Curriculum Overview
Overview of the curriculum
The Sir John Lawes' curriculum is innovative and flexible. It is underpinned by the desire to maximise achievement whilst allowing students to enjoy learning. In addition to providing enrichment and excitement our curriculum also allows us to provide extra support for those that need it. We allow for maximum flexibility so that students can play to their strengths.
Across the whole curriculum we run enrichment days such as our Learning to Learn days held in the autumn term every year where students have the opportunity to think about themselves as effective learners. In the spring term we hold an International Day where students consider and explore international development and sustainability issues.
Key Stage 3 curriculum
The Key Stage 3 curriculum is broad and balanced including English, Maths, Science, Humanities, Languages, Arts, Technology, PE and Life Skills. Curriculum options are available from Year 7 onwards and most students follow a two-year Key Stage 3 which allows increased flexibility and choice in Year 9 and beyond.
Key Stage 4 curriculum
In Key Stage 4 all students follow a core offer which consists of:
- English
- Maths
- Science
- PE
- RS
- Life Skills
Even within the core offer there is scope for personalisation. For example:
- In Science many students will study the triple Sciences of Physics, Chemistry and Biology, whilst others complete the dual award Combined Science GCSE.
Guided options and alternative curriculum pathways
As well as the core offer, students can choose 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 Options booklet. Choice and diversity is maximised through collaboration with other schools and colleges in Harpenden and St Albans (see Partnerships).
Key Stage 5 curriculum
Information about the Key Stage 5 curriculum and the wide range of courses on offer can be found on the 6th Form pages.
Personalised Learning
From year 7 onwards students are able to make curriculum choices that enable them to tailor-make their education.
We believe that students should have the opportunity to move onto the next stage of their education when they are ready and not have to wait for predetermined ages. For this reason some students are able to fast track in appropriate subjects, whilst others may require booster lessons in particular curriculum areas or extra literacy support to ensure they maximise their potential.
For some students an applied or vocational pathway is more appropriate in Key Stage 4 or Key Stage 5 and a suite of qualifications are available either at Sir John Lawes or in collaboration with our partners. The options are numerous and range from a Level 1 construction course at Oaklands College to a Level 3 engineering diploma.
