Curriculum

The aim of the curriculum is to ensure that all students have the opportunity to engage in a variety of learning experiences that allow them to develop their breadth of knowledge and raise their aspirations. We want to encourage our students to develop their ability to think deeply and become increasingly independent thereby developing their communication, literacy and numeracy skills.

We recognise that motivation, positive engagement and high challenge are fundamental in creating confident, successful learners who are able to fulfil their aspirations and goals. Our curriculum aims to recognise that all of our students are individuals with differing needs and interests and therefore a variety of pathways and bespoke interventions are offered within Key Stage 3 and Key Stage 4.

Year 7 and Year 8

Students follow a balanced and inclusive curriculum. All students study:

English
Maths
Science
French (*supported route)
History
Geography
Morals and Ethics (including Religious Education)
Technology
ICT
Music
Drama
Dance
Art
PE

* A supported route allows students who join Poltair School with below average Key stage 2 attainment, to study additional literacy and numeracy lessons. This develops their reading, writing and numeracy skills, which gives them access to a broader curriculum.

At the start of Year 7, students are placed into classes based on their KS2 attainment.

In English, Humanities and French Year 7 students are set as according to ability:

Bronte (set one)
Shackleton (set two)
Pasteur (set three)
Attenborough (set four)
Zephaniah (set five)

In Mathematics and Science Year 7 students are set as follows:

Hawking (set one)
Turing, Franklin and Winston (mixed ability)
Nobel (set five)

In all other subjects, students are taught within their mixed ability tutor groups.

The setting of students is reviewed regularly and if a student requires further challenge or additional support, set changes can be made at any time during the academic year in consultation with Curriculum Team Leaders.

In Year 8, students are placed into classes based on their KS2 attainment and progress made during Year 7.

In English, Humanities and French Year 8 students are set as according to ability:

Hugo (set one)
Shackleton (set two)
Hardy (set three)
Chanel (set four)
Drake (set five)

In Mathematics and Science Year 8 students are set as follows:

Einstein (set one)
Newton, Cune, and Darwin (mixed ability)
Hubble (set five)

Year 7

Subject	Number of Periods per fortnight	Notes
English	7	Including Drama within English lessons
Maths	7
Science	5
History	3
Geography	3
Technology	3
ICT	1
Music	1
Art	2
PE	4
Moral and Ethics (including RE)	1
French	3	Some students have fewer French lessons in favour of lessons focussing on developing literacy.

Year 8

Subject	Number of Periods per fortnight	Notes
English	7	Including Drama within English lessons
Maths	7
Science	5
History	3
Geography	3
Technology	3
ICT	1
Music	1
Art	2
PE	4
Morals and Ethics (including RE)	1
French	3	Some students have fewer French lessons in favour of lessons focussing on developing literacy.

During the spring term of year 8, students will select their option subjects; KS4 will cover three years (9 - 11) with year 9 as a Foundation year; the emphasis on the acquisition of skills and knowledge that are required for GCSE courses.

KS4 (present years 9 – 10)

The curriculum in Key Stage 4 is personalised; 3 pathways have been created to ensure that the needs of all students are fully met and enables access to a wide variety of post 16 courses and training.

English Baccalaureate Route (EBACC)

The English Baccalaureate route is aimed at students who have the potential to study A levels and who may wish to enter Higher education. The curriculum ensures breadth and balance by including a range of creative and expressive art courses. Students following this pathway have access to the following subjects:

English Language
English Literature
Maths
Combined Science
Triple Science
French
Geography
History
Media Studies
Food Technology
Art
Photography
Resistant Materials
BTEC Sport
BTEC Performing Arts (Acting)
BTEC Performing Arts (Dance)
BTEC Hospitality
BTEC Travel and Tourism

Level Two Route

This route is aimed at students who wish to study a mixture of GCSE and vocational courses, again it is important to ensure that our students are given every opportunity to achieve and exceed their potential therefore breadth and balance is very important.

Students following this pathway have access to the following courses:

English Language
English Literature
Combined Science
French
Geography
History
Media Studies
Food Technology
Art
Photography
Resistant Materials
Creative iMedia
BTEC Sport
BTEC Performing Arts (Acting)
BTEC Performing Arts (Dance)
BTEC Hospitality
BTEC Travel and Tourism

Vocational Route

The vocational route is aimed at learners who benefit from learning in more practical 'hands-on' courses and will suit students who may be more likely to study Level 2 – 3 BTECs and vocational courses post 16.

Students following this pathway have access to the following courses:

English Language
English Literature
Combined Science
French
Geography
History
Media Studies
Food Technology
Art
Photography
Resistant Materials
NCFE Craft
Creative iMedia
BTEC Sport
BTEC Performing Arts (Acting)
BTEC Performing Arts (Dance)
BTEC Hospitality
BTEC Travel and Tourism

A structured guidance programme ensures that option choices meet the needs of every individual student; therefore it is important to fully involve teachers, students and parents. This includes a careers fayre, parent and carer information evening and one to one meetings with senior members of staff.

Year 9, 10 and 11

Subject	Number of Periods per fortnight	Notes
English	7
Maths	7
Science	7
PE	2
Option A	4	Courses start in Year 9 and continue until the end of Year 11
Option B	4
Option C	4
Option D	4
Morals and Ethics (including RE)	1

Poltair +

We believe that all students should have access to enrichment opportunities beyond the traditional timing of the school day. Every term, a Poltair + programme is published to all students

Poltair + Timetable Summer 2017

Day	Club	Information	Staff/Room
Mon to Fri Both Breaks	Maths Homework support	All years	Run by prefects - S18
Mon to Fri Both Breaks	Chess/board games & Construction Games	All Years	Library
3.10 - 4.10	Maths Homework Club	All Years	Maths Department - S18
	Science Revision & Intervention	Year 11 (invite only)	Science Department
	Spelling Club	All Years	Mrs Pomeroy - Student Services
	Table Tennis	All Years	PE Department
Tues Break 2	Computing Catch Up	All Years	Mr Renshaw - E7
Tues Break 2	Elite Choir	Invite Only	Music Department
3.10 - 4.10	GCSE Computing Revision/Catch up	Years 9 - 11	Mr Renshaw - E7
	Design Technology -Robotics Club	Years 8 & 9	Mr Turpin - Design Technology Department
	Maths Revision	Year 11 only (pupils to go to their Maths Teacher)	Maths Department
	Controlled Assessment Clinique	Year 11 (invite only)	Miss Obet - E4
	Fitness/Circuits	Years 7 - 8	PE Department
	Fitness/Circuits	Years 9 - 11	Miss Waters
	Football	Years 7 & 8	Mr Adams
	Football	Year 9	Mr Marshall
WED Break 2	Ukulele Club	All Years welcome	Mr Jones - Music
3.10- 4.10	Netball	Years 7 - 8 invite only (up to 10 March 2017)	PE Department
3.10- 4.10	GCSE Revision Workshops (Art & Photography)	Years 10 & 11	Mrs Pearson/Mrs Whitbread-Abrutat - T11
THURS Break 2	Choir	All Years	Music Department
3.05 - 5.00	Ten Tors	Years 9 & 10 (commencing 9 February)	Miss Blackburn - T1
3.10 - 4.10	English Language Intervention	Year 11 (selected pupils)	English Department
	Knitting & Sewing Club	All Years	Mrs Pomeroy - Library
	Fitness Suite	All Years	Mr Foster
	Hockey Mixed	Years 7 - 9	PE Department
	GCSE Revision Workshops (Art & Photography)	Years 10 & 11	Mrs Pearson/Mrs Whitbread-Abrutat - T11
FRI Break 2	Computing Catch Up	All Years	Mr Renshaw - E7
3.10 - 4.10	GCSE Statistics	High Starters (invite only)	Mrs Kellow - S17
	Humanities Revision	Open to all Year 11 History and Geography students	Humanities Department W2, W3, W4 & W5
	Media Revision & Controlled Assessment	All Years	Miss Sullivan - E8
	Fitness Suite	All Years	PE Department
	Hockey Mixed	Years 10 & 11	Miss Owens
Please see the music department board for the Poltair+ activities
Please see the PE staff for Autumn term fixtures
Enhancement buses - run on Monday to Friday at 4.30 pm (from the front of school)
Don't forget your Orange bus slip (Remember that you get 10 Vivos for attending an after school club from the teacher who runs the club.)

In addition to extra-curricular opportunities at the end of the school day, students are given the chance to participate in field study and enrichment visits to broaden our students’ experiences. In the last academic year, this has included:

History visit to Berlin to learn about World War Two
Art visit to London to visit the National Portrait Gallery and Tate Modern
PE visit to watch high level sport at Plymouth Raiders
Geography visit to Bristol to learn about urban regeneration
English and Art visit to Wheal Martyn to complete an enrichment programme called, Pit, Paper and Porcelain for gifted and talented students
PE and DT visit to Marjons University to visit the Sports Science Lab

If you require further information about the curriculum, please contact Miss C White, Deputy Headteacher at [email protected]

Art

Curriculum Team Leader: Mrs E Pearson

Aim of the Curriculum:

To provide pupils with the opportunity to explore and generate ideas through research, observation, perception and aspiration. Art encourages learners to demonstrate knowledge that reflects greater depth, context and understanding through experimenting with a range of materials, techniques and processes that inform final outcomes. In addition, learners are supported to evaluate and reflect on their work and the work of others to create independence.

Year 7

Term	Scheme of Work
Autumn One	Observational drawing test. Baseline. Mark Making. Line, tone, texture & pattern. Using a range of media to create an imaginative response.
Autumn Two	Mark Making. Line, tone, texture & pattern. Using a range of media to create an imaginative response.
Spring One	Observational drawing test. Colour. Colour wheel knowledge, Painting skills & technique, composition development, imagination.
Spring Two	Colour. Colour wheel knowledge, Painting skills & technique, composition development, imagination.
Summer One	Observational drawing test. Composition Fundamental principles of composition to create a personal response / imaginative.
Summer Two	Composition Fundamental principles of composition to create a personal response / imaginative.

Year 8

Term	Scheme of Work
Autumn One	Observational Drawing test. WW1 Using WW1 as the source you will investigate and generate ideas to create an original and personal response.
Autumn Two	WW1 Using WW1 as the source you will investigate and generate ideas to create an original and personal response.
Spring One	Observational drawing test. Form / Space Perspective. Colour, depth, form, shape. Close Observation.
Spring Two	Form / Space Perspective. Colour, depth, form, shape. Close Observation.
Summer One	Observational drawing test. Team Work Co-operative interaction to create large scale or individual work.
Summer Two	Team Work Co-operative interaction to create large scale or individual work.

Year 9

Term	Scheme of Work
Autumn One	Observational drawing test. Observation. Continue to develop drawing skills using a range of materials and techniques.
Autumn Two	Observation. Continue to develop drawing skills using a range of materials and techniques.
Spring One	Observational drawing test. GCSE Project. Develop resource, research and experimentation of materials skills. Presentation in sketchbook.
Spring Two	GCSE Project. Develop resource, research and experimentation of materials skills. Presentation in sketchbook.
Summer One	Observational drawing test. Team Work Co-operative interaction to create large scale or individual work.
Summer Two	Team Work Co-operative interaction to create large scale or individual work.

Year 10

Term	Scheme of Work
Autumn One	Observational drawing test. Detailed drawing with traditional approach- looking at textures, form and heavy artist link. Emphasis on A01-A04
Autumn Two	Detailed drawing with traditional approach- looking at textures, form and heavy artist link. Emphasis on A01-A04
Spring One	Observational drawing test. Detailed Research, Artists, Materials and Techniques and Process. Self- image/experiences representing, 3D, print, clay, painting photography
Spring Two	Detailed Research, Artists, Materials and Techniques and Process. Self- image/experiences representing, 3D, print, clay, painting photography
Summer One	Observational drawing test. Completion of design project.
Summer Two	GCSE 2017 EXAM QUESTION Ass 5 Imaginative study

Year 11

Term	Scheme of Work
Autumn One	Observational drawing test Coursework review. Each Year 11 will review all work with EP and JM to identify areas for improvement.
Autumn Two	Mock Exam Hand out paper and start to research Mock exam responses. Develop ideas, Experiment with materials.
Spring One	Final Exam Paper Hand out and prepare for final exam. Using AO1-4
Spring Two	Exam Preparation and Coursework completion deadline.
Summer One	Final Exam.
Summer Two

Extra-Curricular Opportunities

St Austell Torch Light Carnival (Year 7 & 10)
KS3 London Visit
KS4 London Visit (overnight)
Eden Visit for Mock Exam prep Year 11
Art department open doors every night till 4. Year 11 focus on Monday and Friday.
KS3 Art club with JM in January 2018.

Computing, ICT & Digital Media

Curriculum Team Leader: Mr C Renshaw

Aim of Curriculum

To equip pupils with the skills to be able to use Computational Thinking, Programming and Applications Software to work safely, efficiently and solve problems in this digital age. Our KS3 Scheme of Learning includes Computing, Digital Literacy and Information & Communication Technology, preparing for two distinct KS4 options: GCSE Computer Science and OCR National in Creative iMedia.

Year 7

Term	Scheme of Work
Autumn One	Network Introduction, Validity & Bias, Spreadsheet Modelling
Autumn Two	Scratch Game Design, Multi-media Advent Calendar
Spring One	DTP & Mail Merge
Spring Two	Data Handling: ICT Survey
Summer One	eSafety, RSI
Summer Two	Coding with Python and HTML

Year 8

Term	Scheme of Work
Autumn One	HTML Web Design
Autumn Two	Programming the BBC Micro:Bit
Spring One	GCSE Tasters Binary Numbers
Spring Two	Data Representation
Summer One	DVD Database
Summer Two	Coding with Python

KS 4 Computer Science

Year 10
Term	Scheme of Work
Autumn One	Data Representation
Autumn Two	Logic & Languages, Computer Systems
Spring One	Networks & Security
Spring Two	Practice NEA Programming Project
Summer One	Practice NEA Programming Project
Summer Two	Theory Revision & Exam Preparation
Year 11
Autumn One	Data Representation, NEA Project
Autumn Two	Logic & Languages, NEA Project
Spring One	Computer Systems, NEA Project
Spring Two	Networks & Security, Environmental, Legal & Ethical Concerns
Summer One	heory Revison & Exam Preparation
Summer Two	Exams: 14 May 17 May

KS iMedia

Year 9
Term	Scheme of Work
Autumn One	Course Intro, Digital Brochure
Autumn Two	New Biome Team Project, Corporate ID & Planning Docs
Spring One	Web Design Skills, Web Campaigning & Graphics
Spring Two	Copyright, Graphics (Paint.net, Photoshop & Inkscape)
Summer One	Graphics Practice Project
Summer Two	Theory Exam Revision and Prep
Year 10
Autumn One	Comic Strip Skills & Project
Autumn Two	Comic Strip Project
Spring One	Graphics Skills & Project
Spring Two	Graphics Project
Summer One	Graphics Project & Exam Theory
Summer Two	Theory Exam, Graphics Project
Year 11
Autumn One	Graphics Project, Comic Strip Skills
Autumn Two	Comic Strip Project, Theory Revision
Spring One	Web Design Project
Spring Two	Web Design Project
Summer One	Web Design Project
Summer Two	Project Deadline 18 May

Extra-Curricular Opportunities

Lunchtime open access Computing Club – come along to E7 any lunchtime to catch-up, complete homework, or work on your own computer-based projects.
After-school Computing / iMedia support & intervention

Design Technology

Curriculum Team Leader: Mr M Turpin

Aim of the Curriculum

The aim of our curriculum is to provide students with a range of knowledge and experiences in which the skills for designing, making and exploring ideas are the key. We provide an opportunity to for students to investigate how we live in a world which is designed, engineered and manufactured using a huge range of materials, components, systems and ingredients. We want our students to become competent in a range of creative and technical skills so that they can be active participants and adapt to the technological world in which they will live and work.

Year 7

Design Technology
Mini Torch (intro to circuits) (CAD)- Autodesk Inventor- basic skills- Introduction to materials and workshop processes. Introduction to communicating design ideas.		Textile toy- Materials and construction techniques- Smart and modern materials. Different uses of textile materials…Sails, armour, protection etc. Alternative joining techniques, sources of materials. Environmental considerations
Food & Nutrition
Basic food prep skills and Eat well guide , nutrition.	Food prep skills, Sensory analysis. Intro to food science. Conducting experiments and adapting recipes for different people		Food prep skills, Commodities, Provenance and sensory techniques. Food safety during storage preparation and serving.

Year 8

Design Technology
Lighting - wood, metal and plastic. Introduction to design for others- Design process- card modelling leading to CAD modelling. Electronics components- Electronic values and modelling using computers.	Storage project - wood core material. Students develop own design criteria. User centred design so specific investigation into form developed from function.	Graphics project - branding/vinyl cutting. CAD
Food and Nutrition
Hazards and dietary requirements, Macro and micro nutrients	Food science - gelatinisation and raising agents. Nutrition and food skills.	Food prep skills, Commodities, Provenance and sensory techniques. Food safety- meat cookery

Year 9

Design Tecnology
Shelving storage Including 3D skills (including Computer aided design- CAD Inventor). Focus on accuracy of measurement and communicating design details.		F1 car (CAD) iterative process- demonstrate testing strategy linked to improvements. Presentation of results.		Microcontroller programming -Input/output and context students own brief- Actuators where possible.		Casting project- (CAD focus) Lathe and milling machine- Application of CNC for creation of Mold
Hospitality
Communication Skills in Hospitality - Team working and job roles. Basic food service skills			Hospitality legislation and food hygiene. Systems for managing food and commodities. Basic food preparation techniques.		Food preparation skills. Working in the hospitality industry- job roles and careers. Communication skills and customer service. Basic food preparation techniques.
Food and Nutrition
Meat eggs and poultry - food function - eg denaturing / coagulation	Cereals - provenance, Starches, energy, Processing methods and staple foods. Allergies		Dairy foods - Provenance, processing, Food miles. HACCP. Traceability	Fats and Oils, Food provenance, Fairtrade. Dietary requirements. Food related illnesses. The effects of cooking on foods	Sugars and syrups Dextrinization and caramelisation. Ethical production. Food related illness. Sugar alternatives		Proteins and processing. Ethical sourcing. Food miles. The effects of cooking on food. Nutrition and Dietary requirements.

Year 10

Design Technology
Mini Lighting (Design and designers)- Electronics. Designing for others- CAD design. Understanding Polymers- Properties of materials.		3D Nature (Bug hotels etc . Including inventor 3D modelling) . Technical drawing and graphic communication.,/td>			F1 Car including effective modelling and prototyping. Forces and measurement. Application of mathematical concepts. Iterative design.			Design for Early years - Ergonomics and human factors. Investigation of design context.
Food and Nutrition
Fruit and Vegetables commodities. Ethics in food- Food banks, fair trade etc	Milk cheese and yoghurt - Sugar investigation. Caramelisation		Cereals, flour, bread and pasta. Carbohydrates, energy requirements. Baking	Meat, Fish, Poultry and Eggs- Protein, Denaturing . Sources nutritional contribution. Cooking processes.		Butter oils, margarine. Saturated/unsaturated fats. Frying techniques	Soya, tofu, beans, nuts, seeds. Alternative food sources.		Fruit and Vegetables commodities. Ethics in food- Food banks, fair trade etc

Design Technology
Human factors , ergonomics, design influences and sustainability.	Materials, manufacturing, joining and production techniques, Including material properties. Health and safety.	Quality assurance, ICT and manufacturing control systems. CAD- CAM. Systems and Control	Industrial practices- design process including market, client requirements and design processes	Review of revision materials and focus on areas that need reinforcing. Exam techniques.
Food and Nutrition
Commodities, effects of cooking on Food. Nutrition	Ethical food. Fair trade. Food miles, Sources of food. Primary and secondary processing. Commodities.	Nutritional contributions of ingredients. Healthy lifestyles, special diets, dietary requirements. Food related illness	Food science terminology. Cooking processes. Adapting recipes and techniques. Alternative food sources.	Exam preparation and revision.

Extra-Curricular Opportunities

Enrichment activities.
Weekly robotics club at lunch time taking part In the Tomorrows Engineers Robotics Challenge.
Weekly Green power racing, designing, building and racing a Green power electric car in regional and national competitions.
Future chef competition taking part in the Regional and national cooking competition.
Regular drop in and open workshop sessions for students to complete their own projects.

English Language & English Literature

Curriculum Team Leader:Ms L Chamberlain

Aim of the Curriculum:

English Language

Through the study of English Language students will develop their spoken language, reading, writing and vocabulary, which is an integral component of all subjects studied. Fluency in the English language is an essential foundation for success in all subjects.

Students will learn how to identify and interpret explicit and implicit information and ideas. Alongside this students will learn how to critically evaluate texts through their ability to explain, comment, and analyse how writers use language and structure effectively.

Students will also develop their ability to communicate accurately, effectively and imaginatively adapting their tone and style for an intended audience and employing a range of vocabulary and sentences for effect.

English Literature

Through the study of English Literature students will be given the opportunity to read, understand and respond to a wide range of texts. Students will develop their ability to analyse the language, form and structure employed by a writer using relevant subject terminology. Alongside this students will explore the relationship between texts and their contexts.

Year 7

Autumn Two
Autumn One	We Shall Remember Them Students will study the text Private Peaceful and a selection of War Poetry allowing them to develop their comprehension and analytical skills. Students will also read a range of non-fiction texts. Students will also complete a range of creative and non-fiction written work. Students will also develop their verbal communication skills through a number of speaking and listening activities.
Spring One	Tales from Other Times Students will study a number Pre-1914 texts to develop their confidence and ability to read challenging fiction texts from writers such as: Dickens. Students will also develop their narrative writing abilities through the opportunity to construct their own stories and descriptions.
Spring Two
Summer One	Gods & Goblins Students will study Shakespeare’s masterpiece ‘A Midsummer Night’s Dream’ and develop their understanding of the wider world of literature through an investigation into Myths and Legends. Students will continue to develop their written work through the production of creative and non-fiction texts.
Summer Two

Year 8

Autumn Two
Autumn One	The Gothic Students will study the works of Sir Arthur Conan Doyle whilst developing an understanding of literature in Victorian England. Students will strengthen their analytical skills whilst also developing their ability to produce creative texts with a focus on character and atmosphere.
Spring One	Shocking Shakespeare Students will continue their study of Shakespeare through the exploration of a selection of Shakespearian classics. Students will consider these texts in context and explore related issues. Students will also continue to develop their creative writing skills.
Spring Two
Summer One	The Big Issues Students will read ‘Stone Cold’ and explore social issues such as homelessness. Students will investigate this and similar issues through exposure to a range of non-fiction texts that deal with ‘Big Issues.’ Students will also write a number of non-fiction texts such as speeches, articles and leaflets.
Summer Two

Year 9

English Language
Autumn One	Creating Worlds Students will read ‘Of Mice and Men’ and explore the issues covered in the text. Students will continue to develop their analytical skills whilst also developing empathy skills. Students will continue to develop essential skills required for success in their GCSEs. Students will also continue to develop their writing skills through the production of a range of texts. This unit also allows students to develop their skills of debate and oracy.
Autumn Two
Spring One	Battles & Leaders Students will study Shakespeare’s ‘Macbeth’ in full and will investigate famous speeches delivered by leaders in a variety of contexts. Students will continue to develop their own oracy through the writing and delivery of their own speeches.
Spring Two
English Literature
Summer One	Vile Victorians In preparation for their GCSE Literature examination students will complete and in-depth study of Stevenson’s novella: ‘The Strange Case of Dr Jekyll & Mr Hyde’. Students will learn how to respond to exam style questions and begin to develop a critical understanding of literature. Students will also study the context behind the novella through an exploration of Victorian England.
Summer Two

Year 10

English Language
Autumn One	Non-Fiction Reading: Students will study a range of short, non-fiction texts from different times and contexts whilst developing their ability to understand explicit and implicit meaning; analyse writers’ techniques and critically compare texts.
Autumn Two	Transactional Writing: Students will apply techniques studied in previous units to construct engaging transactional texts.
Spring One	Creative Worlds: Students will study a range of short, fictional texts around the theme of power and conflict whilst developing their ability to understand explicit and implicit meaning; analyse writers’ techniques and critically evaluate opinions.
Summer One	Creative Writing: Students will apply techniques studied in previous units to construct engaging narratives and descriptions.
Summer Two	Creative Texts: Students will consolidate their understanding of effectively reading and writing fictional texts.
English Literature
Autumn One	An Inspector Calls: Students will study Priestley’s classic text – exploring the themes of responsibility and the social context whilst continuing to develop their analytical skills.
Autumn Two	An Inspector Calls: Students will study Priestley’s classic text – exploring the themes of responsibility and the social context whilst continuing to develop their analytical skills.
Spring One	Poetry Anthology: Power & Conflict: Students will study a range of poems concerned with the theme of power whilst continuing to develop their ability to critically evaluate and compare texts and writers’ methods.
Summer One	Romeo & Juliet: Students will complete and in-depth study of Shakespeare’s play. Continuing to develop a critical understanding of literature and the methods writers employ to convey meaning.
Summer Two	Romeo & Juliet: Students will complete and in-depth study of Shakespeare’s play. Continuing to develop a critical understanding of literature and the methods writers employ to convey meaning.

Year 11

English Language
Autumn One	Reviewing Reading Skills - Fiction
Autumn Two	Reviewing Creative Writing Techniques
Spring One	Reviewing Reading Skills – Non-Fiction
Spring Two	Reviewing Transactional Writing Techniques
Summer One	Exam Preparation
Summer Two
English Literature
Autumn One	Romeo & Juliet Review & Revision
Autumn Two	Jekyll & Hyde Review & Revision
Spring One	An Inspector Calls Review & Revision
Spring Two	Poetry Anthology Review & Revision
Summer One	Unseen Poetry Review & Revision
Summer Two	External Examinations

Extra-Curricular Opportunities

KS3 Homework Club
Opportunity to participate (in YR9) in a reading mentor programme
KS4 Intervention Classes
Opportunity to participate in the ST Austell Spoken Language Festival; assorted creative writing competitions.
KYBA Book Awards Reading Club

French

Curriculum Team Leaders

Aim of the Curriculunm

A Modern Foreign Language prepares pupils to participate in a rapidly changing world in which work and other activities are often carried out in languages other than English. The rise of international commerce means that pupils need to be equipped with the skills needed by the international workplace. It also provides students with opportunities to reflect upon their own culture and open up to new ones. Increased capability in the use of MFL promotes initiative, confidence and independent learning and encourages diversity within society.

Year 7

Autumn One	Meeting and greeting people. Saying how old we are. Saying when our birthday is. Saying what there is in our schoolbag and classroom. Saying what we like
Autumn Two	Talking about animals. Talking about family. Saying where you live. Saying what you eat and drink. Talking about nationalities and countries. Talking about the weather.
Spring One	Talking about likes and dislikes. Talking about your survival kit. Describing yourself (understanding adjective agreement). Talking about other people (using the 3rd person). Describing a musician.
Spring Two	Talking about school subjects. Giving opinions. Describing our timetable. Describing our school day. Talking about what you eat in school.
Summer One	Talking about computers and mobiles. Talking about sports. Talking about activities. Describing what other people do.
Summer Two	Talking about our town/village. Giving directions. Talking about where we go. Inviting someone to go somewhere. Saying what you can do in your town.

Year 8

Autumn One	Talking about TV programmes. Talking about films. Talking about books. Talking about what we do online.
Autumn Two	Talking about what we can do in Paris. Asking tourist information. Talking about what we did in Paris.
Spring One	Talking about personality. Talking about friends. Talking about music. Talking about clothes. Talking about last weekend.
Spring Two	Talking about where we live. Talking about our home. Talking about meals. Talking about organising food for a party. Talking about a forthcoming event.
Summer One	Talking about talent and ambition. Saying what you must and can do. Telling someone what to do. Describing people’s personality.
Summer Two	Research projects: French speaking countries in the world. The French Revolution. Science in French.

Year 9

Autumn One	Talking about Facebook. Giving an opinion about someone. Arranging to go out. Describing a date. Describing a music event.
Autumn Two	Learning parts of the body. Talking about sports. Talking about healthy eating. Making plans to get fit. Describing levels of fitness.
Spring One	Describing jobs. Discussing learning languages. Saying what you used to do. Discussing your future and past. Talking about your job.
Spring Two	Discussing holidays. Imagining an adventure holiday. Talking about what you take on holiday.
Summer One	Describing what happened on holiday. Visiting a tourist attraction. Describing an ideal holiday.
Summer Two	Discussing what you are allowed to do. Explaining what is important to you. Talking about things you buy. Describing what makes you happy.

Year 10

Autumn One	Revising family members and describing people. Talking about what makes a good friend. Taking about family relationships. Talking about going out.
Autumn Two	Talking about a night out. Talking about when you were younger. Discussing role models.
Spring One	Revising music and technology. Talking about sports. Talking about life online. Talking about reading
Spring Two	Talking about TV programmes. Talking about films and actors. Talking about food and meals. Talking about daily life.
Summer One	Talking about meals. Describing family celebrations. Describing festivals and celebrations.
Summer Two	Describing a region. Talking about our town. Describing what to see and do. Discussing plans.

Year 11

Autumn One	Revising what you normally do on holiday. Talking about an ideal holiday. Booking a hotel. Ordering in a restaurant.
Autumn Two	Talking about travelling. Talking about buying souvenirs. Talking about holiday disaster.
Spring One	Revising school subjects. Talking about your school. Comparing schools in UK and France. Discussing school rules.
Spring Two	Discussing career choices. Discussing plans. Applying for jobs.
Summer One	Discussing problems facing the world. Talking about the environment. Talking about volunteering.
Summer Two	Revision. Exams.

Geography

Curriculum Team Leader: Ms C Willis

Aim of the Curriculum:

Poltair's geography team aim to ensure that students leave us with the skills necessary to become global citizens. Students are taught to enquire and question issues facing the world today as well as understand the fundamental cartographic and statistical skills that form the basis of geography.

At Key Stage 3 we are ambitious about knowledge and cover the following skills:

Develop contextual knowledge of the location of globally significant places – both terrestrial and marine – including their defining physical and human characteristics and how these provide a geographical context for understanding the actions of processes.
Understand the processes that give rise to key physical and human geographical features of the world, how these are interdependent and how they bring about spatial variation and change over time.
Are competent in the geographical skills needed to:
- Collect, analyse and communicate with a range of data gathered through experiences of fieldwork that deepen their understanding of geographical processes.
- Interpret a range of sources of geographical information, including maps, diagrams, globes, aerial photographs and Geographical Information Systems (GIS).
- Communicate geographical information in a variety of ways, including through maps, numerical and quantitative skills and writing at length.

Geography is a very popular choice for students at key stage. At Key stage 4, GCSE students study the new AQA specification. This consists of 3 exams:

Paper 1-Living with the physical environment-1hr 30mins exam- 35% of GCSE
Paper 2- Challenges in the human environment -1hr 30 mins exam-35% of GCSE
Paper3 – Geographical applications-1hr 15mins-30% of GCSE

As part of this course there are two compulsory fieldtrips; one human and one physical.

Year 7

Autumn One	Exploring wild China
Autumn Two	Map skills and settlements
Spring One	Rivers and glaciation
Spring Two	Extreme climates
Summer One	Development in Africa
Summer Two	Ecology and ecosystems

Year 8

Autumn One	Tourism and the middle east
Autumn Two	India and international development
Spring One	Tectonic hazards
Spring Two	Tectonic hazards
Summer One	The coastal environment
Summer Two	Global environment issues

Year 9

Autumn One	Migration and global conflict
Autumn Two	Core GCSE and fieldwork skills
Spring One	The energy gap and sustainable energy
Spring Two	Geography of the UK
Summer One	AQA GCSE Coastal environments
Summer Two	AQA GCSE Coastal environments

Year 10

Autumn One	Ecosystems and the tropical rainforest
Autumn Two	Cold environments
Spring One	UK physical landscapes
Spring Two	Natural hazards
Summer One	Urban challenges in LICS
Summer Two	Urban challenges in HICS

Year 11

Autumn One	Weather Hazards
Autumn Two	Resource management
Spring One	Changing economic world
Spring Two	Changing economic world
Summer One	AQA Issue evaluation
Summer Two

Extra-Curricular Opportunities

Year 7 - Visit to Newquay Zoo to explore ecosystems (cross-curricular with French)
Year 8 - Visit to a coastal area to collect primary data (cross-curricular with Mathematics)
Year 9 - Visit to The Eden Project to explore the impacts of climate change.
GCSE –Two compulsory fieldtrips
Human fieldwork to Bristol City Centre
Physical fieldwork to Marazion beach
Autumn 2: Geography Leaders open to KS3

History

Curriculum Team Leader: Mrs C Price

Aim of the Curriculum:

The Poltair history department aims to provide a thought-provoking and well-rounded study of local, national and international history. Teaching will give students the tools to ask questions about the past and the present, and to critically evaluate information through different perspectives and starting points. History lessons at Poltair School help students to understand the lives of the peoples that they study, as well as their own identity and the challenges of the 21st Century. We look at what changes over time and what stays the same, focusing on the lives of Kings and lives of peasants as equally important in our understanding of the world.

Year 7

Spring Two	1066-1509 The Medieval Period
Autumn One	Study of Cornish History
Autumn Two	The Celts and the Romans
Spring One	1066-1509 The Medieval Period
Summer One	1509- 1745 The Early Modern Period
Summer Two	1509- 1745 The Early Modern Period

Year 8

Autumn One	The impact of Empire
Autumn Two	The Industrial Revolution
Spring One	World War One
Spring Two	World War Two
Summer One	The Holocaust
Summer Two	The Cold War

Year 9

Spring Two
Autumn One	Politics and History
Autumn Two	Highlights of History
Spring One	GCSE Paper 3 Weimar and Nazi Germany
Summer One
Summer Two

Year 10

Autumn Two
Autumn One	GCSE Paper Two Superpower Relations and the Cold War
Spring One
Spring Two	GCSE Paper One Crime and Punishment
Summer One
Summer Two

Year 11

Spring One	GCSE Paper Two Early Elizabethan England
Autumn One	GCSE Paper One Crime and Punishment: Whitechapel
Autumn Two	GCSE Paper Two Early Elizabethan England
Spring Two	Revision for GCSE Examinations
Summer One	Examintations
Summer Two	Examintations

Extra-Curricular Opportunities

We offer a variety of revision sessions, and aim to run trips to different sites of Historical Interests. In 2017, this included a visit to Berlin to study the sites of World War Two.

Mathematics

Curriculum Team Leader: Mrs J Kellow

Aim of the Curriculum:

The Mathematics faculty aim to bring to life mathematics across the curriculum, equipping the pupils with a maths knowledge and understanding that makes sense to them, is relevant for all their studies and enhances their life chances. The curriculum aims are to ensure all pupils:

become fluent in the fundamentals of mathematics, including through varied and frequent practice with increasingly complex problems over time, so that pupils develop conceptual understanding and the ability to recall and apply knowledge rapidly and accurately
reason mathematically by following a line of enquiry, conjecturing relationships and generalisations, and developing an argument, justification or proof using mathematical language
can solve problems by applying their mathematics to a variety of routine and non-routine problems with increasing sophistication, including breaking down problems into a series of simpler steps and persevering in seeking solutions
make rich connections across mathematical ideas to develop fluency, mathematical reasoning and competence in solving increasingly sophisticated problems. They should also apply their mathematical knowledge to science and other subjects

Year 7

Autumn One	Using numbers Sequences Perimeter, area and volume
Autumn Two	Decimal numbers Working with numbers Statistics
Spring One	Algebra Fractions Angles
Spring Two	Coordinates and graphs Percentages Probability
Summer One	Symmetry Equations Interpreting data
Summer Two	3D shapes Ratio

Year 8

Autumn One	Working with number Geometry Probability
Autumn Two	Percentages Sequences Area
Spring One	Graphs Simplifying numbers Interpreting data
Spring Two	Algebra Congruence and scaling
Summer One	Fractions and decimals Proportion Circles
Summer Two	Equations and formula Comparing data

Year 9

Autumn One	Percentages Equations and formulae Polygons
Autumn Two	Using data Application of graphs Pythagoras
Spring One	Fractions Algebra Decimal numbers
Spring Two	Prisms and cylinders Solving equations graphically
Summer One	Compound units Right angled triangles
Summer Two	GCSE preparation

Year 10

Autumn One	Foundation Basic number Measures & scale Charts, tables & averages Higher Basic number Fractions, ratio & proportion Statisitcal diagrams & averages Number & sequences
Autumn Two	Foundation Charts, tables & averages Angles Number properties Higher Number & sequences Ratio & proportion Angles Transformations, constructions & loci
Spring One	Foundation Approximation Decimals & fractions Linear graphs Higher Transformations, constructions & loci Algebraic manipulation Length, area & volume
Spring Two	Foundation Linear graphs Expressions & formulae Ratio, speed & proportion Higher Length, area & volume Linear graphs Right angled triangles
Summer One	Foundation Perimeter & area Transformations Probability Higher Similarity Exploring & applying probability Powers & SI form
Summer Two	Foundation Probability Volume & surface area of prisms Linear equations Higher Equations & inequalities Counting, accuracy, powers & surds

Year 11

Autumn One	Foundation Percentages & compound measures Percentages & variation Representation and interpretation Higher Counting, accuracy, powers & surds Quadratic equations
Autumn Two	Foundation Constructions & loci Curved shapes & pyramids Revision & Review Higher Quadratic equations Sampling & complex diagrams Revision & Review
Spring One	Foundation Number & sequences Right angled triangles Higher Combined events Properties of circles
Spring Two	Foundation Congruence & similarity Probability Powers & SI form Higher Variation Triangles Graphs
Summer One	Foundation Simultaneous equations & linear inequalities Non-linear graphs Revision Higher Graphs Algebraic fractions & functions Vector geometry Revision

Extra-Curricular Opportunities

Year 7 & 8 Breakfast club to catch up to expected level
Years 7 - 10 UKMT Mathematics challenge
Year 9 Mathematics Master classes
Year 10 Exeter School of Mathematics Easter school
Homework club
Year 10 GCSE Statistics
Year 11 Further Maths

Media Studies

Curriculum Team Leader: Ms L Chamberlain

Aim of the Curriculum:

Year 9 & 10

GCSE Media Studies seeks to develop students understanding of four key concepts:

Media language
Media representations
Media industries
Media audiences

Together these four key concepts help students to demonstrate knowledge and understanding of the theoretical framework and media contexts and their influence on media products and processes.

Students also develop their ability to analyse media products using the theoretical framework of media, in relation to their contexts, in order to make judgements and draw conclusions.

Media Studies students will also create a range of media products for an intended audience, by applying knowledge and understanding of the theoretical framework of media to communicate meaning.

Year 11 (this year only)

GCSE Media Studies uses four major concepts which form the basis of the subject content:

Media Language: forms and conventions
Institutions
Audience
Representation

Through the study of GCSE Media Studies students develop skills of recall, select and develop their ability to communicate their knowledge and understanding of media products and the contexts in which they are produced and consumed.

Students are also required to demonstrate research, planning and presentation skills. As well as constructing and evaluating their own products using creative and technical skills.

Year 9: Foundation Year

Autumn Two
Autumn One	An introduction to the four key Media Concepts through the exploration of the medium of FILM.
Spring One	A theoretical and practical exploration into Action Adventure Film.
Spring Two
Summer One	A theoretical and practical exploration into Crime Drama.
Summer Two	A theoretical and practical exploration into Crime Drama.

Year 10: Year One

Summer One
Autumn One	A theoretical and practical exploration of all four Media Concepts through the theme of PRINT - specifically newspapers and magazines.
Autumn Two	A theoretical and practical exploration of the MUSIC INDUSTRY; considering the concepts of language, audience and, social, cultural and political contexts.
Spring One	A theoretical and practical exploration of ADVERTISING and MARKETING; considering the specific conventions of language, representation and, social, historical, cultural and political contexts.
Spring Two	A theoretical and practical exploration of all four Media Concepts through the medium of TELEVISION. Opportunity for students to complete a ‘mock’ NEA Project (formally Controlled Assessment)
Summer Two	A theoretical and practical exploration of all four Media Concepts through the theme of ONLINE and SOCIAL Media (inc. VIDEO GAMES)

Year 11: Year Two

Autumn Two
Autumn One	Planning and completion of the NEA Project (formally Controlled Assessment) Subject and Topic determined by the examination board.
Spring One	A theoretical and practical exploration of all four Media Concepts through the theme of FILM.
Spring Two	A theoretical and practical exploration of all four Media Concepts through the theme of RADIO.
Summer One	Examination Pre-Release is made available to students. Students embark on supervised individual research and preparation before the completion of the exam. Exam Topic: Serial TV Drama
Summer Two

Year 11: This Academic Year Only

Autumn Two
Autumn One	Controlled Assessment – Brief 3: The Practical Production. Students apply their understanding of the four key concepts through the creation and promotion of a Music Video. Mock Examination: The Music Industry.
Spring One	The study of the four key Media Concepts centred around the examination topic for 2018: Serial TV Drama.
Spring Two
Summer One	Examination Pre-Release is made available to students. Students embark on supervised individual research and preparation before the completion of the exam. Exam Topic: Serial TV Drama
Summer Two

Moral & Ethics

Curriculum Team Leader: Mrs C Willis (KS3) & Mrs C Price (KS4)

Aim of the Curriculum:

This is a non-examined subject which students study once every fortnight. The key focus is on the Fundamental British Values, which are:

democracy
the rule of law
individual liberty
mutual respect for and tolerance of those with different faiths and beliefs and for those without faith.

This is combined with Religious Education to provide students with a thought provoking, relevant and challenging morals and ethics curriculum.

Lessons provide opportunity for discussion and project based learning, and allow students to explore controversial interesting topics that support and extend their learning in their other subjects.

Year 7

Autumn One	World Religions and Beliefs
Autumn Two	Human rights and democracy
Spring One	Christianity in the UK
Spring Two	Sikhism in the UK
Summer One	Equal opportunities
Summer Two	Cornish Religion and culture

Year 8

Autumn One	Judaism in the UK
Autumn Two	Animal rights and religion
Spring One	Finance in the future
Spring Two	Christianity in the UK
Summer One	Islam in the UK
Summer Two	Health and Wellbeing

Year 9

Autumn One	Capital Punishment
Autumn Two	Christianity in the UK- the big questions
Spring One	Impact of conflict on children
Spring Two	Poverty in the UK
Summer One	Euthanasia
Summer Two	Finance

Year 10

Autumn One	Politics
Autumn Two	Extremism
Spring One	Human trafficking
Spring Two	Health and Wellbeing
Summer One	Resilience
Summer Two	Christianity in the UK

Year 11

Summer Two	Examinations
Autumn One	Identity
Autumn Two	Christianity and big questions
Spring One	Sexuality and the law
Spring Two	Independent revision
Summer One	Examinations

PE and BTEC Performing Arts (Dance)

Curriculum Team Leader: Mr P Marshall

Aim of the Curriculum:

Within Physical education and Sport we have four key aims with which the curriculum is designed around:

develop competence to excel in a broad range of physical activities
are physically active for sustained periods of time
engage in competitive sports and activities
lead healthy, active lives.

Year 7 & 8

Lessons in Key Stage 3 follow a course which emphasises three main areas:

Practical ability (AF1)
Health and fitness (AF2)
Evaluating and improving (AF3)

The three key areas form the bases from which the students at Poltair will be taught. Activities will be picked depending on the class and abilities of the pupils.

Activities that could be taught:

Rugby
Netball
Basketball
Football
Multi skills
Dance
Cricket
Rounders
Athletics
Fitness
Hockey
Volleyball
Dodgeball
Trampolining
Circuits
Badminton
Handball
Softball

Year 9-11 Entry Level Core PE

All students, regardless of whether they select PE as an option subject, will have at least 2 hours per week of Core PE. These lessons will give students the opportunity to continue to engage in physical education and sport over a wide range of different sports. They will all be entered for an accredited physical education award. (OCR entry level PE – R462) This is 90% practical with a 10% element of analysing and improving. This qualification is externally assessed but build upon the skills learnt in year 7 and 8.

Key Stage Four BTEC Sport

Options that can be chosen in years 9-11:

Level 2 Btec First Award in Sport – 120GLH

Designed to provide a specialist qualification in the Sport and Leisure industry, and allows students to develop the skills, experiences and knowledge in this field. The main sections covered will be:

Practical Sports Performance
Training for Personal Fitness
Health and Fitness for Sport
Leading Sports Activities
The Mind and Sports Performance
The Sports Performer in Action

Students will take various combinations depending on the pathway of the class. Students will be completing written assignments as assessments and also an online exam (25% of final grade)

Level 2 Btec First Award in Performing Arts – Dance – 120GLH

The course is designed to build upon learning that has taken place at Key Stage 3. It has been developed to give an engaging and stimulating introduction to the world of Performing Arts. It also provides an excellent base on which to build upon for learners as they move into post 16 education. The main sections covered will be:

Individual showcase
Preparation, performance and production
Dance Skills

Pupils will be completing written assignments as well as an online exam (between 10%-25% of final grade)

Extra-Curricular Opportunities

Details of this can be found within the Poltair+ calendar

Performing Arts (Acting)

Curriculum Team Leader: Ms L Chamberlain

Aim of the curriculum:

The BTEC Tech Award for Performing Arts gives all learners the opportunity to develop specific skills and knowledge in a vocational and practical learning environment. Students are given the opportunity to:

Develop key skills that prove their aptitude in performing arts such as reproducing repertoire or responding to stimuli
Develop an effective understanding of ways of working in the performing arts, such as the development of ideas, rehearsal and performance
Develop essential personal management and communication skills
Develop a detailed knowledge that underpins effective use of skills, process and attitudes in the Performing Arts sector, such as roles, responsibilities, performance disciplines and styles

Year 9: Foundation Year

Autumn Two
Autumn One	An Introduction to BTEC Performing Arts: During this unit students will begin to develop the skills required of an actor through exploring and responding to given stimulus material.
Spring One	Acting Skills: During this unit students will continue to develop the skills required of an actor through participating in workshops and rehearsals.
Spring Two
Summer One	Professional Practitioners: During this unit students will begin to investigate and explore the work of existing theatre practitioners.
Summer Two

Year 10: Year One

Autumn Two
Autumn One	An Introduction to BTEC Performing Arts: During this unit students will begin to develop the skills required of an actor through exploring and responding to given stimulus material.
Spring One
Spring Two	Developing Skills & Techniques in the Performing Arts: During this component students will develop skills and techniques for performance; apply skills and techniques in rehearsal and performance; alongside this students will also review their own development and performance. During this component students will take part in a performance.
Summer One
Summer Two

Year 11: Year Two

Autumn Two
Autumn One	Performing to a Brief: During this component students will consider how practitioners adapt their skills for different contexts and implement this into a performance. They will participate in classes and workshops to build on their rehearsal and performance skills. Students will also be encouraged to develop their ability to reflect and evaluate their performance skills.
Spring One
Spring Two	Release of external assessment set task. The set task will ask students to develop creative ideas and rehearse for a workshop performance. Students will work in groups of between 3 and 7 to develop a performance based on this brief.
Summer One
Summer Two	External Assessment

Extra-Curricular Opportunities

Opportunities to attend live theatre performances.
Opportunities to participate in the School Musical: FAME

Photography

Curriculum Team Leader: Mrs E Pearson

Aim of the Curriculum:

Photography provides students with the opportunity to explore and generate ideas through research, observation, perception and aspiration. Students are expected to demonstrate knowledge that reflects greater depth, context and understanding throughout the course. They have opportunities to experiment with a range of materials, techniques and processes that inform final outcomes. Throughout the course, learners are supported to evaluate and reflect on their work and the work of others to create independence.

Year 9

Autumn One	Analyse & Evaluate Image test. Intro into photography Practical & quick skills. Intro into composition view points Developing process of research investigation Technique/style
Autumn Two	Animation project. Photo shop development and recording documenting work/investigation
Spring One	Analyse & Evaluate Image test. Animation project.
Spring Two	Textures. Exploration of objects through lens Links to creative photography through perspective, scale view points
Summer One	Analyse & Evaluate Image test. Summer Sun project
Summer Two	Year 9 exam Distortion & Reflection.

Year 10

Autumn One	Analyse & Evaluate Image test. Collections.Building foundation skills to explore KS4 collections and imaginative study. Extending A01-A04 understanding. Investigation of photographers. Extending Pandora’s Box Ass3
Autumn Two	Urban Landscape GCSE project 1. KS4 exam questioning- breaking down project identifying research-investigation- practical and personal response through to final investigation
Spring One	Analyse & Evaluate Image test. Shadows.
Spring Two	Shadows & Reflections.
Summer One	Analyse & Evaluate Image test.
Summer Two	Year 10 exam – Reflections. Landscape and Street photography Ass5 Environments

Year 11

Autumn One	Analyse & Evaluate Image test. Coursework Review.
Autumn Two	Mock exam prep
Spring One	Coursework Completion.
Spring Two	Final exam prep
Summer One	Exam

Science

Curriculum Team Leader: Ms J Westley

Aim of the curriculum:

A high-quality science education provides the foundations for understanding the world through the specific disciplines of biology, chemistry and physics. Science has changed our lives and is vital to the world’s future prosperity, as such, all pupils are taught essential aspects of the knowledge, methods, processes and uses of science. Through building up a body of key foundational knowledge and concepts, pupils are encouraged to recognise the power of rational explanation and develop a sense of excitement and curiosity about natural phenomena. They are encouraged to understand how science can be used to explain what is occurring, predict how things will behave, and analyse causes.

At KS3 (Years 7 - 8):

The principal focus of science teaching in key stage 3 is to develop a deeper understanding of a range of scientific ideas in the subject disciplines of biology, chemistry and physics. Pupils should begin to see the connections between these subject areas and become aware of some of the big ideas underpinning scientific knowledge and understanding.

Pupils should understand that science is about working objectively, modifying explanations to take account of new evidence and ideas and subjecting results to peer review. Pupils should decide on the appropriate type of scientific enquiry to undertake to answer their own questions and develop a deeper understanding of factors to be taken into account when collecting, recording and processing data. They should evaluate their results and identify further questions arising from them.

At KS4 (Years 9-11):

Sciences during key stage 4 continue with the process of building upon and deepening scientific knowledge and the understanding of ideas developed in earlier key stages in the subject disciplines of biology, chemistry and physics.

For some students, studying the sciences in key stage 4 provides the platform for more advanced studies, establishing the basis for a wide range of careers. For others, it will be their last formal study of subjects that provide the foundations for understanding the natural world and will enhance their lives in an increasingly technological society.

Year 7

Autumn Two
Autumn One	Organisms – Cells and Body systems Forces – Speed and Gravity Matter – Particle model and separating mixtures
Spring One	Reactions – Metals and non-metals, acids and alkalis Electromagnets – voltage, current and resistance Ecosystems – Interdependence and plant reproduction
Spring Two
Summer One	Energy – Costs and transfers Earth – Earths structure and the Universe Genes – Variation and human reproduction
Summer Two

Year 8

Autumn Two
Autumn One	Contact Forces and Pressure Matter - Periodic table and Elements Organisms - Breathing and Digestion
Spring One	Electromagnets and Magnetism Reactions - Chemical Energy and Types of Reaction Ecosystems - Respiration and Photosynthesis
Spring Two
Summer One	Energy - Work and Heating and Cooling Earth - Climate and Resources Waves - Wave effects and Wave Properties Genes - Evolution and Inheritance
Summer Two

Year 9

Autumn Two
Autumn One	Particle model of matter Cell biology Periodic table and atomic structure
Spring One	Energy stores and transformations Organisation and classification of organisms Bonding
Spring Two
Summer One	Electricity Infection and response Chemical changes
Summer Two	Electricity Infection and response Chemical changes

Year 10

Autumn Two
Autumn One	Atomic structure and nuclear radiation Bioenergetics Quantitative chemistry and energy changes
Spring One	Waves and communications Homeostasis Rate and extent of chemical change
Spring Two
Summer One	Observing and recording motion Inheritance, variation and evolution Organic chemistry
Summer Two

Year 11

Autumn Two
Autumn One	Magnetism and electromagnetism Adaptations, interdependence and competition Chemical analysis of the atmosphere and using resources
Spring One	Review, revisit, revise, and further develop knowledge, skills, and understanding in preparation for GCSE exams
Spring Two
Summer One	Review, revisit, revise, and further develop knowledge, skills, and understanding in preparation for GCSE exams
Summer Two

More detailed information on the National Curriculum for Secondary Science can be accessed via the links below:

KS3 science National curriculum
KS4 science National curriculum