The curriculum at Bedales Senior has been designed to inspire curiosity, encourage independent thought and cultivate a genuine love of learning at every stage, from Block 3 (Year 9) to Sixth Form.
True to the school’s ethos of educating the whole person – ‘head, hand and heart’ – our academic programme is complemented by a broad co-curricular offering and a strong framework of pastoral care.
Block 3 (Year 9) – A broad foundation
When students join the Senior School in Block 3 (Year 9), they engage with a broad range of subjects, including those unique to the school, such as Global Perspectives and Outdoor Work, and work collaboratively on cross-curricular projects.
This foundational year provides an opportunity to discover strengths, explore interests and develop a mindset that supports success as they progress through the school.
Blocks 4-5 (Years 10-11) – Bedales Assessed Courses (BACs) and GCSEs
In Blocks 4 and 5 (Years 10 and 11), students begin to shape their studies around their academic interests.
They take our own Bedales Assessed Courses (BACs), which are offered in a broad range of subjects, alongside a core of I/GCSEs in English, Maths, Science (Double or Triple Award) and a Modern Foreign Language (either French or Spanish). From September 2027, we plan to expand our BAC offering further and transition to a two-GCSE model, retaining only English and Maths.
This forward-thinking alternative to the traditional GCSE model balances academic rigour with creative flexibility, practical application and diverse assessment methods, to best prepare students for the demands of further education.
Sixth Form – A Levels
In the Sixth Form at Bedales, students focus on A Levels, deepening their knowledge in subjects that align with their academic interests and aspirations. This focused approach supports their intellectual development and instils a strong sense of purpose as they prepare for higher education, explore career pathways, and ready themselves for life beyond Bedales.
Academic subjects
At Bedales Senior, academic subjects are grouped into faculties to offer students a focused and collaborative approach to learning. This structure provides students with the best of both worlds: dedicated subject-specific expertise and opportunities to explore meaningful connections between disciplines.
With support from specialist teachers and opportunities to work creatively across disciplines, students can explore their passions, uncover new interests, and develop the confidence to think in innovative ways.