The ethos of St Benedict’s is one of maximisation of potential, spiritually, academically, vocationally and socially. We know that by the end of their time with us, most pupils will have achieved their full potential and very often progressed beyond expectations. This gives them the confidence and ability to develop their achievements in further and higher education or in their chosen careers post-16.
St Benedict’s provides a broad, balanced curriculum. In Y7, Y8 and Y9 all pupils follow national curriculum guidelines in English, maths, science, Spanish, history, computing, geography, technology, art, music and P.E. and diocesan schemes for R.E. Pupils in Y7 and Y8 are involved in a Curriculum Carousel which allows pupils to be taught additional curriculum areas i.e., dance, drama. Their rate of progress is monitored throughout this key stage aided by internal examinations taken for each year group. Core subjects are taught in ability groups by setting pupils in Years, 8 and 9, and other groups are made up of pupils of all ability levels.
All pupils are entered for GCSE examinations (or foundation qualifications if appropriate) in the following subjects: English, English Literature, maths, science and R.E. The optional subjects are Spanish, computing, business and communications systems, business, food and nutrition, product design, textiles, geography, history, art, music, drama. Prior to KS4 guidance is given to parents and pupils on our Curriculum Guidance website and several meetings are held for parents and pupils to help them make informed decisions about choices in KS4. We are able to personalise the curriculum needs of our pupils, and where it suits, pupils can take less than six GCSE's or up to fourteen GCSE's or the equivalent. This guidance is available on-line and is available for you to examine in more detail.
For more information on the Curriculum, contact Mrs Paddock, Principal at