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Academic Curriculum

The academic curriculum is based on and exceeds the requirements of the National Curriculum. As an independent school we cherish and exercise our freedom to meet the individual needs of each pupil and challenge them appropriately. Throughout the College, we provide a broad and balanced curriculum comprised of a wide range of subjects. A class size of around 20 is normal, whilst option groups at GCSE are usually smaller than this, with A-level groups tending to be significantly smaller still.

Aims and Ethos

Bearwood College aims to provide all pupils with:

1. a stimulating curriculum that offers choice, breadth and depth across a wide range of academic and vocational disciplines to equip them with the skills and knowledge required for progression to Higher Education and/or employment
2. a spirit of enquiry and self-motivation supported by a sense of responsibility and sound habits of learning
3. the necessary practical, creative and enterprise skills required for lifelong learning and active citizenship

Taught by a qualified staff of dedicated specialists, the curriculum, both academic and non-academic, is broad and stimulating, and offers every pupil the opportunity to excel. We are justly proud of the exceptionally high degree of individual attention afforded to pupils by small teaching groups, the careful monitoring of progress, co-ordinated pastoral support and a close working partnership with parents that enables each pupil to build on their strengths and allow specific needs to be addressed. We set out to tailor a pupil’s programme of study to take account of their particular educational requirements.

The academic curriculum is varied and challenging, from the First Form (Year 7), through GCSEs to A levels. Learning is fun and imaginative. We develop independence of thought and practical skills for the future. ICT is utilised throughout the College and we are forward-thinking in our approach to pupils’ use of technology in all subject areas. Pupils are actively encouraged to use laptops, and interactive whiteboards are employed to enhance the delivery of a lively and relevant curriculum.

Our Music, Drama, Design Technology, Art and Photography Departments flourish alongside the core curriculum and as part of the extra-curricular programme. They encourage the imaginative talents of all pupils, and foster creativity and open expression.

Academic Structure

In response to the ever-changing educational environment and placing ourselves at the forefront of national practice, we have made significant changes to the delivery of the academic curriculum in the context of the College Development Plan.

We operate a 60-period fortnightly timetable with an individual lesson length of 50 minutes.

In the years up to GCSE, we provide a programme which offers choice, breadth of experience and opportunities to develop skills and competencies. First and Second Formers (Years 7 and 8) are provided with two timetabled PAL (Preparation for Adult Life) periods in the week which complement and enhance the core curriculum, including taught modules on:

accelerated learning and critical thinking skills

advanced research skills using ICT

healthy lifestyles

time and study management

In the all-important GCSE years, starting at Fourth Form (Year 10), pupils are given a wide range of subjects, including separate Sciences from which to choose and receive intensive support from tutors to monitor progress in preparation for external examinations.

In the Sixth Form (Years 12 and 13), pupils benefit from greater independence and responsibility for their own learning. They follow AS and A2 courses in small class sizes with a complementary enrichment programme to provide leadership and personal development.

Monitoring academic performance

Each pupil is continually assessed and set realistic fixed-date targets for improvement by subject teachers, in order to maximise individual potential. Academic tutors closely monitor performance and progress against value-added national data produced by the University of Durham (MidYIS, YELLIS and ALIS). At the end of every half-term parents will be given either current levels (at Key Stage Three) or grades (from Key Stage Four onwards) to provide regular updates on effort and attainment.

A specialist Study Support Centre is available for a limited number of able dyslexic pupils and more general SEN requirements. ESOL lessons are similarly available for overseas pupils throughout the College. An additional charge is made for these services.