We will reinforce the 3-18 whole school learning journey by re-mapping the curriculum to ensure greater alignment, student progression and staff understanding of the full student experience. A comprehensive overview of the curriculum across every year group and subject will be produced, outlining the sequence of learning objectives, topics and assessments covered. This will link with a digital student portfolio where all students record their work from Pre-prep to 6.2 (Year 13).
We will review our Bedales Assessed Course (BAC) subject offer, assessment and grading with a view to introducing new BACs in Sciences and Modern Languages. Building on the long-established success of our existing BAC programme in enabling student access to prestigious university courses, we want to extend the benefit to our students from meaningful, balanced and rigorous alternatives to exam-only assessment. We will therefore be introducing a two-GCSE model of Maths and English for students, with the remainder our own qualifications. With BACs already recognised by the Universities and Colleges Admissions Service (UCAS), this curriculum enhancement will enable students to further evidence to universities and employers the kinds of dispositions and capabilities that will help them succeed academically and in life beyond school.
Alongside the growth of BACs, we will review the Sixth Form curriculum, and explore the introduction of new A Levels in Computer Science and Film Studies. We will also examine our current offering of languages to ensure we prepare our students properly to be global citizens in the 21st century.’
Adopting a more progressive approach to digital learning, we will consolidate our Virtual Learning Platforms and develop, pilot and roll out student digital portfolios. To support this, we will introduce universal school-managed devices for all Blocks (Year 7+) students. Staff devices and classrooms will be upgraded to allow for wireless pairing of teacher devices with digital displays. A whole school digital curriculum will create an integrated approach for application and adaptation to Artificial Intelligence across the curriculum and through 21st century approaches to learning. There will also be a fully aligned strategy to support students, parents and staff in the appropriate use of devices and software, to support their mental health and wellbeing.
A new sustainability curriculum will see all academic departments across the school complete an environmental audit of current provision, and to demonstrate engagement with nature or the environment at least once per term for each year group. We will scope a new BAC course linked to the environment and sustainability, with a follow-on Sixth Form course. We will also increase student voice, with student environment champions to lead on events and initiatives.
