Curriculum
We offer a broad and balanced curriculum at The Stanway School, ensuring all statutory obligations are met.
We are dedicated to ensuring that students are given opportunities to develop and enhance skills for their future learning and for life in the UK. Students study all subjects in Key Stage 3 for 2 years, when they then select from a broad range of option choices to begin their GCSE Key Stage 4 studies from the start of Year 9. The two-year Key Stage 3 programme develops students’ knowledge, skills and understanding needed for the demanding GCSE curriculum at Key Stage 4 whilst also deepening their knowledge and understanding of wider concepts.
Our curriculum challenges and stretched students; there is a focus on the English Baccalaureate (EBacc) subjects (English, Mathematics, Science, Computing, Geography, History, French, German and Spanish), but time is given to also develop creativity and flare in other areas, such as Art, Music, Drama and Technology, which includes opportunities to study Food, Textiles, Graphics, Electronics and Resistant Materials. Alongside this encompassing curriculum, there is an extensive range of extracurricular activities that students can choose to take part in, including very successful STEM groups that take part and progress in national and international competitions. Regular Interhouse competitions keep creativity and performance at the centre of the school community, with activities ranging from sports to DT challenges, Mathematics competitions and public speaking presentations, to name a few.
We believe students should constantly develop skills in literacy and numeracy throughout their time at Stanway and to this end, these elements run as a focus through the curriculum. In lessons, literacy and numeracy skills are consistently nurtured; in tutor time, competitions and activities raise the profile and students’ interest. Timely interventions for numeracy and literacy are programme throughout the year to improve students’ skills where this is a challenge.
High expectations run through all areas of the curriculum; aspirational targets are set for all students. In all year groups, careers guidance gives students independent advice for their future aspirations, which is strengthened by regular visits from professionals and organisations. As a result, destination of our students following their time at Stanway shows progression for all our young people, with many pursuing further education at the two local grammar sixth forms.
Staff and students develop a ‘can do’ attitude and Growth Mindset has developed into Mastery. Through rigorous and targeted assessments, students progress through their curriculum, developing independence and resilience.
Students’ behaviour for learning is exemplary and this is modelled by staff in all areas of the school. Weekly assemblies are held to allow students to reflect on life in 21st Century Britain and to further understand the British values of democracy, the rule of law, individual liberty, respect and tolerance.
Daily tutor time enables staff to deliver an effective and extensive programme of PSHE. Citizenship and Beliefs, Philosophy & Ethics lesson also build upon this programme, leading our students to become informed, responsible young adults when they leave The Stanway School.
Through our effective, established and successful curriculum, students from all backgrounds and abilities leave Stanway prepared for the next steps, ready to continue their journey of learning in this rapidly changing world.