Curriculum

We follow a broad curriculum in order to provide a balance that can stimulate the talents of every pupil. The core subjects of English, Mathematics and Science are taught throughout Years 7-11, together with Religious Education, Physical Education and Personal, Social, Citizenship and Health Education (PSCHE),which are compulsory for all year groups.

Years 7 - 9 (Junior Division)
Class sizes are small, with up to 20 pupils. Most groups are mixed ability, with some subjects, such as Mathematics, set by ability where it is educationally advantageous.

In Year 7, 8 and 9, all pupils take French, and in Years 8 and 9 they also choose German or Spanish. The Design Technology programme includes cookery, textiles, ceramics and woodwork for both boys and girls in Year 7 and 8, with the addition of resistant materials and graphic design in Year 9. Year 9 pupils have the opportunity to gain an Award in Digital Applications, which is a qualification in ICT. A whole-school wireless network provides Internet access in all classrooms, further enhancing teaching and learning.

Years 10 - 11 (Middle Division)
In Year 10 and 11, pupils study English, Mathematics and Science, together with four optional subjects. Science can be taken as a co-ordinated course of Biology, Chemistry and Physics that leads to two GCSEs, in Science and Additional Science, or they may take GCSEs in the three separate Sciences.

The Performing Arts of Music, Drama and Dance are an important part of life at Beechwood. More than half the pupils have extra lessons in singing or instrumental music and opportunities to perform are wide and
varied. Pupils of all ages and abilities are encouraged to take part in a variety of dramatic activities and Theatre Studies is a popular and successful choice for many pupils both at GCSE and A-level.

Sixth Form (Years 12 -13)
Information about the A-level curriculum and all other aspects of the Sixth Form will be found in the Sixth Form Section.