Curriculum Overview

A curriculum that develops the individual and supports independent thinking.

At Marsden Heights we aim to ensure that all students study a rich, varied and challenging curriculum which develops them as individuals and supports independent thinking.

The curriculum is progressive in quality and quantity across the years and key stages, and mapped in detail. This ensures consistency and a shared understanding of high learning expectations. The curriculum is designed with content and skill development underpinned by age-related key performance indicators (KPIs).

Our curriculum is broad and balanced, with a three year KS3 and two years for KS4. It is structured across a two week timetable where every day has lessons of 100 mins and some subjects have 50 minute lessons for example, Art, Dance, Drama and Music with Progress Time midday way through the day where we read for 30mins.

We intend to develop a curriculum which:

• creates an aspirational culture focused on becoming a lifelong learner
• takes into account an individual’s needs and styles
• allows every student to experience success irrespective of background or disadvantage
• raises the standards of attainment

For more information about our curriculum, please see our Knowledge Organisers below or explore our subject areas.  You can also contact our Assistant Head, Miss Lees, via email nlees@marsdenheights.co.uk or by ringing 01282 683060.

SMSC

We recognise at Marsden Heights that the spiritual, moral, social and cultural development of pupils plays a significant part in their ability to learn and achieve. Spiritual, Moral, Social and Cultural Education (SMSC) is delivered in all curriculum areas and in every aspect of our college life.

Spiritual: exploring beliefs and experiences; respecting values; discovering oneself and the surrounding world; using imagination and creativity; reflection.

Moral: recognising right and wrong; understanding consequences; investigating moral and ethical issues; offering reasoned views.

Social: using social skills in different contexts; working well with others; resolving conflicts; understanding how communities work.

Cultural: appreciating cultural influences; participating in cultural opportunities; understanding, accepting, respecting and celebrating diversity.

Marsden Heights promotes the SMSC development of our pupils through a variety of ways including:

• a broadly balanced and rich curriculum in which teachers strive to promote opportunities and encourage pupils to engage with the wider world, and consider and question their place within it
• the delivery of a Progress Curriculum every day during tutor time
• a citizenship curriculum in Yrs 7-10 delivered by staff and enhanced by visiting experts
• a varied assembly programme where teachers and visitors discuss topics that help students reflect upon themes that are important in the wider world today
• a dedicated youth and community team working within college, the community and globally
• an extra-curricular programme that includes sporting, academic, musical and cultural opportunities