We believe that our key stage 3 curriculum experiences provide a strong platform on which students may build successfully, before progressing to GCSE courses. This, in turn, provides an excellent foundation for students to make a confident transition to Sixth Form studies when they leave us.
The Gregg School provides a good quality education to the wide range of abilities in the school…. Effective teaching, combined with students’ positive attitudes to study, is a major factor in promoting good progress through the school.
ISI Report 2017
The Years
Year 7 | Year 8 | Year 9 | Year 10 & 11
Year 7
During Year 7, students are taught for most of their subjects in one of four ability groups. All students have access to a core curriculum of English, Mathematics and Science, plus a choice of two languages from French, German and Spanish, History, Geography, Religions & Ethics, Computing, Study Skills, Music, Art, Textiles, Design Technology, Drama, Food Preparation & Nutrition, Personal and Social Development, and PE.
Year 8
As students move into Year 8, they continue to study the same core subjects, the majority choosing a second language from French or German. A small number of students, who we feel would benefit from additional support with English continue to study a single language. Mathematics is set independently of other subjects from the beginning of Year 8.
Year 9
During Year 9, there will also be independent setting in English and Science, students beginning the GCSE course in the latter. The Mathematics department will, by this stage, have selected those students who will follow an accelerated programme in Year 10.
Year 10 & 11
During Years 10 and 11, all students take English Language and English Literature, Mathematics and Science (Core and Additional). A significant number of students will progress from Additional Science to study separate Sciences, leading to the award of separate grades for Biology, Chemistry and Physics. In addition to their IGCSE, students following the accelerated programme for Maths will work towards achieving a qualification in further Maths.
Also students select four option subjects. Timetable blocks are created from the students' choices, allowing a high degree of flexibility in their chosen curriculum. We consider the study of a Modern Foreign Language to be valuable and encourage the majority of students to do so. During these two years Personal and Social Development and PE are followed as non-exam subjects.
All students are tested in Years 7 and 10 using MidYIS and Yellis, a baseline testing service provided by the Centre for Educational Management at Durham University. The information gained enables staff, in their understanding of students' strengths and weaknesses, to set realistic targets as students strive for high achievement in examinations.
Our curriculum is enriched by a well-planned programme of trips and visits. We feel that these activities are very important for all students; they also form a key part of our provision for More Able and Talented Students which is designed to identify, challenge and support students who have particular strengths, not only in academic subjects but also in areas such as leadership, sport and creativity. It is important to identify these gifts; by doing so, all students may benefit.