The Middle School covers Key Stage 4, Years 10 and 11 in which students prepare for and take their GCSE examinations.

As in the Lower School the curriculum studied is broad and balanced but with more scope for individual choice of subjects. Each student takes English, Mathematics, Science, French and Information and Communications Technology. Options are drawn from Geography, History, Religious Studies, Art, Drama, Music, Business Studies, Design and Technology, Physical Education, German and Latin. There are also, but non examinations, in Citizenship, Moral and Social Studies, Personal, Social and and Health Education and Physical Education.

There are two elements to the majority of GCSE courses:
1. An examination set by the independent examining board;
2. Coursework. Assignments which are not done under examination conditions, but carry a percentage of marks towards the final grade.

These qualifications are the key to entry to the Sixth Form, university entrance and ultimately the widest possible career opportunities. The GCSE year is a time when the home-school partnership is at its most vital.

Students and their parents can approach the Head of Middle School at any time to discuss problems which are causing concern. Subject teachers are always available to talk to parents, too, so that any difficulties can be tackled quickly and effectively.

The main ways of reporting a student’s progress to parents are written reports and parents’ evenings. Year 10 reports are sent home in May after the Year 10 examinations. Year 11 reports are sent home in January after the Mock GCSE examinations. Parents’ evenings are held in December for Year 10 and November for Year 11. Students are always welcome to attend with their parents.

Sometimes parents will be contacted by the school if there is particular concern about a student’s work or welfare. Conversely, if parents are concerned about their son they should not hesitate to contact the school immediately so that a meeting can be arranged at which the problem can be discussed.

The Head of Middle School, like all the Heads of Key Stages, monitors progress and identifies those who can benefit from special attention, either because they are having difficulties accessing the curriculum or because they are specially gifted.

More information about these important years is contained in the Middle School information section of the School’s Student Planner.