The Carleton Curriculum

At Carleton Community High School, we work on a two week timetable, so that five one hour lessons a day makes up a total of 50 periods in each cycle. These are allocated as follows:

In Key Stage 3:

• Students are grouped in mixed ability forms or tutor groups . Most subjects including English, Maths, Science, Humanities and Technology teach groups which are set according to ability;

• A small group of students who need more care when they first join us follow a slightly different curriculum in year 7, 8 and 9. They are taught by a smaller number of teachers;

• We pride ourselves on offering students of all abilities, equal opportunity and encouragement to develop their full potential, in an atmosphere of mutual respect. Through a stimulating and relevant curriculum, the needs and aspirations of all students are accommodated.

• Students follow exciting programmes which secure the knowledge and skills required within the National Curriculum. Our rigorous emphasis on the core subjects of Maths, English, Science and, ICT is complemented by a broad educational experience which enables students to develop a wide variety of skills

In Key Stage 4;

• All core subjects are taught in sets according to ability.

• A small group of students follow an alternative curriculum in which emphasis is placed on preparation for work. Extended work experience forms a significant proportion of their timetables.

• Students are given an open choice of option subjects, although they may be guided towards taking the most appropriate course for them.

• We value the broad understanding of the world that our students experience in personal, social, health, citizenship and careers education and these are taught to all students as a separate subject (PSHCE), which leads to a qualification at the end of the course, unless they do RE instead

• The option subjects on offer are regularly reviewed  as we adapt to the needs of our students. This year, the choice has included:

• Graphic Design;

• Product Design;

• Technology Media;

• Drama;

• Music;

• Dance;

• History;

• Geography;

• French;

• Spanish;

• Triple Science;

• PE, Art Textiles;

• Art Health and Social Care;

• Business Studies.

Students in Y9 are given a full range of support before choosing their options, which includes opportunities to sample subjects they may be interested in. Students have the opportunity to study subjects necessary for the new English Baccalaureate if they wish – but the choice is theirs.

• Besides offering a range of GCSEs, we also offer a range of BTecs which provide vocational routes for those who benefit from a different style of learning.

The curriculum provision is enhanced through “Stop the Clock” days, on which students have extended learning opportunities in particular topics or subjects.  Five such days are timetabled throughout the year.

Further information including details about the various exam boards that are used can be downloaded here.