Curriculum

Robert Barclay Academy offers a curriculum that is both broad and balanced. It is tailored to meet the needs of all our students and underpinned by the desire ensure students enjoy learning whilst ensuring they maximise their achievement. In addition to providing enrichment and excitement, our curriculum also allows us to provide extra support for those who need it. We try to allow for flexibility so that students can play to their strengths.

Across the academic year we run several ‘LEAD’ days (Learning Enrichment Activity Days). This is where students have the opportunity to explore and develop a real enthusiasm for subjects by spending a whole day on exciting projects for which there might not otherwise be space in normal everyday lessons. These days also emphasise the links between subject areas to give a more holistic approach to learning and the world in which we live. ‘LEAD’ days also provide opportunities for students to go on a variety of school trips.

Key Stage 3 Curriculum

We operate a two-year Key Stage 3 curriculum (Year 7 and Year 8), which is where the foundations are laid for success at GCSE and A Level. As such, our curriculum includes a wide variety of subjects as well as the core building blocks. Subjects include: English, Maths, Science, Humanities, Languages, Arts, Technology, PE and Citizenship Skills. In KS3 students are not given levels or grades, in line with the new primary school curriculum model. We do, however, use a range of information to help us to ensure that all students are challenged and stretched to be the best that they can be.

Key Stage 4 Curriculum

The Key Stage 4 is now taught over three years in order to fulfil the increasing demands for content and skills development at GCSE level.

All students follow a core offer which consists of:

• English Literature and Language
• Mathematics
• Science (Double or Separate Sciences – Biology, Physics, Chemistry)
• PE
• RE

We guide students through the options process so that they can personalise their curriculum by choosing a number of academic, applied and vocational courses. For a complete list of subjects on offer visit our Options Process section to download the latest Year 9 Options booklet.

Key Stage 5 Curriculum

We offer a wide range of both academic A Levels and BTEC/Vocational courses in the Sixth Form according to the demands each year with a great deal of success. Students go on to successfully study a range of courses at University (including the very best ‘Russell Group’ universities), Apprenticeships and employment, using the knowledge and skills they have gained through their years at RBA.