At Key Stage 3 (KS3), our curriculum is designed to provide students with a comprehensive and enriching educational experience that aligns with the National Curriculum. Our aim is to develop a wide range of skills and foster a deep understanding of various literary genres and historical contexts. 

Our KS3 curriculum emphasizes critical thinking, analytical skills, and creative expression. Through the study of texts such as Shakespeare's The Tempest and Macbeth, students learn to interpret complex language, explore themes of power, ambition, and human nature, and appreciate the richness of Elizabethan drama; the analysis of George Orwell's Animal Farm introduces students to allegory and political satire, encouraging them to think critically about societal structures and historical events. 

We are committed to providing a culturally responsive curriculum that reflects the diverse backgrounds and experiences of our students. In The Tempest, we explore themes of colonisation and the encounter between different cultures, prompting students to consider historical and contemporary issues of power and identity.  

Throughout this subject, we aim to cultivate a love for literature and an appreciation for diverse voices and perspectives. Our Year 9 poetry unit spans various eras and themes, focusing on protest poetry, which helps students understand the power of poetic expression in social and political contexts. By engaging with a range of short stories and autobiographies in Year 8 and 9, students gain insights into different cultures, experiences, and viewpoints, fostering empathy and global awareness. 

Literacy and oracy are integral to our curriculum. We embed these skills through regular reading, writing, and speaking activities. Students are encouraged to articulate their ideas clearly and confidently, both in written assignments and class discussions using the ‘Accountable Talk’ strategies. This focus on literacy and oracy ensures that students develop strong communication skills that are essential for their academic and personal growth. 

Finally, our curriculum is not just about academic excellence but also about personal growth. We embed Spiritual, Moral, Social, and Cultural (SMSC) development throughout our teaching. Through the exploration of diverse texts and themes, students reflect on their own values and beliefs, develop a sense of social responsibility, and learn to appreciate cultural diversity. We encourage students to express their ideas confidently, both in writing and verbally, and to collaborate effectively with their peers. The diverse selection of texts ensures that students are exposed to a variety of literary styles and historical periods, broadening their horizons and preparing them for further studies. 

Overall, our KS3 curriculum is designed to equip students with the skills and knowledge they need to succeed academically while also nurturing their personal development and cultural capital.