Curriculum at Priestlands School
At Priestlands, we are proud of our broad and balanced curriculum. Ofsted has consistently praised it as a strength of our school. Our teaching is based on proven, evidence-based methods to help every student do their very best.
We set high expectations for all our students. Our school provides:
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Clear and fair behaviour expectations
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Regular progress reports for parents and carers
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Well-planned, high-quality lessons
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A strong focus on helping students improve on their personal best
Our curriculum goes beyond the National Curriculum. All students are taught by qualified subject specialists, and we work hard to create a supportive, motivating environment where every child feels valued and encouraged to succeed.
Teaching time
All students have 25 hours of lesson time each week. This does not include time spent in registration or assemblies.
Curriculum Overview by Year Group
Years 7 and 8
In Years 7 and 8, students follow a wide range of subjects, including:
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English and English Literature
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Mathematics
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Science
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Computing
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French or Spanish
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History and Geography
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Religious Education (RE)
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Art, Drama and Music
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Design Technology or Food & Nutrition
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Physical Education (PE)
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Citizenship and PSHE (Personal, Social, Health and Economic Education)
Maths is taught in ability groups from Year 7. All other lessons are in mixed-ability classes.
Year 9
In Year 9, students continue with:
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English and English Literature
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Mathematics
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Science
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Their chosen language
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PE, Citizenship and PSHE
They also start to make some choices about what they study. Students can select from subjects such as:
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Art
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Drama
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Food & Nutrition
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Geography
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History
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Music
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Additional PE
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Religious Education
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Design Technology
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A second language (French, Spanish or German)
This flexible approach allows us to support all learners—whether they need extra help, more challenge, or different learning styles.
Years 10 and 11 (GCSE Years)
All students in Years 10 and 11 study core GCSE subjects:
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English and English Literature
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Mathematics
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Science (combined or triple sciences)
They also take part in non-exam courses such as PE, RE, Citizenship, Careers, Enterprise and Health. Some students may also study Further Maths or Horticulture as enrichment options.
Students can choose from a wide range of GCSE options, including:
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Art
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Business Studies
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Child Development
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Computing
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Design Technology
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Drama
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Food & Nutrition
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French, Spanish or German
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Geography
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History
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Music
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Photography
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Physical Education
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Religious Studies
This variety ensures that all students can follow a path that suits their strengths and interests, preparing them for success in further education or work.
