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Curriculum Overview

Curriculum Overview

During Pre-16 studies, most students take eight to ten examination subjects in (I)GCSE. In addition, some students opt for Level 2 BTEC courses.

 

Compulsory Subjects: English Language, World Literature, Mathematics (Foundation or Higher), Science Double or Triple Award (Biology, Chemistry, Physics), or Combined Science and Integrated Science course for students not interested in further study of the sciences, and Languages (Foreign Language Chinese, French or Spanish and First Language Chinese).

 

Optional Subjects: Business Studies, Economics, Geography, History, Psychology, Philosophy & Religion, Art & Design: Fine Arts, Art & Design: Textiles, Computer Science, Dance, Design & Technology, Drama, Music, BTEC Digital Design, Food Technology, BTEC Engineering, BTEC Multimedia Production, Physical Education.

West Island School is an inclusive school and offers four pathways to students for their final two years of study. All students complete a sports programme and Creativity, Activity, Service (CAS) component to ensure a holistic approach to their learning. 

Years 7 to 9 (IB MYP)

IB Middle Years Programme (MYP)

 

In Year 7 to Year 9, we offer IB MYP (Middle Years Programme).

 

Students study the following MYP subjects:

 

  • Arts (Visual Arts, Music, Multimedia Production and Theatre)
  • Design (Computer Science, Digital Design, Engineering Design, & Food and Nutrition)
  • Language acquisition (Chinese is compulsory, and learners also study a choice of French or Spanish)
  • Language and Literature (English)
  • Individuals and Societies (Geography & History)
  • Mathematics
  • Physical and Health Education
  • Sciences (Biology, Chemistry, Physics)

 

Find out more about IB MYP at West Island School.  

 

 

Years 10 to 11 (I/GCSE, BTEC Level 2)

In Years 10 & 11, we offer IGCSE and BTEC courses were students will continue to study the following core curriculum:

 

  • English language and literature (English)
  • Language acquisition (Chinese and French or Spanish)
  • Mathematics
  • Physical and Health Education 
  • Sciences (Biology, Chemistry, Physics)

Students also personalise their programmes by choosing three additional subjects from any combination within the following areas:

 

  • Business
  • Computer Science
  • Dance
  • Digital Design
  • Economics
  • Engineering
  • Fine Art
  • Food Preparation & Nutrition
  • Geography
  • History
  • Multimedia Production
  • Music
  • Psychology
  • Physical Health & Education
  • Product Design
  • Theatre

'Future Proofing' Curriculum:

We are also committed to equipping our learners for the jobs of the future - roles that may not yet exist. According to the World Economic Forum, the "fourth industrial revolution" emphasises the importance of skills such as creativity, complex problem-solving, and emotional intelligence. To prepare our students, we offer an additional 'Future Proofing' curriculum that allows students to customise a range of experiences through non-examined courses over their two-year programme. This approach ensures that they are not only ready for today but also equipped to thrive in tomorrow's workforce.

 

Find out more about West Island School Pre 16 Options.

Years 12 to 13 (IB DP, IB CP, BTEC Level 3, Engineering)

 

After Year 11, students choose once more to prepare themselves for future university or employment opportunities.

 

We offer a range of Post-16 pathways including:

 

Self Photos / Files - IB1

 
- Students choose two or three BTEC subjects from a suite of five, which is combined with any two or three IB Diploma subjects taken at either HL or SL. Alongside the IBCP Core of Personal and Professional Skills, Community Engagement, Language and Cultural Studies and the Community Project.
 
  • International Diploma

- Students choose three BTEC subjects from a suite of five, alongside up to two IB Diploma subjects at HL or SL and the Pearson Extended Project Qualification).

 

  • Foundation Diploma- A choice of individual courses designed to meet individual learning needs)

 

Students of all ages engage in lessons that equip them for the challenges they may encounter during their teenage years. This includes topics such as relationships and sex education, emotional intelligence, and digital citizenship.

 

All students take part in our extracurricular programmes, including Community Action and Service (CAS), in every year group.


Find our more about West Island School Post 16 Options.

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