Senior School Curriculum

At Bancroft’s, we believe in providing a rich and varied curriculum that challenges, excites, and prepares our pupils for the future. From their first day in the Third Form (Year 7) to the end of their GCSEs, our pupils experience a dynamic and well-rounded education.

Third Form (Year 7) and Removes (Year 8)

In the Third Form, pupils study seventeen subjects, expanding to eighteen in the Removes with the addition of Latin. Lessons take place in mixed-ability groups, with setting in Maths only. Science is taught as a combined course, covering Physics, Chemistry, and Biology while also emphasising the connections between these disciplines and the broader principles of scientific thinking.

Language learning is a key part of the curriculum. Pupils select two languages from French, German, and Spanish, with lessons catering to both beginners and those with prior experience. In the Removes, they continue with their chosen languages and begin Latin as a new subject.

Creative and technical subjects are also at the heart of the curriculum. All pupils study Music, Drama, Art, Design Technology, and ICT. In the Removes, the ICT course shifts focus from core functional skills to computer programming in Python.

Being Bancroft’s Enrichment Programme

Beyond their academic subjects, pupils follow the ‘Being Bancrofts’ programme—an enrichment curriculum designed to broaden intellectual curiosity, encourage service and volunteering, and provide opportunities for trips, visits, and sporting activities.

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Lower Fourth (Year 9) – Expanding Horizons

In the Lower Fourth, pupils continue to study at least one modern foreign language and one classical subject (Latin, Greek, or Classical Civilisation). They then have the option to take either a second modern language or an additional classical subject.

As they develop their interests, pupils also select two creative and technological subjects from:

  • Music
  • Drama
  • Art
  • Design Technology
  • Computer Programming

GCSE Years – Choice and Challenge

At GCSE, pupils study six core subjects:

  • Maths
  • English Language
  • English Literature
  • Biology
  • Chemistry
  • Physics

They also take at least one modern foreign language.

Beyond this, pupils choose three additional subjects from a list of seventeen options. We design option blocks based on student choice, ensuring maximum flexibility and individualised learning pathways.

For those in the top Maths sets, we offer an accelerated course, allowing pupils to sit their GCSE at the end of Year 10. In Year 11, they continue with an enriched Maths course, culminating in the Additional Maths qualification (FSMQ).

Alongside their GCSE subjects, all pupils continue to participate in:

  • Games and PE
  • The Learning for Life programme

This approach ensures that every pupil receives a well-rounded educat

The teachers here are so considerate and caring here and I know that if I have any concerns, they are dealt with immediately.

Lucas (Thirds)

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