Curriculum

We are an inclusive academy with great ambitions for every child. We believe a first-class education should be a right, not a privilege, and our staff work daily to make this a reality. The quality of education determines future choices, and our motto “Libertas per cultura” (freedom through education) drives our curriculum. More choices equate to greater future freedom.

We pride ourselves on excellent exam results but strive for more. Our curriculum fosters not only academic success but also character development, including British values, leadership, healthy relationships, and physical and mental health. All students engage in our comprehensive careers curriculum, equipping them with qualifications, knowledge, and lifelong skills to be societal assets. Our extensive co-curricular program enhances cultural capital and provides memorable experiences.

Teachers continuously assess students' understanding through various methods, from “Do Now” activities to regular questioning. They adapt instruction to support and challenge every student. Our weekly instructional coaching ensures continuous improvement in teaching.

Our core values – Knowledge, Aspiration, and Respect – underpin everything we do, ensuring an excellent education in a warm, safe, and caring environment. Please see below for our academic subjects, which detail what and how we teach each subject and outline our students' curriculum journey.

Curriculum Structure

Key Stage 3 

Art and Design Technology are single periods per week in year 7 and double periods on rotation in years 8 and 9. These include cookery, textiles and resistant materials.

Subject	Teaching periods per week
English	5
Science	4
Maths	4
History	3
Geography	2
Religious Studies	1
Spanish	2
Latin	2
Computing	1
Art/DT	2
Drama	1
Music	1
PE	1

 Key Stage 4

Core Curriculum Subjects:

• English
• Maths
• Science
• Physical Education

Yr 10 & Yr 11 Options Subjects:

• Art & Design
• Business Studies
• Citizenship
• Classical Civilisations 
• Computer Science
• Design Technology
• Drama
• Geography 
• History
• Latin
• Music
• Physical Education
• Religious Studies
• Spanish
• Triple Science  

Key Stage 5

• Art and Design
• Biology
• Business Studies
• Chemistry
• Classical Civilisations
• Computing
• English Literature
• Film Studies
• Geography
• Health and Social Care
• History
• Latin
• Mathematics and Further Mathematics
• Media Studies
• Music
• Performing Arts
• Physical Education
• Physics
• Politics
• Psychology
• Sociology
• Spanish
• Sport Studies

Art & Design

At Barclay Academy, we place high premium on the teaching of the creative arts. The creation of visual art is a key part of what makes us human, and can be found across all world cultures throughout human history. The study of art is therefore essential to developing our students’ cultural literacy, their appreciation of different cultures, and their understanding of the different forces which have shaped our world today. The opportunity for students to create their own works of art is equally important, giving them a chance to channel their ideas through a variety of media, and to express themselves in a positive outlet. Most importantly, we want our students to develop an appreciation of visual art and culture that will last them a lifetime.

KS3

At Barclay Academy, all students in Key Stage 3 study art. In Years 7, 8 and 9, art lessons have been designed to develop our students’ fundamental artistic knowledge and skills, skills which will provide the foundations for their future understanding and appreciation of art.  In year 7, students learn the formal elements of art and design. We focus on drawing skills, shape, tone, colour theory and mark making before applying them to different projects. After students have learnt about different areas of art they investigate how art elements are used in different cultures around the world. In year.8 students will learn about an influential modern art movement, which has produced some of the art world’s most iconic artists. We investigate pinnacle moments within the artists’ body of work and recreate drawings associated with their style. For our year.8 sustained project, we revisit prior knowledge of art elements as well as learning new drawing techniques to create various outcomes associated with insects. In year 9, the first cultural project introduces elements used within Mexican folk art designs before moving onto how art is used in festivities of Day of the Dead. The second project is portraiture, where students will learn to draw realistic features of the face and develop new skills to experiment with different mediums through artist research.

KS4

At Barclay Academy, we follow the AQA specification in Art and Design: Fine Art, a challenging but rewarding course in which students have the chance to develop their individual creative abilities. The GCSE coursework explores themes within natural forms. Students build a creative portfolio that incorporates many different aspects of art and design techniques and builds upon the skills learnt at KS3. They are encouraged to experiment with materials and outcomes as well as develop a thoroughly investigated independent project. Furthermore, students are also required to develop their skills of independence and resilience, using their portfolios to become self-critical and self-reflective as well as to document and evidence their artistic processes and engagement within the topics.

KS5

An Art A-level is an exciting and challenging course which develops students’ historical and cultural appreciation of art, refines their artistic processes and skills, and prepares them for their journey into the creative industry. At Barclay, we follow the AQA specification in Art and Design: Fine Art. Progressing from their studies of the different artistic mediums and disciplines at GCSE, students start to identify the key strengths and interests that they want to develop. Art history and theory is taught at a higher level so students can explore connections within their own projects. Students begin the course with a boosted mini projects that explore areas of art such as stitch, architecture, typography/graphics, portraiture and printmaking, which helps to inform them when identifying their strengths and choosing their personal individual theme and project content.

Business Studies 

Business studies is a subject that has great significance and relevance in each and every day of our lives. From personal finance to political agendas, from taxation to macroeconomics and the capitalist society in which we live; business is relevant to all.

Whilst studying business we explore the world around us and look at how and why businesses do the things they do: the factors which motivate them to take the actions they take and that impact on our daily lives. Studying Business builds analytical and evaluative skills by utilising real world issues that are both current and relevant to our lives.

KS4

At Key Stage 4, Barclay students follow the Edexcel GCSE Business 9-1 specification, a comprehensive course which consist of two themes:

• Investigating Small Business (Year 10) 
• Building a Business (Year 11)

Year 10 students look at case studies and identify the skills which entrepreneurs need to increase their chances of success. Topics such as branding, market research and stakeholder analysis are studied to identify the shared traits of successful business owners. Students gain a holistic perspective of how a business might be ran to increase profit, to boost chances of survival, and to promote financial success. By the end of the year, students will have also considered wider themes of macroeconomics, alongside real-world areas such as taxation, inflation, the economic cycle and unemployment.

In Year 11, students move onto larger businesses, exploring how businesses grow and become market leaders. They will explore crucial and critical concepts such as marketing, human resource management, operations management, accounting and finance, with a practical view to giving them the skills to become successful entrepreneurs later on in life.

KS5

At A-Level, our students follow on, with the Edexcel A-Level course, which provides them with continuity, course coherence and the chance to build upon cumulative knowledge. The qualification consists of four themes studied over two years: marketing and people; managing business activities; business decisions and strategy; and global business. Students will explore wider themes of globalisation, finance, HR, decision-making, strategy, and the global market. Again, the skills gained throughout this course are an excellent base to continue on to university; 20-mark questions require superb analytical and evaluation skills requiring students to link several different sources information. The answers need to be written in a logical and flowing fashion which a key skill developed during this course and a key requirement of university study.

 Citizenship 

Citizenship Studies at Barclay Academy will enable pupils to deepen their knowledge of democracy and government, the law, rights, and responsibilities and how we live together in society. This course is part of a GCSE qualification and follows the OCR specification. Students learn how the British society works and the way they can become responsible and active citizens within their community and globally. Human Rights, Legal systems, Trade unions, Pressure groups, Migration and movement, International organisations like United Nations, NATO, WHO are among the many areas students explore, critically think and evaluate. There is an opportunity for students to get involved in an active citizenship project to raise awareness and or make a change. 

Classical Civilisation

At Barclay Academy, students have the opportunity to study Classical Civilisation at Key Stage 4 and Key Stage 5. This subject allows them to explore life in ancient Greece and Rome over a wide time period, and to see the impact these civilisations have had on our own culture. The study of these civilisations, including their literature, myth, culture, beliefs, history, and archaeological remains, builds on students’ study of Latin and Roman history at Key Stage 3, allowing them to develop their own interests in the subject and pursue a highly academic, multidisciplinary, and engaging subject.

KS4

In GCSE Classical Civilisation, students follow the OCR specification, a rigorous and varied course which challenges students and allows them to gain in-depth knowledge of the ancient Mediterranean. At GCSE, students begin their study of the ancient world by exploring the Greek and Roman gods and religious practices, including sacrifice and temples; over the course of Year 10, students develop their appreciation of these cultures by studying the presentation and significance of heroes such as Heracles and Theseus, ancient festivals, and myths and beliefs surrounding death and the afterlife. In Year 11, students begin to explore the Mycenaean period of Greek history, learning about the archaeological remains of this fascinating culture and its Linear B language; at the same time, we read Homer’s Odyssey, one of the most important and exciting works of the ancient world, an epic which details Odysseus’ return to Ithaca from the Trojan War and his encounters with gods and monsters along the way.

KS5

An A Level in Classical Civilisation provides a broad, coherent, and rewarding study of the literature, drama, thought, and art of ancient Greece and Rome. At Barclay Academy, students can pursue A Level Classical Civilisation, following the OCR specification, in order to further develop their understanding and appreciation of the ancient world. This course gives students the opportunity to engage critically with and interrogate a range of sources, gain understanding of competing identities and their interaction, and to develop sophisticated cultural and political literacy. Students study Greek and Roman epic poetry in great detail, including its cultural and political significance, as well as exploring the conventions and practical aspects of Athenian drama, and attitudes to love and relationship held by philosophers and poets writing at the time. The broad focus of this A Level allows students to study Greek and Roman epic, drama, philosophy, and history, and to develop highly-sought-after skills of critical thinking and analysis.

 Computing

In the rapidly developing world of the 21st century, a high degree of IT literacy is crucial to success. Now more than ever before, it is essential for school-leavers to have the ability to keep up with evolving trends in digital media and technology: if a long-lasting career is wanted, the IT and computing industry is a safe bet to enter. The study of Computer Science is a wide-ranging subject, encompassing practical elements of computing, such as coding and programming, as well as broader questions such as the ethics of technology. All students at Barclay will be computer literate by the time they leave, having developed skills pertaining to Microsoft Office programs, graphic creation, and some form of coding.

KS3

In year 7, the focus at the start, is how to navigate around a computer system, ensuring knowledge of strong passwords and folder structures. We move on to the increasingly important aspects of e-safety and how to stay safe online whilst discussing the importance of netiquette – being polite online and making the internet a less antagonistic place.  Utilising Microsoft Word students will create posters about online dangers and know where to find help. We then move on to studying ethical world issues utilising PowerPoint presentations; the idea is to allow students to cover topics that are personally important to them whilst learning important MS Office applications.

In year 8, students study the creative side of computing using an online version of the professional package: Photoshop. They create digital content that will later be utilised in their websites, which is their first experience of a coding language.  E-Safety is revisited again.

In year 8, students study the creative side of computing using an online version of the professional package: Photoshop. They create digital content that will later be utilised in their websites, which is their first experience of a coding language.  E-Safety is revisited again

Year 9 can be considered GCSE ‘lite’. We cover several aspects of the GCSE in a more lightweight form, so students who progress onto GCSE have a basic knowledge before they start it, and also a greater understanding of the topic, so they know if it something they would like to study at a higher level.

KS4

GCSE Computer Science follows the OCR specification, a rigorous course which helps them to develop and refine their skills in technical areas such as algorithms and programming. They also begin to consider the broader picture, exploring the key legal and ethical concerns which surround our modern-day society and its growing reliance upon technology. The course specifically focuses upon developing students’ computational thinking and problem-solving skills, as they learn how to code for specific purposes and with specified outcomes. Students are encouraged both to develop their understanding of core concepts and also to apply this knowledge through the devising of creative solutions. The language we study is Python.

KS5 

At key stage 5, the course aims to expand and improve upon previous knowledge gained, going further into the depths of programming  and giving the students a deeper ability to solve problems and code solutions. The A-Level is a great foundation for further study at university or to gain access to some form of computing apprenticeship. We continue with OCR  course to allow a continuation and smooth incremental gaining of understanding and knowledge.

Design & Technology

At Barclay Academy, design and technology comprises of a number of specific disciplines, such as project design and food technology. The study of DT provides opportunities for all students to develop their understanding of the design and manufacturing industries, and to implement this knowledge creatively in their own projects. The subject provides practical learning experiences: students are given the opportunity to design, make and evaluate products, as well as to explore and experience the wider world. They may go on visits, study pictures and digital media, or explore and take apart different products. In the workshop, students create their own projects, and benefit significantly from the task of monitoring and analysing their own progress and evaluating the quality of their work. We have noted that the intense levels of concentration and personal investment that are involved in a task often greatly improves students’ attention span, persistence and commitment.

KS3

At Key Stage 3, students at Barclay Academy study a wide range of areas within the broader discipline of design and technology, ranging from product design to food preparation and nutrition. Students learn key theoretical and practical knowledge, explore case studies, and implement their newly-acquired knowledge into their own projects. In so doing, they develop their capabilities for problem-analysis, solution-finding and research methods. They also explore the impact of technology upon the world around them, considering trends of technology in the rapidly-developing 21st century as well as considering the ethical, legal and cultural impacts of future technological developments.

KS4

Taking a GCSE in DT prepares students to participate confidently and successfully in our increasingly technological world. At Barclay Academy, we follow the AQA specification in Design and Technology. This course allows students to study core technical and design principles, including a broad range of design processes, materials techniques and equipment. They will also have the opportunity to study specialist technical principles in greater depth. Students who opt to take this course will get the invaluable opportunity to apply their technical and practical expertise in the design and manufacture of their own products. They will also develop a greater awareness of the role and impact of technology in our world today, exploring historical, social, cultural, environmental and economic factors.

Drama & Performing Arts

Performing Arts is the study of both the practical skills required by performers in the theatre and dance industries, as well as the theoretical study of the development of drama and the creative industry. The study of Performing Arts focus on a range of skills that are needed within the industry and across other aspects of our lives to ensure that we are equipped as individuals to communicate, work effectively with others, and be creative – whoever we choose to be!

KS3

In Years 7, 8 and 9, all students study drama and dance; this ensures that all students have the opportunity to explore a range of genres and styles within the performing arts industries. They explore how these genres or styles have been created; how they have developed over time, how they have influenced, and been influenced by, the world around them; and how to analyse them. In their practical studies, students develop their ability to devise and choreograph their own performance work when working collaboratively with their peers and develop their understanding of characterisation when performing from professional scripts.

• In Year 7, students explore the foundations of modern theatre, studying Greek Theatre. They progress to the cornerstone of English drama, William Shakespeare, looking at Much Ado About Nothing, and finally consider modern and contemporary drama and dance such as Stomp, Matilda: The Musical, and Bollywood.
• Year 8 students explore the dramatic genre of Commedia dell’Arte, drama practitioners such as Bertolt Brecht and Konstantin Stanislavski whose theories have shaped the development of drama over time. They also explore physical theatre and contemporary dance, identifying and exploring how movement and the body influences storytelling and communication.
• In Year 9, students study Verbatim where they focus on using real events to create work that educates the audience, they study in greater depth the processes of devising, the various roles within a theatre production, and how the arts have influenced the lives of young people.

KS4

At Barclay, Key Stage 4 students have the opportunity to study GCSE Drama. This course provides opportunities for students to understand and create drama as a practical art form. They develop a range of theatrical skills and work collaboratively to generate and communicating ideas and meanings through informed artistic choices. They study this in three sections; devising, performance and theory. Students create their own drama performances by devising in small groups from a stimulus and this is accompanied by a piece of written coursework that documents their research, experiences and progress. They also study professional repertoire through practical experiences where they perform two extracts from a play. Both the devising and performance units can be completed as a designer instead of a performer. Within the theoretical learning, students study one play in depth to gain a full understanding of the content, context and variety of roles that are involved in the production of a play. They also have the opportunity to see at least one piece of live theatre, where they analyse the effects that this can have on an audience member. 

KS5

In our Sixth Form, students who choose to continue their study in performing arts work towards a Level 3 BTEC. They write an analytical report that compares two practitioners and their works, focusing on how they explore the same theme in different ways. They also develop their own practical development as actors and performers through scripted performances in a variety of theatrical styles, as well as through devised and improvised performance for a specific target audience. The development of skills throughout this course focus on their understanding of the requirements of a performer and their role within the performing arts industry.

English

The study of English literature and language opens doors to for all students. We communicate through language, and our culture and nation has been shaped by language and literature. It is quite literally the foundation of who we are today. In English, students build a connection with the past through the study of key works of literature throughout history, and develop their own writing skills by analysing these texts and reading widely. At Barclay Academy, we highly value the importance of students studying classic literature. Through exposure to high-quality and critically-acclaimed texts, we hope to develop our students’ cultural literacy, which we believe is intrinsic to social and professional success in modern society, as well as to nurture a lifelong passion for reading.

KS3

At Barclay Academy, we follow a bespoke and rigorous English curriculum. As students move through the chronological curriculum, the narrative of the development of the English literary tradition gradually unfurls. The aim of the course is to promote the highest standards of literacy and communication skills, as well as to develop students’ appreciation of the literary culture that has shaped the world in which we live. Our ultimate goal is that students will leave us with a life-long love of literature and reading that they can take forward with them into their future lives. Each year explores a lens to view each text through such as ‘The Hero’ in year 7. Texts studied range from the Ancient Greek Epic The Odyssey, to the plays of William Shakespeare, and to the detective story Murder on the Orient Express.

KS4

All students at Barclay Academy study both English literature and language at GCSE level. We follow the AQA specification for both courses. In their studies of English literature, we aim to provide students with a broad understanding of a variety of literary classics. They take a trip to Dickens' Victorian England via the lens of the miser Ebenezer Scrooge, and explore Priestley's socialist viewpoint on capitalism through An Inspector Calls. They look at the fall of the ‘dead butcher and his fiend-like Queen’ in Macbeth and explore the concepts of power and conflict in poetry. Students develop fluency in the classic literary corpus, gain an appreciation of the heritage of English literature, and become keen and able critics, equipped with the tools to analyse and discuss texts with fluency. Alongside literature, our students also study English language. This course helps to develop students' ability to read both fiction and non-fiction texts for meaning, building up a range of skills that they can use to analyse texts critically, and to demonstrate their understanding logically and articulately. Students build upon their knowledge of the workings of the English language to compose their own pieces of transactional and creative writing, and are encouraged to use high levels of vocabulary, varied structures, and an engaging, genre-appropriate tone and style.

KS5

At Barclay Academy, we follow the AQA A-Level in English Literature A-Level, a course characterised by its engaging and dynamic approach to learning. Through a wide variety of literature, our students develop their communication and critical analysis skills, gain confidence in expressing their ideas articulately, and learn how to prepare for written examinations in poetry, prose and drama. The general aim of the A-Level course is to encourage students to develop interest and enjoyment in literary studies through reading widely, critically and independently. In their two years of study, students will be exposed to a range of classic and contemporary texts centred on the themes of tragedy and social and political protest writing. We hope that, in so doing, they will be introduced to new texts that will challenge their views on complex social and historical issues.

Film

Film is a relevant and exciting medium, the use of which can have a profound effect on the way we see the world. Film studies is much more than simply watching films, but is, instead, a highly-regarded academic discipline, encompassing both the critical, historical and cultural study of the film industry as well as analysis of ‘film form’.

KS5

At A-Level, we follow the WJEC specification in film studies. This is a wide-ranging and varied course, designed both to include a wide variety of engaging and innovative examples from British, American and global cinema, as well as to broaden and deepen students’ understanding of the world and its diversity. Students will develop their practical and creative skills through the exciting opportunity either to write for screen or to make and edit their own films. They will also explore the depiction of different cultures, people and places in film and, in so doing, will be encouraged to keep an open mind and question their own ideas about gender, race, equality, nationality and British values.

Geography 

The study of geography develops in students an inquisitive and insatiable curiosity about the world around them and builds up a bank of extensive knowledge about the world and its people that will remain with them for the rest of their lives.

The subject encompasses the study of both human and physical geography, covering a diverse range of places, people, resources and natural and human environments, as well as the world’s key physical processes.

Geography will provide you with knowledge and transferable skills that will reward you personally and advance you professionally. 

Understanding of the interdependence of Earth’s human and physical systems is important for young people who are going to be future decision-makers in the world. 

KS3

At Barclay Academy, all students study geography at Key Stage 3.

In Year 7, students are introduced to the concept of ‘place’, and develop their key skills of maps and map-work. They then progress onto the physical processes of rivers and flooding before considering economic impacts and resources management. 

In Year 8, students explore and deepen their knowledge of global processes and places, studying units on climate and climate change. They then embark on a case study of Asia, considering both its climate and its population and settlements.

Year 9 students begin the year with one of the cornerstone topics of geography, plate tectonics. They investigate the seismic and volcanic hazards associated with plate boundaries, and how tectonic hazards cause disasters and impact humans across the globe. They also explore the case study of Africa and Middle East

KS4

Students opting to take a GCSE in Geography at Barclay Academy follow the AQA specification. This exciting course is based on a balanced framework of physical and human geography, building upon the knowledge they have accumulated at Key Stage 3. It allows students to investigate the link between the two themes, and approach and examine the battles between the man-made and natural worlds. Students are encouraged to use their geographical knowledge critically when exploring such topics as natural hazards and the challenges they pose, deforestation and sustainability, urbanisation and the issues and challenges of human settlements, and the global challenge of resource management. In so doing, they address key and pressing questions of ethical, cultural and social significance. Students also complete their own geographical investigations and fieldwork.

KS5

At A-Level, we follow the Edexcel specification in geography (the Pearson Edexcel Level 3 Advanced GCE). This course is a rigorous and fascinating combination of physical and human geography, including further study of key topics such as plate tectonics and environmental change, alongside pressing human issues such as globalisation, superpowers, migration and identity. Geography is a multifaceted and wide-ranging discipline, and A-Level students also carry out their own geographical investigation – this 4,000 word project allows them to explore an exciting topic, question or issue that they find personally fascinating.

Health & Social Care

Health and Social Care is a vocational BTEC course which prepares students looking to enter the fitness or health industries. As such, it helps to develop student’s understanding of the practicalities of working in this sector, alongside building up a core foundation of knowledge relating to human health and development.

KS5

Sixth Form students at Barclay have the opportunity to study for a BTEC Level 3 National Award in Health and Social Care, which is equivalent to an A-Level. The course encompasses elements of human biology, sociology, psychology, nutrition, and ethics. Students who choose to take this course will have the opportunity to enter a relevant and rewarding sector that is dedicated to improving the lives of others.

History 

Key Stage 3 students at Barclay Academy study a rigorous historical curriculum, specially designed by our sponsor, Future Academies. This scheme of study has been built around a core structure of historical knowledge and disciplinary concepts that students will utilise at Key Stage 3, GCSE and beyond. Using a chronological framework, students explore not just British history, but also global history, such as the Holocaust, the American and French Revolutions and the Islamic Golden Age. At the end of Year 9, we hope that students will have fostered a passion for the subject, and we expect them to have developed a wide-ranging and in-depth knowledge of the last thousand years of history, both of their local area and of the wider world. In Year 7, students study the development of England, exploring how it developed from an insignificant Roman colony into a European power. They will explore medieval kingship, warfare, revolt and development up until the Wars of the Roses and the start of the early modern period. In Year 8, students begin with a ‘breadth study’ focusing on sanitation through time, before delving into the Stuarts and the Civil War, evaluating why France and America had revolutions but England did not. The year culminates with an evaluation of the successes and failures of the Industrial Revolution and the British Empire.

KS4

At Barclay Academy, GCSE students follow the AQA specification for history. Students have the opportunity to study a depth and breadth of historical periods and topics: modules studied include ‘Health and People from 1000 to the present day’, ‘Germany between 1890-1945’, ‘Conflict and Tension in the inter-war years of 1918-1939’ and ‘Elizabethan England c. 1568- 1603’. Such a broad range of study gives students the ability to see the broader path of chronology, to understand history on both the larger and smaller scale, and to use evidence to analyse critically the significance of key moments in human history. Overall, students will finish the course with a firm understanding of how our modern world has been influenced and shaped by our past. Students will have the chance to experience history in action, participating in our annual and very popular residential trip to Berlin.

KS5

At A-Level, we follow the OCR specification. This exciting course offers a similarly broad and balanced selection of historical topics and periods, with students building upon their Key Stage 3 and Key Stage 4 knowledge and processed through the exploration of such topics as ‘Henry VII and the Tudor dynasty’, ‘Democracy and Dictatorship in Germany, 1919-1963’, and the ‘16th - 17th Centuries ‘Witch Craze’ and Popular Culture’. In the latter, students will undertake three depth studies, in which they will consider sources relating to Germany, Matthew Hopkins and the Essex Witch Hunts, and Salem. They will use their knowledge of this period to inform their source analysis and to critically analyse two historical interpretations. Students will also have the opportunity to carry out a 4,000 word historical investigation around a topic of their own choice, developing their ability to research and plan a piece of persuasive and well-informed extended writing.

Latin

At Barclay Academy, all KS3 students learn Latin. The subject has experienced a dramatic decline in British schools in the last 100 years, and as such, has developed a reputation of elitism. We believe this is an unfair label, and perceive the benefits of the study of Latin should be opened to a wider range of students. Students will develop their literacy and grammar skills, will be exposed a number of classical texts, and will begin to understand the way in which classical Latin has infiltrated the modern world (for example, in abbreviations such as p.s. or a.m. / p.m., or in the stories and figures from classical mythology and literature). Latin helps to nurture students’ skills of rigour, precision, resilience, problem-solving, analysis, and communication, and therefore is a highly-regarded and challenging, but greatly rewarding, subject that is valued by universities and employers. Studying Latin helps to put our students on a more level-footing with their privately-educated peers, and we hope that they develop genuine enthusiasm for, and enjoyment in, the subject.

KS3

At KS3, our students study our bespoke Latin course, written and provided by Future Academies. Our curriculum is distinctive for its emphasis on regular retrieval practice and its focus on cumulatively building up students’ knowledge over time. It provides a carefully sequenced progression model that bolsters all students’ understanding of the foundations of Latin and enables them to make excellent progress. We teach Latin on the principle that student’s best experience and progress in the subject of when cultural interest is combined with grammatical and linguistic precision. Students will build up a strong understanding of Latin vocabulary and grammar, as well as studying key moments in the Classical period, including Roman life and culture, the Homeric Epics, and Rome’s international relationships in the late-Republican era.

KS4 

At KS4, our students are taught in line with the Eduqas specification. Alongside the further development of their language skills, students also have the opportunity to engage in more detailed study of a particular aspect of the Roman world, examining and analysing a range of sources. Learners also read their first original Latin texts, studying extracts from a variety of authors with a focus on a particular theme. This allows students the opportunity to become acquainted with different styles of writing and different outlooks and opinions. Students develop close literary analysis skills and also the broader analysis skills that allow them to use literary texts as sources through which they can deepen their understanding of the ancient world. 

KS5 

At KS5, our students develop an even deeper understanding of the Romans through the study of their language. Students are introduced to prose composition for the first time; the more detailed understanding of grammar and syntax which this requires helps them to advance their unseen translation skills. Learners study four literature texts in depth across the two years, offering students an opportunity to delve into the social, political and historical context of each text, rather than looking at them in isolation. Students further develop their analysis skills, both in terms of close literary analysis and broader thematic analysis of whole texts. We aim for our students to develop analytical and evaluative skills, which enable them to become independent and proactive learners and for them to develop the ability to communicate their arguments in a coherent, convincing way.

The Latin Excellence Programme

Building upon the successes of the Latin Department, in September 2022 Barclay Academy joined the prestigious Latin Excellence Programme, a 4-year Department for Education national initiative aimed at developing and supporting Latin and Classics departments in state maintained schools. Working closely with our Centre for Latin Excellence, Barclay Academy continues to successfully deliver Latin to all pupils, registering one of the highest state sector GCSE uptakes in the country. For more information, please visit Latin Excellence. 

Mathematics 

At Barclay Academy we aim to nurture Mathematical ability and foster an enjoyment of learning Mathematics.

In the Maths Department we use practical and pictorial models to build foundational understanding, working towards more abstract concepts. At Barclay Academy we recognise the importance of strengthening students’ written and verbal explanation abilities, alongside their numeracy to encourage students to think abstractly and critically about Mathematics. We strongly believe in the central role of Mathematics as a core curriculum subject and as a life skill. 

KS3

In KS3 we use the Mastery approach as it aligns with our values and aims. This method builds well-rounded learners with in-depth understanding by exposing students to a range of problems presented in a variety of formats. Furthermore, we use this method to develop students’ ability to think abstractly and critically in familiar and unfamiliar situations, encouraging them to utilise these skills to make links within the curriculum and beyond.   Homework is set weekly by class teachers on Sparx Maths and is used as a tool to support and build upon in-class learning. This online platform allows students to receive instant feedback once assignments are completed while simultaneously enabling class teachers to review answers and so identify areas of strengths and weakness within their classes.

KS4

At Barclay Academy all students study Mathematics at GCSE following the Edexcel specification, at either Higher or Foundation level. The Key Stage 4 Scheme of Learning is adapted from the Pearson Edexcel exemplars.  The course is composed of six key elements: Number, Algebra, Ratio & Proportion, Geometry & Measures, and Probability and Statistics.

In KS4 we recognise the importance of achieving the highest GCSE grade possible.  We work to do this by building, embedding, and consolidating knowledge from KS3 while also emphasising the importance of Mathematics outside the curriculum. During Years 10 and 11 we build on the pictorial representations introduced at Key Stage 3 to further students’ understanding of abstract notations and methods. Additionally, we embolden students to draw on a store of memorable abstract images to develop their strategic and problem-solving abilities in a variety of situations.

Students are empowered to become confident Mathematicians, equipped with Mathematical understanding that can be applied both in Maths and Science, as well as in their daily lives.

KS5

In the Sixth Form, we offer A-Levels in both Mathematics and Further Mathematics. The courses focus on Pure Mathematics and its applications, as well as Applied Mathematics, such as the fields of Statistics, Mechanics and Decision Mathematics.

We use prior knowledge from KS4 higher tier as a foundation upon which to build understanding.  Our department follows an adapted version of the Pearson scheme of learning. We are fortunate to be able to provide our KS5 students with a bespoke set of homework booklets which consolidate learning. These booklets are custom produced by the department and support the A-Level course as taught at Barclay Academy. Comprised of previous exam material, selected and collated by our specialist teachers they are marked internally and are used to give individual, personalised, feedback to students. Furthermore, they enable us to identify misconceptions and areas for improvement and to facilitate enhanced learning and sustained progress.

Through the study of Mathematics students develop high levels of resilience and persistence, as well as the ability to pose questions and challenge ideas.

 Media Studies

A-Level Media Studies teaches students how to analyse the way that media products use language and representations to create meaning. Students learn about the media industry and how the industry affects how media products are made. Students investigate media audiences; exploring who are the people who watch, read and consume the products as well as considering how different people might respond to products differently, and why. Students will study many different media forms, such as Television, Online Media, Advertising and Marketing, Film Marketing, Magazines, Newspapers, Social and Participatory Media, Music Video, Radio, Video Games. 

Over the course of the A Level, students explore and apply critical perspectives including those of world-renowned media and cultural theorists, and will examine how social, historical, political and economic contexts affect media production. Students also have the opportunity to apply what they have learned through the production of your own media texts, exploring and creating media forms such as music videos, magazines, television, websites and film marketing. 

Modern Foreign Languages 

In the increasingly globalised world of the 21st century, the ability to understand and communicate in other languages besides one’s own is invaluable. Therefore, studying a modern language at school is one of the best ways in which we can help our young people succeed, offering students the opportunity to engage with the spoken word, culture and sociology of other countries. All students at Barclay Academy will study Spanish from Year 7, a global language that is the official language in over 21 countries and one of the official languages of both the United Nations and the European Union. Spanish is then also offered to students for further study at GCSE and A-Level. It is worth adding that students’ Key Stage 3 study of Latin is a highly precious resource, improving as it does their grammar skills, vocabulary, and ability to make etymological links.

KS3

At Barclay Academy, all Key Stage 3 students study a modern foreign language. We have chosen Spanish because this is a language of high importance in the modern global climate given that it is the world's second-most spoken native language with over 500 million people that have Spanish as their mother tongue. Students study high-frequency vocabulary and grammatical structures, and develop their knowledge of the language through practice in the four main skills: listening, reading, speaking and writing. A strong emphasis is placed on the three pillars of language learning – phonics, grammar and vocabulary – pillars that underpin the MFL curriculum at Barclay Academy.

KS4

At Barclay, students have the further opportunity to build upon their Key Stage 3 language learning of Spanish by taking the subject at GCSE. We follow the AQA specification for Spanish. Throughout the course of their studies, students explore three key themes: ‘identity and culture’, ‘local, national, international and global areas of interest’, and ‘current & future study and employment’. Through a continued focus on spoken language, interaction and conversation, students continue to build upon their proficiency in listening, reading, speaking and writing, as well as exploring ideas related to culture, identity and questions of global importance.

KS5

Students who choose to study Spanish for A-Level at Barclay Academy follow the AQA specification. This course requires them to develop the language skills that they have been practising at Key Stages 3 and 4, with a continued focus on the improvement of their written and oral communication skills. The A-Level also gives students the further exciting opportunity to develop their understanding of the world nations and cultures that speak Spanish. They will explore the cultural, historical and sociological aspects of Spanish speaking countries exploring in detail context, communities and people. They will also study a text and film, as well as having the opportunity to carry out independent research in an area of their choice.

Music 

Alongside art and literature, music is another of the foundations of human culture and history, and has both shaped, and been shaped by, cultures all across the globe. Today, music endures as a source of pleasure for millions, and the rigorous and challenging academic study of music has a proven range of cognitive benefits, alongside a positive impact on students’ self-discipline, confidence, and concentration. Most importantly, it deepen students’ cultural literacy and creative outlet.

Music at Barclay Academy allows students to gain the knowledge and practical application to become confident performers and composers, who are able to understand a wide range of different styles and genres of music through listening and appraising.  

KS3

At Barclay Academy, all Key Stage 3 students study music. The music curriculum is accessible to all students regardless of their prior experience of the subject. The course is wide-ranging and explores musical fundamentals and theory as well as deepening students’ understanding of performance and composition. Students will be exposed to a variety of different musical styles and genres, including music from the Western classical tradition alongside world music and popular music. To aid in composition, students are also introduced to music technology, using composition software Cubase from Year 7. Year 7 students study Djembe drumming, notation and keyboard skills, instruments of the orchestra, minimalism, as well as developing their skills in ensemble playing. In Year 8, students explore the Blues, music for cartoons, Baroque music and samba, as well as further developing their own instrumental and ensemble skills. In Year 9, students culminate their Key Stage 3 studies and explore, EDM composition, popular music since the 1950s, how Western music developed and film music.   As part of our education enrichment programme, all students additionally have the opportunity to learn a wide range of instruments outside the classroom.

KS4

At Key Stage 4, we offer OCR GCSE Music. During the course students learn about a range of genres and styles of music including The Classical Concerto, world music, conventions of pop and film music.  Having studied these styles of music, students will then apply their knowledge to the listening and appraising exam paper taken in Year 11.  The course includes complete 60% coursework over the two-year course.  This involves solo and ensemble performances (or sequenced performing using music technology) and composing two compositions; of which is free choice and the other following a set brief from the exam board.

KS5

In the Sixth Form, Barclay students follow the Pearson BTEC Level 3 in Music. This challenging and exciting course offers them the opportunity to study a broad range of topics, which include: music theory and harmony, professional practice in the music industry, and ensemble music performance. They thereby are exposed to a wide range of genres and skills, but also have the additional opportunity to take units in solo music performance, music composition, and improvisation, in accordance with their own skills and interests.

Physical Education

At Barclay Academy, we understand the importance of being physically active, both for a student’s physical health as well as for their social and emotional wellbeing. We want to promote lifelong participation in, and enjoyment of, physical activity, exercise and sport and therefore believe in the power of an inclusive approach to physical education, where all students feel included, accepted and confident. We strive to help students find an activity that works for them, and are dedicated to the provision of a varied and enjoyable PE programme, in which all students take part and progress. We promote an enjoyment of physical activity for all that can be taken into future life, resulting in pupils leading active lifestyles. Outside the curriculum, we also host a variety of enjoyable and exciting extracurricular clubs, competitions and events, and we have a wonderful selection of high-quality equipment and facilities.

KS3

All students in Years 7, 8 and 9 participate in a minimum of 100 minutes of PE each week. At Key Stage 3, the structure of the PE programme is designed to promote students’ theoretical understanding and practical application for a variety of sports and exercise. Students learn a wide variety of sports and exercise throughout their years, cumulatively developing the skills, tactics and knowledge learnt in previous years. Pupils participate actively within, and learn the techniques and game application underpinning, a variety of sports and activities such as volleyball, cricket and table tennis. Moreover, they begin to explore the theory behind physical education, studying the body systems, components of fitness, and psychology of sport.  

KS4

At Barclay Academy, we offer Key Stage 4 students the option of studying for either a GCSE in PE (for which we follow the Pearson specification), or for the Cambridge National Award. Both courses incorporate theoretical knowledge and practical application, and students will be examined through a combination of coursework, examinations and practical skills. They will develop their theoretical knowledge of sport, theories and physiology in the classroom, and work upon their practical ability within the core weekly PE lessons studied by all students.

KS5

For students wishing to pursue further their studies in PE and sport science, we offer the Extended Certificate in Sport BTEC, a rigorous vocational course that is equivalent to one A Level. The course offers students the opportunity to explore wider themes relating to the sports and fitness industries, and topics studied might include anatomy and physiology, fitness and wellbeing, sport and business, and sports leadership.

Politics

The study of politics encompasses not just analysis of the modern day political climate, but also exploration of the different factors that have impacted human politics throughout history, and analysis of the different political systems and structures at play. Students learn about the development of British democracy, the mechanisms and structures of government, and international politics such as that of the USA. Most importantly, students can use the theoretical knowledge that they accumulate through their study of politics to inform their understanding of politics on the national and international stages, and become informed citizens with a deep understanding of their country and their rights.

KS5

The study of politics has never been more relevant or more fascinating than it is today. We are living in a tempestuous political climate, the instability of which has given rise to a series of quite unexpected and unpredictable events, both at home and abroad, in recent years. At Barclay Academy, we follow the Pearson specification in Government and Politics.

Psychology 

Psychology is the science of the mind and behaviour. It is a scientific discipline which explores ideas of innateness and the impact of environment on behaviour.

KS5

At Barclay Academy, students opting to take an A-Level in psychology follow the OCR specification. This is a rigorous and fascinating insight into the discipline of psychology, introducing students to key themes through an exploration of classic and contemporary studies, together covering a range of psychological themes, perspectives, debates and application. They will explore key fields within psychology, such as mental health and child psychology. Moreover, students will also consider a range of different research methods and statistical analysis, and will carry out their own small scale practical psychological investigation.

Religious Studies

The study of religion is as relevant and fascinating now as it has ever been. In our complex and changing world, a firm understanding and appreciation of the world’s different belief systems, cultures, and philosophical arguments stand central to a well-rounded curriculum. We guide young people and encourage them to ask questions, whilst also teaching them fundamental knowledge and concepts. We explore key ethical questions and the main tenets of world faiths in order to support our young people in developing their own values and principles and to promote their spiritual, moral, social, and cultural development. Central to the RS curriculum at Barclay Academy is our desire to develop informed, reflective, proactive, and engaged young people, who have an appreciation of the world around them and respect for people of all faiths or none.

KS3

Throughout their time in Years 7, 8, and 9, all students at Barclay Academy study the foundations of the world’s main religions, as well as examine moral issues, ethics, and philosophy. They explore the six main world religions; Hinduism, Sikhism, Islam, Judaism, Buddhism, and Christianity, and develop an understanding of these religions’ place in our modern and multicultural society. Students develop an awareness of, and appreciation, of the spiritual, moral, social, and cultural context of the world around them. They consider questions of both physical and metaphysical importance, alongside key ethical issues surrounding identity, human rights, and social justice.

KS4

Students taking a GCSE in RS at Barclay Academy follow the AQA specification. This course allows them to build upon the spiritual, moral, social, and cultural foundations which they developed in the Key Stage 3 studies, with a particular focus on Christianity and Islam. Students explore the diverse beliefs and practices of these religions and have the opportunity to explore critically and reflectively their stance on numerous themes and ideologies such as war, prejudice, relationships, and the environment. Crucially and invaluably, this course equips students with the ability to discuss and evaluate broad themes and issues, whilst simultaneously understanding their own position and responses to these same themes and issues.

Science

The Science curriculum aims to ensure that all Barclay Academy students become scientifically literate, who are able to recognise the importance of rational explanation, capable of scientific analysis and knowledgeable about the contribution that the sciences make to our theoretical and practical understanding of the world. It is designed so that foundational concepts taught at KS3 are carefully built upon over three years, ensuring students develop an increasingly sophisticated and specialised understanding of the separate sciences. There is a strong focus on retrieval practice and interleaving learning: each topic begins by explicitly returning to relevant prior learning and ends with an assessment and an interleaved test based on another topic. End of topic assessments are placed at the end of the unit to enable students to connect their learning to a set of practical techniques and real-world applications. All too often, learning about science involves a series of disjointed lessons and unconnected information that is difficult to remember or fully understand. As such, a key principle of this curriculum is that the sciences can and should be taught through meaningful narratives that enable students to form long-term memories.

KS3

At Barclay Academy, the Key Stage 3 science course spans Years 7, 8 and 9. Through our science curriculum, we hope to build up our students’ confidence in scientific knowledge and enquiry, with the aim of preparing them for their science GCSEs, and to encourage more of our young people, ultimately, to pick STEM subjects at A-Level and beyond. Students study units from each of the three traditional science options (biology, chemistry and physics), and will study a plethora of exciting scientific phenomena, including life cycles, disease, cellular structure, elements, atomic structure, forces, and energy.

KS4

At Barclay, all students study for a GCSE in science, beginning the course in Year 9. During this initial year, they study introductory modules in biology, chemistry and physics, providing them with a solid grounding in the fundamental ideas and concepts required for success in Years 10 and 11. At the end of Year 9, students then progress to either the triple science or combined sciences GCSE course, with students taking the former receiving GCSEs in each science individually, and with students taking the latter receiving two combined GCSEs. Our Year 10 and Year 11 students follow the AQA Trilogy specification in science. This rigorous course gives them strong foundations in the fields of biology, chemistry and physics. Throughout Key Stage 4, topics explored include cells, genetics, chemical reactions, energy, electricity and radioactivity, alongside the global challenges posed and faced in the fields of biology, chemistry and physics. They also spend time developing their practical skills of scientific investigation and observation.

KS5

Biology

At A-Level, we follow the OCR A specification in biology, a rigorous course that develops students’ understanding of key biological facts and concepts, and that sees them learn to appreciate their significance in modern scientific investigation. Throughout the two-year course, students will develop their practical investigation skills, consider core topics of biology (such as molecules, cells and enzymes), and explore fascinating areas such as biodiversity, evolution, disease, genetics and ecosystems.

Chemistry

At A-Level, we follow the OCR specification in chemistry, a challenging but rewarding course which helps develop students’ problem-solving and analytical skills through their accumulation of core chemistry knowledge and concepts alongside the development of their practical skills. Throughout the two years of study, students will explore key themes such as the elements and organic chemistry, as well as participating in practical investigations.

Physics

At A-Level, we follow the OCR specification in physics. This is a deeply rewarding course which offers students the chance to develop their knowledge of the fundamental concepts and principles in physics. Throughout the two-year course, students will explore topics such as atomic structure, forces and motion, waves, particles, astrophysics, and medical physics. They then use their knowledge of these concepts to solve problems surrounding topics ranging from subatomic particles to the entire universe. The course also involves the opportunity to develop a student’s practical and investigatory skills.

Sociology

Sociology is the fundamental study of human social life and relationships. It examines how people live together, operate, and interact within a society. The study of sociology helps to deepen a student’s awareness of the world, giving them an invaluable understanding of the social structures and social processes which operate within society, and which govern human behaviour and interaction.

KS5

Students in the Sixth Form at Barclay Academy follow the AQA specification in sociology. This course involves the analysis of various sociological theories such as Functionalism, Marxism, Feminism, Post Modernism and many more. It also includes the study of fundamental social structures like the education system, and analysis of relationships within this system, or how different factors might affect educational attainment. Students also explore contemporary British society and issues within it, such as health, welfare, crime, inequality, and the role of the media in amplifying these issues. Research is a key aspect of sociology and, correspondingly, students explore various key studies and research methods to evaluate critically the validity of sociological theories. The Course promotes the skills of critical and reflective thinking within students with a respect for social diversity.