Introduction
Academic provision at the Royal Hospital School is exceptional. From their earliest years all pupils are encouraged to enjoy learning and to develop a lifelong appetite for knowledge.
In Year 9 (Pre-GCSE Foundation Year of Key Stage 3) the subjects studied are English, mathematics, science (physics, chemistry and biology), French, an additional language (Latin, Spanish or German), geography, history, design technology, drama, art, music, IT (Information Technology), PSHE (Personal Social and Health Education) and religious studies.
At the start of the GCSE years (Key Stage 4) in Year 10, pupils take the following core subjects: English (most study languages and literature as separate GCSEs), mathematics, a modern foreign language, physics, chemistry and biology (either as the three separate sciences or as the “dual award”). In addition, three additional GCSE subjects are chosen from blocks containing history, geography, PE, French, German, Latin, Spanish, media studies, religious studies, art, music, theatre studies, design technology and business studies.
The School subscribes to the Durham University Value Added Measuring Schemes at all levels, allowing academic tutors to map pupil progress. In core subjects, setting takes place from the outset (subject to timetable constraints) and at GCSE level setting takes place in many subjects. The working week consists of up to 38 x 55 minute periods or lessons based on a two-week timetable.
