Removes Curriculum by HaileyburyUK

Removes curriculum

The academic provision at Haileybury seeks to develop learners who are academically ambitious, intellectually curious, imaginative and independent.

We want our pupils to acquire the skills, knowledge and understanding that they will need to make the world a better place, and the sense of responsibility and compassion required to do so.

We believe in offering pupils flexibility and choice in a progressive context as they follow their personalised pathways.

There is a significance placed during this crucial year on connection and coherence, and Removes pupils are encouraged to think about themselves as learners, to identify their learning pathways and to personalise their curriculum accordingly.

The Removes curriculum continues to provide the learning framework for all of our pupils, building core knowledge and skills within disciplines, learning to think and learning to learn. The integrity of subjects is protected and departments have freedom to organise and structure learning within their subject areas as they see fit. However, at the core of all subjects will lie reading and literacy, oracy and talk, and independence and reflection.

Competencies

Thinking

Understanding Developing a thorough and sophisticated body of powerful knowledge, assimilated and well understood.

Connections Making connections between new and familiar concepts, understanding new concepts or ideas within the wider subject and solving problems.

Self-regulation Engaging in learning and developing strategies to improve learning and development, monitoring progress and reflecting, and having motivation.

Expression

Significance Engaging in work or activities that matter to pupils, to their teachers, and to the world outside of school.

Collaboration Developing effective relationships with peers, teachers and mentors.

Meaningful Producing beautiful, high quality and meaningful work or performances; identifying as specialists, producing work or performances of integrity, accuracy and of a high quality.

Knowledge

Reading Understanding, summarising, analysing, evaluating and synthesising information from a variety of well-chosen sources.

Cultural Understanding different cultures and valuing the cultural world, critically appreciating multiple viewpoints and approaches, identifying cross-cultural links and identifying cross-curricular links.

Digital Interacting with digital tools to support learning and to create ideas and new information.

Community

Responsibility Understanding the sense of moral purpose necessary to make groups and communities thrive.

Representation Understanding and reflecting on the importance of inclusivity in all that we do.

Service Understanding and engaging in selfless acts that put the needs of others first, whether in groups or as an individual.

The World

Global awareness Engaging with current affairs; a critical appreciation of the needs of the world.

Sustainability Being morally principled and able to appreciate our place in the world and responsibilities as a global citizen.

Spiritual development Inculcating and developing a sense of awe and wonder in the wider world.

At the heart of the curriculum is a strong core of subjects which will develop academic skills and abilities in such a way as to ensure that all options remain available to pupils later in their educational life. While the core subjects are important in their own right, they are also a strong foundation on which later learning can be built.

English

The English curriculum centres around the three pillars of classical education: reading, speaking and writing. Through the study of canonical texts in the three main literary genres of prose, poetry and drama, pupils will learn to interrogate what they read, develop the confidence to articulate personal responses and express themselves on paper with clarity and concision.

Maths

Pupils look to put in place core mathematical skills with elements of number, algebra, geometry and graph work. They will be challenged to think logically and creatively; to apply the knowledge they have to solve problems. Key skills such as being resourceful, reflective, structured and accurate will be honed during the year. Pupils are also encouraged to always articulate the reasoning that underpins the techniques that they learn.

Core subjects

Biology

We aim to deliver a foundation of fundamental principles in biology via explorative and practical lessons. The topics will include studying the variety of life around us, to the collaborative work of basic components within a biological system. The skills that we aim to instil in our pupils range from being able to analyse complex problems to evaluating conclusions, using evidence extracted from laboratory-based work.

Chemistry

We aim to equip our pupils with an awareness that chemistry is all around them. Removes will explore atomic structure and the history of the periodic table along with many other fundamental chemical principles. They will develop a range of skills such as reasoning, problem-solving and experimental design. From this, they will find new ways of looking at the world and widen their appreciation of a science which is central to every aspect of their lives.

Physics

The curriculum will increase the understanding of the role that physics and associated technologies play in solving many problems faced by society and how scientific methods can be applied to a range of different disciplines in everyday life. Pupils will enhance their scientific literacy and become confident with their practical, research, problem-solving and collaborative skills, while carrying out scientific investigations.

History

The history curriculum introduces pupils to the tumultuous 20th Century. Through their study of World War One and World War Two, pupils gain an insight into geopolitics, modern society and the impact of totalitarianism. They see the best and worst of humanity, using modern sources of history as tools for investigation and sparking their intellectual curiosity. Pupils are encouraged to think critically about the representation of events and concepts we study, and why we study them.

Geography

Geography at Haileybury equips pupils with an appreciation of global issues and the opportunity to consider ways of managing the challenges and opportunities created by an interconnected world. Pupils explore topics such as globalisation, natural hazards and their impacts on societies, and key issues in the Middle East. Throughout the course, pupils develop valuable skills in interpreting, presenting and analysing data; skills that are vital across all subjects.

Theology and Philosophy

Pupils will be able to ask – and begin to answer – vital questions of human existence. They will chart their place in the cosmos as something unique, engaging with the work of Plato and Aristotle as foundational voices in the emergence of a Western Philosophy. They will explore the formation of a distinctive moral framework, asking profound questions about the nature and function of human society.

Modern Foreign Languages

Choose one: French, Spanish, German Ab Initio or Italian Ab Initio

French

Pupils begin to study the topics, themes, skills and grammatical concepts to prepare them for language learning. The aim is to consistently reinforce the vocabulary and structures needed later for writing and speaking. In this way, the course is designed to reflect language learning via immersion whereby vocabulary and structures are picked up simply by constant exposure at levels the pupils can understand.

Spanish

Pupils will have the opportunity to consolidate and extend their previous knowledge of the language by studying a range of topics both culturally and linguistically relevant to them. They will learn about the Hispanic world, famous artists, places and traditions through stories and audio-visual material. They will be exposed to engaging and motivational resources that will promote deep understanding of grammatical tenses and structures.

German Ab Initio

Pupils have the opportunity to begin German from scratch in Removes. They will capitalise on their previous language learning skills and acquire skills in reading, learning, speaking and writing through a variety of topics and engaging activities, allowing them to learn about the German-speaking world. By the end of the year, pupils will be in a position to begin an IGCSE course, if they wish. Pupils can look forward to hosting the annual German Cafe in January.

Italian Ab Initio

Pupils have the opportunity to begin Italian from scratch in Removes. They will capitalise on their previous language learning skills and acquire skills in reading, learning, speaking and writing through a variety of topics and engaging activities, allowing them to learn about the Italian-speaking world. By the end of the year, pupils will be in a position to begin an IGCSE course, if they wish.

Latin

Classical subjects are interesting and make you interesting. They are the study of people both similar and different from us. Anything you find interesting can be found in the Classical World, from sport to stories and from myth to magic. The course will continue a pupil’s language learning and, through comprehensible input and storytelling, they will be guided through the exciting world of the Romans, focussing on important topics for the modern world, including identity, misogyny and racism, by looking through the prism of the ancient world.

Reading

Reading is not only a key factor in furthering pupils’ personal development, but also a force which drives academic achievement across the curriculum. In reading lessons pupils are guided through a series of specially-selected texts. These are read aloud in order to promote speaking and presentation skills and to foster comprehension and enjoyment of challenging material. Over the course of the year, pupils will study a number of famous and stylisticallyvaried plays. In this way our Removes are exposed to a range of issues and debates that

transcend their original literary context and allow them to make links between topics across our curriculum. Some pupils who require regular time in the Learning Support Department are excused from their reading lessons in order to facilitate this.

Digital Innovations

This new, innovative course offers a fresh approach to computing education, focusing on the practical and responsible use of Artificial Intelligence and digital tools. Pupils will learn valuable strategies to employ AI effectively, blending ethical considerations with creative applications. They will have the opportunity to put these skills to use, seeing first-hand how AI and digital technology can enrich their understanding across a wide range of subjects within the curriculum, supporting their development in Removes and beyond. This course is an essential step in preparing pupils for a fast moving digital world, equipping them with the knowledge and skills to be thoughtful users of technology.

Wellbeing

At this crucial stage of their development, pupils need to understand themselves as individuals, as young people, and as learners. The Wellbeing course teaches them to be digitally literate and safe online while maintaining healthy bodies and healthy minds. They will begin to understand relationships, sex and sexuality as well as discovering more about finance and future career pathways.

Pathways

All pupils will choose two pathways to complement their core curriculum. Pathway choices should be ambitious and aspirational and pupils should look to challenge themselves through these choices.

The core is strengthened by two distinct pathway options. These offer opportunities for pupils to design their own personalised learning experience. They may wish to use the pathways to develop their curiosity as linguists, or to develop their appreciation of the classical world; they may wish to choose pathways that extend their current academic ambition through sciences and technology, or to support vocational ambitions that they might hold, such as music or drama.

Advanced Science and Astrophysics

Pupils will learn how physics and science work under conditions which are impossible to recreate on Earth, covering topics such as Kepler’s laws of motion, Newton’s universal theory of gravitation and observational astrophysics including the use of optical telescopes. More importantly, they will be taken on a journey from a Newtonian world to an Einsteinian world through discussions of special and general relativity, reframing their outlook on the universe around them. The pathway provides opportunities for pupils to enhance their research skills including looking at scientific papers, delivering scientific presentations and undertaking a viva voce. It is perfect for those who are considering studying physics at the highest level and wish to challenge themselves academically.

Advanced Science and Medicinal Chemistry

This pathway will explore how new medicines are developed. Areas covered will include how clinical trials are run, how the safety of medicines is assessed, the ethics of drug development (including animal testing) and how chemistry can be scaled up to produce kilograms of a drug. We will look at case studies such as the rapid development of COVID vaccines and treatments, the billion dollar indigestion medicines and the thalidomide scandal. Pupils will develop their ability to think critically and scientifically about sources of evidence, as well as conduct research and practise hands-on practical chemistry.

Computer Science: Programming and AI for the Modern World

The world is increasingly shaped by technology, and we want pupils to understand the components that make up our society. In this advanced course, pupils develop computational thinking skills which they then apply with the most-used programming language in business worldwide: Python. They explore the creative side of the subject through web and app development and learn the core principles of cybersecurity in an age of rising online threats. Crucially, pupils examine how modern AI works, preparing them to take an active role in the technological future.

Design Technology

This pathway at Haileybury is concerned with cognitive skills such as research, analysis, synthesis and evaluation; which promote the generation and development of design proposals aimed at producing a successful outcome. Pupils are taught how to acquire and access skills associated with designing, as well as the practical skills and understanding required to generate, record and make their proposals.

Empires: Rise and Ruin

What makes an empire rise, and what causes it to crumble? This pathway spans the ancient, medieval, and modern worlds to explore the dramatic forces that shape civilisations. Focusing on the clash of politics, culture, and society, pupils will investigate the relationship between the rulers and the ruled. From the thrill of conquest to the complexities of decline, we will consider the momentous changes that defined these eras. Pupils will interact with a vast range of images and objects, using these sources to gain a direct insight into the lived experiences of the people who forged history. With opportunities to work collaboratively and develop advanced research skills, this is a course for inquisitive, open-minded learners.

French or Spanish

This pathway mirrors the core French / Spanish course but as a result of being designed for those with an increased interest, the depth and breadth of the topics is enhanced. The study of the core topics will be accelerated, giving space for pupils to study historical, cultural and contemporary aspects of France or Spain.

The Greeks

This pathway is an exciting opportunity to study the cradle of western culture and learn about Greek history, art and literature. Pupils will learn the fundamentals of the language and the key phases of history, from the mythical fall of Troy to the rise of Alexander the Great and the Roman conquest. Pupils will develop the skills of a classicist, which will equip them to study classical civilisation or ancient languages at GCSE and beyond.

Literature and Creative

Writing

This pathway builds on the core reading programme in Key Stage Three and introduces pupils to creative writing as both a skill and a genre, allowing them to engage deeply with stories, ideas, and their own imaginative expression. Through the study of literature, pupils will explore timeless themes, experiment with a range of writing forms, and unlock new layers of meaning in the texts studied in the English classroom and beyond. From the myths of Ancient Greece to the voices of the modern era, pupils will engage with a rich literary canon that spans centuries while also developing their own original writing. The pathway encourages critical thinking, collaboration and discussion in a creative environment, helping pupils to sharpen their technique, build confidence in public speaking, and gain fresh perspectives on literature. By honing critical analysis, communication and an understanding of diverse viewpoints, pupils will develop skills that will enhance their performance across a wide range of subjects.

Music

If you’ve been playing an instrument or having singing lessons for a year or more, then this could be the perfect course for you. This is a creative, hands on course, in which you will develop your musicianship through a variety of performing, listening, research and composing

tasks, which will be delivered in our dedicated Mac suite and the Haileybury recording studio. This course is not just about classical music; we also study contemporary, popular and film/gaming music – so there is something for everyone.

Performance Drama

The Performance drama pathway will give pupils a great understanding of the skills required in stage and screen performance, providing some of the rigour of current 21st century professional practice. Topics cover acting skills, the study of performance texts, classical and contemporary performance practices and their underlying academic logic. Pupils will also participate in a professional workshop, an immersive event and a theatre trip.

Psychology

Psychology seeks to understand the human mind, its processes, and how these influence our thoughts, attitudes, and behaviours. This pathway is an introduction to the subject, offering pupils a broad insight into key areas of psychological study. The course begins with Social Psychology, examining how people’s thoughts, emotions, and actions are influenced by their interactions with others. Pupils move on to Clinical Psychology, exploring the symptoms, causes, and treatments of three major disorders: phobias, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), and schizophrenia. Finally, pupils explore Cognitive Psychology, with an emphasis on memory. We study the differences between short-term and long-term memory, reasons for forgetting, and the reliability of our memory. Pupils develop a strong understanding of psychological research methods and have the chance to conduct their own investigations; they gain the knowledge, skills and curiosity needed to pursue Psychology confidently at Sixth Form level.

Sports Science

Pupils will immerse themselves in the world of physiology and psychology in sport. The combination of practical and academic lessons equips pupils with the knowledge and skills to develop their performance in a variety of sports and understand the benefits to health, fitness and wellbeing. Pupils will have the opportunity to perform in a variety of physical activities, and through academic study, learn how to improve their performance.

Visual Arts

This pathway continues a pupil’s artistic journey, exploring a broad range of materials and processes. The year starts by enhancing observational skills, exploring pencil, paint, pastel and photography. In the second term pupils continue to develop these skills exploring the works of art practitioners and using their influence to inform the development of an outcome. The final term is pupil-led using GCSE style themes; pupils explore an idea of their choice, developing ideas and realising intentions.

The Haileybury co-curriculum offers a vast array of activities designed to enable each pupil to confront obstacles in their way, learn more about themselves, become more confident and shape their own identity. We have worked hard to develop an enviable range of activities designed to challenge and educate in equal measure. From climbing and scuba diving to film making and the Model United Nations and countless activities in between – there is something for everyone. The opportunity for new experiences, emotional rewards and character development are practically limitless.

Co-curriculum

Sport, music, drama and dance

Sport, music, drama and dance play a crucial role in the all-round educational experience at Haileybury. By engaging with the core components of the co-curriculum, pupils have the opportunity to develop new skills, to enjoy a wide range of experiences and to perform in front of others. Confidence, identity and enjoyment are the key outcomes for pupils. All pupils are expected to engage positively with the broad sports programme. Individual or group music, dance and LAMDA lessons are an elective element of the co-curriculum. There are numerous opportunities to engage more broadly in these areas through ensembles, House music, dance activities and drama showcase evenings and larger productions. All pupils are expected, as a minimum, to attend at least one concert and one play during the year.

Outdoor education

The Coghill activities programme runs on a Wednesday afternoon throughout the year with the aim and objective of introducing pupils to a range of challenging outdoor and adventurous experiences. Activities include navigation, survival, swimming, leadership tasks and physical challenges. Pupils are expected to engage enthusiastically with the programme and to develop interests that they can choose to explore in greater depth as they progress through the School.

Enrichment

Alongside the taught curriculum, pupils will have the opportunity to immerse themselves in a world of learning experiences. Through a timetable of lectures, societies, talks, trips and visits, pupils’ learning will be strengthened and deepened. While all pupils will be involved in a myriad of opportunities, those who seek to connect and link their learning in the classroom to the wider experiences in a meaningful and thoughtful way will be those who develop as the most effective learners.

Next steps

All you need to do now is study the core subjects and then consider which two pathways best complement your interests, aspirations and future plans.

Haileybury staff are here to help guide you with your decisions if you would like further advice. Contact details are on the back cover of this booklet.

Core subjects (studied by all pupils)