Curriculum

Overview

At Bradfield College, students experience a curriculum that spans right from the lower school up to the sixth form. This curriculum isn’t just about hitting the books; it’s about molding them into successful individuals ready to tackle the challenges of a fast-changing world. It carefully balances academic excellence with the growth of personal skills. The journey through the curriculum is divided into several stages, with each offering its unique blend of learning and development.

Lower School Journey

For those of us in the lower school, the days are filled with learning the core subjects: English, Mathematics, and Science, along with four other optional subjects. This stage is crucial because it lays down the base for the knowledge and skills that are essential in the years ahead. It’s all about building a strong foundation in these key areas.

Focus During Years 10 and 11

By the time students hit Years 10 and 11, the choice in subjects expands to include eight to ten subjects. Mathematics, Science, both English Literature and Language, and a Modern Language form the core of our curriculum. Physical Education and Wellbeing classes, though not part of our exams, play a significant role in keeping us healthy and informed about well-being. Unique to Bradfield College, alternatives to GCSEs, like SBS: Music, offer some of us a different educational pathway. Science enthusiasts face a choice between diving deep into three separate sciences or opting for Combined Science, with more options opening up depending on the chosen track.

Sixth Form Curriculum

Reaching the Sixth Form feels like stepping into a new realm of educational freedom and responsibility. The choice between pursuing A Levels or the International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma offers a tailored educational path. Moreover, our engagement in co-curricular clubs and societies, including opportunities like the ARTiculation Prize and the Curators Club, enrich our learning experience. The Sixth Form curriculum aims to sharpen our ‘visual literacy’, critical assessment skills, and intellectual research capabilities, with a spotlight on careers in fields such as journalism and law. The Bradfield Diploma further encourages us to explore our interests beyond the classroom, assessing us on our co-curricular pursuits.

Beyond Academics

What sets Bradfield College apart is its emphasis on co-curricular activities that cater to a wide range of interests, from sports and creative arts to various clubs and societies. With top-notch facilities and a vibrant arts program, including performances at the college’s own Greek Theatre, our days are as much about academics as they are about exploration and personal growth.

Conclusion

Navigating through Bradfield College’s curriculum is an enriching journey of academic rigor, personal development, and co-curricular engagement. From the foundational years up to the Sixth Form, the curriculum not only prepares us academically but also develops us into well-rounded individuals ready for future success. It’s a pathway that encourages exploring interests, mastering new skills, and preparing for the real world, making the Bradfield College experience truly comprehensive and diverse.