Biddenham Courses 2011-2014

The Way Ahead

The time has come for our Year 9s to choose their GCSE/Level 2 courses moving forward. This is, in many ways, an important process not least in the fact that this is the first time in their educational journey that our students can begin to personalise their education; focus on what they like doing for a proportion of their week and choose subjects on which they can be successful.

For us the curriculum needs to provide challenge, motivation and progression, allowing the development of independent learning skills whilst equipping our students with the knowledge they need. What is on offer is an opportunity for students to specialise or maintain breadth. Whatever our students do they will not close down pathways in the future. These choices allow our students to access both academic and vocational courses which we feel is important.

It is our view that young people must be equipped with new ways of thinking involving creativity, critical analysis, problem solving and decision making; new ways of working including communication and collaboration; and the capacity to recognise and exploit the potential of new technologies. This, coupled with excellent teaching, is enshrined in the curriculum presented to you here.

To support this process, there is a whole framework of advice and guidance over the coming weeks and we look forward to seeing you on our Option evening on Wednesday 19th October 2011.

We start these GCSEs straight after the October half term this year and we hope that the chosen subjects add a new dimension to the weekly timetable and that this ushers in the beginning of the next exciting phase in the life-long journey of learning and personal achievement.

David Bailey
Head Teacher