourage pupils to examine how characters and settings are crafted to convey deeper meanings.

Creative writing tasks this term include responses to past Common Entrance and scholarship examination questions, where pupils are encouraged to write narratives that may be based on real experiences or imagined scenarios. These tasks challenge pupils to incorporate advanced literary techniques such as metaphors, similes, personification, rhetorical questions, pathetic fallacy, and onomatopoeia. Spelling lessons follow the Jolly Phonics Spelling Book 5, ensuring consistency and accuracy. Grammar sessions revise all topics covered in Form 5, with a focus on varying sentence structures using colons, semicolons, dashes, brackets, short dramatic sentences, lists, triplets, exclamation marks, ellipsis, and rhetorical questions.

Poetry studies focus on how to analyse and interpret poems effectively. Pupils explore past paper questions on ‘Makers and Creatures’ and ‘Mrs Reece’s Laugh’, investigating what constitutes a model analytical answer. They apply the point, evidence, and explanation (PEE) technique to structure well-supported arguments in their responses. This unit strengthens pupils’ ability to interpret poetic devices and understand how they function within a poem.

In the second half of the term, pupils continue their study of The Boy in the Striped Pyjamas, delving deeper into character analysis and narrative techniques. The poetry component shifts focus to the works of Robert Burns, with pupils preparing speeches for Burns Night. They also select and memorise a poem for the school’s recitation competition, refining their performance and public speaking skills.

Persuasive writing is developed through letter-writing tasks where pupils argue for or against school uniform or attending school on Saturdays. In these tasks, pupils apply persuasive techniques, including emotive language, rhetorical questions, repetition, and structured arguments. Lessons also focus on how to structure and present speeches effectively, preparing pupils for both written and spoken persuasive tasks.

By the end of the term, pupils demonstrate a sophisticated understanding of literary analysis, creative writing, and persuasive communication. They confidently analyse complex texts, write with advanced techniques, and deliver compelling speeches, ensuring they are well-prepared for upcoming examinations and future academic challenges.

Spring

In the spring term, Form 6 pupils engage in an academic and adventurous exploration of literature, creative writing, persuasive writing, and poetry. The set text for this term is Pig Heart Boy, where pupils focus on genre, setting, characterisation, and themes. Through in-depth analysis, they explore how Malorie Blackman creates compelling characters and settings while addressing complex themes such as friendship, family, and medical ethics. Pupils develop an understanding of how context influences storytelling and the impact of genre on narrative style.

Creative writing tasks encourage pupils to draw from personal experiences or imagination. They write narratives about a time they had to be brave, describing events and the process of finding courage. Another writing task challenges pupils to describe the atmosphere of their classroom before the teacher arrives, focusing on sensory details and vivid descriptions. To support these tasks, pupils examine a story about a squash championship, using it as a model to analyse effective descriptive techniques and narrative structure. Spelling lessons continue with the Jolly Phonics Spelling Book 5, ensuring consistency in spelling patterns and accuracy.

In the second half of the term, pupils further explore Pig Heart Boy, delving deeper into its themes and character development. Persuasive writing becomes the focus as pupils write an article arguing for or against the statement: ‘Every 13-year-old should have a year off before they start senior school’. Pupils apply AFOREST persuasive techniques—Alliteration, Facts, Opinions, Rhetorical Questions, Repetition, Emotive Language, Statistics, and Triplets—to craft structured and convincing arguments that engage the reader.

The poetry component of the term allows pupils to express their creativity through verse. They write a poem for the school’s poetry competition, drawing inspiration from previous winning entries and well-known poets such as Ted Hughes, Seamus Heaney, Carol Ann Duffy, and Wilfred Owen. Pupils apply poetic techniques, including rhyme, rhythm, alliteration, sibilance, sensory imagery, and metaphor, to craft poems that convey emotion and meaning effectively.

Throughout the term, pupils refine their understanding of how writers engage readers through the use of literary and poetic devices. They develop proficiency in persuasive writing, demonstrating an awareness of audience and purpose. By the end of the term, pupils confidently analyse complex texts, craft creative narratives, write compelling persuasive articles, and compose thoughtful poems, ensuring they are well-prepared for future academic challenges.

Summer

In the final term, Form 6 pupils focus on consolidating their knowledge and refining their skills in preparation for upcoming examinations. The term begins with an intensive revision of persuasive writing techniques, where pupils revisit the AFOREST framework—Alliteration, Facts, Opinions, Rhetorical Questions, Repetition, Emotive Language, Statistics, and Triplets. Through engaging activities and writing tasks, pupils strengthen their ability to craft persuasive texts that are clear, structured, and impactful.

Creative writing revision emphasises the use of a wide range of literary devices. Pupils practise incorporating metaphors, similes, personification, rhetorical questions, and sensory imagery into their writing, enhancing the descriptive quality and emotional resonance of their narratives. These tasks help pupils develop compelling stories that capture the reader's attention and convey vivid imagery.

In preparation for examinations, pupils engage in the practice of past papers, covering persuasive, creative, and analytical writing tasks. This allows them to apply the skills they have learned in timed conditions, building confidence and exam readiness. Pupils also explore model answers, analysing what makes responses successful across all areas—persuasive arguments, descriptive narratives, and analytical essays. These activities reinforce the use of the point, evidence, and explain (PEE) structure, ensuring that analytical responses are coherent and well-supported.

Throughout the term, pupils demonstrate their knowledge of persuasive writing techniques, descriptive literary devices, and analytical frameworks. By the end of the term, they are fully prepared for their examinations, with the ability to write confidently across various genres, analyse complex texts, and present well-structured arguments. This comprehensive revision and practice ensure that pupils complete their final year with a strong foundation in English, ready for the academic challenges that lie ahead.

Autumn

Pupils deepen their understanding of numbers through a comprehensive exploration of place value. They learn to represent numbers up to 100 and 1000, recognising the value of ones, tens, and hundreds. By working with number lines up to 100, pupils develop confidence in identifying numerical positions and understanding numerical relationships. Number bonds to 10 are reinforced, building strong mental arithmetic foundations.

The focus on addition and subtraction enables pupils to perform essential calculations accurately. They practise adding and subtracting ones, tens, and hundreds, progressing to adding up to three-digit numbers both with and without crossing the tens boundary. Subtraction is developed from single-digit calculations to more complex problems involving two-digit numbers and exchanges, promoting problem-solving skills and logical thinking.

Moving into multiplication and division, pupils explore multiples of 2, 5, and 10, laying the groundwork for more advanced times tables. The concept of arrays is introduced to visually represent multiplication, while sharing and grouping activities strengthen understanding of division. Pupils extend their multiplication skills by working with times tables for 2, 3, 4, and 8, and develop corresponding division strategies.

By the end of the term, pupils demonstrate confidence in manipulating numbers, performing core arithmetic operations, and solving practical problems involving multiplication and division. This learning journey equips them with essential mathematical skills that form the foundation for future topics.

Spring

This term offers an academic and adventurous exploration of key mathematical concepts, focusing on multiplication, division, measurement, and fractions. Pupils develop their multiplication skills by working with multiples of 10 and learning how to multiply two-digit numbers by a single digit, both with and without exchange. These foundational skills are essential for building confidence in more advanced calculations. In division, pupils practise dividing by 2, 3, 4, 5, and 10. They are also introduced to the bus stop method for dividing two-digit numbers by a single digit, helping them develop efficient calculation strategies.

The topic of length and perimeter allows pupils to apply their mathematical understanding to real-world contexts. They measure length in millimetres, centimetres, and metres, converting between these units where necessary. Pupils also find equivalent lengths, such as centimetres to metres and millimetres to centimetres. They develop their reasoning skills by comparing, adding, and subtracting lengths, and begin calculating the perimeter of simple shapes.

Fractions become a focus as pupils learn to understand denominators and numerators, recognising them as parts of a whole. They compare and order fractions and locate them on a number line, identifying equivalents and counting in fractional steps. These activities deepen their understanding of fractional relationships and develop problem-solving skills related to parts of a whole.

The term concludes with an introduction to mass and capacity. Pupils compare and measure mass in grams and kilograms and analyse volume in millilitres and litres. They begin exploring temperature, linking their mathematical knowledge to everyday experiences. By the end of the term, pupils demonstrate confidence in manipulating numbers, solving problems involving measurement, and working with fractions, providing a strong foundation for future mathematical learning.

Summer

This term provides an academic and adventurous exploration of fractions, money, time, and shape. Pupils continue to build their understanding of fractions by learning how to add and subtract fractions with the same denominator. They explore unit and non-unit fractions of a set of objects, developing problem-solving skills by partitioning the whole and reasoning with fractions of an amount. These activities deepen their understanding of fractional relationships and support their ability to apply fractions to real-life situations.

The topic of money focuses on practical applications, where pupils learn to add and subtract amounts of money confidently. They practise counting in pence and pounds and develop conversion skills between the two. This practical learning helps pupils understand the value of money and strengthens their arithmetic skills, preparing them for real-world scenarios involving financial transactions.

Time is introduced in more detail, with pupils learning the concept of am and pm and how to read and use the 24-hour clock. They also begin calculating durations and measuring time in seconds, enhancing their ability to manage and understand time in daily contexts. These skills are further developed through problem-solving activities that challenge pupils to apply their understanding to real-life situations.

The term concludes with a focus on shape and geometry. Pupils are introduced to angles, learning to compare and identify different types. They also explore horizontal and vertical lines, as well as parallel and perpendicular lines, developing an understanding of key geometric concepts. Pupils build 3D shapes using nets, which helps them visualise and understand the properties of three-dimensional objects. By the end of the term, pupils demonstrate confidence in working with fractions, money, time, and shape, providing a strong foundation for future mathematical learning.

Autumn

This term provides an academic and adventurous exploration of key mathematical concepts, focusing on place value, addition, subtraction, multiplication, division, and measurement. Pupils deepen their understanding of place value by counting in 1s, 10s, and 100s up to 1000 and learning to round numbers to the nearest 10 and 100. They compare numbers up to 10,000, use number lines extending to 10,000, and are introduced to the concept of negative numbers. Further work on place value includes rounding to the nearest 10, 100, and 1000, enhancing their ability to estimate and approximate values.

In addition and subtraction, pupils practise adding and subtracting ones, tens, hundreds, and thousands, working with numbers up to four digits. They progress from calculations that do not require exchanges to those that involve exchanges, developing confidence and accuracy in performing more complex operations. Multiplication and division skills are also strengthened as pupils multiply single and double digits by single digits, as well as by 10 and 100. Mastery of times tables up to 12 ensures efficient calculation and problem-solving across various contexts.

Measurement becomes a key focus as pupils explore perimeter and area. They measure basic perimeters by counting squares and calculate areas, developing spatial awareness and practical problem-solving skills. Additionally, pupils learn to convert between metres and centimetres, as well as millimetres and centimetres, applying mathematical knowledge to real-world scenarios. By the end of the term, pupils demonstrate confidence in manipulating numbers, solving measurement problems, and performing essential arithmetic operations, laying a strong foundation for future mathematical challenges.

Spring

This term provides an academic and adventurous exploration of multiplication, division, measurement, fractions, and decimals. Pupils begin by strengthening their multiplication and division skills, focusing on finding factor pairs and multiplying up to three-digit numbers by a single digit. They develop efficient strategies for division by working with two- and three-digit numbers divided by a single digit. These activities enhance problem-solving abilities and reinforce the relationship between multiplication and division, laying a strong foundation for future mathematical topics.

Measurement becomes a key focus as pupils explore length and perimeter. They learn to measure in metres and kilometres, gaining practical experience in converting between these units. Pupils also develop the skills needed to calculate the perimeter of various shapes, including rectangles, and solve problems involving missing lengths. These real-world applications of mathematical concepts help pupils understand the relevance of measurement in everyday contexts, encouraging analytical thinking and precision.

The term concludes with an in-depth study of fractions and decimals. Pupils learn how to add fractions to make a whole, compare and order fractions, and convert between mixed numbers and improper fractions. They also practise placing fractions, including mixed numbers, on a number line, developing a strong understanding of fractional relationships. The introduction of decimals further extends their knowledge, providing opportunities to explore the connection between fractions and decimal values. By the end of the term, pupils demonstrate confidence in handling complex calculations, solving measurement problems, and understanding fractional and decimal relationships, ensuring they are well-prepared for future mathematical challenges.

Summer

This term offers an academic and adventurous exploration of geometry and statistics, focusing on angles, shapes, symmetry, and data interpretation. Pupils begin by learning how to compare and order angles by size, developing the ability to distinguish between acute, obtuse, and right angles. They also explore various geometric shapes, including triangles, quadrilaterals, and polygons, identifying their key properties and classifications. An introduction to basic lines of symmetry allows pupils to recognise symmetrical shapes and patterns, enhancing their understanding of balance and proportion in geometry.

The study of statistics provides opportunities for pupils to develop essential data analysis skills. They learn how to interpret different types of charts and tables, making comparisons and calculating sums and differences from data sets. Pupils engage in activities that require them to extract meaningful information, draw conclusions, and present their findings clearly and accurately. These tasks encourage logical thinking and the ability to analyse data in practical contexts.

The term concludes with an introduction to line graphs, where pupils learn how to analyse trends and patterns in data over time. They develop skills in plotting data points, interpreting changes, and making predictions based on graphical information. By the end of the term, pupils demonstrate confidence in working with geometric concepts and statistical data, equipped with the knowledge and skills necessary to tackle more complex mathematical challenges in future studies.

Autumn

This term provides an academic and adventurous exploration of key mathematical concepts, including place value, addition, subtraction, multiplication, division, data interpretation, and measurement. Pupils begin by developing a deeper understanding of place value, working with numbers up to 10,000 and progressing to ordering and comparing numbers up to 100,000. They also practise rounding numbers to the nearest 10, 100, 1,000, and 100,000, eventually extending their knowledge to numbers up to 1 million. This foundational work builds number sense and confidence in handling large values.

The focus on addition and subtraction allows pupils to refine their use of the column method for calculations involving up to four-digit numbers. They progress from simple operations to more complex problems involving one or multiple exchanges. Multiplication skills are developed through activities that involve multiplying numbers by 10, 100, and 1,000, as well as multiplying by one-digit and two-digit numbers. Pupils also explore factors, prime numbers, and square numbers, enhancing their understanding of number properties and relationships. Division work includes dividing by one- and two-digit numbers, building fluency in key operations and supporting problem-solving abilities.

The study of tables, charts, area, and perimeter rounds out the term. Pupils read, interpret, and draw line graphs, gaining skills in data analysis and trend interpretation. They also explore timetables and charts, learning how to extract and interpret key information. Measurement tasks involve calculating the perimeter of rectangles and rectilinear shapes, as well as determining the area of rectangles, compound shapes, and irregular shapes. These activities provide real-world context for mathematical concepts, ensuring pupils develop practical skills alongside theoretical knowledge. By the end of the term, pupils demonstrate confidence in working with large numbers, solving complex calculations, interpreting data, and applying measurement techniques, laying a strong foundation for future mathematical learning.

Spring

This term offers an academic and adventurous exploration of advanced mathematical concepts, including fractions, decimals, percentages, and an introduction to algebra. Pupils begin by developing their understanding of fractions, learning to convert between improper fractions and mixed numbers. They practise ordering and comparing fractions, adding and subtracting fractions with different denominators, and calculating fractions of an amount. Pupils also explore multiplying fractions, enhancing their ability to work with fractional values in increasingly complex contexts.

The study of decimals focuses on calculations up to the thousandths place, allowing pupils to develop accuracy when working with decimal numbers. Pupils also learn how to round decimals to specified places, strengthening their estimation and approximation skills. They explore the relationship between fractions, decimals, and percentages, identifying equivalents and applying this knowledge to real-world scenarios. The concept of percentages is further developed as pupils learn to calculate percentages of an amount, providing practical applications for their learning.

The term concludes with an introduction to algebra, where pupils begin solving basic equations and simplifying expressions. They explore how algebraic expressions represent relationships between numbers and learn to factorise simple expressions, laying the groundwork for more advanced algebraic concepts. By the end of the term, pupils demonstrate confidence in working with fractions, decimals, and percentages, and have a strong foundational understanding of algebra. These skills prepare them for future mathematical challenges, equipping them with the knowledge required for more complex problem-solving and analysis.

Summer

This term provides an academic and adventurous exploration of geometry, measurement, and spatial reasoning, with a focus on coordinates, 2D and 3D shapes, angles, and volume. Pupils begin by plotting and identifying coordinates on a grid, developing their ability to interpret and represent positions accurately. This foundational skill supports further exploration of 2D and 3D shapes, where pupils learn to analyse and name various geometric figures, including triangles and polygons. They explore how shapes relate to one another and understand key properties such as edges, vertices, and faces.

Angles and position become central topics as pupils learn how to use a protractor accurately to measure angles. They classify angles as acute, obtuse, right, and reflex, and understand how angles relate to one another around a point and on a straight line. Pupils also develop problem-solving skills by calculating unknown angles and lengths within shapes, applying their knowledge of geometric rules. The study of triangles includes exploring different types—equilateral, isosceles, and scalene—and understanding how angles within triangles always total 180 degrees.

Measurement is further developed through the study of volume and unit conversion. Pupils learn to compare and estimate volumes, applying mathematical reasoning to real-world contexts. They calculate the volume of simple and compound shapes, strengthening their understanding of three-dimensional space. Converting between different units of measurement, such as centimetres to metres or litres to millilitres, allows pupils to apply their knowledge practically. By the end of the term, pupils confidently work with coordinates, classify and measure angles, analyse geometric shapes, and calculate volume, demonstrating a strong understanding of essential mathematical concepts required for more advanced studies.

Autumn

This term provides an academic and adventurous exploration of core mathematical concepts, focusing on place value, the four operations, fractions, decimals, and percentages. Pupils begin by developing a deep understanding of place value, working with numbers up to six digits. They practise addition and subtraction of large numbers, including calculations involving negative numbers. Multiplication and division skills are strengthened as pupils multiply numbers up to three digits and divide by numbers up to two digits, building accuracy and fluency in performing complex calculations.

Fractions form a significant part of the curriculum, with pupils learning to compare and order fractions by finding common denominators and identifying equivalent fractions. They apply their knowledge to add, subtract, multiply, and divide basic fractions, as well as convert between improper fractions and mixed numbers. These activities develop their understanding of fractional relationships and support problem-solving in a variety of mathematical contexts.

The study of decimals and percentages allows pupils to make connections between different forms of numerical representation. Pupils multiply decimals confidently and apply this knowledge when solving real-world problems. They explore percentages by learning how to find the percentage of a given number and answering basic percentage-related questions. By the end of the term, pupils demonstrate confidence in performing the four operations with large numbers, manipulating fractions and decimals, and solving percentage problems, ensuring they are well-prepared for more advanced mathematical studies.

Spring

This term offers an academic and adventurous exploration of geometry, measurement, algebra, and ratio. Pupils begin by deepening their understanding of angles, learning how to explore and calculate angles within triangles and quadrilaterals. They develop the ability to classify angles and apply geometric rules, such as the sum of angles in a triangle (180 degrees) and a quadrilateral (360 degrees). Additionally, pupils explore position and movement, interpreting coordinates and understanding transformations such as translation, rotation, and reflection.

The study of area and perimeter becomes a key focus, as pupils calculate the area and perimeter of various shapes, including squares, rectangles, and compound shapes. These tasks develop spatial awareness and problem-solving skills, encouraging pupils to apply mathematical knowledge to real-world contexts. Pupils also explore 2D and 3D shapes, naming and describing their properties, including edges, vertices, faces, and angles. This understanding of shape and space provides a solid foundation for more advanced geometric concepts.

The term concludes with an introduction to algebra and ratio. Pupils explore basic algebraic expressions and equations, learning how to simplify expressions and solve simple equations. These activities help pupils recognise patterns and relationships between numbers. The study of ratio introduces pupils to comparing quantities and understanding proportional reasoning, essential skills for future mathematical learning. By the end of the term, pupils confidently work with geometric concepts, perform calculations involving area and perimeter, and demonstrate foundational skills in algebra and ratio, preparing them for more complex mathematical challenges.

Summer

This term provides an academic and adventurous exploration of advanced mathematical concepts, focusing on circles, statistics, unit conversions, and the introduction to scientific calculators. Pupils begin by exploring the properties of circles, learning how to calculate the area and circumference using the formulae involving Pi. They develop an understanding of how Pi represents the relationship between a circle's circumference and diameter, applying this knowledge to solve real-world problems. Pupils also examine other geometric shapes, enhancing their understanding of spatial relationships and properties.

The study of statistics allows pupils to collect, organise, and analyse data. They explore key statistical measures, including range, median, mode, and mean, developing essential skills for interpreting data sets. These activities promote logical thinking and analytical reasoning, enabling pupils to draw conclusions and make informed decisions based on data. By working with real-life examples, pupils gain confidence in applying statistical methods to practical situations, preparing them for future studies that require data interpretation.

The term concludes with a focus on converting units and the introduction to scientific calculators. Pupils learn to convert between various measurements for length, volume, and weight, applying these skills in mathematical and scientific contexts. The introduction to scientific calculators includes understanding key functions and their purposes, providing pupils with essential tools for advanced problem-solving. By the end of the term, pupils confidently calculate the properties of circles, analyse data using statistical measures, convert between measurement units, and utilise scientific calculators effectively, ensuring they are well-prepared for future mathematical challenges.

Autumn

This term provides an academic and adventurous exploration of essential mathematical concepts, focusing on place value, the four operations, factors, primes, multiples, roots, and powers. Pupils begin by deepening their understanding of place value, working with numbers from thousandths through to millions. This foundational knowledge enables them to confidently handle large and small values in various contexts. The four operations—addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division—are consolidated, with pupils mastering column methods for multiplication and short division methods. They also explore multiplying decimals, ensuring accuracy and fluency in calculations involving decimal numbers.

Further exploration of number properties includes studying factors up to 50 and introducing prime numbers and prime factors. Pupils investigate roots and powers, gaining an understanding of how these concepts relate to multiplication and division. These activities strengthen number sense and provide the groundwork for more advanced mathematical topics. The study of statistics allows pupils to analyse graphs and charts, identifying trends and patterns in data. They develop proficiency in calculating key statistical measures, including mean, mode, range, and median, enhancing their ability to interpret and present data effectively.

The term concludes with a focus on geometry, specifically angles. Pupils learn to find missing angles in triangles and more complex quadrilaterals, applying geometric rules to solve problems. They explore angle relationships, including alternate, corresponding, and co-interior angles, developing a comprehensive understanding of how angles behave within different geometric contexts. By the end of the term, pupils demonstrate confidence in performing advanced calculations, analysing statistical data, and solving geometric problems, ensuring they are well-prepared for future mathematical challenges.

Spring

This term offers an academic and adventurous exploration of fractions, decimals, percentages, shape, algebra, and measurement. Pupils begin by mastering the relationships between fractions, decimals, and percentages, learning to find equivalents and convert between these forms. They develop proficiency in adding, subtracting, multiplying, and dividing fractions and decimals, building a strong foundation for advanced calculations. Additionally, pupils explore how to calculate the percentage of an amount, including techniques for using a calculator effectively, ensuring they can apply these skills confidently in real-world contexts.

The study of shape focuses on recognising and analysing 2D and 3D shapes. Pupils explore transformations by rotating, translating, and reflecting shapes across different quadrants, developing spatial reasoning and understanding symmetry. These activities help pupils visualise geometric concepts and apply them to solve problems involving position and movement. Measurement is also a key focus, with pupils learning to find the area, radius, and diameter of circles, further enhancing their understanding of geometric relationships and calculations.

The term concludes with an introduction to algebra, where pupils solve basic equations, simplify expressions, and begin to factorise. They also explore the connections between algebra and geometry, applying algebraic techniques to calculate properties of geometric figures. These activities help pupils recognise patterns and relationships, developing critical thinking and problem-solving skills. By the end of the term, pupils confidently work with fractions, decimals, percentages, geometric transformations, and algebraic expressions, ensuring they are well-prepared for future mathematical challenges.

Summer

This term offers an academic and adventurous exploration of probability, data handling, ratio, and problem-solving. Pupils begin by developing an understanding of probability, learning how to order events from impossible to certain. They explore how to apply approximate percentage chances to various probability scenarios, enhancing their ability to assess likelihood and make informed predictions. These activities encourage logical reasoning and analytical thinking, providing a strong foundation for understanding uncertainty and chance in real-world contexts.

Data handling focuses on comparing and interpreting information from a variety of sources, such as timetables, receipts, and temperature charts. Pupils learn how to extract relevant data, make comparisons, and draw conclusions based on their findings. These tasks develop essential analytical skills and promote an understanding of how data is used in everyday situations. Pupils also engage in activities that require them to interpret data presented in different formats, strengthening their ability to analyse and communicate information effectively.

The study of ratio and problem-solving concludes the term, with pupils learning how to calculate ratios and find equivalent ratios. They apply this knowledge to solve open-ended, multi-step problems, encouraging critical thinking and strategic planning. These problem-solving activities challenge pupils to apply their mathematical knowledge in unfamiliar contexts, promoting resilience and adaptability. By the end of the term, pupils demonstrate confidence in working with probability, interpreting complex data, calculating ratios, and solving challenging problems, ensuring they are well-prepared for future mathematical learning.

Autumn

This term provides an academic and adventurous exploration of essential mathematical concepts, focusing on BIDMAS, number properties, geometry, fractions, decimals, and percentages. Pupils begin by mastering BIDMAS (Brackets, Indices, Division, Multiplication, Addition, and Subtraction), ensuring they can accurately follow the correct order of operations. They explore factors, multiples, and prime numbers, deepening their understanding of number properties. Pupils also learn about powers and roots, gaining confidence in handling indices and applying these skills to solve problems involving exponential calculations.

The study of geometry focuses on understanding angles and the properties of polygons. Pupils calculate missing angles by applying knowledge of parallel lines, identifying interior and exterior angles, and exploring angles within regular polygons. These activities develop spatial reasoning and enhance problem-solving skills as pupils learn how geometric rules apply to more complex shapes and figures. The exploration of the lowest common multiple (LCM) and highest common factor (HCF) further supports their understanding of number relationships and prepares them for advanced algebraic concepts.

The term concludes with an in-depth study of fractions, decimals, and percentages. Pupils learn to convert between these forms, compare and order them, and apply their knowledge to real-world contexts. They develop proficiency in multiplying and dividing fractions and decimals, as well as calculating percentages of amounts. Additionally, pupils explore percentage increases, applying their understanding to practical financial scenarios. By the end of the term, pupils demonstrate confidence in working with complex calculations, solving geometric problems, and applying their knowledge of fractions, decimals, and percentages, ensuring they are well-prepared for future mathematical challenges.

Spring

This term offers an academic and adventurous exploration of algebra, scientific calculator usage, area and measurement, probability, and ratio. Pupils begin by advancing their algebraic skills, learning to solve more complex expressions and equations. They develop the ability to factorise expressions involving two brackets, building a strong foundation for higher-level algebra. Alongside this, pupils explore the functions of a scientific calculator, gaining an understanding of its appropriate use for various mathematical operations. This knowledge equips pupils with essential tools for solving complex problems efficiently.

The study of area and measurement focuses on calculating the area of circles, triangles, and quadrilaterals. Pupils learn how to apply the correct formulae, including using Pi to find the area, radius, and diameter of circles. These tasks develop spatial awareness and reinforce connections between geometric properties and measurement. By engaging in real-world scenarios, pupils strengthen their ability to apply mathematical concepts to practical situations, enhancing their problem-solving and reasoning skills.

Probability and ratio form the final focus of the term. Pupils explore probability by calculating possible outcomes and determining percentage chances in various scenarios, developing analytical thinking and risk assessment skills. The study of ratio involves calculating ratios in different contexts and finding equivalent ratios, allowing pupils to understand proportional reasoning and its applications. By the end of the term, pupils demonstrate confidence in working with algebraic expressions, using scientific calculators, solving geometric measurement problems, and applying probability and ratio concepts, ensuring they are well-prepared for future mathematical learning.

Summer

This term provides an academic and adventurous exploration of sequences, scale factors, transformations, and revision in preparation for Common Entrance (CE) examinations. Pupils begin by studying sequences, learning how to identify patterns and find the nth term in both linear and more complex sequences. This foundational knowledge enhances their algebraic reasoning, allowing them to predict future terms and apply these concepts to problem-solving tasks involving number patterns.

The study of geometry focuses on transformations and scale factors. Pupils explore how to enlarge shapes using a given scale factor, developing an understanding of proportional reasoning and spatial relationships. They also learn how to find and describe the positions of shapes on a coordinate grid, applying transformations such as translation, rotation, and reflection. These activities strengthen pupils' spatial awareness and ability to visualise geometric transformations, critical skills for more advanced geometry topics.

The term concludes with dedicated revision sessions aimed at preparing pupils for the CE examinations. Pupils revisit key topics from the year, including algebra, geometry, fractions, percentages, and data handling. Through targeted practice and problem-solving activities, they refine their understanding of essential concepts and develop exam techniques. By the end of the term, pupils demonstrate confidence in applying mathematical knowledge to a range of problems, ensuring they are well-prepared for the challenges of upcoming examinations and future academic success.

Autumn

Autumn Term: First Half

During the first half of the Autumn Term, Form 1 pupils investigate skeletons, movement and the beginnings of nutrition. They identify and locate the skull, spine, ribcage, pelvis and femur, then explain how the skeleton supports the body, protects important organs and enables movement. Pupils compare human and animal skeletons, distinguish between animals with and without spines, and learn that some animals have an exoskeleton. Sorting and classification activities encourage them to use evidence and increasingly precise academic vocabulary.

Pupils then study hinge and ball-and-socket joints, locating examples at the knees, elbows, hips and shoulders. Simple models help them understand how bones, joints and muscles work together. They learn that muscles pull rather than push and that the biceps and triceps work as a pair, contracting and relaxing to move the arm. The half term concludes by introducing nutrition. Pupils sort foods into five groups, investigate how each group supports the body and consider why different foods are needed in suitable amounts. They apply this knowledge by designing and explaining healthy, balanced meals.

Autumn Term: Second Half

During the second half of the Autumn Term, pupils extend their work on nutrition by comparing vegan, vegetarian, pescatarian and omnivorous diets. They learn that different dietary choices can all provide balanced nutrition when suitable alternatives are included. The focus then widens to animal diets, using the terms carnivore, herbivore and omnivore and examining how the shape of an animal's teeth can provide clues about what it eats.

Pupils explore food waste, where discarded food goes and how waste sent to landfill can affect people and the planet. They research the issue, ask questions and suggest practical ways to reduce waste at school and at home. The final topic is rocks. Pupils identify granite, pumice, sandstone, chalk, marble and gneiss, observing crystals, grains, layers and textures with hand lenses. Through adventurous testing, they compare hardness, investigate whether rocks float or sink and look for reactions with vinegar. They record and classify their findings before completing a local rock survey, considering how rocks are used in buildings and how weathering changes them over time. The term ends with opportunities to consolidate these connected scientific skills.

Spring

Spring Term: First Half

During the first half of the Spring Term, pupils investigate fossils, soils and the beginnings of light. They explore fossils as the remains or traces of living things from long ago, observing and grouping examples such as bones, shells, tracks and plant remains. Pupils learn that fossilisation is rare and model how hard remains can be buried beneath layers of sediment, which compact into rock over thousands of years. This helps them explain how fossils provide evidence about past life.

With a feisty spirit of enquiry, pupils then compare sandy, clay, peat and chalky soils. They discover that soil contains small pieces of rock, organic matter and water, and consider its importance to plants, animals and people. Pupils investigate how soil provides nutrients, habitats and water storage, while also considering the effects of soil loss. They plan and conduct a comparative test to discover which soil absorbs the most water, carefully controlling quantities, measuring results and evaluating possible improvements. Finally, pupils are introduced to light, distinguishing natural sources such as the Sun and stars from artificial sources such as torches and lamps.

Spring Term: Second Half

During the second half of the Spring Term, pupils develop their understanding of light. They learn that the Sun provides essential heat and light but can damage the eyes, considering sensible ways to stay safe. Pupils explore how light travels from a source, reflects from an object and enters our eyes, allowing the brain to interpret what we see. They recognise that darkness is the absence of light and investigate why smooth, shiny surfaces reflect light particularly well.

Shadows provide a fantastic opportunity for practical enquiry. Pupils learn that a shadow forms when an opaque object blocks light and compare opaque, translucent and transparent materials by testing how much light passes through them. They observe how the position of a light source changes a shadow, then plan and complete a fair test into the relationship between distance and shadow size. Pupils decide what to change, measure and keep the same, record measurements systematically and identify patterns in their results. They conclude that moving a light source closer to an object produces a larger shadow, before evaluating their method and suggesting possible improvements or further questions.

Summer

Summer Term: First Half

During the first half of the Summer Term, pupils complete an in-depth study of flowering plants. They identify the functions of roots, stems, leaves and flowers, learning how roots absorb water and nutrients, stems transport water, leaves use sunlight to make food and flowers enable reproduction. Careful plant dissections allow pupils to compare structures directly. They also plan a comparative investigation into whether the number of seeds planted in one pot affects growth, measuring soil and water accurately and monitoring plant height while keeping other conditions consistent.

Pupils investigate water transportation through stems and examine what seeds need for germination. They identify the stamen and pistil as the male and female reproductive parts of a flower and explore pollination as the transfer of pollen between them. Models and observations introduce pollinators, including insects and other animals, as well as pollination by wind. Pupils then compare seed dispersal by wind, water, animals and exploding seed pods, linking each method to the structure of the seed. Finally, they connect germination, growth, pollination, seed formation and dispersal to explain the complete life cycle of a flowering plant.

Summer Term: Second Half

During the second half of the Summer Term, pupils study forces and magnets. They identify forces as pushes or pulls and distinguish contact forces from forces acting at a distance. Pupils investigate friction, comparing how objects move across smooth and rough surfaces. They plan and conduct a comparative test using a toy car and ramp, measuring how different surface materials affect the distance travelled and using their evidence to explain the results.

Pupils then explore magnets as a non-contact force. They test magnet strength, classify materials as magnetic or non-magnetic and discover that only some metals, including iron and steel, are magnetic. They investigate north and south poles, predicting and observing when magnets attract or repel. Later, pupils return to their plant experiment, measure final growth and consider how competition for space, water, light and nutrients affected the results. The year concludes with biodiversity. Pupils survey living things in the local area, learn how human actions can increase or reduce biodiversity, and explore the meanings of endangered, extinct and rewilding. They propose practical actions such as planting wildflowers, creating no-mow areas or adding trees to support a wider variety of life.

Autumn

Autumn Term: First Half

During the first half of the Autumn Term, Form 2 pupils learn how scientists group and classify living things. They distinguish vertebrates from invertebrates and use observable features to classify mammals, birds, fish, reptiles, amphibians, insects, spiders and soft-bodied animals. Pupils also compare flowering and non-flowering plants, as well as deciduous and evergreen trees. They construct classification keys using carefully chosen yes-or-no questions, developing academic habits of close observation, accurate description and evidence-based reasoning.

Pupils then begin a year-long study of living things in the local area. Using classification keys, tally charts and tables, they collect autumn data about plants and animals and analyse the most and least common examples. The focus then moves to states of matter. Pupils compare solids, liquids and gases by considering shape and volume, including challenging examples such as sand, honey, toothpaste and oobleck. Practical observations introduce melting, freezing, evaporation and condensation as changes of state caused by heating or cooling. Pupils also learn to use thermometers and stopwatches accurately in preparation for later investigations.

Autumn Term: Second Half

During the second half of the Autumn Term, pupils extend their study of states of matter through a series of practical enquiries. They plan and conduct a fair test to investigate how the temperature of water affects the time taken for an ice cube to melt. Pupils identify what they will change, measure and keep the same, use thermometers and stopwatches carefully, record their results and draw conclusions from the evidence.

A feisty spirit of enquiry continues as pupils explore the water cycle. They connect evaporation, condensation and precipitation, recognising that water is continually recycled around Earth and can exist as a solid, liquid or gas. They learn that evaporation does not require boiling and consider how temperature affects its rate. Pupils then plan a longer investigation using equal volumes of water placed in locations with different air temperatures. Regular measurements and observations help them determine where evaporation happens fastest. Finally, they compare results, identify unexpected differences, evaluate the quality of their method and suggest improvements or further questions. The term concludes by consolidating the key vocabulary and scientific skills developed across the unit.

Spring

Spring Term: First Half

During the first half of the Spring Term, pupils undertake an adventurous investigation of sound. They learn that sounds are produced by vibrations which travel through solids, liquids or gases to reach the ear. Pupils identify the main parts of the ear and explain how vibrations pass through the ear canal and ear drum before signals are interpreted by the brain. They use decibel meters to measure sound levels and consider how prolonged exposure to loud sounds can damage hearing.

Practical work helps pupils distinguish volume from pitch. They explore how stronger vibrations create louder sounds and how faster vibrations produce a higher pitch. Instruments, elastic bands and other objects allow them to identify patterns between an object's features and the sound it produces. Pupils also compare materials that can insulate sound. They then plan and complete a fair test into how distance affects volume, taking decibel readings at measured intervals and evaluating the influence of background noise. At the end of the half term, pupils repeat their local wildlife survey, present their spring data and compare it with autumn to identify seasonal patterns and make predictions for summer.

Spring Term: Second Half

During the second half of the Spring Term, electricity provides a fantastic context for practical problem-solving. Pupils identify appliances powered by mains electricity, cells or batteries and consider essential safety rules. They construct and draw simple series circuits containing cells, wires, bulbs, buzzers and switches, learning that a complete loop is needed for a component to work. By examining faulty circuits, they diagnose problems such as gaps, open switches or missing power sources and explain how to correct them.

Pupils investigate conductors and insulators, predicting and testing which materials allow electricity to pass through a circuit. They identify metals as good conductors and explain why materials such as plastic, rubber and wood are useful insulators. The term ends with a sustainability study of energy. Pupils compare renewable sources, such as wind and solar power, with non-renewable coal, oil and natural gas. They consider the environmental effects of generating and using electricity, examine their own routines and propose realistic ways to reduce energy use at school and at home. Consolidation allows pupils to connect practical circuit knowledge with responsible choices about energy.

Summer

Summer Term: First Half

During the first half of the Summer Term, pupils complete the final stage of their year-long local wildlife survey. They collect summer data using the same method as in autumn and spring, present it through charts and tables, and use all three sets of results to explain how seasonal change influences plant and animal life. Pupils then compare urban and rural habitats, use classification keys to identify local organisms and explore how habitats provide the conditions living things need.

The focus widens to human effects on habitats and biodiversity. Pupils examine positive and negative actions before studying deforestation locally and globally. They investigate why forests are cleared for farming, construction and products such as palm oil, and consider the consequences for plants, animals and endangered species. Research and discussion help them propose actions that could reduce damage or restore habitats. The half term ends by beginning a study of teeth. Pupils compare the sharp teeth of carnivores, the flatter grinding teeth of herbivores and the mixed teeth of omnivores. They then identify human incisors, canines, premolars and molars, relating each tooth's shape to its role in biting, tearing or grinding food.

Summer Term: Second Half

During the second half of the Summer Term, pupils examine the structure and care of teeth. They identify enamel, pulp and roots, and learn how bacteria feed on sugar, producing acids that can damage enamel. Using eggshell as a model, pupils investigate the effects of different liquids over time, record changes and use their findings to explain how brushing, reducing sugar and visiting the dentist help protect teeth.

Pupils then follow the journey of food through the digestive system. They explain the roles of the mouth, saliva, oesophagus, stomach, small intestine, large intestine and rectum, using a practical model to show how food is broken down and how nutrients and water are absorbed. The final topic develops understanding of food chains. Pupils identify producers, consumers, predators and prey, and use arrows correctly to show the transfer of energy from the Sun through living things. They interpret and construct chains of different lengths before predicting how removing one organism could affect the others. Research into habitat destruction, farming, hunting and overfishing helps pupils explain how human activity can disrupt food chains and how these effects might be reduced.

Autumn

Autumn Term: First Half

Form 3 begins by exploring forces in action. Children revisit friction and learn how it can be helpful or unhelpful in everyday situations. They investigate air resistance by planning, carrying out and evaluating a fair test using parachutes of different surface areas. They also explore water resistance, testing how the shape of an object affects the speed at which it moves through water. Through these investigations, children identify independent, dependent and controlled variables, make predictions, take repeat measurements and consider whether their results are reliable.

The topic also introduces gravity as a non-contact force and distinguishes mass from weight. Children use Newton meters and learn that unsupported objects fall towards Earth because of gravity. They examine levers, pulleys and gears to understand how a smaller force can produce a greater effect. In week 6, the class begins its study of Space by identifying the Sun, eight planets, moons and other bodies within the Solar System. Children start to compare the planets and consider how scientific ideas have developed. This combination of practical work, precise vocabulary and evidence-based explanation builds strong academic confidence.

Autumn Term: Second Half

Children continue their journey through Space, using models to represent the relative size, position and movement of objects in the Solar System. They learn that every planet orbits the Sun and compare the length of each orbit. They explore the heliocentric model and discover how the ideas of Aristotle, Ptolemy, Copernicus, Galileo and Newton contributed to our present understanding. An adventurous approach to modelling and research helps children recognise that scientific explanations can change when new evidence becomes available.

Attention then turns to Earth and the Moon. Children learn that Earth rotates once every 24 hours and use this idea to explain day, night and the Sun's apparent movement across the sky. They examine the Moon as Earth's natural satellite, including its surface, orbit and reflected light. The term concludes with global warming. Children explore greenhouse gases, fossil fuels and the greenhouse effect, then consider how rising temperatures and changing weather patterns affect living things and habitats. They use suitable secondary sources, distinguish fact from opinion and communicate practical ways people can reduce their environmental impact. Review activities allow them to connect ideas about gravity, planetary motion and a changing Earth.

Spring

Spring Term: First Half

This half term begins with the properties and uses of materials. Children compare and group materials by testing magnetism, transparency, hardness and electrical conductivity. They then plan and conduct a comparative test to find an effective thermal insulator. They select equipment, control variables, measure temperature accurately, record repeated readings and evaluate the reliability of their method. Their results help them explain why plastic, wood and metal are chosen for particular objects, and why an object's purpose often requires a combination of materials with different properties.

Towards the end of the half term, children begin learning about animals, including humans. They identify the six stages of the human life cycle: foetus, baby, child, adolescent, adult and elderly adult. They compare the features of each stage and investigate how babies and children grow and develop, recognising that milestones occur at different times for different people. Children organise observations and measurements in tables and use evidence to describe patterns without making assumptions about individuals. Their feisty curiosity is channelled into careful questioning, accurate scientific language and respectful discussion. Across both topics, they learn that a sound conclusion must be supported by observations and data rather than by a prediction alone.

Spring Term: Second Half

Children continue their study of human growth and development. They learn about the physical and emotional changes associated with adolescence and puberty, before considering adulthood and later life. They compare the gestation periods of different mammals and investigate whether there are relationships between gestation, size and lifespan. Tables, graphs and reliable secondary sources help them identify patterns, while discussion encourages thoughtful and respectful use of scientific vocabulary.

The focus then broadens to animal life cycles. Children study the stages experienced by mammals, amphibians, insects and birds, comparing features such as live birth, eggs and metamorphosis. They sequence and describe the life cycle of a frog, investigate complete and incomplete metamorphosis in insects, and examine development from egg to adult in birds. Where possible, observations of eggs, caterpillars or other living things bring these processes to life. Children research unfamiliar species, select useful evidence and present similarities and differences through labelled diagrams, tables and written explanations. By linking these examples back to the human life cycle, they develop a secure understanding that all animals reproduce and change over time, but that the pattern and timing of development vary between groups and species.

Summer

Form 3 begins Summer by studying reproduction in plants and mammals. Children learn that sexual reproduction involves male and female cells and explore the sequence from fertilisation to the development of a foetus in mammals. They identify the reproductive parts of a flower and explain how pollination enables seeds to form. They then compare sexual reproduction with asexual reproduction, in which one parent plant can produce identical offspring.

This knowledge supports a long-term plant-cloning investigation. Children take cuttings from different parts of a parent plant, make a prediction and plan how to keep conditions fair. They measure and record growth over time so that their findings can be revisited later in the term. The class then begins exploring reversible and irreversible changes. Practical work investigates which substances dissolve, how temperature can affect dissolving, and how mixtures can be separated by sieving, filtering or evaporation. Children distinguish dissolving from melting and learn that a dissolved solid remains present in a solution. They use observations to decide whether a change can be reversed and select separation methods according to the materials involved. Throughout, they develop safe practical habits, accurate measurement and clear explanations supported by evidence.

Summer Term: Second Half

Children complete their work on changes in materials by comparing reversible processes with irreversible changes that produce new substances. They consider familiar examples such as melting, freezing and dissolving, then observe changes involving burning and the reaction between an acid and bicarbonate of soda. They identify evidence such as a flame or fizzing as a gas is produced, and explain why the original materials cannot always be recovered.

The class then investigates plastic pollution. Children consider why plastic is useful, why much of it persists for hundreds of years, and how waste can reach landfill sites, rivers and oceans. They examine the effects on habitats, animals and humans, compare single-use and reusable items, and use evidence to suggest practical action. Finally, children return to the plant cuttings established earlier in Summer. They measure final growth, present data, compare results with predictions and answer which type of cutting produced the tallest clone. This provides a fantastic opportunity to evaluate a long-term enquiry and propose further questions. Consolidation activities revisit key knowledge and practical skills from the year, helping children connect reproduction, materials, environmental responsibility and fair scientific testing.

Autumn

Spring

Summer

Autumn

Form 5 begins with an introduction to laboratory science. Pupils learn the routines, expectations and safety principles needed to work responsibly with specialist equipment. They develop questions and hypotheses, identify independent, dependent and controlled variables, and plan methods that are safe, clear and repeatable. Practical work emphasises accurate measurement, suitable ranges, repeat readings and the difference between accuracy and precision. Pupils learn to organise results in tables and graphs, identify anomalies and judge whether evidence supports a prediction.

Biology then provides the context for applying these skills. Pupils use microscopes to compare plant and animal cells and explain the functions of structures including the nucleus, cytoplasm, cell membrane, mitochondria, cell wall, vacuole and chloroplasts. They connect cells to tissues, organs and organ systems and revisit the seven life processes. Work on nutrition and digestion examines nutrients, the main digestive organs and how useful substances enter the body. The half term concludes with breathing and circulation, linking the movement of the ribs and diaphragm to pressure changes, gas exchange and the transport of materials by the blood. This establishes secure academic foundations for the 13+ course.

Autumn Term: Second Half

Pupils explore health and the factors that help the body function effectively. They interpret food labels, compare the roles of carbohydrates, lipids, proteins, vitamins, minerals, fibre and water, and consider the consequences of an unbalanced diet. Food tests and evidence from nutritional information allow them to evaluate meals rather than simply label individual foods as healthy or unhealthy.

The focus then moves to reproduction. Pupils compare sexual and asexual reproduction in plants, identify flower structures and explain pollination, fertilisation and seed dispersal. They examine sexual reproduction in animals through the roles of male and female gametes, fertilisation and early development. Ecosystems extend this learning into food chains and food webs, where pupils study producers, consumers, interdependence, competition and the effects of human activity. Sampling activities may be used to investigate a local habitat and consider conservation and sustainable development. Finally, pupils examine energy resources, recognising the Sun as the ultimate source of most energy and comparing renewable and non-renewable options. An adventurous approach to fieldwork, practical investigation and debate encourages them to weigh environmental benefits, limitations and evidence before reaching conclusions.

Spring

Pupils investigate respiration as the process that releases energy from food. They learn the word equation for aerobic respiration and compare this with anaerobic respiration in humans and yeast. Practical work may use indicators to detect carbon dioxide in exhaled air or explore fermentation in yeast, linking scientific ideas to exercise, food production and everyday life.

Photosynthesis is studied as the process by which plants use carbon dioxide and water, in the presence of light, to produce glucose and oxygen. Pupils learn the word equation, investigate starch in leaves and consider how light intensity affects the rate of photosynthesis. They connect the process to biomass, food chains and the balance of oxygen and carbon dioxide in the atmosphere. A brief psychology of learning session helps pupils reflect on strategies that improve memory, retrieval and effective revision. Examination preparation then develops familiarity with command words, scientific calculations, practical-method questions and the interpretation of unfamiliar tables and graphs. Pupils practise explaining relationships, supporting conclusions with evidence and improving responses through feedback, building independence ahead of formal assessment.

Summer Term: First Half

After revisiting photosynthesis, pupils turn to the physical sciences. They explore forces as interactions and use force arrows to represent balanced and unbalanced situations. Calculations introduce the relationship F = ma, while practical work examines how forces can stretch or compress objects and change speed or direction. Pressure is linked to force and area through P = F/A, enabling pupils to explain applications such as sharp tools, skis and different tyre contact areas.

Density work connects mass and volume. Pupils calculate density and measure it for regular solids, irregular objects using water displacement, and liquids. They then study sound as a vibration travelling through a medium, relating loudness to amplitude and pitch to frequency while comparing the hearing ranges of humans and other animals. Light is contrasted with sound because it can travel through a vacuum. Pupils investigate refraction, absorption, scattering and the dispersion of white light. Across these topics, they select appropriate apparatus, convert units, plot and interpret data, compare calculated results and evaluate possible measurement errors. The emphasis remains on applying relationships accurately and using physical models to explain observations.

Summer

After revisiting photosynthesis, pupils turn to the physical sciences. They explore forces as interactions and use force arrows to represent balanced and unbalanced situations. Calculations introduce the relationship F = ma, while practical work examines how forces can stretch or compress objects and change speed or direction. Pressure is linked to force and area through P = F/A, enabling pupils to explain applications such as sharp tools, skis and different tyre contact areas.

Density work connects mass and volume. Pupils calculate density and measure it for regular solids, irregular objects using water displacement, and liquids. They then study sound as a vibration travelling through a medium, relating loudness to amplitude and pitch to frequency while comparing the hearing ranges of humans and other animals. Light is contrasted with sound because it can travel through a vacuum. Pupils investigate refraction, absorption, scattering and the dispersion of white light. Across these topics, they select appropriate apparatus, convert units, plot and interpret data, compare calculated results and evaluate possible measurement errors. The emphasis remains on applying relationships accurately and using physical models to explain observations.

Summer Term: Second Half

The final half term consolidates the year's biology, chemistry and physics in preparation for examinations. Pupils revisit essential vocabulary, equations, diagrams and practical techniques, using retrieval tasks and mixed-topic questions to strengthen connections between ideas. They practise applying knowledge in unfamiliar contexts rather than relying on recall alone, including calculations involving speed, force, pressure and density and interpretation of biological and chemical evidence.

Timed questions help pupils respond accurately to command words such as describe, explain, compare, calculate, suggest and evaluate. Particular attention is given to tables, graphs, experimental methods, variables, anomalies and conclusions because scientific enquiry forms an important part of formal assessment. Feedback is used to identify individual gaps and refine revision strategies before the examinations. Afterwards, pupils review their performance and consider which approaches produced clear, well-supported answers. This provides a fantastic opportunity to recognise progress while developing the organisation, resilience and self-awareness needed for the next stage of the Common Entrance course.

Autumn

Form 6 begins with magnetic fields and electromagnets. Pupils represent fields using lines and arrows, investigate the field around a bar magnet and recognise repulsion as the reliable test for a magnet. They explore how current in a coil creates an electromagnet, identify factors affecting its strength and consider practical uses. Space then develops understanding of Earth's rotation and orbit, seasons, changing day length and the apparent movement of the Sun and stars. Pupils explain solar and lunar eclipses from the relative positions of the Sun, Earth and Moon and evaluate the uses of satellites and space probes.

Chemistry focuses on reactions through the particle model. Pupils investigate combustion, oxidation of metals and thermal decomposition, representing reactions with word equations and applying conservation of mass. They learn tests for oxygen, carbon dioxide, hydrogen and water and examine rusting and methods of preventing corrosion. Work on acids uses indicators and the pH scale before comparing reactions with metals, alkalis, metal oxides and carbonates. Pupils identify common products, including salts, and consider environmental effects such as acid rain and limestone weathering. These demanding topics strengthen the academic knowledge needed for Common Entrance while maintaining a strong practical emphasis.

Autumn Term: Second Half

Pupils extend their knowledge of electricity by constructing and interpreting series and parallel circuits. They learn the recognised symbols and functions of switches, resistors, variable resistors, motors, buzzers, light-dependent resistors, LEDs and fuses. Current is measured in amperes using an ammeter and understood as a flow of charge that is not used up by components. Pupils investigate how the number of cells and the nature of components affect current and resistance, explaining the behaviour of conductors and insulators.

Photosynthesis and respiration are then revisited through their word equations, practical evidence and wider importance. Pupils connect photosynthesis with biomass and atmospheric gases and compare aerobic respiration with anaerobic respiration in humans and yeast. A substantial investigation programme brings these topics together with earlier learning. Pupils formulate hypotheses, choose suitable enquiry types, control variables and write safe, reproducible methods. They select appropriate ranges and resolutions, take repeat readings and present discrete or continuous data using suitable graphs. Analysis includes means, medians, modes, percentages, anomalies and possible random or systematic error. This adventurous practical work builds the independence required to justify conclusions and revise methods when evidence is uncertain.

Spring

Spring Term: First Half

This half term is devoted to structured examination practice across biology, chemistry and physics. Pupils retrieve core knowledge but increasingly apply it to unfamiliar situations, reflecting the balance of remembering, analysing and evaluating required by the ISEB Common Entrance specification. They become fluent with command words and learn how the number of marks, available evidence and wording of a question determine the depth of response required.

Practice includes calculations, rearranging equations, converting units and interpreting diagrams, tables and graphs. Pupils analyse practical methods, identify variables, evaluate accuracy and precision, distinguish random from systematic error and suggest realistic improvements. They also practise forming conclusions that are supported by data and recognising when evidence shows correlation rather than causation. Timed tasks develop pace and organisation, while careful use of mark schemes helps pupils identify omissions and refine scientific language. A feisty determination to tackle difficult questions is balanced by thoughtful reflection: mistakes are treated as useful evidence about what to revise next. The aim is confident, flexible application rather than rehearsing isolated answers.

Spring Term: Second Half

Revision becomes increasingly responsive as pupils prepare for Common Entrance. Assessment evidence is used to identify individual gaps across biology, chemistry and physics, allowing lessons to revisit the concepts, equations and practical techniques that require most attention. Retrieval practice is interleaved so that pupils must select relevant knowledge rather than being told which topic a question tests.

Pupils consolidate biological processes and systems, particle explanations and chemical reactions, forces, energy, waves, fields and circuits. They practise using word equations, formulae, circuit symbols and precise scientific vocabulary from memory. Unfamiliar data and practical scenarios require them to apply knowledge, compare evidence, calculate accurately and evaluate conclusions. Short timed sections and full papers develop stamina, while feedback focuses on command words, proportional use of time and the difference between describing observations and explaining them scientifically. Pupils refine personal revision plans, revisit errors and monitor their own progress. This final preparation aims to secure knowledge while preserving curiosity and confidence, so that pupils approach the examinations as an opportunity to demonstrate understanding rather than simply recall facts.

Summer

Summer Term: First Half

Pupils examine recreational drugs and human health in an age-appropriate scientific context. They learn how substances, including alcohol and nicotine, can affect the brain, nervous system, behaviour and wider health, and consider the potential for addiction. They compare medical and recreational drugs, assess the reliability of health information and discuss personal and community measures that reduce the spread of disease.

Human reproduction develops knowledge of the male and female reproductive systems, fertilisation, the menstrual cycle and the development of an embryo and foetus. Pupils explain the role of the placenta and recognise how parental lifestyle, including smoking, alcohol and diet, may affect development. Electricity then returns as pupils apply circuit symbols and compare series and parallel arrangements. They measure current, examine resistance and explain the behaviour of components such as resistors, motors, buzzers, LEDs, fuses and light-dependent resistors. This provides a fantastic opportunity to connect precise scientific knowledge with health choices and useful technologies. Throughout, pupils evaluate evidence carefully, communicate sensitively and recognise the social, ethical and practical implications of scientific understanding.

Summer Term: Second Half

The final half term centres on the examination programme and the successful completion of the Common Entrance science course. Pupils draw together knowledge from biology, chemistry and physics while demonstrating the investigative and data-handling skills developed throughout Forms 5 and 6. Their assessments require accurate recall, but also the application of scientific models, calculations and evidence to unfamiliar situations.

Preparation remains focused and proportionate. Pupils review key equations, units, word equations, diagrams and practical methods, then use feedback to correct misconceptions rather than attempting to relearn the entire course. They practise planning answers, reading scales carefully, showing working and checking that conclusions match the evidence provided. Attention is also given to managing time and approaching demanding questions calmly. Following the examinations, reflection helps pupils recognise the progress they have made as practical scientists, problem-solvers and independent learners. They leave Form 6 with secure foundations for senior school science and an understanding that successful science depends on curiosity, careful measurement, critical thinking and a willingness to revise explanations when new evidence becomes available.

Autumn

This term, pupils embark on an academic and adventurous exploration of human and physical geography, investigating the relationships between people, places, and the environment. They study seasonal and daily weather patterns, understanding how different climates affect landscapes and human activity. Pupils also explore the location of hot and cold areas of the world in relation to the Equator and the North and South Poles, developing an awareness of global temperature variations and their impact on ecosystems and communities.

Spring

This term, pupils engage in an academic and adventurous study of place knowledge, focusing on the unique ecosystems and landscapes of rainforests. They explore geographical similarities and differences by comparing the human and physical geography of a small area in the UK with that of a contrasting non-European country. Through this comparative study, pupils gain a deeper understanding of climate, biodiversity, and human interaction with the environment, fostering an appreciation for the diversity of landscapes and cultures around the world.

Summer

This term, pupils embark on an academic and adventurous exploration of place knowledge, linking their geographical studies with the topic of Ancient Egypt. They examine maps and continents, developing their understanding of the location and significance of Egypt within a global context. Pupils also refine their geography skills through fieldwork, using observational techniques to study the school grounds and its surrounding environment. By identifying key human and physical features, they gain practical experience in geographic investigation, enhancing their ability to analyse and interpret the world around them.

Autumn

This term, pupils engage in an academic and adventurous exploration of volcanoes and earthquakes, investigating the powerful natural forces that shape our planet. They study the different types of volcanoes, their structures, and their global distribution, with a focus on key earthquake zones. Pupils explore the Pacific Ring of Fire, examining the role of plate tectonics in volcanic activity and seismic events. Through an understanding of plate boundaries and the causes of earthquakes, pupils develop a deeper awareness of how these dynamic processes impact landscapes and human populations worldwide.

Spring

Pupils embark on an academic and adventurous exploration of settlements, linking their geographical studies to the Viking era. They investigate different types of settlements, including nucleated, linear, and dispersed settlements, and explore how the Vikings influenced settlement patterns in the UK. Through the study of historical and modern locations, pupils develop an understanding of how geography shapes where and how people live, considering factors such as natural resources, transport links, and land use.

Summer

This summer term, pupils embark on an academic and adventurous exploration of global geography, focusing on maps and key geographical features. They identify continents, countries, and capitals, enhancing their understanding of world geography. Pupils also develop their skills in using coordinates, applying latitude and longitude to accurately locate places. Additionally, they explore major oceans and rivers, examining their significance in shaping landscapes, ecosystems, and human settlements. Through practical mapping activities, pupils strengthen their spatial awareness and ability to interpret different types of maps, deepening their appreciation of the world’s diverse physical and human geography.

Autumn

This term, pupils embark on an academic and adventurous exploration of the Americas, developing their location knowledge of the continent, its countries, major cities, and diverse climates. They examine weather patterns across different regions, understanding how geographical factors influence climate variations. Through map work and research, pupils refine their ability to identify key locations and analyse the relationship between environment and human activity.

Pupils also study the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, exploring their historical and cultural significance. They investigate the reasons these sites became important, considering factors such as engineering, mythology, and human achievement. By examining the locations of these wonders, pupils gain a deeper understanding of how geography and history intertwine, shaping global heritage and cultural identity.

Spring

In the spring term, pupils embark on an academic and adventurous study of ecosystems, exploring the intricate relationships between living organisms and their environments. They learn what an ecosystem is, examine examples from around the world, and investigate how food chains and webs function within these systems. Pupils draw and analyse food chains, gaining an understanding of how energy flows through an ecosystem and how human activity can impact these delicate balances. They also explore Earth's main ecosystems, focusing on the four major biomes and their distinct characteristics.

A key focus of the term is the study of rainforests and savannas, where pupils examine their locations, climates, and biodiversity. They explore how tropical vegetation has adapted to survive in extreme conditions and investigate the impact of farming in savanna regions. Through case studies, pupils analyse how these ecosystems have changed over time due to both natural and human influences. By the end of the term, pupils will have a strong understanding of the importance of ecosystems, their interdependence, and the role of conservation in protecting these vital environments.

Summer

Pupils develop their geographical skills through an academic and adventurous exploration of Ordnance Survey maps, learning to interpret six-figure grid references, understand contour lines, and make informed developmental decisions. Using DIGIMAP, they apply their knowledge to identify suitable locations and justify their choices through map analysis. The study of mountains and deserts enhances their understanding of extreme landscapes, focusing on the physical features, challenges, and adaptations required for survival. A detailed exploration of Mount Everest allows pupils to investigate its geographical significance, historical expeditions, and the impact of tourism. They also refine their location knowledge through map work, ensuring they can accurately identify key geographical features on a global scale.

Autumn

Pupils begin the term with an academic and adventurous exploration of plate tectonics, focusing on the processes that shape the Earth's surface. They study the formation of earthquakes and volcanoes, examining their causes, effects, and the impact they have on human populations. Through case studies, pupils analyse how communities prepare for and respond to these natural disasters. As the term progresses, they shift their focus to weather and climate, exploring the factors that influence global weather patterns. They study the water cycle and its role in shaping climate, gaining an understanding of how atmospheric processes affect different regions of the world. These topics provide pupils with essential geographical knowledge and analytical skills, preparing them for further study in environmental and physical geography.

Spring

As the snow melts, pupils embark on an academic and adventurous exploration of rivers, studying their key features and the processes that shape them. They examine how erosion occurs, analysing how water wears away landscapes and contributes to the formation of riverbanks, valleys, and deltas. The topic extends to flooding, where pupils investigate the causes and effects of rising water levels. They explore different methods of flood control and prevention, considering both natural and human-made solutions. Through case studies, pupils gain an understanding of how communities adapt to and manage flood risks, reinforcing their knowledge of the dynamic relationship between water and the environment.

Summer

Pupils engage in an academic and adventurous exploration of population and settlement, studying how settlements grow, their functions, and their hierarchical structure. They develop a strong geographical vocabulary, understanding key terms related to urban and rural development. Through location studies, pupils refine their ability to identify countries, major rivers, oceans, continents, islands, and capital cities. They also review lines of latitude and longitude, reinforcing their understanding of global positioning. A key focus is the revision of Ordnance Survey maps, where pupils practise interpreting symbols, grid references, and topographical features. By mastering CE terminology and map-reading skills, pupils enhance their ability to analyse geographical data and apply their knowledge to real-world contexts.

Autumn

Pupils embark on an academic and adventurous study of plate tectonics, exploring the forces that shape the Earth's surface. They examine the formation of earthquakes and volcanoes, analysing their causes and the impact they have on human populations. Through case studies, pupils investigate how communities prepare for and respond to these natural disasters, developing a deeper understanding of geographical hazards and risk management.

The study of weather and climate focuses on the processes that influence atmospheric conditions around the world. Pupils explore the water cycle, examining how it affects climate patterns and weather events. They analyse the relationship between precipitation, temperature, and geographical location, gaining insights into how climate varies across different regions. These topics provide a strong foundation for understanding the dynamic interactions between the Earth’s physical systems and human societies.

Spring

Pupils engage in an academic and adventurous exploration of rivers and coasts, focusing on the physical processes that shape these landscapes. They study the key features of a river, from its source to its mouth, and investigate how erosion, transportation, and deposition influence river formation. Through practical case studies, pupils analyse how water shapes the environment and contributes to the development of valleys, meanders, and deltas.

The study continues with an in-depth look at flooding, examining its causes, effects, and management strategies. Pupils explore different flood control and prevention methods, including natural and engineered solutions. By evaluating real-world examples, they gain an understanding of how human intervention can mitigate flood risks while considering the environmental and economic implications of such measures. This unit equips pupils with essential knowledge of hydrological processes and their impact on both natural landscapes and human settlements.

Summer

Pupils embark on an academic and adventurous exploration of population and settlement, focusing on how settlements grow, their functions, and their hierarchical structure. They develop a strong geographical vocabulary, learning key terms related to urban and rural development. Through case studies, pupils analyse the factors influencing settlement growth and distribution, gaining insights into how geography impacts human habitation.

Location studies provide an opportunity for pupils to refine their map-reading skills, identifying countries, rivers, oceans, continents, islands, and capital cities. They also review lines of latitude and longitude, reinforcing their understanding of global positioning. A key focus is the revision of Ordnance Survey maps, where pupils practise interpreting symbols, grid references, and topographical features. By mastering CE terminology and developing their geographical skills, pupils enhance their ability to interpret spatial data and apply their knowledge to real-world contexts.

Autumn

Pupils embark on an academic and adventurous study of fieldwork, focusing on rivers and erosion. They develop practical skills in data collection, observation, and analysis, learning how to document their findings effectively. A key component of this unit is understanding how to write fieldwork reports, ensuring pupils can present their research with clarity and accuracy. The term also explores the relationship between transport and industry, examining transport routes and their role in economic development. Pupils investigate different economic structures, analysing how industries are distributed and how transport networks support trade and growth. Through case studies and map work, they gain a deeper understanding of the connections between geography, infrastructure, and economic activity.

Spring

Pupils engage in an academic and adventurous exploration of sustainability and stewardship, focusing on key environmental issues such as pollution and resource management. They examine the impact of human activity on the environment and explore strategies for reducing ecological footprints, promoting conservation, and fostering sustainable development. Through discussions and case studies, pupils develop an understanding of their role in environmental stewardship and the importance of protecting natural resources for future generations. The term concludes with focused exam revision, where pupils review key geographical topics, refine their analytical skills, and consolidate their knowledge in preparation for assessments.