Years 7 and 8

Senior school marks a significant departure from childhood and the first step toward adolescence. Naturally this transition creates a mix of anxiety and excitement as students come to terms with their identity.

One-on-one interaction with the individual helps students become comfortable with who they are. It creates a safe environment for students to explore and discover; to try, and try again.

Group activities encourage students to connect and collaborate. This helps them become adept at teamwork as they learn to solve problems and face challenges together. It’s in these early years they start to plan and organise, and begin to work to higher standards.

At this time, a separate ‘Integrated Studies’ unit encompassing English, Studies of Society and Environment (SOSE) and Philosophy challenges students to make connections in their learning to achieve a deeper understanding of their subject matter. This integration of learning across subjects is extended to other subjects as well. Ancient Greece could be explored in Integrated Studies, for example, and brought to life in Drama, Maths and Art.

Creative activities are commonplace. Art and Drama are compulsory subjects and there are regular exhibitions and performances. Students are encouraged to learn an instrument or join a singing group. The more a student becomes comfortable with self-expression, the more they are free to be themselves.