Curriculum Notes Year 9
A warm welcome back to Cranmore, and a heartfelt greeting to our new pupils and families.
Year 9 is a pivotal year, full of opportunities to explore subjects, develop lifelong skills, and begin thinking about future pathways; we are particularly excited that your son will be preparing to make their GCSE choices in the New Year.
This year, pupils will have the chance to dive deeper into their favourite subjects, discover new interests, and challenge themselves in all aspects of school life. Our dedicated team of teachers and staff are here to support and guide them every step of the way, ensuring that they feel confident and prepared for the challenges ahead. As always, we aim to offer ample
opportunities for character development, maturity, resilience, and leadership skills. Finally, the curriculum below offers an insight into the subjects your son will engage with over the course of this year.
We look forward to working together to make Year 9 a year of growth, discovery and success.
Should you have any questions, the tutor team comprises of myself, Mr Penfold, Mrs Turner and Mrs Sanders. Please do not hesitate to contact us should the need arise.
Mr Chris McGhee
Head of Year 9
chris.savvides@cranmore.org
thom.penfold@cranmore.org
ciara.turner@cranmore.org
felicity.sanders@cranmore.org
English
Head of Department: Mr Marcus Chapman
In Year 9 we are preparing thoroughly for the skills and knowledge required to transition to KS4 with confidence. The teaching groups will be setted, with one accelerated and two parallel.
Our overarching theme this year is Suffering and Healing and Enquiry Questions such as ‘What can we learn from pain and loss?’ will frame the learning. Diversity and challenge of texts is at the heart of the curriculum and pupils will be encouraged to conduct independent research of literary contexts, historical periods and literary genres to enhance their learning.
Programme of study:
- In depth Gothic novel study (The Woman in Black)
- Rhetoric and speech writing (writing rhetoric and examining speeches by a range of figures including Winston Churchill, Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie, Barak
- Obama and Greta Thunberg)
- Sonnets Through the Ages (from the medieval to contemporary periods, including a focus on diverse writers)
- A modern play on the theme of conflict (e.g. Kindertransport, Journey’s End)
- A Shakespearean Tragedy (e.g. Romeo and Juliet, Macbeth)
- Narrative and descriptive writing
Language study will be interwoven during each unit and will emphasise clear planning; accuracy of spelling and punctuation; proofreading; developing vocabulary and improving style. A range of writing purposes will be explored, including persuasive, descriptive, explanatory and review. Pupils will write for different forms that will be assessed at GCSE, varying register and voice as appropriate.
Advanced analytical and evaluative writing forms a central part of learning this year and pupils will be expected to respond analytically to unseen extracts, textual passages and also write whole texts essays about settings, abstract themes and sophisticated comparative pieces.
Speaking and listening skills will be developed though class discussion; hot-seating; book presentations; debating and drama performance. Together with the Drama department, we will be entering the Shakespeare Verse-speaking competition in the Easter term. We will also benefit from the expertise of author visits, Shakespeare workshops, the Rotary public speaking competition and the Poetry by Heart competition.
There continues to be an expectation that all pupils will read widely throughout the course and will stretch themselves to tackle texts they find more challenging. They should talk about their reading with an adult at least once each week to discuss and extend their comprehension. Pupils will be expected to maintain a reading record.
Pupils will be assessed formatively in class every lesson via questioning, teaching marking, self and peer assessment. There is a cohort assessment each half term to monitor pupils’ progress against our Mastery Assessment Objectives and pupils will have opportunities to review and correct these. There will be a further assessment at a slightly higher level in the week before the May half term.
Each week there will be two homeworks which should take approximately 30 minutes each. One may be a reading homework that relates to a library-based reading project. Pupils will have a fortnightly 30-minute library lesson where they are able to select books, discuss their reading, complete research tasks and survey the reading list.
Pupils are able to join English clubs on offer including debating, journalism and enter creative writing competitions each term.
Mathematics
Head of Department: Mr Christopher Savvides
Mathematics is fundamental to many areas of our lives, and it is therefore crucial that we equip our children with the necessary skills to become confident, logical and resilient problem solvers as they embark on their journey to adulthood.
We believe that Mathematics should be engaging, challenging, practical and interactive. We make the most of Mathematics challenges and team competitions to encourage participation and ensure our children are enthusiastic and motivated mathematicians. We endeavour to utilise various methods and techniques across the curriculum and instil a love for mathematics into each pupil.
In Year 9, all students follow the same scheme of work for Mathematics, which is based on an enhanced National Curriculum, with a focus on problem solving, mastery and fluency.
Year 9: Programme of Study
Number: Standard form, indices, estimation, errors and bounds. Fractions and percentages, surds.
Algebra: Multiplying brackets, inequalities, graphs, simultaneous equations, formulae, quadratic
equations.
Shape, space and measure: Trigonometry, Similarity, 3D shapes, circles and cylinders, Transformations.
Data Handling: Interpreting data, Averages, Representing data, tree diagrams
Resources
Pupils use the Essential Maths series of textbooks published by Elmwood Press. We have carefully mapped our curriculum on https://www.drfrostmaths.com so that pupils have access to a vast library of appropriate problems for consolidation. Pupils and teachers also use https://www.mathspad.co.uk/ as an excellent resource to further develop understanding of topics.
Our VLE pages contain lots of information, links and resources to support your son with their learning and progress.
There are a wide range of hugely impactful interactive resources available to us online and the quality of these resources have increased hugely over recent years. As a department we are constantly sharing what works best and we keep on top of innovative resources and approaches to teaching Mathematics.
In addition to our classroom provision, pupils also have access to our drop-in support session, MathsLink, which takes place on a Monday and Friday lunchtime, and our Maths Challenge club, which takes place on a Thursday after school.
Science
Head of Department: Mr Stuart Minikin
At Cranmore our aim is to develop scientists with a rigorous understanding of the subject, an enthusiasm for learning and the confidence to question, evaluate and articulate their ideas. We encourage all students to develop a love for science by balancing theory with practical work and placea high value on developing the technical and analytical skills needed to investigate experimentally. We create a safe environment in which the students feel comfortable exploring their understanding and where we can add to both their knowledge and skills. We focus on developing a meticulous approach to practical investigations which are used as often as possible, to support the learning of theory. Our students enjoy science and develop techniques that will be useful to them for the rest of their lives.
YEAR 9: Programme of Study
Biology
- Cells and Microscopy
- Cell Division and Transport
- Plant and Animal Tissues and Organs
- The Heart and Circulatory System
Chemistry
- Atoms, Elements and Compounds
- The Periodic Table
- Bonding and Properties of Matter
- Molecules and Giant Structures
Physics
- Energy Stores and Systems
- Conservation of Energy
- Work Done and Power
- Specific Heat Capacity
Resources & Information
Science is taught by specialist teachers and pupils will be assessed regularly, usually at the end of each topic, to support their progress. The Science Department enjoys the use of large laboratories and two prep rooms which are well provisioned for the learning of the science curriculum. Our Science Technicians ensure the preparation of the equipment for practical activities and support the teaching staff on a daily basis. Additional resources, together with details of homework, can be found on the VLE.
Languages
Our philosophy as a department is to inspire and motivate the pupils by giving them a positive, lively and enjoyable experience of foreign language learning. We especially strive to acknowledge the individuality of every pupil with his unique talents. We aim to help all children to become confident on their journey of linguistic discovery, improving their own skills and developing them steadily to their full potential. For this to be achieved, our pupils must naturally have a positive attitude to the subject and we see it as part of our task to foster such an attitude.
Our philosophy as a department is to inspire and motivate the pupils by giving them a positive, lively and enjoyable experience of foreign language learning. We especially strive to acknowledge the individuality of every pupil with his unique talents. We aim to help every child to being confident on their journey of linguistic discovery, improving their own skills and developing them steadily to their full potential. For this to be achieved, our pupils must naturally have a positive attitude to the subject and we see it as part of our task to foster such an attitude.
Resources & Information
For all 3 language subjects, the pupils will have weekly vocabulary tests and end of topic assessments throughout the year and an end of year exam in May, assessing productive skills.
The pupils will have access to a variety of resources and material such as:
www.pearsonactivelearn.com
www.languagesonline.com
www.conjuguemos.com
www.quizlet.com.
Homework is once a week for each language and consists of vocabulary learning and interactive tasks to reinforce what has been taught in the lessons. From time to time, they will also complete writing tasks and fun cultural activities.
French
Year 9: Programme of Study
Module 1
Topics & Vocabulary
- Francophone world
- Online activities
- Staying active
- Films and television
- Making plans to go out
- Last weekend
- Sports
Grammar
- aimer + noun / aimer + infinitive
- Present tense ER verbs
- Present tense irregular verbs
- Answering questions
- Near future tense
- Perfect tense
- Questions in the perfect tense
Module 2
Topics & Vocabulary
- Your identity
- Weekend routine
- Friends and friendships
- Favourite celebrity
- Positive role models
- Celebrations
Grammar
- Emphatic pronouns
- Reflexive verbs in the present tense
- Adjective agreements
- Adjective position
- Direct object pronouns
- Perfect, present and future tense
Module 3
Topics & Vocabulary
- School in francophone countries
- School subjects and life
- School rules
- Making progress
- Primary school
- Learning languages
Grammar
- Describing photos
- Comparative adjectives
- Impersonal verbs with infinitives
- Irregular verbs in the perfect tense
- Imperfect tense
- Imperfect, present and near future tenses
Spanish
In Spanish, pupils will study AQA GCSE (2024) Spanish Higher modules 1-3. They will revise the preterite, immediate future and present regular and irregular tenses across a variety of topics. Pupils will continue to develop their reading, listening, speaking, writing and translation skills.
Year 9: Programme of Study
Module 1
Topics & Vocabulary
- Spanish-speaking sports stars
- Life online
- Sports and free-time activities
- Arranging to go out
- Saying what you did at the weekend
- Talking about days that went wrong
Grammar
- Adjectives
- Revising present tense
- Expressions of frequency
- Irregular present tense verbs
- Opinion verbs and expressions
- Near future tense
- Preterite tense
- Using three tenses
- Direct object pronouns
Module 2
Topics & Vocabulary
- Describing a photo
- Travel plans
- Festivals in the Spanish-speaking world
- Saying what you did on holiday
- Describing where you stayed
- Describing holidays using different tenses
Grammar
- Me gusta(n) / Me gustaría + infinitive
- Using comparatives
- Se puede(n) + infinitive
- Superlatives
- If clauses with the present tense
- Acabar de + infinitive
- Opinions in the past
- Imperfect tense
- Positive and negative opinions
- Suelo + infinitive
Module 3
Topics & Vocabulary
- Different families
- Describing people
- Your favourite celebrities
- Friendships and relationships
- Your identity and what matters to you
- Problems and advice
- Family celebrations
Grammar
- Possessive adjectives
- Present continuous to describe a photo
- Ser and estar
- Using the personal ‘a’
- Reflexive verbs
- Me and te before a verb
- Para + infinitive
- Podrías /Deberías + infinitive
- Indirect object pronouns
- Using a range of preterite tense verb forms
Latin
Latin will be learnt using Cambridge Latin Course Book 2 and online activities, as well as reading
comprehensions, and translation activities. The pupils will have access to
www.clc.cambridgescp.com
www.conjuguemos.com
www.languagesonline.org
www.quizlet.com.
We encourage the use of these resources at home and in school.
Year 9: Programme of Study
Grammar:
- Nouns: Introduction of genitive and ablative cases of 3 declensions.
- Syntax: sentences containing infinitive with modal verbs plus irregular verbs – esse, ire, possum, nolo and volo.
- Syntax: relative clauses with qui, quae, quod (that, which, who).
- Verbs: imperfect tense of the verb esse.
- Verbs: Imperfect and Perfect Tenses: all persons – revision and introduction of perfect stems, irregular stems.
- Verbs: Introduction of Pluperfect tense: all persons.
- Adjectives: third declension adjectives.
- Questions.
Vocabulary:
- Around 15-20 words per Stage which are also on the GCSE vocabulary list.
- Derivation work to make connections between Latin vocabulary and English, French and Spanish vocabulary.
Culture:
- Roman history is combined with the language throughout, and the influence of the
Romans, and similarities and differences between ancient and modern society explored.
Topics are Roman Britain and Fishbourne Roman Palace, Boudica and the Celtic
rebellion, ancient wonders of the world.
Religious Education
Head of Department: Mr Mr Gareth Phillips
Overview
Religious Education at Cranmore is a subject that enriches all pupils. It helps pupils to discover and learn more about who God is, more about who they are in themselves and more about the world in which they live. It also gives pupils a greater understanding of how we can live in community. Pupils in Year 9 will be given the groundwork in Philosophical and Ethical enquiries necessary for engaging in the meaning of life and its implications in the wider society, before moving onto starting the GCSE Religious Studies B Catholic Christianity with Judaism.
Year 9 will cover the following topics this year
Judaism Beliefs
9.1 The nature of God: God as one
9.2 The Nature of God: God as Creator
9.3 The Nature of God: God as lawgiver and Judge; the divine presence
9.4 Life after death, judgement and resurrection
9.5 The nature and role of the Messiah
9.6 The Promised Land and the covenant with Abraham
9.7 The covenant at Sinai and the Ten Commandments
9.8 Key Moral principles in Judaism
9.9 Sanctity of life
9.10 Free Will and mitzvot
Judaism Practices
10.1 The importance of the synagogue
10.2 Interior features of a synagogue
10.3 Worship in Orthodox and Reform synagogues
10.4 Daily Services and Prayer
10.5 Shabbat in the synagogue
10.6 Shabbat in the home
10.7 Worship in the home; the written and oral law
10.8 Ceremonies associated with birth
10.9 Bar and Bat Mitzvah
10.10 Marriage
10.11 Mourning for the dead
10.12 Dietary Laws (Kosher)
10.13 Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur
10.14 Passover (Pesach)
Resources & Information
Within RE we use a range of teaching techniques and activities that enable all pupils of different learning styles to engage and succeed. Activities include essay writing, drama, debate and ICT. Short assessments will take place in class at the end of each term and these enable the pupils to be fully prepared for the end of year assessments. Homework will be given weekly and can be found on the VLE
All topics covered in RE this year will be subject to possible changes as we await the approval of the New Religious Education Curriculum Directory (3-19) for Catholic Schools and Colleges in England and Wales.
History
Head of Department: Mr Rhys Cross
In Year 9 we start by briefly analysing the process of how universal suffrage was won in Britain in the 19th and early 20th century, with a particular emphasis on how women fought for the right to vote.
However, our main focus for this year will be 20th century warfare in Europe. This will include the study of the following topics.
Year 9: Programme of Study
- Causes and build up to the First World War
- Trench warfare and the war at home
- The Interwar Period – Introduction to Communism and Fascism as ideological concepts
- The Second World War – Key events include Dunkirk, Battle of Britain, D-Day Invasion. A case study of a battle on the eastern front also will be incorporated
Our principal objective by the end of the teaching year will be to reach 1945, having studied both world wars in great depth. However, if time allows, we will proceed to develop a broad understanding of how the Cold War came into existent. Key topics will include Yalta and Potsdam Conferences (1945), The Iron Curtain Speech (1946), Truman Doctrine (1947) and The Marshal Plan (1948).
Resources and Information
The emphasis will be very much on the dual disciplines of essay writing and source analysis skills, as these are the skills required to succeed at GCSE History.
The students will study the same period of History covered for a portion of their GCSE course; however, Year 9 gives a detailed introduction to major conflicts and concepts, and therefore provides the student will a foundational understanding of potential GCSE topics. Whereas at GCSE level the students will select a single topic, for example, ‘Nazi Germany 1919-45′, and investigate the topic in greater depth. Therefore, this academic year enables them to begin their GCSE course (the following year) with a sound grasp of the topic and concepts involved. The same analytical skills learnt at Key Stage 3 History apply to the historical sources tackled at GCSE level, but the calibre of response will be expected to be higher.
The History Department is fortunate to be well provisioned. Relevant digital clips, up to date textbooks designed specifically for GCSE preparation, bespoke PowerPoints and various worksheets will all be utilised in the learning process, as well as personal devices. Information pertaining to many of the topics covered can be found on the VLE.
Geography
Head of Department: Miss Maisie Bayley
In Year 9 we revisit the geographical content of prior topics studied across key stage 3 and apply these to the continents of Asia and the Americas. The syllabus aims to encourage pupils to use a range of geographical skills to develop their understanding of how the physical landscape and the human environment interact within areas of the globe today. The main emphasis of this year is for students to apply their knowledge to new locations to consolidate their geographical understanding ready for the all-important GCSE option choice decisions.
- Asia – the physical landscape
— Climate, ecosystems and the Malaysian Rainforest
— The Himalayas and the Nepal Earthquake
— Floods & Droughts: The monsoon and the Gobi Desert
- Asia – the human environment
— Demographics – The impacts of population policies
— Energy – HEP in China, Fossil fuels in the Middle East and Russia
— Rapid economic growth – comparing China, the Middle East and Russia
- The Americas – the physical landscape
— North American Glaciers and climate change
— Tornadoes
— Volcanic activity – Volcan de Fuego vs Mt Kilauea
— The Colorado River – climate change and development in Central America
- The Americas – the human environment
— Deforestation, debt reduction and conservation – Guatemala vs Belize
— Migration through Central America – narconomics and the USA boarder
— Trade and the Panama Canal
- Global Resources
— The distribution of food resources and sustainable management
— The supply and demand of water resources and sustainable management
— Energy resources globally and the switch towards a renewable future
Resources and Information
The focus will be on developing both analytical skills from which to gather information and the ability to write logical concise responses making use of appropriate evidence to support their reasoned answer. The syllabus will give them a wider understanding of the world key areas and issues facing the planet. Assessment will be ongoing with regular small assessments and examination in the Spring and Summer Terms.
The VLE along with their associated textbooks provide a good range of resources from which to develop their understanding. It is important to stay up to date with current events in the media to
give real world examples of topics learnt throughout the year.
Computing
Head of Department: Mr Ahmed Afana
In computing, the goal is to provide a high-quality digital education that equips students with computational thinking skills and empowers them to use technology wisely and safely. With a 1:1 device program, we aim to foster creativity and research opportunities in various subjects.
In this year’s units, pupils will learn GCSE topics to give them an idea of the GCSE Computer Science option. Each unit has links to previous learning and future issues if they choose the subjects as one of their GCSE options.
The computing curriculum includes these interrelated elements:
- Computer Science (CS): is the discipline that explains how digital systems work, how they
are designed and programmed, and the fundamental principles of information and
computation. - Information Technology (IT) covers the purposeful creation and application of digital
systems to communicate, transfer data and process information collaboratively. - Digital Literacy (DL) is the ability to access, use, and express oneself using digital technology
responsibly and safely, including a critical understanding of technology’s impact on the
individual and society.
Programme of Study:
- CS: Computer systems and Networks: Network infrastructure and connections
- CS: Cyber Security
- CS: Programming Techniques with Python – Phase 2
- CS: Experience AI (Artificial Intelligence)
- IT: iDEA Award
Assessment:
Students will be assessed for each unit through either online fact recall or project-based assessments.
Resources and information:
Throughout the year, students will use various platforms as part of the physical computing approach. This includes Raspberry Pi devices, BBC Micro:bit, MS 365 Teams, and Educake for homework and assessments. They will document their learning on OneNote and receive a knowledge organizer for each unit, containing essential facts and keywords. Assessments will be conducted periodically and at the conclusion of each unit.
Design & Technology
Head of Department: Mr Chris McGhee
Overview
In Design and Technology, pupils will learn about how to become effective designers. There will be an initial focus on introducing the necessary traditional sketching skills which is an important tool in any designer’s kit and a key skill if looking to progress onto GCSE.
Pupils will then develop practical skills and a safe understanding of how to use the machinery available to them. Pupils will gain experience of using tools and machinery in the workshop to carry out several focused design and make tasks.
The emphasis of the course is on building independence and creativity.
Year 9: Programme of Study
- Health and Safety.
- Tool and machine confidence.
- CAD/CAM.
- ‘Season’ themed projects working in a variety of different materials.
- Collaboration and teamwork
It is a very exciting time for the Design and Technology department with the construction of the new, purpose-built Science and Technology building. As the department continues to grow, the pupils can look forward to experimenting with new machines and processes which will ultimately enrich their Design and Technology experience.
Drama
Head of Department: Mr Thomas Penfold
With an important year ahead, Drama seeks to give pupils a taster of GCSE Drama this year. Focusing on a wide range of practitioners and skills that will be integral to the GCSE course. Pupils will get a sense of the level of creative autonomy required to achieve in this subject as well as a wealth of knowledge to support their creative efforts.
Pupils will also be introduced to a variety of roles and responsibilities within the world of the theatre and be given an opportunity to try their hand at roles such as, Lighting, set and sound design, play writing, costume and direction. This year will culminate with a devised Drama performance that will showcase their talents, created by their own inspiration and research and will give them the perfect snapshot of what to expect if they were to select Drama at GCSE level.
Year 9 will cover the following topics this year
- Theatre Roles & Responsibilities: Texts in Practice – Focusing on a variety of roles that influence all aspects of performance in combination with a given text. Students will have the opportunity to enact these roles.
- Staging Shakespeare – A contemporary exploration of Shakespearean text. Students will have the opportunity to create performance that brings modern meaning to plays such as Macbeth, Romeo & Juliet and a Midsummer Night’s Dream. Using a variety of stage layouts, students will gain an insight into how theatre is designed.
- Practitioner Study: Konstantin Stanislavski’s Naturalism – exploring the techniques and performance style of theatre’s most influential practitioner. Practicing the magic if, suspension of disbelief, unit and objectives, method acting and emotion recall.
- Monologues and Duologues – Page to Stage exploration – using the skills developed over the year, students will work in small groups to stage scripted performances. Utilising the roles of a performance to bring a script to life.
- Physical Theatre – a study of the performance style. Looking at alternate ways to give our audiences meaning. Through the skills of bodies and objects, symbolism and sequenced movement students will explore how some messages can be effectively presented without normal methods.
- Devising Theatre – Using the skills gained this year, students will create a performance based on a dramatic stimulus. Students have the freedom to present their ideas creatively and in collaboration with their peers.
Resources & Information
In addition to the weekly lesson, we will provide opportunities to attend live theatre performances and to develop skills as informed and thoughtful audience members. Private lessons are available, with the opportunity to take LAMDA exams, and all pupils are encouraged to participate in the senior production.
Music
Head of Department: Mr Richard Harris
General Overview
We aim to develop a ‘love of music’ at Cranmore. With your support, we will inspire the pupils to greater musical heights and encourage them to participate in one or more of the many instrumental and choral groups available to them.
Curriculum Overview
Pupils in this year group enjoy one single, hour-long lesson each week. The topics chosen for study are designed to keep all pupils engaged in Music and focus on knowledge acquisition, performance and composition.
Topics include:
- ‘All That Jazz’ – an exploration of Blues and composing a Blues composition using MuseScore
- ‘Dance Music’ – an exploration of dance music and composing an Argentinian Tango composition using MuseScore
- Disco Music – learning about this popular style of music and constructing and performing 7th chords
- Original Song v Cover version PPT Project
Pupils will be expected to read and play notation, recognise, and identify the sounds of instruments and musical styles.
Performing opportunities for Year 9 musicians are plentiful here at Cranmore: Wednesday assembly, Carol Service, House Music Competition Battle of the Bands, Pupil Concerts, Young Musician of the Year Competition, and the Soiree. The more capable musicians will often perform during Mass.
Resources & Information
During these practical lessons, pupils will often use the extensive range of classroom instruments and the Yamaha keyboards. They will be encouraged to use Musescore 4 software for their composition work.
Assessment in this subject, based on GCSE 1-9 grading, is ongoing throughout the year and is based on their success in listening tests and end of unit assignments. A pupil’s instrumental and / or vocal ability / contribution will also be taken into account. As a rough guide, those pupils wishing to continue their study of Music to GCSE level in Year 10 must have reached a minimum standard of Grade 3 on their instrument by the end of Year 9.
Art & Design
Head of Department: Mrs Felicity Sanders
Overview
The Year 9 curriculum ensures all students continue to develop the refinement of the fundamental elements of Art and Design, such as drawing and painting, in addition to building confidence to make independent creative decisions using a range of media and processes. This important creative year will be structured through termly themes, exploring the physical world of Mechanisms to refine sculptural processes in Art and Design with sustainable resources. To deepen cultural awareness,
students will explore current topics concerning young men in society today, developing more independent artwork. Through more robust research into relevant artists, observational recording and media experimentation, students should be further prepared to understand the range of assessment criteria relevant to GCSE Art and Design.
Artists’ works studied:
Pupils will develop classwork inspired by the ceramicist Kenneth Baskin and the printmaking of Eduardo Paolozzi, using cardboard to construct large-scale sculptures of pupil-chosen mechanical objects. To further cultural awareness, pupils will explore the impact of social media icons and a range of contemporary and Renaissance artists addressing male issues such as masculinity. To develop appreciation of facial proportions to support the generation of portrait imagery, pupils will study the
photo-realistic work of Chuck Close as well as more contemporary approaches by artists such as Ed Fairburn and Charlotte Caron.
- Key media processes and techniques explored:
- 3D construction
- Plaster casting/ceramic impressions
- Photography
- Textile applique
- Typography
- Mood-boarding
- Continuous line drawing/observational drawing
- Critical studies in pencil
Resources and Information:
The Art department is well stocked with both access to online gallery resources and a creative library of books. Pupils are invited to use free online software such as Photopea to work digitally and record their creative processes in a sketchbook throughout the year.
It is paramount to the development of the pupils’ learning that their Art pack is cared for and brought to lessons every week in addition to the equipment contained being utilised for homework tasks.
Pupils can track the development of their skills through their class sketchbook and termly informal drawing exercises completed during lesson time. Homework is undertaken each week to extend their learning and will be posted, when necessary, on the VLE. Pupils can attend a Senior Art Club after school on a Monday as well as homework support one lunchtime a week. Pupils are strongly encouraged to visit Art Galleries to experience real Art up-close, talk about artforms and movements beyond those provided, and contribute personal artwork to the Student Gallery.
Sport
Head of Department: Mr Paul Hodgson
Overview
Within the Sport programme, we continue the ethos of the subject, which is a wide and varied programme to benefit the pastoral well-being, physical health and sporting enjoyment of all pupils.
The aim is to develop the individual core skills for each sport, whilst making sure every pupil fully understands the age relevant rules and laws. Further emphasis is placed on technical and tactical awareness in Year 9, which also allows leadership skills to be developed. Pupils will learn the value of quality practice, training for specific sporting activities and how to follow a process to achieve longterm goals.
Pupils have options which include the following sports:
- Rugby
- Multi-Sports
- Rowing
- Football
- Hockey
- Cricket
Games: Tuesday and Thursday
After-school training: Wednesday
Scholarship Session: Tuesday before school and S&C sessions
Swim Squad: Tuesday after school
Pupils can, if selected, represent the school in the following sports:
- Skiing
- Tennis
- Squash
- Cross-Country
- Athletics
- Golf
- Swimming