Curriculum

The Vision of Torquay Girls' Grammar School

We aim to provide an outstanding environment which fosters your; 

Academic achievement

Personal development

& Caring attitudes

In doing so you will be prepared for the challenges of the 21st Century and be able to become a leader of tomorrow. Aude Sapere- Dare to be wise.

Curriculum:

The aim is to provide a curriculum that balances academic achievement and the development of our 16 Learning Skills. These are the skills we feel are vital to succeed in any walk of life. They are taught both within lesson and through our extensive extra-curricular programme.

In Years 7-9, Key Stage 3, students study Art, English, French, German, Geography, History, Information Technology, Mathematics, Music, Physical Education, Religious Education, Science and Technology.

In Years 10 – 11, Key Stage 4, all girls continue to study English Language and Literature, Mathematics, Double Award Science or Triple Science, at least one Modern Foreign Language,ICT and Physical Education. At this stage English, French, Mathematics and Science are taught in sets or in teaching groups according to their other option choices. In additionthree options are selected from Art, Business Studies, Dance, Drama, French, Geography, German, History,Religious Education, Music, Physical Education, Textiles, FoodTechnologyand Product design.

At the time when these choices are made, parents' meetings are held at which all the appropriate subject teachers and specialist careers staff are available.

Citizenship and PSHM

Citizenship is taught in Key Stage 3 and continues in Key Stage 4 and 5 as part of the non examination curriculum entitlement.

Through the Citizenship Programme of lessons and activities students develop:

1. Knowledge and understanding about becoming informed citizens (KS3), ethical students (KS4) and active students (KS5)
2. Skills of enquiry and communication
3. Skills of participation and responsible action

In Years 8 and 9 students follow the AQA Short GCSE course in Citizenship Studies. Students learn about rights, responsibilities and the law, the democratic system, community involvement, social issues and current affairs. All students take part in a community participation project as part of their studies.

In years 10 and 11 students benefit from presentations by outside speakers who discuss their roles in relation to local and national Government.

Sex Education

Sex Education is taught in the context of Health, Social and Moral Education. Factual information relating to sexual reproduction is covered in Biology lessons throughout the school. Matters involving personal relationships are included in our general education programme. If lessons are likely to touch on sensitive or controversial issues, parents are notified in advance and given the opportunity to seek further information from the teacher in charge. They may withdraw their daughters from those parts of the sex education programme that are not covered by the National Curriculum if they feel it is appropriate to do so.

Careers Education and Guidance

Careers Education features as an integral part of the PSHME curriculum throughout the school. Our Careers programme seeks to increase self-awareness as well as developing knowledge of the opportunities in the world of work in further and higher education. The girls also practise decision making and transition skills such as writing a curriculum vitae, completing application forms and interview techniques. Outside speakers provide valuable help and staff from the local Careers Service work closely with the school. The school is equipped with a reference and resource area which includes regularly updated information sheets and publications as well as computer-aided guidance facilities. The school has gained the Investors in Careers Award in recognition of its good practice in Careers Education and Guidance.

Enterprise Education

Enterprise Education is an integral part of the Curriculum as a whole and subject departments cover work-related learning within their syllabi. In addition students are given the opportunity to participate in Industry Days, both in and outside school. These tasks are business focused and test and develop students' enterprising skills. We work closely with Devon Education business Partnership and local businesses and organisations to deliver quality, relevant and informative events. Pupils in year 10 will complete one week of work experience towards the end of the summer term, where, again, the focus is development and enhancement of transferable key skills. The school has been awarded the Investors in Enterprise and Work Related Learning Award in recognition of good practice in Enterprise Education. In Years 10 and 11 pupils participate in Enterprise Challenges both locally and nationally.

Religious Education and Acts of Worship

Religious Education is studied by all girls at Key Stage 3 and is an option at GCSE and A level. At Key Stage 4 it continues to be part of the non-examination curriculum for all girls.

Lessons in the subject of Religious Education provide an exciting, rich and vital part of the school curriculum. The girls are encouraged to explore fundamental questions about beliefs and values. A positive atmosphere based on mutual respect is created and every student's contribution is welcomed. Within this context there is also space for students to discover the value of stillness and reflection.
Assemblies are led by the Head teacher, members of staff, the girls themselves or visitors and the themes have a spiritual and moral message. Parents may request that their child be wholly or partly excused from either or both Religious Education lessons or assemblies. Any such request must be made in writing to the Head teacher.

Homework

Homework is considered to be an essential part of the student's education and complements the work covered in school. Through homework the student learns to work independently, research, manage time and revise. Parents are issued with a copy of their daughter's homework timetable at the beginning of the school year and their co-operation is requested in seeing that the work is done

Special Educational Needs and Disability Provision

All students have their individual needs as well as the potential to succeed in some aspects of the school curriculum. Identification of that potential is the task of the whole school. We are aware that there are girls who may require extra care or special attention on occasions during their time in school. Such instances might include gifted girls with exceptional academic, physical or artistic talent, girls with specific physical, emotional or social needs, girls with medical problems or girls with particular learning problems. Parents are asked to inform the school of any such issues as and when they occur and to discuss with the Head teacher the very best strategy appropriate to each case.