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Curriculum

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We aim to foster the intellectual, social, creative, physical, moral and spiritual development of all our students.

The aims of the curriculum at AGGS are;

To ensure all students are educated about their choices for the future and are prepared for the challenges of life beyond AGGS.

To enjoy learning through an academic, broad and balanced curriculum that enables all students to realise their potential.

To inspire students to become lifelong learners who demonstrate creativity, curiosity and critical thinking.

To encourage students to develop self-confidence and self-awareness and an appreciation of the impact they can have on members of the school and wider community.

To present enrichment opportunities for learning and development that promote leadership skills, co-operation and teamwork, and foster cultural knowledge and understanding.

To uphold the school values of:

  • Unity – embracing of a diverse community
  • Co-operation – working together respectfully and supportively
  • Empowerment – motivating young people to forge their own path
  • Selflessness – celebrating the achievements of their peers
  • Perseverance – using integrity and hard work to overcome challenges
  • Vision – creative and thriving students

Key Stage Three

All students are taught in mixed ability groups throughout key stage three. A common curriculum is followed, consisting of English, mathematics, science, geography, history, art, drama, dance, music, PE, design technology, computing, religious studies, citizenship and two MFL subjects from French, German and Spanish.

In Year Nine, students are taught in the separate disciplines of biology, chemistry and physics for their science lessons.

Key Stage Four

Our Key Stage 4 Curriculum is broad so that students can experience a range of opportunities across the curriculum; balanced because it is unwise for students to narrow down their options before the age of 16; relevant to students’ individual needs and to the demands of a rapidly-changing world; and personalised so that the level and type of work are suited to the ability and learning style of each individual student. English language, English literature and mathematics are compulsory for all students. We are committed to an EBacc curriculum and therefore students are also asked to study either geography or history, at least one MFL subject and either separate or trilogy award science. All of the other subjects studied at Key Stage Three are available options for students to pursue at GCSE, as well as new choices such as business and food preparation & nutrition.

Key Stage Five

Our Key Stage Three and Four principles continue into the Sixth Form enabling clear lines of progression. The curriculum is built around subjects that go well together (students study three, with some scope for four A levels). This includes a range of facilitating & specialist subjects alongside Extended Project and Core Mathematics. We aim to give students a sense of control over their Sixth Form programme enabling a broad education offering wide choice and essential skills for a rapidly-changing world.

Tutorial Work and PSHE

These are important in every year and aim to encourage personal decision-making skills, confidence to express ideas and an awareness of the individual’s responsibility to the community. Pupils/students are also encouraged to review their progress, to assess their skills and qualities and to record a wide range of achievements.

Sex Education

Sex Education is presented within a moral framework, which not only provides information, but also encourages responsible behaviour. Physiological aspects are included in Science and Biology lessons throughout the school and in PSHE lessons and within tutor groups there is discussion of personal relationships. Pupils may be withdrawn from the topics which are not required by the National Curriculum. Parents/Carers are welcome to discuss the programme and the materials used with staff at the school.

Religious Education

There are regular, timetabled Religious Studies lessons for Years 7 to 9 and Religious Studies is an offered option at both GCSE and A Level. Lessons are non-denominational and parents/carers who wish to see the schemes of work or discuss any concerns they may have are invited to contact the school. Pupils may be withdrawn from lessons if parents/carers request it.

Citizenship

Citizenship has a high priority within the school curriculum. There is a flourishing elected School Council and there are many opportunities for pupils to contribute to the school community through pupil-led groups such as the Eco-School Committee, Amnesty International and UR-Voice (political discussion and debate group). Citizenship is also offered as a full GCSE course at Key Stage 4.

Enrichment

Equally important to our taught curriculum is the portfolio of experiences to enable personal and social development, develop citizenship and community work and present challenge.

These include, work experience at Key Stage 5, trips, a wide range of well attended extra-curricular clubs, including D of E, fundraising events, supporting others, mentoring and representing the school across a range of activities. All have the aim of helping our student to develop their identity so they are ready and equipped to fully engage with life beyond school.

To view more about the curriculum, please see the curriculum maps or the school prospectus:

Proud to part of the Bright Futures Education Trust
Altrincham Grammar School for Girls
Cavendish Road, Bowdon,
Altrincham, Cheshire WA14 2NL
Bright Futures SCITTCEOP