KEY STAGE 3 (YEARS 7 – 9)

KEY STAGE 3 (YEARS 7 – 9)

Home > KEY STAGE 3 (YEARS 7 – 9)

Our educational philosophy is centred around what we call The Hartland Way. This is an incredibly strong and unwavering focus on the very best learning and teaching experience. High academic standards coupled with exceptional pastoral care and an extensive range of enrichment opportunities ensure that our students grow and develop personally as well as academically.

Academics

Key Stage 3 encompasses Years 7 - 9, offering students a broad and balanced curriculum that closely follows the National Curriculum for England while adding a wider international dimension. In Years 7 and 8, students are taught a diverse range of subjects, including English, Mathematics, Science, Geography, History, Languages, Arts, Design Technology, Physical Education, and Computing. This exposure helps them build a strong foundation for future academic success. In Year 9, students continue to build on this foundation with a curriculum designed to deepen their knowledge and skills in preparation for their GCSE/IGCSE choices. A dedicated programme supports students as they begin to make informed decisions about their academic paths, ensuring they are well-prepared for the challenges ahead.

Enrichment

As students' progress into KS3, they have the opportunity to delve deeper into the passions nurtured in earlier years. Senior Junk Kouture and F1 in Schools allow students to advance their skills, while LAMDA and Theatre Under the Stars offer platforms to express creativity and build confidence. Sports such as athletics, football, and netball enable students to represent the school and compete against their peers from around the city.

Pastoral Care

In Key Stage 4, students benefit from a robust pastoral framework that integrates the expertise of a Sixth Form Counsellor, Form Tutors, and Heads of Year. This team works collaboratively to ensure students' academic progress and personal wellbeing are closely monitored, with challenging goals set to inspire growth. The House System plays a pivotal role, fostering a culture of friendly competition and mutual support within mixed Form Tutor groups. This holistic approach celebrates students' achievements across all aspects of school life and beyond, recognising their contributions to the broader community. By maintaining high standards for commitment, behaviour, and personal presentation, we nurture a culture of diligence and responsibility. Additionally, leadership opportunities such as the Student Council and Mentoring the younger years empower students to take on meaningful roles, developing their leadership skills and sense of community responsibility as they transition towards independence.

Ambition

This is fostered through a challenging academic curriculum that encourages independent learning and critical thinking. Students are also motivated to pursue their passions in various extra-curricular activities, preparing them to achieve their full potential and become confident, capable leaders.

Challenge

Our students face academic challenges designed to enhance their problem-solving abilities and intellectual resilience. These challenges extend beyond the classroom into a variety of extra-curricular activities, ensuring students develop a well-rounded and robust approach to overcoming obstacles.

Care

Our care encompasses a holistic approach, integrating rigorous academics, diverse extra-curricular activities, and comprehensive pastoral support. The supportive environment, fostered through mixed form tutor groups and the House System, helps students feel secure, valued, and part of a close-knit community.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Key Stage 3 at Hartland International School?

Key Stage 3 at Hartland International School covers Years 7 to 9 of the National Curriculum for England which are the traditional first years of secondary school. The significant change from primary school is that students are now taught by specialists in every subject. There is also the expectation that students will begin to take greater responsibility for their learning. This key stage will focus on developing deeper study skills and wider enquiry across the range of subjects.

What subjects are included in the Key Stage 3 curriculum?

Students study a broad range of subjects including the core subjects of Mathematics, English, Science, Arabic and PSHE. Other subjects include specialist provision in Art, Computer Science, Design Technology, Geography, History, Islamic Education (for Muslim students), Music, Modern Foreign Languages (two languages from French, Spanish, German and Mandarin), Physical Education, UAE Social Studies and Moral Education.

How does the school support independent learning in Key Stage 3

The curriculum is designed to develop independent learning, resilience and confidence, encouraging students to take ownership of their learning.

How does Hartland International School integrate international perspectives in Key Stage 3?

While following the National Curriculum for England, the Key Stage 3 programme adds a wider international dimension, extending learning beyond normal age-related expectations and reflects the internationalism of our student body.

How are students prepared for their GCSE choices?

During Year 9, as students approach Year 10, they receive specialist staff guidance and full support in making their GCSE choices with access to over 20 option courses plus the mandatory English, Maths and Science. Information sessions are run for students and parents and students also engage in taster lessons to make sure that they know what their subject choices involve.

How does the school ensure a balanced education in Key Stage 3?

The Key Stage 3 curriculum is broad and balanced, combining academic excellence with a wealth of enrichment opportunities to provide a comprehensive education.

Accreditations & Affiliations