Years 7-9 (Key Stage 3)

Key Stage 3 Curriculum
Years 7, 8 and 9 (Age 11 to 14 years)

As they make the move into the Senior School, and throughout Key Stage 3, pupils are encouraged to use more initiative in their learning, to develop critical thinking and reasoning ability, and to develop a self-disciplined approach to their studies. Lessons incorporate differentiated tasks appropriate to all abilities including Gifted and Talented students. Comprehensive library and computer facilities enable them to pursue special interests, carry out research and acquire a wide general knowledge, whilst being carefully monitored. For more extensive subject-specific information, please visit the Departmental sections of the website, or contact the school.

Year 7
Sion School aims to deliver a broad base of subjects so that the choices pupils will have to make later on in their education can be as informed as possible. French and Mathematics are taught in ability sets. In addition to the core subjects (Mathematics, English and Science) twelve other subjects are taught, including a mix of creative and more practical activities. One lesson a week of PSCHE and four lessons of Physical Education are included as part of the curriculum

Year 8
We continue to deliver a broad base of subjects. Pupils choose to study German or Spanish, as well as continuing to study French. PSCHE is delivered outside the timetable in four sessions per year, in organised in-house or with invited specialist outside speakers.  Swimming is included for two of the four lessons of Physical Education. Mathematics and languages are taught in ability sets.  In all other subjects students are taught in four mixed ability groups, thereby maintaining small class sizes.

Year 9
Pupils continue with a broad base of subjects in order that the choices they make for GCSE may be as informed as possible. Science is now divided into three separate science subjects - Biology, Chemistry and Physics. Pupils are taught in ability sets for French, their second language, English and Mathematics, and in mixed ability teaching groups for all other subjects. PSCHE focuses on Citizenship, and is timetabled for one period per week, as are four lessons of Physical Education. All students study the GCSE Religious Education course throughout Year 9. The full exam is taken at the end of Year 10.

Prior to deciding on their options for GCSE subjects, students receive guidance during a special assembly, and from subject teachers, including Careers. Parents are invited to attend an Options Evening, with their child, to discuss choices openly with teachers. Options need to be made by the February half term.

Homework
A homework timetable is issued during the first week of the Autumn term.  It is important that parents keep a copy of the timetable and check and sign their child’s homework diary each week. 

In Year 7, homework is given in English and Mathematics twice each week and once a week in other subjects. Each homework should last approximately 30 minutes. 

In Year 8, homework is given in English, Mathematics and Science twice each week and once a week in other subjects. Each homework should last approximately 30 minutes. 

In Year 9, homework is given in English and Mathematics twice each week and once a week in other subjects. Each homework should last approximately 30-  40 minutes.  

Assessment
Students are assessed regularly in all subjects. Progress is monitored and measured against nationally recognised standards. School tests/examinations take place in the Autumn and Summer terms. 

Grade Sheets and/or Reports are issued to parents according to the following schedule:

                          Autumn Term        Spring Term        Summer Term
        Year 7         Report                 Grade Sheet             Report
        Year 8         Grade Sheet            Report               Grade Sheet
        Year 9         Report                 Grade Sheet             Report

Consultation Evenings
Consultation evenings provide an opportunity for parents to meet and discuss progress with their child’s form tutor and subject teachers.

Year 7 have two consultation evenings per year, in October and April

Year 8 have a consultation evening in January

Year  9 have two consultation evenings, one in November and the GCSE options evening in February

CLICK HERE for Year 7 Curriculum Outline Booklet

CLICK HERE for Year 8 Curriculum Outline Booklet

CLICK HERE for Year 9 Curriculum Outline Booklet