Curriculum

We are proud of our wide-ranging and stimulating curriculum across the full range of academic subjects. There are also many opportunities to explore more deeply, and develop skills and interest through co-curricular activities, inter-disciplinary projects, trips, speakers, and departmental clubs and societies.

Years 7 to 9

In Year 7, girls are introduced to all the major curriculum subjects and learning skills. They have timetabled lessons in English, Maths, French, all three sciences, Religious Studies, Latin, Geography, History, Art and Design, Music and Drama. In Year 8, they have the option of a second modern foreign language (German, Italian or Spanish). Taster sessions are also available in Classical Greek and Mandarin, which can then be taken up as options in Year 9. It is often possible to offer extra lessons in other languages on request. I/GCSE subject choices are made in the Lent term of Year 9. I/GCSE work begins in Year 9 in some subjects.

GCSE & IGCSE

Years 10 and 11 are the I/GCSE years. Most programmes of study last for two years, and are examined in the summer of Year 11. Exam boards are chosen to provide genuine rigour whilst also allowing girls to maximise their potential. Girls usually take ten subjects. There is a compulsory core of seven subjects (English Language, English Literature, a modern foreign language, Mathematics, Double Award Science and Religious Studies) which provides a balanced education and a secure foundation for further study. Girls may then choose three additional subjects from the following:
GCSE SUBJECTS

Double and Triple Science Awards

All girls have separate lessons in Physics, Chemistry and Biology throughout Years 10 and 11. About half of each cohort complete Double Award Science, which involves exams in all three subjects, leading to the award of two IGCSE grades. Those girls who choose to do so, and these are often the pupils who are already thinking about A Level sciences, take Triple Award Science, leading to the award of separate IGCSE grades in all three subjects.

A Levels

Girls are advised to take four subjects in the Lower Sixth and continue with three in the Upper Sixth. In some cases, girls studying Further Mathematics or a modern foreign language as a bilingual pupil may choose to begin with five subjects, and then drop to four or three in the Upper Sixth. Girls meet regularly with their tutor, and academic progress is reported to parents throughout the year.

A LEVEL SUBJECTS

Life Studies

Sixth Form girls also follow our General Religious Studies programme, which explores a wide selection of theological and philosophical thought, and our bespoke Skills for Life course on Personal, Social, Health and Citizenship Education. 

PSHCE Skills For Life
Reception

01344 296600

genenquiries@st-marys-ascot.co.uk

Address

St. Mary’s Road, Ascot,

Berkshire SL5 9JF

Admissions

01344 296614

admissions@st-marys-ascot.co.uk

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