Curriculum Rationale & Overview

We offer an ambitious curriculum that has been carefully designed to equip students with the knowledge and skills needed for life in a 21st Century, diverse United Kingdom and the interconnected world beyond. We have well-qualified, experienced and committed staff who are dedicated to enabling every Gilberdian to achieve the highest standards. The latest resources coupled with evidence-based research is used to support a wide range of teaching and learning strategies that stretch and challenge our students. We balance an emphasis on the English Baccalaureate subjects of English, Mathematics, Science, Geography, History, French and German with more tailored educational pathways at GCSE level. Creative talent is developed through a number of art, design and other practical courses and is complimented by our commitment to a range of creative co-curricular activities.

Character development is central to our school culture. Gilberdians have the opportunity to take part in a diverse programme of co-curricular activities that include competitive team sports, the Combined Cadet Force, The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award and a wide range of Arts, STEM and Humanities based clubs and societies. Coupled with our hugely successful student leadership programme, these opportunities complement the curriculum and help Gilberdians develop a sense of ambition, pride and self-confidence. Personal, Social and Health Education (PSHE), Citizenship and British values and Careers Education are provided through our Future Skills programme. This is delivered by form tutors, dedicated experts in particular fields and where necessary, by external providers.

Fundamental to our successful outcomes is the high value we place upon reading across the curriculum. Students read a broad canon of literature to enhance their vocabulary and deepen their understanding of texts. Accurate and ambitious writing has at its heart, a solid foundation in key vocabulary and a deep understanding of its application. A range of interventions are available to support students who need more support. Numeracy skills are also championed, and students’ mathematical skills are enhanced by a range of inter-school competitions and master classes. STEM is heavily promoted at The Gilberd School, with all students in the lower school studying Computing and Technology.

Within the classroom, a culture of high expectation, ambition and personal responsibility pervades. Students are encouraged to show the highest level of commitment and ambition and as such, challenging, aspirational academic targets are set for all students. We seek to develop ambitious and resilient learners who respond to feedback, problem-solve and approach new concepts and ideas with confidence. Working collaboratively with peers from diverse backgrounds broadens and enriches the understanding of all students. The value of democracy, debate and an appreciation of different perspectives are central to the richness that our diversity brings. It is threaded throughout our curriculum, classroom practice and built environment. We seek opportunities to celebrate student success and individual creativity and create a sense of pride in our students’ learning and co-curricular achievements.

Our curriculum is reviewed annually to ensure it continues to meet the needs of all students and remains relevant in an ever-changing world.